A1 abroad, A2 or B1? Which exam should you prepare for
Three different exams, three different paths. A plain-language guide to which exam fits your situation and how the sections differ.
"The civic integration exam" actually refers to several different exams. Which one you take depends on whether you are inside or outside the Netherlands, which law applies to you and what your goal is. This article is a roadmap; for a final decision, always check the latest information from the official authority.
Civic integration exam abroad (A1)
This is the exam you take at the Dutch embassy in your country before moving to the Netherlands, for example for family reunification. It has three sections: KNS (knowledge of Dutch society), Lezen (reading) and Spreken (speaking).
Inburgering A2
This is for people living in the Netherlands whose inburgering obligation is at A2 level, and for those taking the exam voluntarily. The language sections are Lezen, Luisteren, Schrijven and Spreken, plus KNM (knowledge of Dutch society). Each section is passed separately; you only retake the one you failed.
Inburgering B1 and Staatsexamen NT2 I
Under the new system, B1 is the standard target level. The language sections follow the same structure as Staatsexamen NT2 Programma I. If you are aiming for work or vocational training, this path opens more doors.
| Exam | Who it's for | Sections |
|---|---|---|
| A1 abroad | Before moving to the Netherlands | KNS, Lezen, Spreken |
| Inburgering A2 | In the Netherlands, with an A2 target | Lezen, Luisteren, Schrijven, Spreken, KNM |
| Inburgering B1 | In the Netherlands, standard target | Lezen, Luisteren, Schrijven, Spreken, KNM |
How to get started on kanaal
Once you choose your target exam, the practice exams and the readiness card on your dashboard are organised around that exam's sections. You choose your language level separately; video lessons and topic explanations follow your level. You can change both at any time.
Tags: inburgering · A1 · A2 · B1 · Staatsexamen