Dutch Language Skill Levels
While being able to speak Dutch is not a requirement for EU expats in Netherlands, having a basic knowledge of the language is extremely helpful. Find out about the different Dutch language skill levels.
DUTCH LANGUAGE SKILL LEVELS
Dutch language training is available at schools, adult education centres, in-business training programmes, personal tutors and self-learning aids. Classes are organised according to skill level (beginner, intermediate or advanced) and correspond with CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) levels.
CEFR levels are based on the four language skills: reading, writing, speaking and listening. The coding ranges from A1 (limited skill) to C2 (near fluent).
TESTING DUTCH LANGUAGE SKILLS
There are multiple state exams given in the Netherlands which test Dutch language skill level:
- NT2 Staatsexamen Programme I (Dutch as a Second Language State Exam Level 1)
- NT2 Staatsexamen Programme II (Dutch as a Second Language State Exam Level 2)
- Inburgeringsexamens (Dutch Civic Integration Exam)
Dutch as a Second Language is offered at two levels. Employers seeking to fill specific positions in which knowledge of Dutch is required will typically specify whether the NT2 Programme I or NT2 Programme II skill level is needed.
- Information about the NT2 Staatsexamen (in English)
- Exam specifics including application process, price, upcoming dates and test locations (in Dutch)
Within higher education, foreign students wishing to pursue an MBO program (vocational studies degree) taught in Dutch must have passed the NT2 program I exam, while those applying for HBO or WO program (university-level courses) taught in Dutch must have passed the NT2 Programme II exam. However, many degree programs are offered which are taught entirely in English at both the MBO and HBO/WO levels.
- Information about secondary education and higher education in the Netherlands
The organization responsible for the administration of state exams in the Netherlands is the Board of Examinations (College voor Toetsen en Examens).
The Civic Integration Exam (Inburgering) is a multi-part state exam that tests not just Dutch language skills but other areas such as Dutch culture, history and geography. The language portion is focussed on the use of Dutch in practical, everyday situations. A Dutch language skill level of A2 is required to pass.
- Overview of the Dutch Civic Integration exam
- Take a self-assessment test on the Europass website
Related information…
FINDING A BEGINNER DUTCH COURSE