Your exams are most likely cancelled, but the two systems have not synced yet. The "Afgemeld" status on Mijn Inburgering is the more reliable indicator because that is where the cancellation was processed. The DUO website may simply be showing an outdated status and should update within a few days.

In the Netherlands, Mijn Inburgering and DUO are separate systems that do not always update in real time. When you cancel an exam, the change is first recorded in the exam administration system (often Mijn Inburgering), and then it is passed to DUO for financial and scheduling updates. This can take several working days, especially if the cancellation was processed close to the exam date. Since DUO told you it was too late to cancel, there may also be a manual review happening, which can add to the delay.

Here is what you should do:

  1. Wait 3 to 5 working days and check both websites again. If the DUO site still shows "Gepland" after that, contact DUO again. Ask them to confirm the status of your exams and to update the DUO portal if needed.

  2. Keep evidence. Take screenshots of the "Afgemeld" status on Mijn Inburgering and the "Gepland" status on DUO, along with dates. This will help if there is any dispute about whether you attended or cancelled.

  3. Check your email and post. DUO may send a confirmation of cancellation or a decision about your medical reason. If you do not receive anything within two weeks, follow up.

  4. Understand the tradeoff. If DUO officially rejected your cancellation because it was too late, the exams may still count as taken (or as a no-show), even if Mijn Inburgering shows "Afgemeld". That could affect your fees and your exam history. So it is important to get written confirmation from DUO that the cancellation was accepted.

  5. Consider calling DUO if you need clarity quickly. Phone contact often resolves sync issues faster than waiting. Have your personal details and exam dates ready.

In short, do not assume the cancellation is final until DUO confirms it in writing. The "Afgemeld" status is a good sign, but the DUO portal is the official record for booking and payment. For general guidance on inburgering exams, resources like Dutch Fluency can help you understand the process, but always rely on official DUO communications for your own case.