Exam Tips & Strategy
Everything you need to know to pass your Dutch inburgering exam. From preparation checklists to time management and stress control.
~3 hours
Exam Duration
A2 level
Passing Score
~€50/part
Total Cost
Unlimited
Validity
Exam Sections & Scoring
Understanding the structure of each exam section helps you prepare effectively.
Reading (Lezen)
Listening (Luisteren)
Writing (Schrijven)
Speaking (Spreken)
KNM
Test Day Checklist
Use this interactive checklist to make sure you're fully prepared. Click items to mark them as done.
📋 Required Documents
0%📚 Preparation
0%🌙 Night Before
0%☀️ Morning Of
0%Time Management Strategies
Time is your biggest enemy in the exam. Here's how to allocate it effectively for each section.
- Spend ~2.5 minutes per question on average
- Skim the text first, then read questions, then read carefully
- Don't get stuck - mark difficult questions and return
- Answer easy questions first to build confidence
- Save 5 minutes at the end to review marked questions
Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
Overthinking simple questions
✓ Solution: First answer is often correct. Only change if you find clear evidence.
Example: Reading: If the text says "De winkel is dicht op zondag", don't second-guess that the answer is "open"
Not managing time properly
✓ Solution: Set mental checkpoints. After 30 minutes, you should have completed ~12 reading questions.
Ignoring instructions
✓ Solution: Always read "Kies het juiste antwoord" vs "Kies alle juiste antwoorden" carefully.
Writing in English during writing exam
✓ Solution: The entire response must be in Dutch. Even one English sentence can disqualify the answer.
Speaking too quietly or too fast
✓ Solution: Practice speaking clearly at a moderate pace. The microphone picks up everything.
Not checking word order (SOV)
✓ Solution: Remember: Subject - Object - Verb in subordinate clauses. Review this the night before.
Example: "Ik denk dat hij morgen komt" (not "Ik denk dat hij komt morgen")
Panicking after one difficult question
✓ Solution: One hard question won't fail you. Take a breath, mark it, and move on.
Not using the full preparation time in speaking
✓ Solution: Use every second of preparation time to organize your thoughts.
Last Minute Tips
What to do (and not do) in the final 24 hours before your exam.
Don't Cram
Last-minute studying increases anxiety. Trust what you've already learned.
Review Keywords Only
Quickly scan key vocabulary lists rather than trying to learn new material.
Prepare Your Bag
Pack everything the night before to avoid morning stress.
Sleep > Study
A rested brain performs better than a tired one with extra "knowledge".
Eat Well
Have a nutritious breakfast - your brain needs fuel!
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive 30 minutes early to avoid rushing.
Stress Management Techniques
Exam anxiety is normal. These techniques will help you stay calm and perform at your best.
Box Breathing
Breathe in for 4 counts, hold for 4, out for 4, hold for 4. Repeat 3 times.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation
Tense and release muscle groups from toes to head before the exam.
Positive Visualization
Imagine yourself confidently answering questions and passing the exam.
Power Pose
Stand tall with hands on hips for 2 minutes before entering - it boosts confidence.
Accept Nervousness
It's normal to feel nervous. Use it as energy to focus, not fear.
Quick Calm: 4-7-8 Breathing
4
Breathe in
7
Hold
8
Breathe out
What to Bring
Must Have
- •Valid passport or EU ID (original!)
- •Exam confirmation from DUO
- •Your aanvraagnummer
⚠️ Without ID, you cannot take the exam!
Recommended
- •Water bottle (transparent, no label)
- •Tissues
- •Light sweater (rooms can be cold)
- •Watch (not smart watch)
🚫Leave Home
- •Phone (must be turned off & stored)
- •Smart watches or fitness trackers
- •Study materials or notes
- •Food (not allowed in exam room)
What to Expect on Exam Day
Arrival Process
- 1Arrive 30 minutes early at the exam location
- 2Check in with your ID and confirmation
- 3Store personal items in lockers (phones OFF)
- 4Wait in the designated area
- 5Staff will call you when it's time
- 6Follow instructions to your computer/testing station
During the Exam
- Timer visible on screen (computer exams)
- Headphones provided for listening sections
- Scrap paper available on request
- Small breaks between some sections
- Toilet breaks allowed but time continues
Important: Results typically take 4-8 weeks. You'll receive them by email from DUO.
Ready to Practice?
Put these tips into action with our practice tests and AI coach.
Good luck with your exam! Remember: preparation and calmness are your best tools.
🍀 Sterkte! (Good luck!)