An Overview of All Dutch Integration Exams
A clear summary of the different exams in the Dutch civic integration program, including the language tests, KNM, ONA, MAP, and PVT.
The Dutch civic integration process involves several exams designed to assess your language skills and your knowledge of life in the Netherlands. The specific set of exams you'll need to take depends on whether you fall under the 2013 or 2021 Integration Act. Here's a high-level look at each component.
The Core Language Exams
These four exams test your practical Dutch language skills. They are typically taken on a computer at a DUO service location.
- Reading (Lezen): You'll read short texts on a computer screen and answer multiple-choice questions about them.
- Listening (Luisteren): This exam involves watching short videos and listening to audio clips, followed by multiple-choice questions.
- Writing (Schrijven): You will be asked to complete writing tasks, such as filling out a form, writing a short email, or finishing sentences. The A2 exam is typically done with pen and paper.
- Speaking (Spreken): You will speak into a microphone to answer questions and describe images that appear on your computer screen.
Knowledge & Participation Exams
Beyond language, you also need to demonstrate your understanding of Dutch society and your readiness to participate in the workforce.
- Knowledge of Dutch Society (KNM): A computer-based exam with questions about important topics in the Netherlands, such as work, education, housing, and healthcare.
- Participation Declaration Trajectory (PVT): This is a mandatory component for everyone. It's a course run by your local municipality about core Dutch values, which concludes with you signing a declaration of your commitment to respect these values.
- ONA vs. MAP: Your labour market exam depends on which law applies to you.
- ONA (Orientation on the Dutch Labour Market): For those under the 2013 Act. It involves creating a portfolio with evidence of your job searching efforts and career goals, followed by a final interview (or completing a 64-hour course).
- MAP (Module Labour Market and Participation): For those under the 2021 Act. This is a more practical, hands-on module managed by the municipality to prepare you for finding work in the Netherlands.
So, Which Exams Do I Take?
- If you're under the 2013 Act: You must pass all four language exams at the A2 level, plus KNM, ONA, and the PVT.
- If you're under the 2021 Act: Your Personal Integration Plan (PIP) from the municipality will specify your exams. Generally, this means passing the four language exams at the B1 level, plus KNM, MAP, and the PVT.
Official Sources
For detailed information about each exam component, consult these official sources:
- Inburgeren.nl: Official exam information and registration.
- Staatsexamensnt2.nl: Information about B1 and B2 level language exams.
- Rijksoverheid.nl: Government overview of integration requirements.
How We Can Help
Feeling overwhelmed? We're here to help. Our platform offers thousands of practice exercises for the core language exams (Reading, Listening, Writing, Speaking) and the KNM exam. For a complete breakdown of each exam, including scoring, costs, and tips, read our full guide to the Inburgeringsexamen.
Source: DUO, Staatsexamensnt2.nl, Rijksoverheid
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