Staatsexamen NT2 Programme I (B1, DUO · CvTE) has 5 parts: Lezen I, Luisteren I, Schrijven I, Spreken I, KNM. Pass mark: A score of ≥ 500 per part. Cost: €50 per part, €200 for all four. Result: About 5 weeks. Checked 2026-09-25.
Dates, places and waiting times
Fixed exam dates per part, published by DUO. Registration opens about 8 weeks before and closes 3 weeks (21 days) before each exam date. Places can fill up before the deadline. source
- 1Registeropens ~8 weeks before, closes 3 weeks before
- 2Examfixed date per part
- 3Resultfixed result date, 3–7 weeks after the exam
- 4DiplomaCertificates and the diploma never expire.
| Exam date | Part | Register by | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fri, 27 Nov 2026in 25 days | Listening · Speaking | Fri, 6 Nov 20264 days left | Tue, 15 Dec 2026 |
| Tue, 1 Dec 2026in 29 days | Reading | Tue, 10 Nov 20268 days left | Tue, 22 Dec 2026 |
| Wed, 2 Dec 2026in 30 days | Listening · Speaking | Wed, 11 Nov 20269 days left | Tue, 22 Dec 2026 |
| Fri, 4 Dec 2026in 32 days | Speaking | Fri, 13 Nov 202611 days left | Tue, 12 Jan 2027 |
| Wed, 9 Dec 2026in 37 days | Reading | Wed, 18 Nov 202616 days left | Tue, 12 Jan 2027 |
| Fri, 11 Dec 2026in 39 days | Speaking | Fri, 20 Nov 202618 days left | Tue, 26 Jan 2027 |
| Tue, 15 Dec 2026in 43 days | Writing | Tue, 24 Nov 202622 days left | Tue, 26 Jan 2027 |
| Tue, 22 Dec 2026in 50 days | Listening · Speaking | Tue, 1 Dec 202629 days left | Tue, 12 Jan 2027 |
| Wed, 23 Dec 2026in 51 days | Listening · Speaking | Wed, 2 Dec 202630 days left | Tue, 12 Jan 2027 |
| Tue, 29 Dec 2026in 57 days | Listening | Tue, 8 Dec 202636 days left | Tue, 19 Jan 2027 |
Showing 10 of 24 dates you can still book. Checked 2026-09-26; places can fill up before the deadline. Official Programme I exam schedule ↗
Where
DUO exam locations. Zwolle moves to Van Wevelinkhovenstraat 1 from 1 October 2026. source
At a glance
Exam parts370 min in total
Lezen IReading · 36 multiple-choice questions about 6 texts110 min
- Format
- Texts in a paper booklet; you answer on the computer.
- Questions / tasks
- 36 multiple-choice questions about 6 texts
- Task types
- Find the topic, understand meaning, see how parts of a text relate, find and combine information.
- Scoring
- Scored by computer: 1 point per correct answer. Pass: ≥ 500.
- Allowed aids
- Only the paper Van Dale Pocketwoordenboek Nederlands als tweede taal (NT2).[1]
Luisteren IListening · About 40 multiple-choice questions90 min
- Format
- Computer with headphones; 5 or more audio fragments and 1–3 videos.
- Questions / tasks
- About 40 multiple-choice questions
- Task types
- Multiple choice. Each fragment plays only once; 25 s per question.
- Scoring
- Scored by computer: 1 point per correct answer. Pass: ≥ 500.
- Allowed aids
- No dictionary.[1]
Schrijven IWriting · 8 zinstaken + 2 deelschrijftaken + 2 korte schrijftaken100 min
- Format
- On the computer. You may choose the order of the tasks.
- Questions / tasks
- 8 zinstaken + 2 deelschrijftaken + 2 korte schrijftaken
- Task types
- Zinstaak: write one sentence or finish a sentence. Deelschrijftaak: write a short message, complete a text or form. Korte schrijftaak: write a short text.
- Scoring
- Two trained raters use a beoordelingsvoorschrift (marking guide); 1 or more points per task. Pass: ≥ 500.
