When applying for Spanish nationality by residence, one of the fundamental requirements is to pass two tests: the CCSE exam (constitutional and sociocultural knowledge of Spain) and the DELE exam (Spanish language level, minimum A2). However, not everyone is obliged to take them.
What are the CCSE and DELE exams?
- CCSE: Evaluates your knowledge of the Constitution and the social and cultural reality of Spain.
- DELE (level A2 or higher): Accredits your proficiency in Spanish language.
Both exams, administered by the Instituto Cervantes, are mandatory for those applying for Spanish nationality by residence, unless there is a duly accredited cause for exemption or partial dispensation.
Who is exempt from the DELE exam?
- Persons whose official language in their country of origin is Spanish, such as citizens of Latin American countries, Equatorial Guinea, the Philippines or Andorra. This exemption is automatic; you do not need to apply for it, but you must prove that you hold the nationality of one of these countries.
- Under 18 years of age.
- Persons with judicially modified capacity.
- People who already have a Spanish certificate of level A2 or higher from the Official Language Schools.
- People who have a degree in official studies, taken in Spain and in Spanish, at an intermediate or higher level. It does not include certificates of professionalism, master’s degrees, or accredited diplomas.
- Persons who have completed and passed the Compulsory Secondary Education (ESO) in Spain.
Who is exempt from the CCSE exam?
- Under 18 years of age.
- Persons with judicially modified capacity.
- People who have a degree in official studies, taken in Spain and in Spanish, at an intermediate or higher level. It does not include certificates of professionalism, master’s degrees or homologations.
- Persons who have completed and passed the Compulsory Secondary Education (ESO) in Spain.
What about people who are illiterate or have learning difficulties or disabilities?
Persons who cannot read or write, who have learning difficulties or a mental or sensory disability are not exempt from taking the exams, but may request a partial waiver to allow them to take the tests in an adapted form.
To request a partial waiver of the CCSE or DELE for medical or educational reasons, a formal request for waiver must be submitted to the Ministry of Justice prior to the submission of the application for Spanish nationality by residence. Official medical reports detailing the medical diagnosis, the degree of disability or mental or sensory difficulty, as well as the impossibility of taking the tests must be submitted with the application.
Subsequently, the Ministry of Justice will decide on the application submitted and the documentation provided, and will evaluate whether to grant the partial waiver. If the partial dispensation is granted, the person will have to register for the corresponding exams so that they can be taken in an adapted form. If you have any doubts about your particular case, we invite you to consult us. We are lawyers specialized in Spanish nationality. Each situation is unique, and good advice can make a difference.
Sara Gabernet
Lawyer Expert in Immigration and Criminal Law
M&CAbogados
