The Inburgering A2 Exam: Every Part Explained, With Free Practice

Each part, and how to practise it

1. Lezen (reading)65 minutes

   What the exam looks like

   • On the computer: you read short everyday texts and answer questions about them.

   How to practise

   • Read the question before the text, then look for the part of the text that answers it. You rarely need every word.
   • Practise with the texts the exam copies: letters from the gemeente, notices, adverts, timetables and short emails.
   • Time yourself. Most people who run out of time read every text from top to bottom.
   Practise A2 lezen freeReading strategies for A2 and B1

2. Luisteren (listening)45 minutes

   What the exam looks like

   • On the computer: you watch short videos and listen to recordings, then answer questions.

   How to practise

   • Listen to short everyday conversations at A2 level: at the doctor, in a shop, on the phone.
   • Train the details the questions ask for: times, days, prices, places and what someone has to do next.
   • Listen first without text, then read the transcript to see what you missed, then listen once more.
   Practise A2 luisteren freeA2 listening practice guide

3. Schrijven (writing)40 minutes

   What the exam looks like

   • With pen and paper, not on the computer.
   • 4 writing tasks, such as filling in a form or writing a short letter or message.

   How to practise

   • Practise by hand. Writing on paper is slower than typing and you cannot spell-check.
   • Answer every point the task asks for. A short answer that covers all points beats a long one that skips one.
   • Use simple linking words (en, maar, want, omdat) and check that the verb sits in second place.
   Practise A2 schrijven freeA2 writing strategiesLinking words for A2 writing

4. Spreken (speaking)35 minutes

   What the exam looks like

   • On the computer: you watch short videos and answer questions out loud. Your answers are recorded.

   How to practise

   • Answer out loud in full sentences, every day. Silent practice does not prepare you for the microphone.
   • Learn a few phrases that buy you time, so a pause does not turn into silence.
   • Record yourself and listen back. Check that you answered the question that was asked.
   Practise A2 spreken freePhrases for the A2 speaking examA2 speaking practice guide

5. KNM (Dutch society)45 minutes

   What the exam looks like

   • On the computer, with questions by theme, such as housing or work and income.
   • Since 1 July 2025: more questions about knowledge and fewer about behaviour.
   • New topics since then: the Holocaust and women's right to self-determination.

   How to practise

   • Study theme by theme instead of reading everything at once.
   • Practise with exam-style questions and read the explanation after each one, also when you were right.
   Practise KNM freeKNM key topicsKNM practice questions