For many foreigners who dream of living and integrating in Portugal, obtaining Portuguese nationality is an important step. One of the official requirements is proving basic knowledge of Portuguese at level A2.
At Verbal Point, our Portuguese Course for Foreigners and CIPLE A2 Preparation Course are designed to help immigrants achieve this certification and secure their future in Portugal.
Why the A2 portuguese certification is required for nationality
According to portuguese law, candidates for nationality must demonstrate language skills equivalent to A2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
The CIPLE exam (Certificado Inicial de Português Língua Estrangeira) is one of the most widely recognized ways to prove this. It is administered by CAPLE (Centro de Avaliação de Português Língua Estrangeira) and officially accepted by the portuguese government.
What is the CIPLE A2 exam and how does it work?
The CIPLE A2 exam evaluates basic portuguese communication skills for everyday life situations. It is divided into three components:
1. Reading and Writing
- Duration: about 1h15
- Reading short texts and writing two texts (25–35 words and 60–80 words).
- Weight: 45% of the final grade.
2. Listening Comprehension
- Candidates listen to recordings at natural speed.
- Weight: 30% of the final grade.
3.Speaking (Production and Interaction)
- Duration: about 15 minutes.
- Conducted in pairs or with the examiner.
- Weight: 25% of the final grade.
To pass, candidates must score at least 55% overall and a minimum of 25% in each section.
Why the CIPLE A2 exam can be challenging
Even though the CIPLE exam is considered a basic-level test, many students find it difficult:
- Listening: recordings are played at a natural pace.
- Writing: short but precise texts are required.
- Speaking: spontaneous communication in portuguese can be intimidating without practice.
How Verbal Point prepares you for the CIPLE A2 exam
The CIPLE Preparation Course at Verbal Point is specially designed for foreigners who need to achieve the A2 certification required for nationality.
We provide:
- Full training in all three exam components (reading & writing, listening, speaking).
- Mock exams with individual feedback.
- Strategies to answer effectively within time limits.
- Confidence-building exercises for oral communication.
In addition, Verbal Point offers Portuguese as a Foreign Language courses from the very beginning, perfect for students starting their language journey.
Your need as an immigrant, Verbal Point’s solution
Proving knowledge of portuguese is a mandatory step in obtaining nationality. The CIPLE A2 exam is one of the most recognized certifications for this purpose and with the right preparation, you can succeed.
At Verbal Point, we provide the complete solution: courses for beginners, intensive preparation for the CIPLE A2 exam, and expert teachers to guide you toward your goal: portuguese nationality.
FAQs about the CIPLE Exam and Verbal Point’s Courses
1. What is the CIPLE exam?
The CIPLE (Certificado Inicial de Português Língua Estrangeira) is an official exam certifying A2 portuguese level, required for portuguese nationality.
2. Is the CIPLE exam mandatory for nationality?
It is not the only option, but it is one of the most accepted proofs of language proficiency by the portuguese government.
3. How difficult is the CIPLE A2 exam?
It tests basic portuguese, but many candidates struggle with the listening and speaking components without preparation.
4. How long does it take to prepare for the CIPLE A2?
This depends on your starting level, but most students need a few months of focused learning and practice.
5. Why choose Verbal Point for CIPLE preparation?
Because we provide specialized courses, exam simulations, personalized feedback, and experienced teachers who know how to help you succeed.