Spreken (Dutch Speaking) Exams: A1, A2, B1 and B2

The Netherlands uses different Dutch speaking exams for different routes. If you are applying from abroad, you may need A1 Spreekvaardigheid (speaking proficiency) for the basisexamen inburgering buitenland (basic civic integration exam abroad). In the Netherlands, many people take A2 Spreken for the inburgeringsexamen (civic integration exam). B1 and B2 speaking are part of the Staatsexamen Nederlands als tweede taal (NT2), or State Exam in Dutch as a Second Language. This hub helps you choose the right guide and understand what changes at each level.

• A1, A2, B1, and B2 use different speaking exams with different tasks.
• A1 and A2 focus on short everyday answers. B1 and B2 ask you to complete practical speaking actions: explain, advise, complain, describe, or present.
• DUO describes A2 Spreken as a 35-minute computer exam with videos and questions.
• The NT2 format page lists about 25 minutes for speaking. DUO's overview rounds the B1 and B2 speaking time to about 30 minutes.
• In NT2 speaking you use a headset and microphone, there is no dictionary, and you cannot go back to an earlier task.

Use the Used For column to match your route. Then compare the timing and tasks in What Happens before choosing practice questions.

In these exams you usually speak into a microphone, and the computer records your answer. A1 is taken at an embassy or consulate abroad. A2 is taken on a DUO computer. NT2 speaking is also computer-based. You listen through headphones and read the task on screen. After the beep, you speak and the exam then moves forward automatically.

Each level uses a different scoring system. Trained assessors check NT2 speaking, and a converted score of 500 or higher means you pass that NT2 component. Use the A1 or A2 level guide for its scoring model.

• A1: a short word group or one simple sentence can be enough when it answers the question clearly.
• A2: aim for one to three clear sentences: answer the question, add one visible detail, then add a reason or time/place detail.
• B1: complete the practical action in 20 or 30 seconds. For example, explain a problem, make an appointment, give advice, or describe a choice.
• B2: organize your answer quickly. You may need to compare options, defend an opinion, explain a work or study situation, or give a 2-minute presentation.
• At every level, give a relevant answer before adding more detail. Long silence leaves the assessors with less speech to score.

• First confirm your required level. If you are unsure, start with which Dutch exam you need and then check the message from DUO, IND, or your gemeente.
• Use the detailed level guides for practice structure: A1 Spreken, A2 Spreken, B1 NT2 speaking, and B2 NT2 speaking.
• Practise official examples first. They show the exam environment and task format.
• After that, use extra Inburgering.org practice for A2 speaking, B1 speaking, and B2 speaking
• Record yourself with the real timing. Start speaking after the beep, even if your first sentence is simple.
• Learn repair phrases such as Sorry, ik bedoel... (Sorry, I mean...), Ik zeg het nog een keer (I will say it again), and Mijn antwoord is... (My answer is...). Use them to correct yourself and continue speaking.
• For practical rules, read the exam-day rules and the results timeline before you book or retake an exam.

• Preparing for B1 or B2 as if it were a live interview. The official NT2 speaking exam is recorded on a computer.
• Writing full scripts and freezing when the prompt changes. Train small answer frames instead.
• Using difficult grammar before giving the direct answer. First answer the task; then add detail.
• Using A2 practice to judge B1 or B2 readiness. B1 and B2 use different task types as well as harder vocabulary.
• Assuming unofficial practice questions are the real exam. Use them for training, not for memorizing.

Choose the guide for your level: A1 abroad speaking, A2 Spreken, B1 NT2 speaking, or B2 NT2 speaking. If you still do not know which route applies to you, start with the main inburgeringsexamen guide before you choose practice materials.