The Dutch civic integration exam explained: parts, level and registration
✍️ By the PassDutch editorial team · Last updated: 15 November 2026 · About PassDutch
With the civic integration exam (inburgeringsexamen) you show that you speak Dutch and know how the Netherlands works. Which exams you need depends on the date your integration obligation started.
Obligation started before 1 January 2022 (Civic Integration Act 2013)
- You take the language exams at A2 level: reading, listening, writing and speaking.
- You also take KNM (Knowledge of Dutch Society).
- You arrange your course and exams yourself and register via Mijn Inburgering.
Obligation started on or after 1 January 2022 (Civic Integration Act 2021)
- Your municipality makes a plan with you: the PIP (personal integration and participation plan).
- On the B1 route you take language exams at B1 level, KNM, the MAP (labour market and participation module) and the participation statement (PVT).
- If B1 is really too hard, the municipality can let you finish at A2.
- On the Z route you do not have to take exams.
What does the exam look like?
- You take most parts on a computer at DUO.
- KNM: multiple-choice questions about work, housing, healthcare, education, institutions, history and social norms.
- Writing A2 is done with pen and paper.
Parts
🏛️ KNM
Real exam: 40 questions in 45 minutes. 3 answers per question.
- Format: On the computer
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Cost: €50 per part
- Where: At a DUO exam location in the Netherlands
- Dictionary: Not allowed
How long does the real KNM exam take?
The real exam takes 45 minutes. Real exam: 40 questions in 45 minutes. 3 answers per question.
📖 Reading A2
Real exam: 25 questions in 65 minutes. Letters, leaflets and job ads.
- Format: On the computer
- Duration: 65 minutes
- Cost: €50 per part
- Where: At a DUO exam location in the Netherlands
- Dictionary: Van Dale NT2 paper dictionary allowed
How long does the real Reading A2 exam take?
The real exam takes 65 minutes. Real exam: 25 questions in 65 minutes. Letters, leaflets and job ads.
🎧 Listening A2
Real exam: 25 questions in 45 minutes. Conversations, voicemails and announcements.
- Format: On the computer
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Cost: €50 per part
- Where: At a DUO exam location in the Netherlands
- Dictionary: Not allowed
How long does the real Listening A2 exam take?
The real exam takes 45 minutes. Real exam: 25 questions in 45 minutes. Conversations, voicemails and announcements.
🧭 How PassDutch works
- Choose your language and your exam.
- Practise with questions, audio and videos in the style of the real exam.
- Read the explanation in your own language and see what you still need to practise.
❓ Frequently asked questions
Can I take the parts separately?
Yes. You can take each part at a different time. If you fail, you only retake that part.
Where can I see which exams I need?
In Mijn Inburgering and, under the 2021 act, in your PIP from the municipality.
Which exam do I need: A1 abroad or A2 in the Netherlands?
If you live abroad and need an mvv visa, you usually take the basic exam abroad (A1). If you live in the Netherlands, you take the civic integration exam (A2 or B1). Check your letter from DUO or Mijn Inburgering.
Are these official DUO exam questions?
No. PassDutch writes its own practice questions in the style of the real exam. You can also do the free official practice exams on the government websites listed below.
Is PassDutch free?
You can practise the first questions of every part for free. Full access to all questions and mock exams costs €9.95 for 30 days.
In which languages can I practise?
In 24 languages, including Arabic, Turkish, Ukrainian, Persian, Tigrinya and Somali.
📋 The exams at a glance
| Part | Format | Duration | Cost | Where |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏛️ KNM | On the computer | 45 minutes | €50 per part | At a DUO exam location in the Netherlands |
| 📖 Reading A2 | On the computer | 65 minutes | €50 per part | At a DUO exam location in the Netherlands |
| 🎧 Listening A2 | On the computer | 45 minutes | €50 per part | At a DUO exam location in the Netherlands |
Prices and rules can change. Always check the official source before you book.
🏛️ Official sources
Checked by PassDutch in November 2026.
With videos, pronunciation and translation in your language.
Parts
Guides
- Civic integration exam abroad (A1): parts, costs and MVV
- KNM exam: topics, format and tips
- Which Dutch exam do I need: A1, A2 or B1?
- How much does civic integration cost? Exam fees and loans
- Civic integration obligation: who must integrate, deadline and fine
- Becoming Dutch: civic integration and naturalisation
- 10 tips to pass your Dutch civic integration exam