Slaagkans
From A1 to B1: the whole route and how long it takes
August 8, 2026 · 2 min
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A1 (the basisexamen) is taken abroad, before you arrive. After that one final level applies in the Netherlands: since the Wet inburgering 2021 that is B1, with A2 as the exception. You do not climb A1 → A2 → B1 — you sit A1 to get in, then sit your integration exam once, at the level of your route.
- A1
- abroad, before your MVV
- Standard final level
- B1
- Deadline
- 3 years
| Level | Exam | Where | What for |
|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | Basisexamen inburgering buitenland | embassy | MVV / family reunification |
| A2 | Inburgeringsexamen | Netherlands | exception route, old Wi2013 |
| B1 | Staatsexamen NT2 Programma I | Netherlands | standard since 2022 |
| B2 | Staatsexamen NT2 Programma II | Netherlands | university, work |
There is no staircase
The most common question is: “I have A1, how do I apply for A2?” It does not work that way. A1 abroad and your integration in the Netherlands are two separate obligations. You do not need A2 before you may sit B1 — you sit the exam at the level of your route. In practice: practise the A2 inburgeringsexamen or Staatsexamen NT2 Programma I (B1), whichever your route is.
The timeline
- 1
Before you arrive
Basisexamen A1 at the embassy: Speaking, Reading and KNS. Practise the basisexamen.
- 2
First months
Broad intake at your municipality, a learnability test, and your personal Integration and Participation Plan (PIP).
- 3
Years 1–3
Course plus PVT and MAP. The clock runs for three years.
- 4
Exam + result
Expect 6 weeks or more for a seat and 8 weeks for the result.
ماذا يعني هذا لك
- Ask your municipality which route you are in — that sets your final level, not your A1 diploma.
- Plan backwards from your deadline: 6 weeks or more for a seat, then 8 weeks for the result.
- If you want to study or work at a higher level, look at B2 straight away.
أسئلة شائعة
I passed A1. Do I still have to integrate?
Yes. The basisexamen abroad is a condition for your MVV; your integration obligation in the Netherlands is separate.
Can I sit A2 instead of B1?
Only if your route allows it — for example after at least 600 hours of lessons if B1 proves unreachable. Your municipality and DUO decide.
Not sure of your level? Take a mock at the level of your route.
Choose your examالمصادر
- DUO — U gaat inburgerenرسمي
- DUO — Taalexamens A2, B1 en B2رسمي
- IND — Inburgeringsexamen: voorwaarde voor naturalisatie (formulier 3006)رسمي
آخر تحقق: September 19, 2026. Rules and amounts change — always check your own situation with DUO or the IND.
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