How well do you speak Spanish? Would you like to find out your precise level? If so, consider taking the 2024 SIELE test, the official global Spanish language proficiency exam.
Learning Spanish comes with many advantages. The increased demand for the Spanish language has resulted in more individuals taking Spanish exams.
With this Spanish test, you can measure your knowledge and determine your level of mastery. This enables you to concentrate on your flaws, study, and progress in your pursuit of Spanish fluency.
Globally, there are many Spanish language exams available, but DELE and SIELE are the two most common. Today, I will cover SIELE after discussing DELE a while ago.
You’ll find all the information you need about SIELE in this post. This guide covers benefits, test structure, eligibility, and exam format. You will also know centers, levels, dates, fees, scores, and how to prepare.
It’s time to begin!
Table of Contents
What is SIELE?
SIELE stands for Servico Internacional de Evaluación de la Lengua Española. We call it “The International Evaluation Service of the Spanish Language” in English.
This is a well-known and globally recognized test for evaluating Spanish proficiency. It measures and certifies the competence and mastery of the Spanish language.
Whether you’re a student, hobbyist, or professional, this test suits everyone. After the test, you will receive confirmation of your language ability with an official diploma. It shows that you have achieved a particular level of Spanish.
Who administers the Spanish SIELE test?
Four reputable institutions provide support and promotion for SIELE.
These are Instituto Cervantes, the University of Salamanca, the National Autonomous University of Mexico, and the University of Buenos Aires.
The partnership ensures high quality, careful policies, and fair tests. The corporation also holds variations in the linguistics of the Spanish-speaking world.
Recognition and Popularity
In 1989, the Spanish DELE exam began. SIELE is the new kid on the block, only starting in 2016.
Even though it’s new, it’s catching up really fast. The unique benefits, especially the online exam, are why it’s so great.
Almost all universities, government agencies, and companies recognize and trust SIELE certification. The Spanish test is currently recognized globally and conducted everywhere.
Associations and Acceptance
SIELE currently collaborates with over 80 universities in 20 Ibero-American countries. It also has cooperation with Canada, South Korea, China, etc. These academic centers carry out many scholarly activities.
In Spanish teaching research, one can examine the quality of Spanish language content and create new study materials.
These institutions’ superiority is crucial to the reliability and academic prestige of SIELE.
Below are some notable institutions that officially accept it as a Spanish diploma.
- CRUE (Conferencia de Rectores de las Universidades Españolas). It is a not-for-profit organization comprising 76 Spanish universities: 26 private and 50 public.
- CAPES (Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior). This is part of the Brazilian Ministry of Education. Quality validation is managed for undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
- Department of Education in Hungary.
- The Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sports of the Czech Republic.
- ACLES (Association of Language Centres in Higher Education). It promotes diverse languages in Higher Education in Spain.
- The Seal of Biliteracy of the USA in California, Iowa, Michigan, Virginia, Illinois, Washington DC, Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Utah.
Advantages of SIELE
The SIELE test has several clear advantages. Let’s discover!
1. Study in Spain and Hispanic countries
Would you like to study in a country where Spanish is an official language or spoken commonly? Are you interested in obtaining Spanish citizenship?
SIELE can enhance your profile if you plan on attending a university, working, or living in Spain or Latin America.
Hundreds of colleges and institutions worldwide accept it for undergraduate and graduate degrees. B1 and B2 are the most commonly requested levels for universities.
To conclude, the score and certification will prove beneficial when the Spanish language is needed.
2. Career and job prospects
Would you like to pursue a career that involves Spanish? The SIELE diploma can give an edge to job seekers and employees.
Imagine you’d like to work in Spanish companies or businesses dealing with Spain, Latin America, the USA, or anywhere else. Your CV stands out in that situation if you can speak Spanish.
It results from your Spanish language test, i.e., the score and the document noted in your profile. It’s vital to earn this skill from a career perspective.
3. Know your exact level and get encouragement
It may be worth confirming your ability if you’ve been learning Spanish for some time. As a student, it is advisable to get your level certified.
With SIELE scores, you can get an accurate assessment of your ability.
Taking the test will show your knowledge level and where you stand. After that, focus on your weaknesses and how to enhance them. This will assist you in better planning for your next test.
It will motivate you to keep learning Spanish and achieve more goals. As the last point, the score is a significant source of inspiration and confidence.
4. Flexible and easily accessible
Online registration empowers candidates to determine when, where, and which part of the test they want to take. You can even decide a few days before the test dates.
Dates are not predefined. You can select the day, time, place, and exam mode that works best for you.
You will receive your certificate, test scores, and CEFR level via email within 21 days of the test dates. The numerical score of each test is the sum of all tests.
The official SIELE website has all the information you need.
5. SIELE is an entirely online exam
SIELE is an online exam, unlike DELE, which is completely offline.
The exam is 100% online and computer-based, including an oral test. Hundreds of test centers are approved for the exam. They are available on a day of your choice.
It’s a quick and easy way to show and assess your Spanish language skills.
