If you plan to integrate in the Netherlands in 2025, you will almost certainly take the Inburgering Exam. This test checks your Dutch language skills and knowledge of Dutch society. Passing it is required for permanent residence, citizenship, or fulfilling your official inburgeringsplicht (integration duty).

The exam has recently changed. Some updates are small, others are very important for your preparation. This guide explains all the latest changes in 2025, the differences between levels (A2, B1, B2), and how to prepare successfully with InburgeringExam.nl Academy.

Table of Contents

• 1. Overview of the Inburgering Exam
• 2. Key Changes in 2025
• 3. Exam Levels: A2, B1, B2
• 4. Exam Components: Timing, Tasks, Format
• 5. Comparison Table: A2 vs B1 vs B2
• 6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
• 7. Study & Preparation Strategy
• 8. Resources for Practice
• 9. FAQ
• 10. Conclusion & Next Steps

1. Overview of the Inburgering Exam

The Inburgering Exam tests two areas:

1. Language Skills (Dutch): Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing.
2. Knowledge of Society: KNM (Kennis van de Nederlandse Maatschappij) and sometimes ONA (Orientation on the Labour Market).

There are three levels you might need to take:

• A2 Level: Standard for most voluntary candidates (e.g., for citizenship).
• B1 Level: Required for most people with official integration duty starting after 2022.
• B2 Level: Higher exam, often chosen by people aiming at study or professional opportunities (Nt2 State Exam).

Your municipality decides your required level in your PIP (Personal Integration Plan).

Official information: inburgeren.nl

2. Key Changes in 2025

Several important updates were introduced in 2025:

✅ Speaking Exam (A2)

• Until March 1, 2025: speaking exam included spoken tasks + multiple choice.
• From March 1, 2025: only spoken tasks remain. You must record 16 answers using your voice.
• This means more focus on real-life speaking ability.
• Source: inburgeren.nl

✅ KNM (Knowledge of Dutch Society)

• From July 1, 2025, new exam topics are included.
• These cover sensitive and important themes such as self-determination of women and knowledge of the Holocaust.
• Goal: stronger focus on democratic values and Dutch social history.
• Source: rijksoverheid.nl

✅ ONA and MAP Connection

• From July 1, 2025, if you complete the Module Arbeidsmarkt en Participatie (MAP) successfully, you may be exempt from the ONA exam.
• Check your municipality and DUO for confirmation.
• Source: duo.nl

3. Exam Levels: A2, B1, B2

A2 Level

• Most common for voluntary candidates.
• Needed for naturalization (citizenship) in 2025.
• Shorter exams, easier texts, and simple communication tasks.

B1 Level

• Standard for people with official integration duty starting from 2022.
• Tests more advanced language, like describing experiences, giving opinions, and writing longer texts.

B2 Level (Nt2 State Exam)

• Not required for inburgering duty, but useful for those who want to study or work in Dutch universities or professional fields.
• Much higher language demand (academic vocabulary, complex structures).

Official comparison: inburgeren.nl exam content

4. Exam Components: Timing, Tasks, Format

Here is the current breakdown of the exam components per level.

5. Comparison Table: A2 vs B1 vs B2

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not preparing for the new Speaking format: many still expect multiple choice. From March 2025, it is only spoken answers.
2. Confusing A2 and B1 requirements: check your PIP carefully to avoid aiming for the wrong level.
3. Waiting too long to register: exam slots fill quickly, especially in big cities.
4. Ignoring KNM updates: starting July 2025, new topics appear, which may surprise unprepared candidates.
5. Underestimating Writing: even at A2, many fail because of weak spelling and structure.

7. Study & Preparation Strategy

Timeline

• A2: average 3–5 months with consistent study (4–6 hours per week).
• B1: average 6–12 months.
• B2: may take 12+ months depending on your background.

Daily Plan Example (for A2/B1)

• Day 1–2: Reading practice (short texts, newspapers).
• Day 3–4: Listening with subtitles (NOS, podcasts, DUO practice).
• Day 5: Speaking drills (record yourself, practice scenarios).
• Day 6: Writing exercises (forms, letters, emails).
• Day 7: KNM revision (flashcards, discussions).

Key Advice

• Practice under real exam timing.
• Focus more on Speaking (biggest change in 2025).
• Use authentic practice exams from trusted sources.

8. Resources for Practice

• InburgeringExam.nl Academy: The best platform for practice. Why? Because it offers:

  • Real exam-style questions and simulations.
  • Coverage of all levels (A2, B1, B2).
  • Updated formats, including the new Speaking A2.
  • AI-powered feedback: you learn from mistakes immediately.
  • Progress tracking so you always know your level.

• DUO (Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs): The official authority for inburgering. Check DUO for official rules, registration, and legal information. But remember: DUO is not designed for practice, only for rules and exam booking.

• Municipality (Gemeente): Your local gemeente sets your PIP and confirms which level you need (A2, B1, or B2).

9. FAQ

Q1: Do I need A2 or B1 in 2025?

• If you integrate voluntarily, you need A2. If your duty started after 2022, you usually need B1.

Q2: Has the Speaking exam really changed?

• Yes. Since March 1, 2025, it is only spoken answers, no multiple choice.

Q3: Can I finish A2 if rules change later?

• Yes. There are transitional rules. If you started with A2, you can finish with A2.

Q4: How long are exam results valid?

• Results are valid for your entire integration process.

Q5: What happens if I fail one part?

• You can retake only the part you failed, not the whole exam.

Q6: Do I always need ONA?

• Not always. From July 2025, if you pass MAP, you may be exempt.

10. Conclusion & Next Steps

The Inburgering Exam 2025 comes with some important updates: the Speaking A2 exam is spoken-only, KNM has new social themes, and MAP may exempt you from ONA. Your required level depends on your integration path: A2, B1, or B2.

Action Steps

• Check your PIP for your required level.
• Register for exams early on inburgeren.nl.
• Begin practice at least 3–6 months before your exam.
• Use InburgeringExam.nl Academy for realistic exam practice, AI feedback, and progress tracking.

With the right preparation, you can pass confidently. Start today—you’ve got this!