- Allowed aids
- Only the paper Van Dale Pocketwoordenboek Nederlands als tweede taal (NT2).[1]
Spreken ISpeaking · 8 short tasks + 8 medium tasksAbout 25 min
- Format
- Headphones on; you speak into a microphone to the computer. Your answers are recorded.
- Questions / tasks
- 8 short tasks + 8 medium tasks
- Task types
- Short task: answer in 20 s. Medium task: answer in 30 s.
- Scoring
- Two trained raters use a beoordelingsvoorschrift (marking guide); 1 or more points per task. Pass: ≥ 500.
- Allowed aids
- No dictionary.[1]
KNM (Kennis van de Nederlandse Maatschappij)Knowledge · Not published on the official page45 min
- Format
- On the computer at a DUO exam location. Not part of the Staatsexamen. Questions come in different themes.
- Questions / tasks
- Not published on the official page
- Task types
- Questions per theme about Dutch society
- Scoring
- Not described on the official page — check inburgeren.nl.
- Allowed aids
- —[13]
Scoring, results and retakes
Pass mark: 500
You must get a score of at least 500 for each part. Each part counts on its own.[2]
Reading and listening: computer
Lezen and Luisteren are scored by computer. Each correct answer gives 1 point.[2]
Writing and speaking: two raters
Schrijven and Spreken are always scored by two trained raters, using a beoordelingsvoorschrift (marking guide). A task can give 1 point or more.[2]
When you get your result
The result date is in the examenrooster. From 15:00 that day you can see it in Mijn DUO (log in with DigiD). You also get an e-mail and a letter.[7]
Diploma or certificate
Pass all 4 parts: DUO sends you the diploma. Passed one part: you can request a certificate in 'Mijn diploma's'. Diploma and certificates are valid without time limit.[7]
Retakes
You can take a failed part again. You can only register for a new exam after you have received your result. The official page gives no maximum number of attempts.[4]
Use for naturalisation
For naturalisation the IND accepts the Staatsexamen NT2 programme I or II. The current naturalisation requirement is language level A2.[15]
What is really tested
Derived from the official task descriptions and level descriptions — not from leaked questions.
Lezen I: finding and combining information
- Question types: the topic of a text, the meaning of words and sentences, how parts of a text relate, finding and combining information.
- CEFR B1: understand texts in common everyday or work-related language, and descriptions of events, feelings and wishes in personal letters.
- 36 multiple-choice questions on 6 texts in 110 min; the texts are on paper, the questions on the computer.
- Words may come from the CvTE Aanvullende woordenlijst, which adds to the Core and General lists of A Frequency Dictionary of Dutch.
Luisteren I: main points in one listen
- About 40 multiple-choice questions on 5 or more audio fragments and 1–3 videos.
- Each fragment plays only once and you have 25 s per question: you must catch the point the first time.
- CEFR B1: understand the main points of clear standard language about familiar things such as work, school and free time.
- No dictionary: you need the words ready in your head, including words from the CvTE Aanvullende woordenlijst.
Schrijven I: from one sentence to a short text
- Zinstaak (8×): write one sentence or finish a sentence — correct, complete sentences.
- Deelschrijftaak (2×): write a short message or complete a text or form.
- Korte schrijftaak (2×): write a short text.
- CEFR B1: simple, connected text on familiar or personal topics; personal letters describing experiences and impressions.
- Two raters score each task; the exact criteria and word counts are not published on the official site.
Spreken I: short, clear answers on time
- 8 short tasks (20 s) and 8 medium tasks (30 s), recorded by the computer.
- You wear headphones and speak into a microphone to the computer, not to an examiner in the room.
- CEFR B1: describe experiences, plans and opinions in simple, connected sentences and give short reasons.
- CEFR B1: deal with most everyday situations in the language.
- Two raters score each task; the exact criteria are not published on the official site.
KNM: new version since 2025-07-01
- Since 2025-07-01 a renewed KNM exam is used, developed by Cito; DUO runs the exam.
