Learning Dutch

There are many courses for learning Dutch as a second language. You can choose from courses ranging for beginners to advanced as well as private and group lessons.

The Hague offers many Dutch language learning programmes. For example you can take the Dutch for Starters course at ROC Mondriaan.

The ‘Haags Taalkompas’ is a comprehensive guide to learning Dutch as well as Dutch learning centres in The Hague and is published by the municipality. It outlines the many different sorts of courses available and provides advice on which method of study might best suit each individual. The ‘Haags Taalkompas’ was written in Dutch and is available from The Hague International Centre in the Atrium of The Hague City Hall at Spui 70 and at branches of the public library.

Dutch as a Second Language state exam

If you want to prove that you have a good command of Dutch, you can take the Nederlands als tweede taal (NT2) state exam. The NT2 qualification is also valuable on the employment market. There are two NT2 exam programmes:

• Programme I is for people who want to work in an entry-level position or get a vocational education at the secondary level (MBO).
• Programme II is for people who want to work in a mid-level or high-level position or study at the Higher Vocational Education (HBO) and University (WO) level. The exam for Programme II is more difficult.

The exams consist of four parts: reading, listening, writing and speaking. You’ll find more information about the NT2 exam and how you can register for it on the website of Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs (DUO). You can also purchase practice exams from this website.

Integration courses (inburgering)

If you come to live in The Hague from abroad, you may need to pass the civic integration examination in order to qualify for a residence permit. You can read more about integration courses at www.inburgeren.nl. A list of integration courses can be found at Blik op Werk.

The library helps

You can follow a Dutch language course by borrowing audiovisual materials from The Hague Public Library. Are you taking a language course from a certified organisation? Then you are eligible for free library membership for two years. Library staff can tell you more about the conditions. Go to the website of The Hague Public Library for more information. 

Learning Dutch at work

Sometimes it's difficult to take a Dutch course during office hours. Ask your employer about the possibilities. If you'd like to continue your studies and need to find the time to do so, you can make arrangements with your employer to get study leave or a sabbatical. Look for more information at www.werk.nl.

Foreign diplomas

If you have a foreign diploma and you would like to use it in the Netherlands, read about how to have it recognised on the website of International Credential Evaluation (IDW).

Also see

• ACCESS
• AngloINFO South Holland
• Het begint met taal
• Expatica
• The Guest Card