When applying for Spanish citizenship based on residency, one of the fundamental requirements is to pass two tests: the CCSE exam (on constitutional and sociocultural knowledge of Spain) and the DELE exam (to demonstrate a minimum A2 level of Spanish). However, not everyone is required to take them.
What are the CCSE and DELE exams?
- CCSE: Test your knowledge of the Constitution and the social and cultural reality of Spain.
- DELE (Level A2 or higher): Certifies your proficiency in Spanish.
Both exams, administered by the Instituto Cervantes, are mandatory for those applying for Spanish citizenship based on residency, unless there is a duly documented reason for an exemption or partial waiver.
Who is exempt from the DELE exam?
- People whose official language in their country of origin is Spanish, such as citizens of countries in Latin America, Equatorial Guinea, the Philippines, or Andorra. This exemption is automatic; you do not need to apply for it, but you must provide proof that you are a national of one of these countries.
- Children under 18.
- People whose legal capacity has been modified by a court.
- People who already have a Spanish language certificate at the A2 level or higher from the Official Language Schools.
- Individuals who hold a degree from an accredited program of study completed in Spain and in Spanish at the intermediate or advanced level. Vocational certificates, master’s degrees, and accredited degrees are not included.
- People who have completed and passed Compulsory Secondary Education (ESO) in Spain.
Who is exempt from the CCSE exam?
- Children under 18.
- People whose legal capacity has been modified by a court.
- Individuals who hold a degree from an accredited institution in Spain, earned through courses taken in Spanish at the intermediate or advanced level. It does not include vocational certificates, master’s degrees, or accreditations.
- People who have completed and passed Compulsory Secondary Education (ESO) in Spain.
What about people who are illiterate or have learning difficulties or disabilities?
People who cannot read or write, or who have learning difficulties or a mental or sensory disability, are not exempt from taking the exams, but they may request a partial exemption that allows them to take the exams in an adapted format.
To request a partial exemption from the CCSE or DELE for medical or educational reasons, a formal request for exemption must be submitted to the Ministry of Justice prior to filing the application for Spanish citizenship by residence. Along with the request, you must provide official medical reports detailing the medical diagnosis, the degree of disability or mental or sensory impairment, and the inability to take the tests.
The Ministry of Justice will then review the submitted application and supporting documentation and determine whether to grant the partial exemption. If the partial exemption is granted, the individual must register for the corresponding exams so that they can be administered in an adapted format. If you have questions about your specific case, we invite you to contact us. We are attorneys specializing in Spanish citizenship. Every situation is unique, and sound legal advice can make all the difference.
Sara Gabernet
Attorney Specializing in Immigration and Criminal Law
MC Abogados
