The moment you finally log in to Mijn Inburgering and see the green confirmation: your exam date is set. That is the day you stop worrying about paperwork and start focusing on your Dutch.
This article is about the aanmelden inburgering examen process. You will learn exactly how to register for your civic integration exam through the official DUO portal, what to prepare beforehand, and how to avoid the most common mistakes. Whether you are taking the basisexamen inburgering (A1) or the full inburgeringsexamen at A2 level, the registration steps are the same. By the end, you will know how to book your exam, change your date if needed, and what to do if the system gives you trouble.
What is Mijn Inburgering and why do you need it?
Mijn Inburgering is the online portal from DUO (Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs) where you manage your entire integration process. You can see your deadlines, your exam results, and most importantly, you can register for exams. If you are required to integrate, DUO will send you a letter with your inburgeringsplicht and your deadline. You cannot take the exam without registering through this portal, unless you have a special exemption (for example, if you are severely disabled). So, the first step is to make sure you have your DigiD ready.
Before you register: what you need
You cannot just log in and pick a date. There are a few things you need to have in order. First, your DigiD must be activated. If you do not have one, apply at digid.nl at least a week in advance, because the activation code arrives by mail. Second, you need to know which exam components you are taking: Lezen, Luisteren, Schrijven, Spreken, and KNM (Kennis van de Nederlandse Maatschappij). You can register for one or more parts at the same time. Third, have your Burgerservicenummer (BSN) handy, though it is usually linked to your DigiD. Finally, make sure you have enough time before your deadline. DUO recommends registering at least three weeks before your preferred exam date, but you can often find slots sooner.
Step-by-step: how to register via Mijn Inburgering
Here is the exact path to register. It takes about 10 minutes if you have everything ready.
- Log in at mijn.inburgeren.nl with your DigiD. Use the app or the SMS code, whichever you have set up.
- Go to “Examen” in the menu. You will see a list of exam components. Click on the one you want to register for, for example “Spreken”.
- Choose a date and location. DUO has exam locations in several cities, like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Eindhoven. Pick the one that is easiest for you to reach. You will see available dates in the next few months.
- Select a time slot. Morning, afternoon, or evening. Some locations have evening exams, which is handy if you work during the day.
- Check your details. Verify your name, BSN, and address. If anything is wrong, correct it or contact DUO before you continue.
- Confirm and pay. The exam fee is set by DUO, and you pay online with iDEAL. After payment, you get a confirmation email with your exam details.
That is it. You will also receive a letter by mail a few days later, but the email is enough. Keep it safe.
“I was so nervous to register because I thought I would make a mistake. But the steps were clear, and I even changed my date once without any problem. The hardest part was waiting for my DigiD code!” - Maria, from Brazil, now living in Utrecht.
What to do if you cannot log in or find a date
Sometimes things go wrong. Your DigiD might not work, or there are no dates available in your area. Do not panic. Here are the most common issues and how to solve them.
DigiD problems
If you cannot log in, check that your username and password are correct. If you have a new phone, you might need to activate the DigiD app again. You can also use a SMS code instead. If you are still stuck, call DigiD helpdesk at 088 123 65 55 (from the Netherlands) or +31 88 123 65 55 (from abroad). They speak Dutch and English.
No exam dates available
This happens especially in the summer and around holidays. DUO adds new dates regularly, so check every few days. You can also try a different location. If you are really in a hurry, you can call DUO at 050 599 99 55 and ask if they have cancellation spots. They sometimes do.
You want to change or cancel your registration
You can change your exam date up to 10 days before the exam, free of charge. Log in to Mijn Inburgering, go to “Mijn examens”, and click “Wijzigen”. If you cancel more than 10 days in advance, you get a full refund. If you cancel later, you lose the fee, unless you have a doctor’s note.
Exam day: what to bring and what to expect
On the day of your exam, bring your passport or ID card and the confirmation email (printed or on your phone). Arrive at least 15 minutes early. The exam is taken on a computer at a DUO exam location. You will get a headset for listening and speaking parts. For Spreken, you speak into a microphone, and your answers are recorded. For Schrijven, you type your answers. The exams are not adaptive, so every question is the same for everyone. You will get your results within two weeks, and you can see them in Mijn Inburgering.
After you pass: what happens next
When you pass all parts, DUO will send you a diploma by mail. You do not need to do anything else. If you are on the inburgeringsplicht, DUO will automatically update your status. If you fail a part, you can register again immediately. There is no limit to how many times you can retake, but you must pass before your deadline. If you need extra practice, check out our inburgering A2 preparation page and our mock exam to test your skills.
Practical checklist for a smooth registration
- Activate your DigiD at least a week before you plan to register.
- Know your BSN and have your ID card ready.
- Check your deadline in Mijn Inburgering.
- Decide which exam parts you want to take. You can combine them.
- Register at least 3 weeks before your preferred date.
- Pay the fee online with iDEAL.
- Save the confirmation email and note the date, time, and location.
- Set a reminder to check for changes or cancellations.
- If you need to cancel, do it more than 10 days before to get a refund.
- On exam day, bring your ID and arrive early.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the inburgering exam cost?
The exam fee is set by the Dutch government and can change. You can find the current price on the DUO website or in Mijn Inburgering. As of 2025, it is around €180 per exam part, but always check the official source.
Can I register for the exam if I am not yet in the inburgering process?
No, you must have an inburgeringsplicht and be registered with DUO. If you want to take the exam voluntarily, you can, but you need to contact DUO to start the process.
What if I fail an exam part?
You can register again for the same part. There is no limit, but you must pass before your deadline. Use the time to practice more, for example with our speaking practice or KNM preparation.
Can I take the exam abroad?
No, the inburgering exams are only offered at DUO locations in the Netherlands. If you live abroad, you might be exempt or need to take a different exam. Contact DUO for advice.
How long does it take to get results?
Usually within two weeks. You will see them in Mijn Inburgering. You will also receive a letter by mail.
Registering for your exam is a big step. It means you are ready to show what you have learned. With this guide, you can do it without stress. If you want to feel fully prepared, practice with our Dutch Fluency materials, and remember: every expert was once a beginner. Good luck with your aanmelden inburgering examen!