State Exam NT2: Online preparation for the exam
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Sign up for freeWhat is the state exam NT2?
The state exam NT2 (Nederlands als tweede taal) is a standardized exam of the Dutch language, for all those whose native language is not Dutch.
There are exams at two proficiency levels.
- Programme I: for people who want to work or study in the Netherlands. The language level is B1.
- Programme II: for those who want to complete higher education or university studies in the Netherlands. The language level is B2.
What do you need the NT2 for?
In most cases the NT2 state exam is used as proof of Dutch language proficiency to study or work in the Netherlands.
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Where is the state exam NT2 recognized?
Most of the universities accept foreign students only if they have a NT2 diploma.
Of course, each university has its own admission requirements, which means that not all students who have an NT2 diploma will be automatically admitted. Simply inform yourself about the admission requierments at the university where you want to apply for.
How is the NT2 exam structured?
The state exam NT2 consists of four parts:
- Reading comprehension
- Listening Comprehension
- Writing skills
- Speaking skills
While the listening and speaking skills have to be completed on the computer, the writing skills are tested partly on the computer, partly on a separate answer sheet. At the reading comprehension you get a small booklet in which the texts are printed and then you mark your answers on the computer.
If you only pass all four parts will you receive the NT2 diploma.
How many points do you need to pass?
In the state exam NT2 there is either a "pass" or a "fail". You will be scored on a scale from 100 to 900. At 500 points or more, you have passed the state exam and you receive your NT2 diploma.
If you score less than 500 points, you have failed.
You will receive your results online after five weeks, after six weeks you will receive a letter.
Can I retake the state exam NT2?
Yes, you can retake the state exam NT2 three times a year.
If you are already in your third attempt, you can only take the exam in July or November. In addition, you can only sign up for another try if you have received the result of the previous exam.
There is also the possibility to repeat individual skills that you did not pass.
How long is the NT2 diploma valid?
The NT2 diploma is valid for ever.
How to register for the NT2?
You can sign up for the exam on the official website of DUO.
Where and when does the exam take place?
After your registration, you will choose one of the following cities where you would like to take the exam:
- Amersfoort
- Amsterdam
- Eindhoven
- Oisterwijk
- Rijswijk
- Rotterdam
- Zwolle
So far, it is not possible to take the exam in Belgium.
After registration, it takes at least three weeks for the exam to take place. You will receive further information after a successful registration.
Generally, however, an exam date is offered every week.
How much does the state exam NT2 cost?
The state exam NT2 costs € 45 per skill, so in total € 180 for all four parts.
This applies for both Programme I and Programme II.
How to prepare for the NT2?
An intensive preparation is very important to achieve a satisfactory result. You can take advantage of various preparatory courses or free tutorials to get familiar with the format of the exam.
Online preparation for the NT2 with a tutor
coLanguage offers you Dutch native speakers for preparing yourself for the state exam NT2.
How does it work?
- Register as a student on coLanguage and find the right teacher for you
- Receive private lessons via Skype
- Lessons specialized for NT2
- Flexible appointments with teachers
- Prepare for the exam anywhere in the world
Free tutorials for the Dutch grammar
With almost 30 lessons on Dutch grammar, coLanguage allows you to understand the grammar from the ground up. Afterwards you can practice with over 40 exercises. The audio files help you to learn the correct Dutch pronunciation.
Further information
Get more information about the state exam NT2 on the official website here: https://www.staatsexamensnt2.nl/
On the official NT2 preparation pages, you will find tips and information that you can use to prepare for the exam.
You can register for the exam on the DUO website (Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs).