A2 Exam or PLA Course? Here's How to Choose in July 2025

If you're applying for residency renewal, citizenship, or visa extensions in Portugal this year, you'll need to show A2-level Portuguese proficiency. There are two main ways to demonstrate this:

• 🧪 Pass the A2 CIPLE Exam

• 🎓 Complete the PLA (Português Língua de Acolhimento) Course

  
  

This article breaks down the pros, cons, and best choice based on your personal situation.

📊 Comparison: A2 CIPLE Exam vs. PLA Course (2025)

Feature	A2 Exam (CIPLE)	PLA Course (Edpro / Certified)
Format	Timed test (reading, writing, listening, speaking)	Continuous assessment with attendance
Cost	€72–€95	Varies by provider (€0–€200)
Duration	1 day exam	150–200 hours across 2–3 months
Outcome	Pass/Fail certificate	Completion certificate (meets AIMA/SEF standard)
Retake policy	Wait 2–3 months for next date	Progress-based — no fail risk
Accepted by authorities	Yes (CIPLE)	Yes (AIMA, IRN, SEF)

🧪 When to Choose the A2 Exam (CIPLE)

✅ You’re already fluent at A2 level.

✅ You’re confident in test environments.

✅ You need your certificate urgently (within 30 days).

🧠 Note: If you fail, you must wait for the next available date. This could delay your citizenship or residency renewals.

🎓 When to Choose the PLA Course

✅ You’re still learning Portuguese.

✅ You prefer guided classes over exams.

✅ You want to fulfill A2 legally without the stress of testing.

The PLA course is ideal for:

• Long-term expats

• Family members (adults & teens)

• Students planning future citizenship

• People with test anxiety or scheduling limitations

  
  

🧠 What Immigration Authorities Say (2025)

“The PLA course is a legally recognized alternative to the A2 exam and meets the same language requirements for renewal and naturalization.” — AIMA (Agência para a Imigração e Mobilidade Administrativa)

“We’ve seen a growing preference for the PLA model, especially among families, older adults, and applicants needing flexible scheduling.” — IRN (Instituto dos Registos e Notariado)

🔎 Which One Is Best for You?

Choose the A2 Exam if:

• You’ve passed A2 practice tests.

• You’re applying on a short deadline.

• You enjoy self-study.

  
  

Choose the PLA Course if:

• You need support to reach A2 fluency.

• You want an alternative to formal testing.

• You’re applying for family reunification or residency renewal.

  
  

🎓 Skip the test, not the result. 👉 Enroll in the official PLA Portuguese course — recognized for residency, renewal, and citizenship applications in Portugal.

📘 Bonus: What the PLA Certificate Includes

• 📝 Level report (A2 based on CEFR standards)

• 🧾 Attendance and progress records

• 🧠 Cultural integration modules

• ✅ Valid proof for AIMA, SEF, IRN, and consular applications

  
  

❓ FAQs: A2 Exam vs. PLA Course

📌 Is the PLA certificate accepted for citizenship?

Yes. As long as the course is recognized under the PLA program, it is equivalent to A2 proof for legal purposes.

📌 Can I do both — the exam and the course?

You could, but one is sufficient. Most people choose one path based on timing and learning style.

📌 Is the PLA course easier than the exam?

It’s not necessarily easier — it’s structured differently. It’s better for those who learn gradually with teacher feedback.

Conclusion

Choosing between the A2 Exam and the PLA Course can be challenging. Consider your learning style, urgency, and personal circumstances. Both options are valid paths to achieving the required A2-level proficiency in Portuguese. Make an informed decision that aligns with your goals and needs.