- New content: what the right of self-determination of women in the Netherlands means.
- New content: what the Holocaust was, and that many Dutch Jews died in it; antisemitism and discrimination are forbidden.
- The focus moved from behaviour to knowledge.
Rules you need to know
Routes & levels5
You need a BSN, a residence permit and registration with your gemeente. You have 3 years to complete integration (the inburgeringstermijn).[10]
DUO sends a first letter → the gemeente invites you for a brede intake → Leerbaarheidstoets (LBT) → your Persoonlijk Plan Inburgering en Participatie (PIP) → DUO sends a second letter with the start date of your term.[10]
B1 route: goal work, level B1; PVT, Lezen, Schrijven, Spreken, Luisteren, KNM, MAP. Onderwijsroute: to mbo/hbo/university, B1 or B2. Zelfredzaamheidsroute (Z-route): level A1, exams not required, ends with a certificate, not a diploma.[11]
Only in the B1 route the language level can be lowered to A2 if B1 is not reachable. You must first have followed at least 600 hours of lessons. The change is recorded in the PIP.[11]
A learning route can be changed within 1.5 years after the start of the term. From the onderwijsroute you can switch to the B1 route or Z-route during the whole term.[11]
Registration3
KNM is not booked in MijnDUO but in Mijn Inburgering (log in with DigiD). From registration to exam can take 6 weeks or more. You get a written confirmation 1 week before; you can change or cancel up to 1 week before.[19]
B1 exams are booked through MijnDUO (with DigiD; there is also a way without DigiD), not through Mijn Inburgering. Registration opens about 8 weeks before the exam, at 9:00 or 10:00 on the opening day (see the examenrooster).[3]
In October and November 2026 extra Programma I exams are added. Check the examenrooster for dates.[9]
Costs & payment3
Under Wi2021 the participatieverklaringstraject (PVT) is free.[12]
Each exam costs €50 (Lezen, Luisteren, Schrijven, Spreken, KNM). All Wi2021 exams together: €250.[12]
Wi2021 asielstatushouders: the gemeente pays; the first 2 attempts of each exam are free, and they cannot borrow from DUO. Others (e.g. family migrants) pay themselves or borrow from DUO, only for a accredited school; DUO decides the amount based on income.[12]
Adapted exams1
Extra time or larger letters are possible; exam rooms are wheelchair accessible without a request. Tick 'persoonlijke omstandigheden' when you register; DUO contacts you and asks for proof (e.g. a statement from a specialist). The time or place may change.[5]
Deadlines & fines1
DUO gives the fines. Wi2021 learning route: up to €1.000. PVT or MAP not finished on time: €340 each. The page also says asielstatushouders never get a fine.[17]
Good to know1
The Module Arbeidsmarkt en Participatie (MAP, Wi2021 only) is about working and finding work in the Netherlands. It has two parts: labour market orientation and participation (practical tasks such as volunteering, an internship or paid work).[13]
On the exam day
- 1Bring ID and your letter
Show a valid photo ID at every exam, and bring the oproepbrief (invitation letter) from DUO.[6]
- 2Arrive half an hour early
You must be there half an hour before the exam to sign in.[3]
- 3Late = no exam
If you are late, you may not enter the exam room and you cannot take the exam.[18]
- 4Dictionary rule
Lezen and Schrijven: only the paper Van Dale Pocketwoordenboek Nederlands als tweede taal (NT2). Luisteren and Spreken: no dictionary.[6]
- 5No digital devices
All digital devices are forbidden during the exam.[9]
- 6Questions?
