What is the Inburgeringsexamen?
The Inburgeringsexamen (civic integration exam) is a mandatory test for most non-EU/EEA immigrants who receive a Dutch residence permit. It demonstrates that you can function in Dutch society — both linguistically and culturally.
Since the Wet Inburgering 2021 came into effect on 1 January 2022, inburgeringsplichtigen (those with an integration obligation) must complete their inburgering within three years of receiving their residence permit. Your municipality (gemeente) coordinates your integration programme and arranges a personal plan.
The exam is administered by DUO (Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs), the Dutch government's education agency.
What does the exam consist of?
The Inburgeringsexamen has four components. You must pass all of them.
KNM
Kennis van de Nederlandse Maatschappij
Knowledge of Dutch society: history, politics, healthcare, housing, customs, and civic life. 45 multiple-choice questions.
ONA
Oriëntatie op de Nederlandse Arbeidsmarkt
Orientation to the Dutch labour market. Includes a personal development plan (PIP) with guidance from your municipality.
MAP
Maatschappelijke Participatie
Civic participation: demonstrating involvement in Dutch society through volunteering, work, or education.
Who must take the Inburgeringsexamen?
You have an inburgeringsplicht (integration obligation) if you:
- Are a non-EU/EEA national who received a Dutch residence permit after 1 January 2022
- Are between 18 and state pension age
- Are not already exempt (see below)
You may be exempt if you:
- Completed Dutch secondary education (voortgezet onderwijs)
- Hold a Dutch higher education diploma (HBO or university)
- Can prove equivalent Dutch language proficiency (B1 level or higher)
- Have a medical reason that prevents participation
Note: Requirements can change. Always verify your specific situation with your gemeente or DUO.
Your study path: A0 → A2
The language component requires A2 Dutch. NederPro's structured lessons take you from zero to A2 step by step, with all grammar topics aligned to the exam requirements.
Preparing for the KNM
The KNM (Kennis van de Nederlandse Maatschappij) tests your knowledge of Dutch society. It covers:
Dutch government & politics
How the Netherlands is governed, elections, municipalities
Healthcare system
The huisarts, health insurance, eigen risico, referrals
Housing & registration
Renting, BSN, gemeente registration, DigiD
Education system
Dutch schools, basisonderwijs, VO, MBO/HBO/WO
Work & benefits
Employment rights, UWV, social security, taxes
History & culture
Dutch history, values, customs, and national identity
Practical tips for passing
Start early
You have 3 years but most people who pass do so within 18 months. Starting immediately gives you time to retake components if needed.
Work with your gemeente
Your municipality provides a personal integration plan (PIP), connects you with a language provider, and can grant extensions for valid reasons.
Practice KNM questions regularly
The KNM is multiple-choice with 45 questions. Regular timed practice is the fastest way to prepare — use NederPro's KNM practice exams.
Speak Dutch daily
Grammar lessons help, but daily conversation practice accelerates progress more than anything else. Find a language exchange partner or conversation group.
Read Dutch news
After reaching A2, reading simple Dutch news sites (e.g. NOS op 3) builds vocabulary and keeps you current on the society topics tested in KNM.
Register with DUO
Once you're ready, register for your exams at duo.nl. You can take components separately and in any order.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to complete the inburgering?▾
What happens if I fail?▾
Can I do self-study or do I need a language school?▾
Is the exam in Dutch or English?▾
What is the passing score?▾
Also preparing for Staatsexamen NT2?
If your goal is university admission, professional registration, or advanced Dutch proficiency, the Staatsexamen NT2 (B1 or B2) may also be relevant. NederPro covers B1 and B2 grammar as well.