Dutch Inburgering Exam Guide (A2/B1)
Official guide to the Dutch Inburgering exam. Learn the sections, formats, and how to prepare with exam-style practice.
What is the Inburgering exam?
The Dutch Inburgering exam is the official integration exam in the Netherlands. It measures language skills in Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking, plus Knowledge of Dutch Society (KNM).
Each section has its own format and time limit, and can be scheduled separately. This lets you focus on one skill at a time while building full exam readiness.
Exam structure at a glance
A quick summary of the official sections, formats, and typical timing.
Durations vary by level (A2 or B1) and exam version.
A2 vs B1 levels
A2 focuses on basic everyday Dutch. B1 (Staatsexamen I) expects longer answers, clearer structure, and more detailed language.
A2: Basic everyday Dutch
Required for most integration routes and permanent residence applications.
- Simple vocabulary for common situations
- Short written tasks and short spoken answers
- Slower pace with straightforward questions
B1: Staatsexamen I
Needed for some routes, study enrollment, or work requirements.
- Longer answers with clear structure
- More vocabulary variety and connectors
- Faster timing and higher expectations
Always confirm your required level with DUO or your municipality.
Exam sections
Choose a section to see the format and begin practice.
How to practice effectively
Keep your plan simple and repeatable so progress stays steady.
- Build a weekly rhythm and rotate sections
- Use short, focused sessions to stay consistent
- Add timed practice to match exam pressure
- Review mistakes and track repeat errors
Common mistakes to avoid
Avoid these habits to improve faster.
- Skipping writing or speaking practice
- Doing no timed practice at all
- Ignoring KNM because it feels easy
- Cramming late instead of practicing weekly
How DutchExam helps
DutchExam provides practice aligned with the official exam format. Start with Reading practice, then use the Writing AI Assistant and Speaking AI Assistant for targeted feedback.
- Exam-style tasks across every section
- AI feedback for writing and speaking responses
- Timed practice sessions to build real pacing
FAQ
What is the Dutch Inburgering exam?
It is the official integration exam in the Netherlands. It covers Reading, Listening, Writing, Speaking, and Knowledge of Dutch Society (KNM), each taken as a separate section.
What are the Inburgering exam sections?
The exam includes Reading, Listening, Writing, Speaking, and KNM. Each section has its own format and time limit.
Inburgering A2 vs B1: which level do I need?
Your required level depends on your integration route. Always confirm the level with DUO or your municipality before you prepare.
How do I prepare for the Inburgering exam?
Use exam-style practice for each section, add timed sessions, and review mistakes weekly. Short, consistent practice works best.
How long does the Dutch Inburgering exam take?
Each section has its own time limit and can be taken separately. Most sections range from about 40 to 110 minutes depending on level.
Can I take the Inburgering exam sections separately?
Yes. Each section is scheduled and scored separately, so you can complete them one by one.
What is KNM in the Inburgering exam?
KNM stands for Knowledge of Dutch Society. It is a Dutch-language multiple-choice test about daily life, rules, and institutions in the Netherlands.