Frequently Asked Questions
Mock first, then Anki decks — Pro only if the report shows you need guided repair.
Last updated: May 2026
How to use Prep2Go — step by step
- Choose your exam. CIPLE A2 (Portugal), DELE A2 (Spain), or Inburgering A2 (Netherlands). Also DTZ B1, DELF, and CELI. See "Choosing Your Exam" below if unsure.
- Browse the mock preview. Screen walkthrough + sample report — no card. See previews →
- Fix what the mock exposes. Usually vocabulary: Anki deck or iPhone app. Re-mock when scores should have moved.
- Full AI reports (optional). Mock report pack — 3 scored runs with feedback — if you want a detailed readiness plan before booking the real exam.
- Pro only if needed. Get Pro when multiple skills need weeks of guided practice — includes 1 timed mock; use the mock pack for more scored runs. Book your official exam slot early; centres sell out.
📱How Prep2Go works
What is Prep2Go?
Prep2Go is a final readiness check for citizenship and residency language exams — not a learn-from-zero language course.
We help you answer one question before you pay for a seat or another textbook: are you actually ready to pass?
Primary A2 tracks: CIPLE A2, DELE A2, and Inburgering A2. Also available: DTZ B1, DELF, and CELI. Start with the mock preview (screen walkthrough + sample report), then close gaps with Anki decks (or the iPhone app). Get Prep2Go Pro ($27 lifetime) when you need guided repair across skills — it includes 1 timed mock; buy the mock pack for more scored runs.
What is the mock test?
A full-length exam simulator for your track (sections, timing, and format). Guests browse a screen-by-screen preview and sample AI report on each mock landing — no sign-up.
For full timed runs — per-section scores, pass/fail against official rules, writing/speaking feedback, and a repair plan — buy the mock report pack (3 runs, one-time), or use the 1 timed mock included with Prep2Go Pro.
Start: /practice-exam.
Which exams does Prep2Go support?
CIPLE A2 — Portugal
DELE A2 — Spain
Inburgering A2 — Netherlands
Ellinomatheia A2 — Cyprus (Modern Greek)
CCE A2 — Czech Republic
DTZ B1 — Germany
DELF — France (level depends on your file)
CELI — Italy
Primary product focus: A2 exams (CIPLE, DELE, Inburgering, Ellinomatheia, CCE). DTZ B1, DELF, and CELI are also available.
What languages does the platform use?
English for the interface and instructions. Exam content — texts, audio, writing tasks — is in the language of the exam you chose (Portuguese, Spanish, German, French, or Italian).
Do I need an account?
No for browsing the mock preview. Sign up when you want to save progress, unlock full timed runs (mock pack), or sync across devices.
💳Pricing: mock, decks & Pro
What can I use for free?
No card required to browse: /practice-exam.
What is the mock report pack?
One-time purchase: 3 full AI-scored mock runs with section feedback, pass/fail against official rules, and a repair plan. Buy it when the free preview shows you are close but need detailed reports before exam day — not before your first mock.
See /pricing.
How much do Anki decks cost?
One-time purchase per exam deck on /shop — see current price on the product page (exam-frequency vocabulary with audio). Sample cards are available on most products. Delivery by email after checkout; no Pro subscription required.
Is there a free trial on Pro?
No free trial on Pro — it is a one-time lifetime purchase billed at checkout. Use the mock preview, free-tier exercises, and shop sample cards first.
Can I get a refund?
Digital products (decks, mock packs, Pro) are generally non-refundable after delivery or activation — use mock previews and sample-card previews first. Billing errors: email support@prep2go.study. See Refund Policy.
🎯Choosing Your Exam
Which exam do I need?
It depends on the country where you're applying:
Not sure? Compare all exams →
DELF vs CELI — what is the carry-over policy?
Carry-over is about how retakes work — not which CEFR level your citizenship or residence file needs.
