Preparing for the ONA MAP civic integration with a folder and documents on the table

ONA MAP civic integration explained: what is it and how do you prepare?

You've probably heard of the ONA, but what exactly is that MAP? The MAP is a folder with proof documents that you make for the ONA exam. In this guide, we explain what goes in that folder, how to build it, and how to prepare for the interview that goes with it. That way, you know exactly where you stand.

In the Netherlands, as a newcomer, you often have to pass the civic integration exam. ONA stands for Orientation to the Dutch Labor Market. The goal is to learn how to look for a job and what is expected of you at work in the Netherlands. The MAP is an important part: you show that you've thought about your future in the labor market.

In this guide, you'll read step by step what the ONA MAP is, what goes in it, how to make it, and how to practice the interview. We also give example sentences and common mistakes. No stress: with good preparation, you can do this. You don't have to do it perfectly; you just have to do it.

What is the ONA MAP civic integration?

The ONA MAP is a collection of documents that shows your situation and plans for work. You make this folder as preparation for the ONA exam. The exam consists of two parts: a portfolio (the MAP) and an interview with an examiner. In the MAP, you show who you are, what you can do, and what you want to achieve in the labor market.

The MAP is not just a folder with paper. It is proof that you've thought about your future in the Netherlands. For example, you show that you know which jobs suit you, which courses you need, and how to apply for jobs. The examiner uses your MAP to conduct the interview. That's why it's important that you make the MAP yourself and understand what's in it.

What goes in the ONA MAP?

The ONA MAP contains a number of required components. You need to show that you can present yourself, that you know your qualities, and that you know how to look for work. You also need to show that you know your rights and obligations in the labor market. The MAP usually consists of a CV, a cover letter, an overview of your qualities, and a plan for your future.

It's important that you make the MAP personal. Don't just copy something from someone else. The examiner wants to see that you understand it. Use your own experiences and examples. If you don't have work experience in the Netherlands yet, write about volunteer work or experience from your country. Everything counts.

CV: make a clear CV with your education and work experience.
Cover letter: write a letter for a job you would like to have.
Qualities: make a list of your strengths, for example 'I am patient' or 'I like working with people'.
Future plan: describe what you want to achieve in 1 year and in 5 years.
Proof documents: add diplomas, certificates, or declarations that support your story.
Reflection: write briefly what you learned while making the MAP.

How do you make the ONA MAP? Step by step

Making the MAP takes time, but it is doable. Start on time so you don't get stressed. You can make the MAP on paper or digitally. It doesn't matter how you do it, as long as it's clear. Make sure everything is neatly organized and that you can bring the MAP to the exam.

A good way to start is with a mind map. Write 'my future in the Netherlands' in the middle and put everything that comes to mind around it: jobs, courses, languages, hobbies. Then you can fill in the parts of the MAP. Ask someone you know for help, like a friend or a teacher. They can give you tips.

Step 1: Gather all your diplomas and certificates.
Step 2: Make a CV according to Dutch standards (max 2 pages).
Step 3: Write a cover letter for a real job vacancy that you find interesting.
Step 4: Make a list of your strengths and weaknesses.
Step 5: Write a plan for the next 5 years: what do you want to achieve?
Step 6: Practice the interview with someone who asks you questions about your MAP.

Practical example sentences for your ONA MAP

During the ONA interview, you need to be able to talk about your MAP. It's handy to practice a few sentences. Below you'll find example sentences you can use. Adapt them to your own situation. Say the sentences out loud so you get used to talking about yourself.

The examiner doesn't only want to see that you made a folder, but also that you can talk about it. Use the sentences to practice your story. You don't have to memorize them, but it does help to know them.

My name is [name] and I come from [country].
In my country, I worked as [profession].
I would like to work in the Netherlands, for example as [profession].
My strengths are [for example: perseverance, friendliness].
I still need to improve my Dutch, so I'm taking a course.
I have experience with [for example: cooking, administration, care].
In five years, I hope to have a permanent job.
I am willing to start with an internship or volunteer work.

