Reading Exam (Lezen) 2025: Question Types, Timing & Proven Strategies
Master the Lezen exam—formats for A2, B1 and B2 routes, scoring, time management hacks and free practice resources.
July 6, 2025
The Lezen exam checks how well you understand written Dutch—vital for daily life whether you’re integrating, naturalising or applying for permanent residence.
A2 vs. B1 vs. B2 – Which Version Do You Take?
- A2 (2013-Act): 65-minute test, simpler vocabulary, short notices and emails.
- B1 (2021-Act): 110-minute test, longer articles and official letters. Required in the B1-route but also accepted for citizenship.
- B2 (Staatsexamen NT2 II): 100-minute test, academic language, needed for university study or if you want to prove higher proficiency.
Format & Question Types
- Multiple-choice comprehension: Choose the main idea, details or purpose of the text.
- Gap-fill (B1/B2): Drag the correct sentence into a missing paragraph position.
- Information search: Quickly locate facts in tables, ads or FAQ sections.
Timing & Scoring
You need a 6/10 to pass—roughly 60% of questions. For B1 and B2 the computer adapts the number of easy vs. difficult tasks based on your answers, so stay consistent.
Strategy Checklist
- Skim first: Read titles and first sentences to understand structure before answering.
- Highlight keywords: Names, numbers and transition words often point to answers.
- Guess intelligently: No penalty for wrong answers—never leave blank fields.
Free Practice Resources
Summary / Key Points
- Computer-based test—65 min (A2) or 100-110 min (B1/B2).
- Score 6/10 to pass—no deduction for wrong answers.
- Use skimming + keyword scanning to save time.
- Practice adaptive tests to handle varying text lengths.
Official Source
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