KNM exam: topics, format and tips
✍️ By the PassDutch editorial team · Last updated: 15 November 2026 · About PassDutch
KNM stands for Kennis van de Nederlandse Maatschappij: Knowledge of Dutch Society. You show that you know how daily life in the Netherlands works. KNM is part of the civic integration exam under both the 2013 and 2021 acts.
Topics
- Work and income
- Housing
- Health and healthcare
- Education and parenting
- Institutions (municipality, DUO, Tax Administration, IND)
- Government and the rule of law
- History and geography
- Social norms and manners
What does the exam look like?
- You take the exam on a computer.
- Each question shows a situation, sometimes with a video, and you choose the correct answer.
- The questions are about everyday situations: going to the GP, a rental contract, your child's school.
Tips
- Practise per topic until you get almost everything right.
- Read the explanation for wrong answers so you understand the rule behind it.
- Also practise with a time limit, like in the real exam.
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.
🧭 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
Is KNM difficult?
The language level is not high, but you need to know Dutch rules and customs. Practice questions help you learn them quickly.
Can I practise KNM in my own language?
Yes. On PassDutch you see every question in Dutch with a translation and explanation in your language.
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 |
Prices and rules can change. Always check the official source before you book.
🏛️ Official sources
- IND – Basisexamen inburgering in het buitenland
- Naar Nederland (DUO)
- Rijksoverheid – Inburgering in het land van herkomst
- DUO – Inburgeren.nl
- DUO – Practice exams / Oefenexamens
Checked by PassDutch in November 2026.
With videos, pronunciation and translation in your language.
Parts
Guides
- The Dutch civic integration exam explained: parts, level and registration
- Civic integration exam abroad (A1): parts, costs and MVV
- 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