6. Risk-Free and Fail-Proof
SIELE removes the concern of aiming for a certain level. Students receive a grade on a multilevel Spanish test from A1 to C1, aligned with the CERF.
There’s zero possibility of failing this test. The score you’ll get on this test ranges from 0 to 1000.
You’ll know your level without passing or failing. So, for example, you may get A2 in speaking, B1 in writing and listening, and B2 in reading.
All About Spanish SIELE
A wide variety of Spanish exams exist. The DELE test is the most popular among non-native speakers worldwide. In recent times, SIELE has also become more widespread.
Let’s examine every aspect!
Who can take the exam?
Candidates of any level, age, or location can take SIELE. The examination is open to everyone, whether they are native Spanish speakers or have learned it as a second or foreign language.
No significant limitations exist, but you must be at least 13. There isn’t a C2 test that can match a near-native level. This test is open to all who want an honest and accurate evaluation of their skills.
The test structure of the SIELE
SIELE allows you to assess your language abilities across four different areas. This includes.
- Written Expression and Interaction (WEI),
- Reading Comprehension (RC),
- Listening Comprehension (LC), and
- Oral Expression and Interaction (OEI).
Different SIELE tests
SIELE exams are classified into two major categories.
1. Independent Modalities
You can have five independent modalities depending on the tests you choose.
There are four independent methods to get the SIELE Report. Besides, there is a correlation between the scores and CEFR levels.
- S1 — Reading comprehension and listening comprehension.
- S2 — Reading comprehension and written expression & interaction.
- S3 — Reading comprehension and Oral expression & interaction.
- S4 — Oral (Spoken) expression and interaction.
- S5 — Written expression and interaction, and Oral expression & interaction.
For the combinations listed above, which include RC, LC, WEI, and OEI, there are two tests and scores for S1, S2, S3, and S5 ranging from 0 to 500. S4 ranges from 0 to 250, with only one OEI exam.
The CEFR applies to scores from all sections except S4, which has a single score. As a result, it exhibits your Spanish language abilities in those fields.
2. SIELE Global
SIELE Global comprises four tests: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. This is the most comprehensive way to certify your ability in Spanish.
The exam is multilevel and has a score ranging from 0 to 1000. The final result is the sum of your scores in the four sections.
Exam structure — Question Types & Descriptions
Every test has its own set of questions and marks. Let’s get detailed descriptions of each exam.
(i) Reading Comprehension — The RC exam has 5 tasks and 38 questions. The exam lasts for 60 minutes, and it’s out of 250 marks. Here, you read texts and answer various MCQ-based questions.
(ii) Listening comprehension — You will find 6 tasks and 38 questions in the LC test. The total marks are 250, and the duration is 55 minutes. The first step is to listen to audio, such as an interview, conversation, information, monologue, etc., twice. Then, you answer a variety of MCQs.
(iii) Oral expression and interaction — This OCI exam includes five tasks with a maximum time limit of 15 to 20 minutes. This has a point value of 250. Two kinds of tasks exist. (i) Respond to questions 1 and 4 based on the audio. (ii) Follow the instructions for tasks 2, 3, and 5 to record your answer.
(iv) Written expression and interaction — This WEI has 2 tasks for 250 points, totaling 50 minutes. For the first task, you must write a 100 to 150-word response to an email, letter, forum, or blog message. To complete the second task, write your opinion on a newspaper article using 250 to 300 words.
How do I get the CEFR grade?
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages sets the test scores.
- A1 → WEI – 34-68.99, RC and LC – 33-65.99, and OEI – 40-75.99.
- A2 → LC – 66-111.99, WEI – 69-103.99, RC – 66-117.99, and OEI – 76-124.99.
- B1 → WEI – 104-166.99, RC – 118-177.99, LC – 112-163.99, and OEI – 125-175.99.
- B1 → LC – 164-210.99, WEI – 167-214.99, RC – 178-216.99, and OEI – 176-214.99.
- C1 → LC – 211-250, RC – 217-250, WEI and OEI – 215-250.
Test Duration
You can take the whole exam or just one or more tests.
The tests (CL, CA, EIE, EIO) go in this order: reading, listening, writing, and speaking. Taking SIELE Global will give you a 15-minute break between the EIE and CA tests.
Scores
The maximum score for 4 tests, each worth 250 points, is 1000. When you pass the SIELE Global exam, you’ll get a globally recognized certificate valid for five years.
Each test is scored and given a per-test score, CEFR level equivalence, and a total score of 1000.
Levels
It follows the European Council guidelines (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).
There are five levels in SIELE. There is no C2 level.
- A1 (Breakthrough),
- A2 (Waystage),
- B1 (Threshold),
- B2 (Vantage),
- and C1 (Effective Operational Expertise).
How to register for the exam?
Registering is a simple process. The following are the steps:
- First, access the official website siele.org and click “Book Your Exam.”
- Then, choose the country where you want to appear for the test. Select between “In a Center” or “Remote.”