CELI (Italian): if you pass one exam block but fail the other, you can normally keep the passing block and resit only the failed part on a later session, under the rules published by the examining body (Università per Stranieri di Perugia). Always read the current CELI bulletin for the exact conditions.
DELF (French): there is no equivalent partial carry-over for the same diploma session — if you do not pass, you register again and sit the full DELF at that level.
Separately, French naturalisation generally requires B2 proof under rules applying since 1 January 2026 for dossiers under that regime; Italian naturalisation commonly expects CELI 2 (B1). Those thresholds are independent of carry-over — confirm with your préfecture, consulate, or comune as appropriate.
Prep2Go offers A2-centred DELF-style practice and CELI preparation through B1; make sure that matches the level your procedure requires.
See our DELF vs CELI scoring rules (note éliminatoire vs carry-over).
📅Preparation workflow
What's the best way to learn vocabulary for the exam?
After a mock shows vocabulary as the gap: use the iPhone app for daily cards without Anki setup, or buy an Anki deck from the shop (one-time). Re-run the mock when your deck is halfway through to see if scores moved.
How long does preparation take?
It depends on your starting level — the mock tells you faster than a generic timeline.
Rough guides if you already have basic conversational ability:
Run the mock. Read the section breakdown. That is your timeline.
When should I book my exam date?
Book your slot before you feel "ready" — centres (especially Lisbon for CIPLE) sell out quickly. Then use Prep2Go mocks to decide when you are safe to sit the real exam.
Do not wait until you feel fluent; wait until mocks show consistent pass scores in every section.
What if I fail my exam?
You can retake at the next session (full fee again for most exams). Before rebooking, run another mock and fix the section that failed — often listening or writing format, not raw language level.
Buy another mock pack if you need full AI reports on each attempt.
Can I switch between exams on Pro?
Yes — Pro includes all five tracks (CIPLE, DELE, DTZ, DELF, CELI) for guided practice. Progress is saved per exam. Pro includes 1 timed mock; Anki decks and extra mock runs (mock pack) are purchased separately.
🤔Is Prep2Go right for me?
I already speak the language. Do I still need Prep2Go?
Probably yes — for the mock, not another course. Speaking the language and passing the exam are different skills.
Native-level speakers often fail because of timed sections, exam-style listening (played once, background noise), or scoring rules (CIPLE 25% floor, DELE pair scoring, DTZ/DELF per-skill minimums).
Browse the mock preview first, then run a full timed mock when you need scored feedback.
How is this different from Duolingo or Babbel?
Duolingo and Babbel teach language in general. Prep2Go answers: will you pass this specific exam on this date?
Start with a mock. If vocabulary is the gap, buy an Anki deck or use the iPhone app (All Access is included with Pro). If multiple skills are weak, get Pro for web practice plus the app. We are not competing to be your daily language lesson.
Will I become fluent using Prep2Go?
No — and that is not the goal. Citizenship and residency exams test a fixed level (A2, B1, or B2): everyday phrases, simple documents, typical situations.
Prep2Go gets you the certificate. Fluency comes from living in the country afterward.
📜2026 residency & citizenship updates
What is Lei Orgânica 1/2024?
A 2024 amendment that changed when your legal residency clock starts — from permit issue date to application date. If you waited years for AIMA to process your card, that waiting time can count toward the residency period when the permit is later approved.
This rule still applies. It does not set how many years you need for citizenship — under the Nationality Law in force from May 2026, most applicants now need 10 years of legal residency (7 for EU/CPLP nationals).
What is Portugal's citizenship residency requirement in 2026?
Under the revised Nationality Law promulgated in May 2026, the standard legal residency period for naturalisation is 10 years for most nationalities and 7 years for EU and CPLP nationals.
An earlier version was blocked by the Constitutional Court in February 2026; the law that entered force afterward raised the timeline from 5 to 10 years for most routes. Grandfathering and transition rules vary by application date and route — verify with official sources or counsel before you plan.