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

It may sound like a lot, but you can make the MAP in a few weeks. The most important thing is that you do a little bit each week. That way, you keep making progress and don't get overwhelmed. Plan fixed moments, for example every Monday evening for an hour.

If you don't know where to start, start with your CV. That's the basis of everything. Then you can continue with the other parts. Ask someone you trust for feedback. They can help you make it better.

Week 1: Gather all your papers and make a first version of your CV.
Week 2: Write your cover letter and have someone look at it.
Week 3: Make a list of your qualities and think of examples.
Week 4: Write your future plan and think about your goals.
Week 5: Practice the interview with a friend or family member.
Week 6: Improve your MAP and make sure it's neat.

Common mistakes (and what works instead)

Many people make mistakes when making the ONA MAP. A common mistake is that they don't make the MAP personal. They copy examples from the internet, but that's not good. The examiner wants to hear your story, not someone else's. Be honest and use your own experiences.

Another mistake is that people don't practice talking enough. You can make a nice folder, but if you can't talk about it, you might not pass the exam. So practice out loud. Ask someone to ask you questions, like: 'Why do you want this job?' or 'What did you learn from this experience?'

Mistake: your MAP is too general. Fix: use concrete examples from your life.
Mistake: your CV is too long or too short. Fix: keep it to 1 or 2 pages.
Mistake: you don't practice talking. Fix: practice out loud for 10 minutes every day.
Mistake: you wait until the last moment. Fix: start at least 6 weeks in advance.
Mistake: you don't understand what's in your MAP. Fix: read everything again carefully and ask for explanation if something is unclear.

Mini checklist for your ONA MAP

Before you go to the exam, it's handy to go through this checklist. That way, you know for sure you won't forget anything. Print the checklist and check off what you already have. Also bring the checklist to the exam so you can calmly check if you have everything with you.

It's normal to be nervous, but with good preparation, you can do it. Make sure you leave on time, that you have your MAP with you, and that you know what you want to say. Trust yourself.

My CV is complete and neat.
My cover letter is ready and personal.
I have written down my qualities and examples.
I have written my future plan.
I have practiced talking about my MAP.

How to practice this (Dutch Fluency + more)

At Dutch Fluency, we understand that ONA is not just about the folder, but also about your confidence. That's why we have practice materials that resemble the real exam. You can practice talking about yourself, answering questions, and presenting your MAP. That way, you go to the exam well prepared.

Our app and practice exams help you get used to the questions you might get. For example, you learn how to respond to questions like 'Tell me about yourself' or 'Why do you want this job?'. By practicing, the interview becomes less scary. Also check out our other articles about civic integration for more tips.

Oefen nu met een ONA-gesprek →

Practice now

Frequently asked questions

What exactly is the ONA MAP civic integration?

The ONA MAP is a folder with documents that you prepare for the ONA exam. It shows who you are, what you can do, and what you want to achieve in the labor market. You use the folder during the interview with the examiner.

How much time does it take to make the ONA MAP?

It depends on your situation, but expect 4 to 6 weeks if you spend a few hours each week. Start on time so you don't get stressed. You can also make the folder in a week if you have a lot of time, but quality is more important than speed.

Do I have to make the ONA MAP myself or can I get help?

You have to make the folder yourself, but you are allowed to ask for help. For example, ask someone to check if your CV is good. It's important that you understand the content, because during the interview you need to be able to talk about it.

What happens during the ONA interview?

During the interview, you talk with an examiner about your MAP. They ask questions about your CV, your qualities, and your future plans. You don't have to speak Dutch perfectly, but you do need to be able to clearly tell what you mean.

Can I make the ONA MAP digitally?

Yes, you can. You can store your documents digitally and show them on a tablet or laptop. Make sure you can open everything properly and that you can bring the device to the exam. Ask your exam institution in advance if this is allowed.

What if I don't have work experience in the Netherlands?

That's not a problem. You can mention experience from your country or volunteer work. The point is that you show that you think about work and that you know what you want. You can also write about courses you are taking or what you hope to learn.

More guides and exam tips

Also read articles about inburgering, NT2 and Dutch life →