Inburgeringsexamen A2 2026: Complete Exam Dates and Registration Guide
Planning to take the Inburgeringsexamen A2 (Taal) in 2026? This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about exam dates, registration windows, important deadlines, and how to secure your spot. Whether you're taking the exam for civic integration (inburgering), university admission, or professional recognition, we've got you covered.
Understanding the Inburgeringsexamen A2
The Inburgeringsexamen (civic integration exam) is mandatory for most non-EU immigrants settling in the Netherlands. The language component, Taal, tests your Dutch proficiency at CEFR A2 level across four skills: Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking. It is administered by DUO (Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs) under the College voor Toetsen en Examens. The exam is part of the broader inburgering programme, which also includes Kennis van de Nederlandse Maatschappij (KNM) and Oriëntatie op de Nederlandse Arbeidsmarkt (ONA).
2026 Exam Structure and Timing
Before diving into dates, let's recap the exam structure:
- Reading (Lezen): 45 minutes, multiple-choice questions
- Listening (Luisteren): 45 minutes, multiple-choice questions
- Writing (Schrijven): 40 minutes, fill-in-the-blank and short sentences
- Speaking (Spreken): 35 minutes, short responses to prompts (recorded)
Each component is scored separately, and you must pass all four to obtain the certificate. You can take components individually and retake any failed section.
2026 Exam Dates and Registration Windows
DUO offers the Inburgeringsexamen throughout the year. In 2026, exams are scheduled monthly, with multiple dates within each month. Registration typically opens 6-8 weeks before the exam date and closes 3 weeks prior. Here is an overview of the expected schedule:
| Exam Month | Exam Dates (Sample) | Registration Opens | Registration Deadline | |----------------|------------------------|------------------------|---------------------------| | January 2026 | 14, 21, 28 | Nov 10, 2025 | Dec 15, 2025 | | February 2026 | 11, 18, 25 | Dec 15, 2025 | Jan 19, 2026 | | March 2026 | 11, 18, 25 | Jan 19, 2026 | Feb 16, 2026 | | April 2026 | 8, 15, 22, 29 | Feb 16, 2026 | Mar 16, 2026 | | May 2026 | 13, 20, 27 | Mar 16, 2026 | Apr 13, 2026 | | June 2026 | 10, 17, 24 | Apr 13, 2026 | May 11, 2026 | | July 2026 | 8, 15, 22, 29 | May 11, 2026 | Jun 15, 2026 | | August 2026 | 12, 19, 26 | Jun 15, 2026 | Jul 13, 2026 | | September 2026 | 9, 16, 23, 30 | Jul 13, 2026 | Aug 17, 2026 | | October 2026 | 14, 21, 28 | Aug 17, 2026 | Sep 14, 2026 | | November 2026 | 11, 18, 25 | Sep 14, 2026 | Oct 12, 2026 | | December 2026 | 9, 16, 23 | Oct 12, 2026 | Nov 16, 2026 |
Note: Dates are indicative and subject to change. Always verify on the official DUO website.
How to Register for the 2026 Exam
Registration is done online via your DUO account. Follow these steps:
- 1Create or log in to your DUO account at duo.nl.
- 2Request an exam by selecting the Inburgeringsexamen and the components you wish to take.
- 3Choose your exam date and location from available slots.
- 4Pay the exam fee (see fees below).
- 5Receive confirmation via email with your exam details.
Important: Registration closes exactly 3 weeks before the exam date, so mark your calendar. Late registrations are not accepted.
Exam Fees for 2026
As of 2026, the exam fee is €180 per component. If you need to retake a section, you pay the same fee for each retake. Payment is required at registration.
Result Dates and How to Access Them
Results are typically published within 3 weeks after the exam date. You will receive an email notification when your results are available. To view them:
- 1Log in to your DUO account.
- 2Go to 'Mijn examens' (My exams).
- 3Download your official result letter (PDF).
If you pass all components, you will receive your certificate by mail within 4-6 weeks after the last passed component.
Important Deadlines and Tips for 2026
- Start early: Registration opens 6-8 weeks before each exam. Popular dates fill up fast, so book as soon as possible.
- Check your eligibility: Ensure you have a valid BSN (citizen service number) and meet all requirements.
- Plan retakes: If you fail a component, you can retake it in the next available session. Consider booking multiple components in the same month to save time.
- Prepare thoroughly: Use official DUO practice materials and consider mock tests to build confidence.
Why Choose LanguageTest.in for Your Preparation?
Preparing for the Inburgeringsexamen A2 can be challenging, but with the right resources, you can succeed. At LanguageTest.in, we offer realistic mock tests that simulate the actual exam format, helping you familiarise yourself with question types and timing. Our practice tests cover all four skills, with instant feedback and detailed explanations. Don't leave your success to chance – try our mock tests today and walk into your 2026 exam with confidence!
Last updated: [Date]