Staatsexamen NT2: how scoring works and how to prepare

The Staatsexamen NT2 is the Dutch state exam for people who want to work or study in Dutch. Before you plan, read programme I (B1) or programme II (B2)? to choose your level. This guide covers how the exam is marked and how to prepare, and our NT2 preparation path lists the steps.

Updated · 4 min read

Bu rehberi Türkçe okuyun

اقرأ هذا الدليل بالعربية

Leer esta guía en español

Ler este guia em português

16Word: the free Dutch level test — A1 to B2 in about 8 minutes, no account needed

Four exams, one number to reach

The Staatsexamen NT2 covers reading, listening, writing and speaking, at a test centre. According to the official marking information, you need at least 500 to pass. Treat each exam as its own target and do not count on a strong result in one to carry another.

Which programme

Programme I is B1 and programme II is B2. The programme guide explains which fits which plans. The exams are often used for work and study.

How it differs from inburgering

The Staatsexamen is not the same as the integration exams. If you are working through integration requirements, start with our inburgering guide, or read about choosing between A2 and B1.

A preparation plan

  1. Take a free Dutch level test.
  2. Learn 16 Dutch words a day, and keep de and het with each noun.
  3. Practise verbs. Our Dutch conjugation tables have the common verbs.
  4. Do listening practice every day, even for five minutes.
  5. Take the official practice exams and write down your score per exam.
  6. Register once your practice scores are consistently where you need them.

Practising speaking when you have nobody to talk to

Speaking is the part learners most often leave until last. Record yourself answering a question, then listen back and compare. It is uncomfortable, and it works. On 16Word you can also answer aloud in the app while you practise.

Dutch from your level up

16Word's path takes you from your level to B2, the level of programme II.

Keep exploring

Every exam below has its own preparation page on 16Word.

The other language exams

More guides on language exams

Related guides and free level tests

Staatsexamen NT2: frequently asked questions

What score do I need to pass the Staatsexamen NT2?

At least 500.

What levels does it cover?

Programme I is B1 and programme II is B2.

Is it the same as inburgering?

No. Read our inburgering guide to see the difference.

Are there official practice exams?

Yes, on the official practice website.

Where do I register?

On the official registration page.

Was this guide useful?

Official sources

Keep going