Person studying for the DUO civic integration exam with books and laptop

DUO Civic Integration Exam: Everything You Need to Know

You are looking for information about the DUO civic integration exam. Maybe you just received a letter from DUO, or you want to know what you need to do to integrate. The good news: you are not alone, and it is really doable if you know how it works. In this guide, I will explain step by step what the exam involves, how you can prepare, and what to watch out for.

In the Netherlands, as a newcomer, you often have to integrate. That means you learn the Dutch language and know how Dutch society works. The DUO civic integration exam is the official test that shows you have achieved this. It is important to pass, because otherwise you could get a fine or problems with your residence permit. But no panic: with the right preparation, you will get there.

In this guide, you will learn what the exam involves, how to register, what it costs, and how to practice best. I will also give you lots of example sentences and a step-by-step plan, so you know exactly what to do. Read on calmly and grab a pen and paper if you like. That way, you make a plan that works for you.

What is the DUO civic integration exam?

The DUO civic integration exam is the test you need to take to complete your integration program. DUO stands for Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs (Education Executive Agency) and is the organization that organizes the exam. The exam consists of several parts: reading, listening, writing, speaking, and Knowledge of Dutch Society (KNM).

The goal of the exam is to show that you master the Dutch language at level A2. That is the level you need to get by in daily life: doing groceries, having a conversation with neighbors, filling out a form at the municipality. It is not an academic level, but practical and very concrete.

You can also take the exam at a higher level, for example B1, but for most people A2 is sufficient. The exam is taken on a computer at a DUO exam location. You can do the parts separately, so you do not have to do everything in one day. That is handy, because you can prepare well for each part.

The parts of the DUO civic integration exam

The exam has five parts, and each part tests a different skill. It is important to know what to expect, so you are not taken by surprise. Below, I briefly explain each part.

Reading: you get texts to read, such as a letter from the municipality or an article from the newspaper. You have to answer questions about the content. Listening: you hear conversations or announcements, for example at the station or at the doctor's, and you answer questions. Writing: you have to write sentences or a short message, for example an email to your boss. Speaking: you have a conversation with a computer that asks questions and you answer. KNM: this is about Dutch society, such as how healthcare, work, and customs work.

Each part has its own duration and number of questions. The exact numbers sometimes change, so it is wise to check the current information on the DUO website. But the most important thing is that you know what to practice. For reading and listening, it is mainly about practicing a lot with old exams. For writing and speaking, it is helpful to practice writing and talking about everyday situations. You can learn KNM by reading about the Netherlands and talking with Dutch people.

How do you register for the exam?

You register via Mijn Inburgering, the online portal of DUO. You can log in there with your DigiD. If you do not have a DigiD yet, you need to apply for one first. You can do that via the DigiD website, and you need your citizen service number (BSN) for that.

In Mijn Inburgering, you can choose exam parts and select a date and location. There are several exam locations in the Netherlands, so choose a location near you. It is wise to plan ahead, because waiting times can increase, especially in busy periods.

Did you not receive an invitation from DUO? Then you can also register yourself, but then you pay for the exam yourself. The costs for the exam depend on your situation. Some people get it reimbursed by the municipality or by DUO. Always check what applies to you, so you are not faced with unexpected costs.

What does the exam cost and can you get a discount?

The costs for the DUO civic integration exam vary per part. It is not cheap, so it is smart to check if you qualify for a reimbursement. If you are obliged to integrate and have taken out a loan with DUO, the exam is usually reimbursed. Some municipalities also offer financial support.

Do you not have a right to reimbursement? Then you pay for the exam yourself. The exact rates can be found on the DUO website. It is important to know that you have to pay again for every retake. Therefore, it is better to prepare well and make sure you pass in one go.

Tip: ask your municipality if there is a scheme for integration. Sometimes you can also take a free language course through the municipality or an organization like the Taalhuis (Language House). That way, you save money and get extra support.

Practical example sentences for the exam

During the exam, you often have to react to situations. Here are example sentences you can use for the speaking or writing part. Practice them out loud, so you can pronounce them well.

For the speaking part, you might get a question like: 'You are late for work. What do you say to your boss?' Or: 'You want to make an appointment with the doctor. What do you say?' It is handy to know standard sentences for such situations.