- After this, pick one of the two test modalities — SIELE global or any of the 5 independent modalities (RC+WEI, RC+LC, OEI, LC+OEI, and WEI+OEI).
- In this stage, pick the city where you wish to take the exam. Then, choose a testing center, preferred exam date, and one available time slot.
- Then, provide your personal information. E.g., name, city, email, date of birth, nationality, native language, photo ID card, and contact number on the form.
- Finally, check all details, confirm, and submit the registration form and fee.
At the assigned center on the test day, you must show the identification document you used to register for the exam. Be there 15 minutes early.
After verifying your identity, the exam center staff will put an unlock code into your computer to start the test.
The exam will take 3 hours, including a 15-minute break.
Test Centers
As of January 2024, more than 1,000 SIELE exam centers are in over 85 countries across 6 continents. They keep adding more centers every year.
If you’re taking the test in India, you’ve got 29 SIELE testing centers here!
You can take the test in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, Pune, and Hyderabad, to name a few.
SIELE Test Dates in 2024
Unlike other language tests, you can pick any suitable time and date.
You are free to take the test whenever you want. Not all testing centers offer all test dates. Find the nearest test center and open slots, then choose a date and time that works for you.
What’s the cost?
The cost will vary based on the type of test.
- SIELE Global — 135 EUR.
- Oral Expression and Interaction — 60 EUR.
- Reading Comprehension — 65 EUR.
- Written Expression and Interaction — 75 EUR.
- Listening Comprehension — 75 EUR.
Validity
DELE is valid for life, while SIELE has a limited validity that eventually expires.
From the day you receive your SIELE results, they are valid for five years.
Your language ability may suffer when you don’t use your learned language. That’s why candidates must reprove their Spanish skills after 5 years to be officially counted.
When do you get the results?
Within 21 days of taking the test, candidates receive an email that their scores are available online.
The website allows signed-in users to download their certificates or reports. Further, passing the Global SIELE exam (all four tests) will enable candidates to share a “digital badge” with 3rd parties.
Study materials and sample papers
You can visit the official website for practice. Many interactive papers and sample questions are available for learners. With this, you can better understand each question paper and how it works.
There are various resources such as teacher’s help, apps for studying Spanish, books, and Spanish language podcasts that you can use to study. All these can help you get impressive scores.
What to prepare for the SIELE exam?
To succeed in SELE, you must have interest, persistence, consistent practice, and follow the correct method. Although there are several ways to learn Spanish, face-to-face classes with a teacher remain the most effective.
Do you intend to begin your Spanish journey? Would you like to take a lateral entry for a higher level if you have prior education?
We have customized Spanish programs in Noida to meet all needs, levels, and schedules. We offer options for everyone, from absolute beginner to expert level.
You can learn Spanish at the Noida center or enroll in online Spanish courses. You can contact us to achieve your linguistic goals.
Most Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the SIELE exam?
SIELE is a worldwide exam that evaluates the Spanish language proficiency of candidates. It measures skills through 4 exams: speaking, reading, listening, and writing. The levels follow CEFRs from A1 to C1, and there is no C2.
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How long is SIELE valid?
The SIELE test remains valid for five years from the announcement of the exam result.
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Is it worth taking the SIELE?
Definitely! SIELE is a Spanish certification that is accepted worldwide. It can benefit your personal growth and career. It can help when you visit Spanish-speaking countries for study, work, or immigration.
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What is the cost of the SIELE exam?
The fee for the SIELE test depends on which you wish to take. For instance, SIELE Global — 135 EUR, Listening — 75 EUR, Speaking — 60 EUR, Reading — 65 EUR, and Writing — 75 EUR.
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What is the difference between SIELE and DELE?
The two most renowned exams in the Spanish language are DELE and SIELE. Most government bodies, public and private universities, and companies accept and support both.
While there are some differences, both options can benefit you in your studies, personal life, and profession.
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What is better DELE or SIELE?
Each has its own merit. Choose the one that is most appropriate for you.
It is wise to opt for DELE if you want worldwide recognition, permanent validity, and aim to achieve C2.
If you’re looking for more options about test centers, dates, and levels, SIELE is the way to go. Besides, it ensures you won’t fail and enables you to determine your exact competency.
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How long does it take to get SIELE results?
Within 21 days, an email will be sent to confirm you can check the result on the official website. Afterward, you can access your account and retrieve the score, report, and certification.
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Is the SIELE exam available online?
Yes. SIELE is an exam that is conducted on a computer. But you can only take it at the designated exam centers.
Online registration is available for taking the test in Spain or other countries. The application does not need you to be present in person.
Final Words on the SIELE exam
The SIELE exam is widely accepted and trusted to measure Spanish language proficiency. The score and Spanish diploma are universal and useful for various goals, like hobbies, academics, and careers.
You may have many good reasons for learning Spanish. The international Spanish Diploma, i.e., SIELE, adds significant value to your professional and personal life.
Do you have any questions, or are you doubtful about something? Share your opinions in the comments below!