Does the 2024 Portuguese law change affect me if I'm already in the process?
Yes for how the clock is counted: under Lei Orgânica 1/2024, legal residency generally starts from your application date, not your card issue date — waiting for AIMA can count if the permit is later approved.
Separately, the May 2026 Nationality Law changed how many years most routes require before naturalisation (typically 10, not 5). Whether you qualify under old or new timelines depends on your application dates and route — check with AIMA or counsel; do not assume the old 5-year path still applies.
🌍Which countries accept my exam?
Can I use DELF for Swiss citizenship?
Yes — DELF is widely recognised in Switzerland. Requirements vary by canton: French-speaking cantons (Geneva, Vaud, Neuchâtel, Fribourg, Valais, Jura) often accept DELF for permits (e.g. Permis C) and naturalisation, commonly around B1 or B2 depending on the canton — this is Swiss law, not the French 2026 naturalisation rule. Prep2Go offers A2-centred DELF-style preparation; align your study target with what your cantonal migration office publishes.
Is DELF accepted in Belgium?
Yes — DELF is accepted in Belgium for residency and citizenship in Wallonia and Brussels (French-speaking regions). A2 is typically required for long-term residency, while B1 may be needed for citizenship depending on the commune. Prep2Go covers DELF A2 through B2 so you can align with what your commune requires.
Is DELE accepted in Andorra?
Yes — Spanish language proficiency (demonstrated by DELE) is valuable for Andorra residency. Andorra recognizes Spanish, Catalan, French, and Portuguese. DELE A2 helps demonstrate your integration for passive and active residency permits. Andorra does not have a formal citizenship-by-residency path for most applicants, but language skills are considered in applications.
Is CELI accepted in Switzerland?
Yes — CELI is accepted in the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino for residency (Permis C) and citizenship. Ticino typically requires B1 for citizenship. Prep2Go includes CELI 2 (B1) preparation as well as A2-level practice. CELI is also recognized by Swiss employers in Ticino for professional purposes.
Is CIPLE recognized outside Portugal?
CIPLE is administered by CAPLE (University of Lisbon) and recognized in all Portuguese-speaking countries: Brazil, Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, São Tomé and Príncipe, East Timor, and Macau. For Portuguese citizenship specifically, CIPLE A2 is the required certificate.
Which exam do I need for Monaco residency?
Monaco requires French language proficiency for residency permits. DELF is accepted. A2 level is typically sufficient for initial permits. Prep2Go covers DELF A2 through B2 — exam-format practice for whichever level you need next.
🇪🇺Language Requirements for Citizenship
What is the citizenship residency requirement in Portugal now?
For most nationalities, 10 years of legal residency under the revised Nationality Law promulgated in May 2026 (7 years for EU and CPLP nationals). An earlier draft was blocked by the Constitutional Court in February 2026; the subsequently revised law changed the standard timeline from 5 to 10 years for most applicants.
Transition rules (applications already in progress, Golden Visa holders, etc.) depend on dates and route — do not assume the old 5-year rule applies to you. Confirm with AIMA, the Conservatória, or qualified counsel.
Lei Orgânica 1/2024 still governs when the clock starts (usually your first residence application date, not card issue). AIMA backlogs add waiting time on top of the legal period — they are not the same thing as the 10-year rule.
What is the minimum score for citizenship?
55% overall (graded "Suficiente").
You must also achieve a minimum of 25% (11 points) in each of the three components: Reading+Writing, Listening, and Speaking.
Read more: The 25% Rule: why high scorers still fail.
🇵🇹CIPLE A2 Specific
Who needs to take the CIPLE?
Anyone applying for Portuguese citizenship through naturalisation or permanent residency who needs to demonstrate A2-level Portuguese. You do not need to live in Portugal to register — any foreign candidate aged 16 or above can sign up regardless of their country of residence.
What does CIPLE stand for?
