Moving to the Netherlands is an exciting step, but for many international residents the maze of requirements can be quite a headache. One of these requirements is usually the Dutch civic integration exam, also known as the inburgeringsexamen.

This exam tests your Dutch language skills and your knowledge of Dutch society. Passing the exam is an important step for many people who want to continue living in the Netherlands, apply for permanent residence, or eventually become Dutch citizens.

In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about the inburgeringsexamen, including the different exam parts, Dutch language levels, preparation tips, and how to prepare successfully.

What is the Dutch inburgeringsexamen?

The inburgeringsexamen is the Dutch civic integration exam for people who need to demonstrate their ability to participate in Dutch society.  

The exam combines two important areas:

• Dutch language skills
• Knowledge of Dutch society

The goal is not to speak perfect Dutch, but to be able to communicate in daily situations such as talking with colleagues, communicating with your municipality (gemeente), speaking with your child's school and understanding important letters and information.

Who needs to take the inburgeringsexamen?

Whether you need to take the exam depends on your personal situation, nationality, residence permit and integration requirements. 

Many people take the exam because they want to:

• apply for permanent residence in the Netherlands
• apply for Dutch citizenship
• complete their civic integration requirements after moving to the Netherlands

Some people may be exempt or have different requirements depending on their situation. There is also an MVV test for spouses of Dutch nationals. If this is you, click here for more info.

Always check your personal requirements with the official Dutch authorities.  

What level of Dutch do you need for the inburgeringsexamen?

The required Dutch level depends on your integration route.

Many people complete the exam at:

• A2 level (for certain integration requirements)
• B1 level (for the newer integration system according to the CEFR)

A2 level
At A2 level, you should be able to communicate in simple everyday situations, such as talking with your child's teacher, a colleague, or someone at a shop or municipality. You can understand the main points of simple conversations, talk about familiar topics, and describe basic experiences and plans using short, clear sentences. Native-level Dutch is not expected; the goal is to communicate understandably.

B1 level
At the B1 level, you can communicate more independently in Dutch. You should be able to understand more complex conversations, explain your opinions, describe experiences and ambitions, and give reasons for your ideas and plans. This allows you to participate more confidently in conversations at work and in daily life.

Not sure what your current level is? Take our free Dutch level test.

Which exams are part of the inburgeringsexamen?

The inburgeringsexamen consists of several separate exams that test your Dutch language skills and your knowledge of Dutch society.

1. Reading (Lezen)

During the Reading exam, you will read different Dutch texts and answer questions about them. These texts can include emails, letters, advertisements, and other practical information you may encounter in daily life in the Netherlands. 

Click here for more detailed information about the reading exam.

2. Listening (Luisteren)

The Listening exam tests your ability to understand spoken Dutch. You will listen to conversations or watch short videos and answer questions about what you hear. The topics are related to everyday situations, such as work, family, appointments, and daily activities.

Click here for more detailed information about the listening exam.

3. Speaking (Spreken)

During the Speaking exam, you will answer questions and explain situations in Dutch. The goal is to test whether you can communicate clearly in everyday situations and express yourself in a way that others can understand.

Click here for more detailed information about the speaking exam.

4. Writing (Schrijven)

The Writing exam tests your ability to write practical texts in Dutch. You may need to write messages, emails, or short texts about everyday situations.

Click here for more detailed information about the writing exam.

5. Knowledge of Dutch Society (Kennis van de Nederlandse Maatschappij - KNM)

The KNM exam tests your knowledge of Dutch society, culture, and daily life in the Netherlands. The topics include subjects such as the Dutch government, healthcare, education, work, and Dutch customs and habits.

Click here for more detailed information about the KNM exam.

6. Orientation on the Dutch Labour Market (Oriëntatie op de Nederlandse Arbeidsmarkt - ONA)

Depending on your integration route, you may also need to complete the ONA exam. This part focuses on working in the Netherlands, including finding a job, understanding the Dutch labour market, and exploring your own professional goals.

Click here for more detailed information about the ONA exam.

How long does it take to take the inburgeringsexamen?

The time needed depends on your current Dutch level, how much time you can spend studying, and whether you need to retake any exams.

Someone starting from zero often needs several months to a year of structured learning before reaching the required level.

How it works:
When you apply for the exams, you can choose which exam parts you would like to take first and select an available exam date. After completing an exam, it can take several weeks before you receive your result. If you need to retake an exam, this can add extra time to the process.

Because of this, it is important to prepare well and see the inburgeringsexamen as a medium-term goal rather than something you can complete in just a few weeks. With consistent practice and the right preparation, you can increase your chances of passing the exams the first time.

Some people may be exempt from part or all of the inburgeringsexamen depending on their personal situation. If you think you may qualify for an exemption, you can contact DUO for more information.

Prepare for the Dutch inburgeringsexamen with Learn Dutch Online

We help international students prepare for their Dutch language goals with online courses taught by native Dutch teachers.

Our courses focus on:
✓ Speaking Dutch with confidence
✓ Understanding Dutch grammar
✓ Building practical vocabulary
✓ Preparing for Dutch exams

All lessons are online and can be scheduled flexibly around your work and personal life.