DELE was created in 1988. It’s the only official test stating Spanish Language proficiency. It has 3 levels:
CIE – Certificado Inicial de Español como Lengua Extranjera (Beginners);
DBE – Diploma Basico de Español como Lengua Extranjera (Intermediate);
DSE – Diploma Superior de Español como Lengua Extranjera (Advanced).
Each level consists of 5 parts: Reading, Writing, Comprehension,
Grammar and Vocabulary, Speaking.
CIE takes 3 hours. It checks the ability to understand speech and communicate.
DBE takes 3,5 hours. It checks ability to communicate freely. You can pass it since age of 16.
DSE takes 4 hours. It checks ability to speak at high level and in different situations and understanding of culture and traditions of region.
Every step of each level evaluates. You either pass it or not (Apto/No Apto).
The test is held twice a year.