CIPLE stands for Certificado Inicial de Português Língua Estrangeira — Initial Certificate of Portuguese as a Foreign Language. It is administered by CAPLE (Centro de Avaliação de Português Língua Estrangeira) at the University of Lisbon.
What's the difference between CIPLE and CAPLE?
CIPLE is the name of the A2-level exam. CAPLE is the body that runs it: the Centre for the Evaluation of Portuguese as a Foreign Language at the University of Lisbon. So you sit the CIPLE exam, which is organised by CAPLE. Other CAPLE exams include DEPLE (B1), DIPLE (B2), DAPLE (C1), and DUPLE (C2). For citizenship you need CIPLE (A2).
How long is the CIPLE exam?
Approximately 2 hours total, divided into three components:
All three components take place on the same day at most centres, though some centres schedule the speaking component on a separate day. Check your confirmation email carefully.
What is the pass mark?
55% overall (grade: Suficiente). There is also a minimum threshold per section — you cannot score below 25% on any individual component and still pass, even if your overall score is above 55%.
This is why the listening section is particularly risky. A very weak listening score can fail a candidate whose reading and writing are strong. Read more: The 25% Rule.
What is the grading scale?
Does the CIPLE certificate expire?
No. The diploma issued by CAPLE does not have an expiry date. Always follow current AIMA instructions for your citizenship or residence application; administrative checklists can change, but the certificate itself does not expire.
Do I need to take an A1 exam first?
No. There are no prerequisites. You can register for CIPLE directly without having taken any prior CAPLE exam or certification.
Can I take the exam outside Portugal?
Yes. CAPLE authorised centres exist in over 35 countries including Spain, France, Germany, the UK, the USA, Canada, Australia, Brazil, and Japan. International sessions typically run in May, July, and November. Portugal has more frequent dates, including February through June.
How quickly do exam slots fill up?
Very quickly — especially in Portugal. Slots at popular centres such as Faculdade de Letras in Lisbon can sell out within hours of opening, typically in January. Candidates who waited until they felt ready to book have found all available slots gone for months ahead.
The practical advice: book your exam slot before you start preparing, not after. See our CIPLE A2 exam dates 2026 guide for step-by-step registration.
What do I bring on exam day?
Dictionaries, phones, and all electronic devices must be left outside or switched off completely before entering.
What happens during the listening section?
The listening section is consistently reported as the hardest part of the exam. Audio is played over room speakers — not headphones — and each recording is played once only with no replay. Many recordings include deliberate background noise (café sounds, traffic, public announcements) to simulate real-world listening conditions.
Candidates who only practised with clean, headphone-quality audio are frequently caught off guard. Prepare under realistic conditions.
What happens during the speaking section?
You are paired with another candidate and assessed together in a short oral interaction. Tasks typically include describing a picture, a brief roleplay scenario (buying a ticket, making a complaint, asking for directions), and a short conversation on a familiar topic.
The examiner observes and scores but does not participate in the conversation. Most candidates find this format less stressful than a solo performance.
For extra speaking drills between Prep2Go sessions, many candidates train on Talkio (AI conversation — use promo code PREP2GO for 15% off) or a human tutor on iTalki.
How much does the CIPLE exam cost?
€72–85 depending on the exam centre. If you fail, you pay again. That's why preparing properly before booking matters.
CAPLE charges in EUR on the online portal — if your bank blocks EU payments or adds heavy FX, arrange an EUR-ready card before registration day.
Can I retake the exam if I fail?
Yes. There is no limit on the number of attempts. Your scores from a failed attempt are not carried forward — you sit all three components again in a future session. You register and pay the full fee again for each attempt.
What is CIPLE A2?
CIPLE A2 (Certificado Inicial de Português Língua Estrangeira) is the official Portuguese A2 certificate issued by CAPLE (Universidade de Lisboa).
It's required for:
Prep2Go helps you prepare for and pass this exam.
How hard is CIPLE A2?
Manageable with consistent preparation.
