Integration
To integrate, you must learn Dutch. You must also learn how people in the Netherlands live and work. This is required by the government and stated in the Civic Integration Act. Once you have learned enough, you take the civic integration exam.
This website is for you if you became subject to the integration requirement after January 1, 2013, or if you wish to apply for naturalization.
Course Content
Participants in a civic integration course follow several lesson modules to reach level A2 or B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference. This is the level required for the exam. The number of modules depends on the student’s starting level. An absolute beginner (A1-min) usually needs about 300 lesson hours to reach level A2. During the intake, we give the student a realistic recommendation on the length of the program.
Civic Integration Exam
The questions on the Civic Integration Exam are about Dutch customs and rules. During the exam, you must also show that you know the Dutch language well enough. These are the exam components:
Writing (35 min.): Using pen and paper, you write short letters and fill in a form.
Speaking (35 min.): On the computer, you watch videos and answer questions.
Listening (45 min.): On the computer, you answer questions about videos and listen to texts.
Reading (50 min.): On the computer, you read short texts and answer questions.
Knowledge of Dutch Society (45 min.): On the computer, you watch short videos about Dutch situations, for example, grocery shopping, and answer questions.
Orientation on the Dutch Labor Market (40 min.): This exam component is mandatory for migrants who became subject to the integration requirement after January 1, 2015. It covers working and job searching. You complete assignments at home and at school and send the results to DUO using Result Cards. Afterwards, you have an interview at DUO about these assignments. One question concerns “diploma evaluation”: what is your diploma or education worth in the Netherlands? You can request a free diploma evaluation from IDW.
Content of the Training at Level B1 and/or B2
Sample exams for the State Exam NT2-I
Preparation materials for the State Exam NT2-I from ITTA
Practical tips for all exam components: speaking, listening, reading, writing
Successful exam strategies
Collaborative learning (in pairs and small groups)
Personal guidance and feedback from the teacher