Inburgering Exam in 2026: What You Need to Know

If you are preparing for the inburgering exam in 2026, here is what you need to understand about the exam structure, registration, and the rules that apply to you.

Exam Structure

The inburgering exam tests six components. Four of them assess your Dutch language at A2 level: lezen (reading), luisteren (listening), schrijven (writing), and spreken (speaking). The fifth component is KNM (Kennis van de Nederlandse Maatschappij), which tests your knowledge of Dutch society, covering topics like healthcare, government, work, housing, and education. The sixth is ONA (Orientatie op de Nederlandse Arbeidsmarkt), where you demonstrate that you have explored the Dutch job market and have a plan for work or further study.

How the Exam Works

All exam components are computer-based and take place at official DUO exam locations across the Netherlands. You schedule each component separately, and you do not have to take them all on the same day. The speaking exam uses a recorded format where you respond to prompts on screen.

Registration and DigiD

To register for any exam component, log in to the Mijn Inburgering portal on the DUO website using your DigiD. From this portal you can book exam dates, check your results, and view your remaining deadline. If you do not yet have a DigiD, activate one at digid.nl as soon as you receive your BSN (burgerservicenummer).

Your Inburgering Deadline

Your inburgering deadline is typically three years from the date on your residence permit (verblijfsvergunning). In some cases you can apply for an extension (verlenging) if you have valid reasons, such as medical issues or circumstances beyond your control. Always check your personal deadline on Mijn DUO rather than relying on estimates.

Wet Inburgering 2021

The new inburgering law (Wet inburgering 2021) took effect on January 1, 2022. Under this law, your gemeente plays a larger role in your integration process. You receive a personal Plan Inburgering en Participatie (PIP) created together with your municipality. There are three learning routes: the B1-route (aiming for B1 language level), the Onderwijsroute (for those pursuing Dutch education), and the Zelfredzaamheidsroute (for those who are unlikely to reach B1). Which route applies to you is determined in your PIP.

Exam Costs and DUO Loan

Each exam component has a fee. You can apply for a DUO loan (lening) to cover exam and course costs. If you pass all components within your deadline, you may be eligible for partial loan forgiveness. Check the current fee amounts on the DUO website, as they are updated periodically.

Key Advice

Start preparing early and do not wait until the final months before your deadline. If you are not sure where to begin, our guide on how to prepare for the inburgering exam covers the most effective study strategies. Check your personal situation on Mijn DUO regularly. Use official sources (duo.nl, rijksoverheid.nl, and your gemeente) for accurate information rather than relying on social media or word of mouth. Build a consistent daily study habit, and take practice exams to identify weak areas before booking your real exam dates.