CIPLE tests basic user level — everyday phrases, simple situations, describing your background. The challenge is often the format (timed sections, specific task types) rather than raw difficulty.
With 8–12 weeks of structured practice, most dedicated students pass.
What's the pass rate for CIPLE A2?
Official data is limited. Anecdotal evidence suggests:
Common reasons for failing:
Prep2Go addresses all of these through exam-format practice.
What's the 25% trap in CIPLE A2?
The #1 reason people fail CIPLE A2 even with high overall scores.
The rule: You need 55% overall AND 25% minimum in EACH section.
Example of the trap:
Overall: 74% — but you FAIL because Listening < 25%.
How Prep2Go helps:
Where can I take the CIPLE exam?
CIPLE is offered at CAPLE-certified centers worldwide — in Portugal and in many countries abroad.
Check caple.letras.ulisboa.pt for exam dates and registration. For step-by-step registration and 2026 dates, see our CIPLE A2 exam dates 2026 guide. Prep2Go shows session dates and registration deadlines when available.
How many words do I need for CIPLE A2?
The exam typically requires approximately 1,000 core words. Prep2Go's vocabulary component helps you build this systematically with high-frequency exam vocabulary.
🇪🇸DELE A2 Specific
What is DELE A2?
DELE A2 (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera) is the official Spanish A2 certificate issued by Instituto Cervantes.
It's required for:
Prep2Go helps you prepare for and pass this exam.
🇫🇷DELF Specific
What is DELF?
DELF (Diplôme d'Études en Langue Française) is the official French language certificate issued by France Éducation International. Recognized in 175+ countries including France, Switzerland, Belgium, Monaco, and Luxembourg.
Required level depends on your goal and country: many French titre de séjour situations use A2 or higher depending on permit type; French naturalisation generally requires B2 proof under the rules applying since 1 January 2026 for dossiers under that regime (verify with your préfecture or consulate). Switzerland and Belgium set their own permit and nationality language rules — DELF is often accepted, but thresholds are not automatically the same as in France.
Prep2Go's DELF track is A2-focused exam-style practice (reading, listening, writing, speaking, vocabulary). Use official guidance to confirm whether you need A2, B1, or B2 for your file.
🇮🇹CELI Specific
Is CELI 2 B1 accepted for Italian citizenship?
CELI 2 certifies B1 Italian and is one of the recognised ways to document the language level commonly required for Italian citizenship. Confirm the exact document and exemption rules for your application route.
🇩🇪DTZ B1 Specific
Can DTZ B1 be used for German residence or naturalisation?
A DTZ result showing B1 is commonly used as recognised German-language proof in residence and naturalisation pathways. Acceptance depends on your procedure and authority, so confirm with your Ausländerbehörde or citizenship office before filing.
Is DTZ the same as Goethe or telc B1?
No. DTZ is a dual-level A2–B1 integration-course exam. Goethe-Zertifikat B1 and telc Deutsch B1 are separate B1 certificates with different task formats. Authorities may accept several recognised certificates, but prepare for the exact exam you booked.
🇨🇾Ellinomatheia A2 Specific
Is Ellinomatheia A2 enough for Cypriot citizenship?
Usually no on the standard Form M127 route, which requires B1 Greek plus the separate political and social reality exam. Some high-skilled tracks may accept A2 under different rules — confirm on gov.cy for your pathway.
🔧Technical & Account
Can I download content offline?
Limited offline support currently.
What you CAN download:
✓ Anki vocabulary decks (via Shop)
✓ PDF study materials (via Blog)
What requires internet:
We continuously update content. Online ensures you always have the current version.
Is my progress saved in the cloud?
Yes. Your progress is stored securely and syncs across devices when you're signed in.
Completed exercises, mock attempts, and vocabulary progress are saved on Pro.
What browsers are supported?
Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge (latest versions). The site is responsive and works on desktop, tablet, and mobile browsers.