Good morning, I am late because the train had a delay.
I would like to make an appointment with the doctor.
Could you repeat that, please?
I have a question about my rental contract.
Where can I find the form?
I would like to file a complaint.
Can you help me fill out this form?
I do not understand, could you speak slower?

Step-by-step plan: what do you do this week?

It is easy to keep putting things off, but with a plan you get further. Follow this step-by-step plan to work towards your exam calmly. Each step is small, but together they make a big difference.

Start by planning your study hours. Look at how much time you have and make a schedule. Set your alarm at the same time every day, so it becomes a habit. And do not forget to take breaks, because your brain needs rest.

Step 1: Log in to Mijn Inburgering and check your exam parts and dates.
Step 2: Make a study schedule for each day, for example 30 minutes reading and 30 minutes listening.
Step 3: Practice every day with old exam questions, for example via the DUO website or practice material.
Step 4: Speak Dutch every day, even if it is just 5 minutes. Talk to your neighbors, friends, or in the store.
Step 5: Do a practice exam to see how far you are.
Step 6: Plan rest moments, so you do not get overworked.

Common mistakes (and what does work)

Many people make the same mistakes during preparation. I mention them here, so you can avoid them.

The biggest mistake is starting too late. Do not wait until the last month, because then you panic. Start on time and practice a little every day. Another mistake is only practicing reading and listening, while you also need to practice writing and speaking. Those parts are just as important.

Mistake: Only practicing reading and listening. Fix: Speak Dutch every day, even if you make mistakes.
Mistake: Not doing a practice exam. Fix: Do at least one practice exam to get used to the computer and time pressure.
Mistake: Not registering on time. Fix: Register at least two months in advance for an exam spot.
Mistake: Focusing too much on grammar. Fix: Practice with everyday sentences and situations, not just theory.
Mistake: Not asking for help. Fix: Ask for help from your municipality, a language coach, or a friend who speaks Dutch.

Mini checklist for your exam

Use this checklist in the week before your exam. That way, you know for sure you do not forget anything.

Make sure you have your ID and your invitation with you. Also check the location and time of your exam, and plan your trip. Take time to relax, because stress is bad for your concentration.

Check: I have my ID and invitation ready.
Check: I know how to get to the exam location and how long it takes.
Check: I slept well the night before.
Check: I have reviewed my study books and notes once more.
Check: I have a quiet place to study, without distractions.

How to practice this (Dutch Fluency + extra)

At Dutch Fluency, we understand that practicing makes the difference. Our exercises are made in the style of the real exam, so you know exactly what to expect. You can practice reading, listening, writing, and speaking, and you get direct feedback on your answers.

We also have a handy app that lets you practice anywhere, for example on the train or during your lunch break. That way, you turn every free minute into a learning moment. Start practicing today, and you will notice that you become more and more confident.

Doe een proefexamen →

Practice now

Frequently asked questions

How long does the DUO civic integration exam take?

The duration varies per part. Reading and listening usually take around 45 minutes, writing and speaking a bit shorter. KNM also takes about 45 minutes. Check the current times on the DUO website, because they can change.

What is the passing score for the DUO civic integration exam?

The passing score is not always the same. It depends on the number of questions and the difficulty. DUO determines the cut-off score, so it is not predictable. The best thing is to practice as well as possible and make sure you master the material.

Can I retake the exam if I fail?

Yes, you can retake each part separately. You then need to register again via Mijn Inburgering and pay again. It is wise to look at why you failed and practice extra on that.

Do I have to do all parts in one day?

No, you do not have to. You can plan the parts separately, on different days. That is handy if you want more time for speaking, for example. You can choose when you do which part, within your deadline.

What happens if I do not pass the exam in time?

If you do not pass in time, you can get a fine from DUO. Your residence permit can also be at risk. So it is important to study seriously and start on time. Ask for help early if you get stuck.

Can I get an exemption for the exam?

Yes, in some cases you can get an exemption. For example, if you already have a diploma that shows you master Dutch at level A2 or higher. Also, if you have a medical reason, you can submit a request. Contact DUO for the possibilities.

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