DUO: 050 599 89 33, nt2@duo.nl. CvTE: 030 230 60 62, info@staatsexamensnt2.nl.[9]
Recent and planned changes
- PlannedWi2021 mid-term evaluation
The cabinet published the mid-term evaluation of the Wet inburgering. It plans rule changes to make combining paid work with integration easier, and more attention for the rule of law, religious law not above national law, and the Holocaust. No start date was given.[21]
- PlannedNaturalisation: A2 → B1 (plan)
A parliamentary paper (Kamerstuk 30573-237) says the planned increase from A2 to B1 needs a thorough revision and the draft will be placed in public consultation. No start date has been given; as of 2026-09-25 naturalisation still requires A2.[20]
- In forceNew KNM exam
Since 2025-07-01 a renewed KNM exam is used, with new content on women's self-determination, the Holocaust, and the ban on antisemitism and discrimination. The previous renewal was in 2015. Older practice material may no longer fit.[14]
- In forceCvTE Aanvullende woordenlijst
The CvTE published a supplementary word list (first 2023-01-16, renewed 2024-01-19). Words on it can appear in Programma I (B1) and II (B2) tasks. It adds to the Core and General lists of A Frequency Dictionary of Dutch.[8]
Frequently asked questions
What are the parts of Staatsexamen NT2 Programme I?
Lezen I (110 min) · Luisteren I (90 min) · Schrijven I (100 min) · Spreken I (About 25 min) · KNM (Kennis van de Nederlandse Maatschappij) (45 min).
What is the pass mark for Staatsexamen NT2 Programme I?
A score of ≥ 500 per part. source
How much does Staatsexamen NT2 Programme I cost?
€50 per part, €200 for all four. Full refund if you cancel at least 4 weeks before the exam. source
How do you register for Staatsexamen NT2 Programme I?
Fixed exam dates per part, published by DUO. Registration opens about 8 weeks before and closes 3 weeks (21 days) before each exam date. Places can fill up before the deadline. source
How long do you have to wait for Staatsexamen NT2 Programme I?
No waiting-time figure is published. In practice: register at least 3 weeks ahead, then wait for the fixed result date. source
When do you get the result of Staatsexamen NT2 Programme I?
About 5 weeks. Each exam date has a fixed result date in Mijn DUO (from 15:00), also by e-mail and post. source
What happens if you fail Staatsexamen NT2 Programme I?
Retake only the part you failed; passed parts stay valid. No limit on attempts is published; €50 per attempt. source
Where can you take Staatsexamen NT2 Programme I?
DUO exam locations. Zwolle moves to Van Wevelinkhovenstraat 1 from 1 October 2026. Amsterdam, Eindhoven, Rijswijk, Rotterdam, Utrecht, Zwolle. source
Official sources
Checked on 2026-09-25. Rules change — the official page always wins.
- [1]Hoe ziet het examen eruit CvTE · page date 2026-06-16
- [2]Beoordeling CvTE
- [3]Aanmelden bij DUO CvTE · page date 2026-08-03
- [4]Herkansen CvTE
- [5]
- [6]Wat moet ik meenemen CvTE · page date 2026-08-03
- [7]Uitslag via DUO CvTE
- [8]Aanvullende woordenlijst CvTE CvTE · page date 2025-07-24
- [9]
- [10]U gaat inburgeren DUO (inburgeren.nl)
- [11]Leerroutes (Wet inburgering 2021) DUO · page date 2025-04-02
- [12]Inburgeren betalen DUO (inburgeren.nl)
- [13]Inhoud kennisexamens (KNM, MAP) DUO (inburgeren.nl)
- [14]Inburgeringsexamen vernieuwd: extra aandacht voor zelfbeschikking vrouwen en kennis holocaust Rijksoverheid · page date 2025-06-30
- [15]Civic integration for naturalisation IND · page date 2026-09-01
- [16]CEFR self-assessment grid (NL) Europass (European Union)
- [17]Boete DUO (inburgeren.nl)
- [18]Hoe gaat het examen CvTE
- [19]Aanmelden examen DUO (inburgeren.nl)
- [20]Kamerstuk 30573-237 Tweede Kamer (officielebekendmakingen.nl) · page date 2025-10-01
- [21]Kabinet publiceert tussenevaluatie Wet inburgering en neemt aanbevelingen Rekenkamer over Rijksoverheid · page date 2026-01-28