TL;DR
- The Inburgeringsexamen is the mandatory civic integration exam for many newcomers to the Netherlands, administered by DUO (part of the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science).
- It covers Dutch language (Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening) plus knowledge of Dutch society (KNM) and the labour market (ONA).
- A2 is the current level for most components, with a transition toward B1. Expect capacity pressure on Speaking and Writing at A2 in 2026.
- DUO offers loans to cover integration costs. Repayment may be waived if you pass on time.
What is the Inburgeringsexamen?
The Inburgeringsexamen (civic integration exam) is the official test that newcomers to the Netherlands must pass to demonstrate they can participate in Dutch society. It is administered by DUO, the education execution agency of the Dutch Ministry of Education.
Passing the exam is a requirement for obtaining a permanent residence permit or Dutch citizenship (naturalisation) for most integration-required newcomers.
Exam components
| Component | What it tests |
|---|---|
| Reading (Lezen) | Understanding written Dutch at A2 level |
| Writing (Schrijven) | Producing written Dutch at A2 level |
| Speaking (Spreken) | Speaking Dutch at A2 level |
| Listening (Luisteren) | Understanding spoken Dutch at A2 level |
| KNM | Knowledge of Dutch society — history, government, customs |
| ONA | Orientation on the Dutch labour market — finding work, workplace culture |
| Participation Statement | Signed declaration of understanding Dutch values |
A2 to B1 transition
The Dutch government has been moving the required level from A2 to B1 for several components. In 2026, most candidates still take the A2-level exams, but:
- Capacity for Speaking and Writing at A2 is under pressure. DUO announced in 2026 that some candidates may receive extra time because there are not enough exam spots.
- Check the DUO Inburgeren website for your personal requirement letter, which states exactly which level you need.
Costs and loans
DUO charges fees for each exam component. The exact amounts are published on the DUO website and can change annually.
DUO offers a loan specifically for integration costs (exam fees, course costs). Key facts:
- You apply for the loan through Mijn Inburgering
- You must repay the loan after your integration period ends
- If you pass all exams within the required period, repayment may be waived in certain cases
- You can also borrow to cover course costs from recognised schools
Practice and preparation
DUO provides official practice exams on the Inburgeren website. These are the most reliable preparation materials because they match the real exam format exactly.
Additional preparation paths:
| Path | Best for |
|---|---|
| DUO practice exams | Understanding the real test format |
| Dutch courses at recognised schools | Structured preparation with NT2-qualified teachers |
| 1-on-1 tutoring | Personalised exam prep. italki and Preply have tutors specialising in Inburgering |
| Self-study with apps | Daily vocabulary and grammar practice. Duolingo Dutch, Memrise, and others help with the basics |
Extra time and exceptions
You may qualify for extra time to complete the integration exams if:
- You have been ill for an extended period
- You had a baby during your integration period
- You have completed at least 300 hours of a recognised integration course
- You hold a diploma that exempts you from some components
Submit supporting documents through Mijn Inburgering. DUO reviews each case individually.
There are also scenarios where you can take fewer exams or be fully exempt: if you already hold certain Dutch diplomas, or if you have completed at least 600 hours of a recognised course.
Related exams
- Staatsexamen NT2 — the higher-level Dutch exam for university, work, and citizenship
- CNaVT Exams — the international Dutch proficiency certificate
Sources: inburgeren.nl (DUO official integration portal, accessed June 2026). Exam fees, levels, and requirements are set by the Dutch government and can change. Always check your personal requirement letter on Mijn Inburgering.