Which Dutch exam do I need: A1, A2 or B1?
✍️ By the PassDutch editorial team · Last updated: 15 November 2026 · About PassDutch
A1, A2, B1 and B2 are language levels. A1 is the lowest, B2 the highest. Which exam you need depends on where you are and when your integration obligation started.
A1: abroad
- The basic civic integration exam abroad, before the MVV application.
- Parts: KNS, reading and speaking.
A2: in the Netherlands
- For people whose obligation started before 1 January 2022 (2013 act).
- Sometimes also under the 2021 act, if the municipality lets you finish at A2.
B1 and B2: Staatsexamen NT2
- B1 is the standard level on the B1 route of the 2021 act.
- Programme I is B1, programme II is B2. These are also needed for many studies and jobs.
Parts
🇳🇱 KNS
Real exam: 30 questions in 30 minutes. A photo with a short question and 2 answers.
- Format: On the computer
- Duration: 30 minutes
- Cost: €150 for the complete basic exam (KNS, reading and speaking)
- Where: At a Dutch embassy or consulate
How long does the real KNS exam take?
The real exam takes 30 minutes. Real exam: 30 questions in 30 minutes. A photo with a short question and 2 answers.
🏛️ 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 A1 enough to live in the Netherlands?
No. A1 is only needed to come to the Netherlands. After arriving you usually still have to complete civic integration.
What is the difference between KNS and KNM?
KNS is part of the A1 exam abroad. KNM is part of the civic integration exam in the Netherlands and is more extensive.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇳🇱 KNS | On the computer | 30 minutes | €150 for the complete basic exam (KNS, reading and speaking) | At a Dutch embassy or consulate |
| 🏛️ 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
- KNM exam: topics, format and tips
- 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