Speaking Exam (Spreken) 2025: How to Answer, Timing, and Scoring
A full guide to the Spreken exam for A2, B1, and B2 levels. Learn about the question types, how to structure your answers, and tips for speaking to a computer.
The Spreken exam is often the most nerve-wracking part of the integration process. It assesses your ability to speak Dutch in a clear and understandable way, which is a vital skill whether you're fulfilling an integration requirement or applying for a passport.
How the Exam Works: Speaking to a Computer
You will be in a booth with a computer, wearing a headset with a microphone. You will see questions and video clips on the screen and must speak your answers into the microphone. A tone will signal when to start and stop speaking. There is no human interviewer in the room.
Exam Formats: A2 vs. B1/B2
- A2 Version (35 minutes): Consists of short answer questions based on video clips and questions where you describe a situation.
- B1/B2 Versions (approx. 30 minutes): This version is more structured, with short, medium, and long speaking tasks. You might be asked to give your opinion, summarize information, or propose a solution to a problem.
Common Question Types
- Short Response (20 seconds): Answer a direct question, often based on a picture or short scenario. (e.g., 'What is the man doing?')
- Medium Response (30 seconds): Give a more detailed response, like explaining a choice or giving advice. (e.g., 'Your friend wants to buy a bike. What should she pay attention to?')
- Long Response (2 minutes): (Mainly B2 level) You get preparation time to structure a longer argument or description about a specific topic.
Tips for a High Score
- Speak clearly and at a natural pace. Don't rush.
- Use the full time allotted for your answer. If you finish early, add more detail or an example.
- Structure your answers. For longer questions, start with a main point, add a reason, and conclude.
- Practice speaking out loud, even to yourself. Record your answers and listen back to check for clarity and grammar.
- Use our platform's speaking exercises to get comfortable with the format and receive AI-powered feedback on your pronunciation and fluency.
How-to / Next Steps
- Get comfortable with the format by using our speaking practice tool.
- Watch the official instructional videos from Staatsexamens NT2 to see the interface.
Official Source
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