What does the State Examination Dutch at B1 and B2 level involve? Which skills are tested in the State Examination Dutch B1 and B2? The State Examination Dutch as a Second Language (NT2) assesses your command of the Dutch language and is a nationally recognized exam by DUO. It consists of two programs, each aimed at a different language level.

State Examination Dutch B1 (Program I)

Goal:

This exam is intended for people who want to study or work at vocational education (MBO) level (level 3 or 4). It demonstrates that you have sufficient command of the Dutch language for daily communication in society and in the workplace.

Skills:

You will be tested on four skills:

• Reading: Understanding common texts from daily life and work (for example newspaper articles, brochures).
• Listening: Understanding spoken language about everyday topics, such as news reports or conversations.
• Speaking: Being able to have simple conversations on familiar topics, ask questions, and provide information.
• Writing: Being able to write short, clear texts such as emails, letters, or notes.
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State Examination Dutch B2 (Program II)

Goal:

This exam is intended for people who want to study at a university of applied sciences (HBO) or university, or who want to work at that level. It requires a higher and more complex command of Dutch.

Skills:

Here too, the same four skills are tested, but at a higher level:

• Reading: Understanding longer, more complex texts on a wide range of topics, including abstract subjects and specialized articles.
• Listening: Understanding longer lectures, discussions, and radio/TV programs, including complex argumentation.
• Speaking: Being able to participate fluently and spontaneously in discussions, express complex ideas, formulate arguments, and give opinions.
• Writing: Writing clear, detailed texts on complex subjects, expressing opinions, and drafting reports or articles.
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General:

• Both programs consist of four exam components: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.
• All exams are computer-based.
• You receive a separate certificate for each component you pass. Only when you pass all four components will you receive the State Examination NT2 diploma.
• It is not mandatory to first take the B1 State Examination before taking the B2 exam. You can directly choose Program II if your level allows it.