Staatsexamen NT2 Programma I 2026: Complete Exam Schedule and Registration Guide
Are you planning to take the Staatsexamen NT2 Programma I in 2026? This official Dutch language exam, administered by the College voor Toetsen en Examens (CvTE), assesses your proficiency at CEFR B1 level. It is a crucial step for immigration (inburgering), vocational education, and professional recognition in the Netherlands.
This page provides the full 2026 exam schedule, including registration windows, test dates, and result release dates. We also explain how to register and what you need to know about fees and deadlines.
2026 Exam at a Glance
The Staatsexamen NT2 Programma I consists of four separate exams: Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking. You can take them individually or all together. In 2026, there are two main exam periods:
- Period 1: Exams in February and March
- Period 2: Exams in May and June
Each component has specific dates within these periods. Below is the detailed schedule.
2026 Exam Dates and Deadlines
Period 1 (February – March 2026)
| Component | Exam Date | Registration Opens | Registration Deadline | Result Date | |-----------|------------|---------------------|------------------------|--------------| | Reading | 10 February 2026 | 1 December 2025 | 5 January 2026 | 10 March 2026 | | Listening | 12 February 2026 | 1 December 2025 | 5 January 2026 | 10 March 2026 | | Writing | 3 March 2026 | 1 December 2025 | 2 February 2026 | 31 March 2026 | | Speaking | 5-6 March 2026 | 1 December 2025 | 2 February 2026 | 31 March 2026 |
Period 2 (May – June 2026)
| Component | Exam Date | Registration Opens | Registration Deadline | Result Date | |-----------|------------|---------------------|------------------------|--------------| | Reading | 12 May 2026 | 1 February 2026 | 6 April 2026 | 9 June 2026 | | Listening | 14 May 2026 | 1 February 2026 | 6 April 2026 | 9 June 2026 | | Writing | 2 June 2026 | 1 February 2026 | 4 May 2026 | 30 June 2026 | | Speaking | 4-5 June 2026 | 1 February 2026 | 4 May 2026 | 30 June 2026 |
Note: Dates are subject to change. Always verify on the official CvTE website or your registration confirmation.
How to Register for the 2026 Exam
Registration is done online through the Ducoo platform (the official registration system for CvTE exams). Follow these steps:
- 1Create an account on Ducoo.nl (or via the CvTE website).
- 2Choose your exam component(s) – you can register for one or more parts.
- 3Select your exam location – you can choose among various test centres across the Netherlands.
- 4Pay the exam fee – payment is required at the time of registration.
- 5Receive confirmation – you will get an email with your exam date, time, and location.
Important: You must register before the deadline for each exam period. Late registrations are not accepted.
Exam Fees for 2026
The official fee for the Staatsexamen NT2 Programma I is set by the Dutch government. For 2026, the fee is €115 per exam component. This means if you take all four components, the total cost is €460.
Fee waivers may be available if you are required to take the exam for integration (inburgering) and meet certain income criteria. Check with your municipality or the DUO (Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs) for possible subsidies.
Exam Structure and Timing
Understanding the format is key to success. Here’s what to expect for each component:
Reading (Leesvaardigheid)
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Number of questions: Approximately 25-30 multiple-choice questions
- Content: Texts from everyday life, such as advertisements, emails, and short articles.
Listening (Luistervaardigheid)
- Duration: Approximately 45 minutes
- Number of questions: Around 25 multiple-choice questions
- Content: Audio fragments from daily situations, such as announcements, conversations, and instructions.
Writing (Schrijfvaardigheid)
- Duration: 100 minutes
- Tasks: You will write short texts, such as a letter, an email, or a form. There are about 3-4 tasks.
- Scoring: Assessed on task completion, grammar, vocabulary, and coherence.
Speaking (Spreekvaardigheid)
- Duration: Approximately 15 minutes (including preparation time)
- Tasks: You will speak on given topics, such as describing a situation or giving an opinion. The exam is recorded and later assessed.
- Scoring: Assessed on pronunciation, fluency, grammar, and vocabulary.
Scoring and Results
Each exam component is scored on a scale from 0 to 100. You need a minimum score of 60 to pass a component. If you fail one component, you only need to retake that specific part – you do not have to repeat the entire exam.
Results are released approximately 4 weeks after the exam date. You will receive an official result statement from CvTE. If you pass all four components, you will receive the Staatsexamen NT2 Programma I diploma, which is valid indefinitely.
Why Take the NT2 Programma I?
This exam is widely recognized in the Netherlands. It is often required for:
- Immigration and integration: If you are required to integrate (inburgering), passing the NT2 Programma I may fulfil the language requirement.
- Vocational education (MBO): Many Dutch MBO programmes require NT2 Programma I for admission.
- Employment: Some employers ask for NT2 certification to prove your Dutch language skills.
- Personal development: Achieving B1 level demonstrates your ability to function independently in Dutch society.
Important Deadlines and Tips
- Registration deadlines are strict. Mark them in your calendar and register early to secure your preferred location.
- Result dates are important if you need your diploma for a specific purpose, such as a job application or university enrolment.
- Prepare well in advance: The exam requires thorough preparation. Consider taking mock tests to familiarise yourself with the format and timing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the exam components on different dates?
Yes, you can register for each component separately. You may take them in the same period or spread across different periods. However, it is often more convenient to take them in one period if possible.
What if I miss the registration deadline?
You cannot register after the deadline. You will need to wait for the next exam period. Plan accordingly and set reminders.
Are there any special accommodations for disabilities?
Yes, CvTE provides accommodations for candidates with disabilities or health conditions. You must submit a request during registration, along with supporting documentation. Contact CvTE in advance to discuss your needs.
How long is the NT2 Programma I diploma valid?
The diploma is valid for life. Once you have passed all four components, you do not need to retake the exam.
Can I retake only the failed component?
Yes, you can retake any component individually. There is no limit to the number of attempts, but you must pay the exam fee each time.
Where can I find official sample tests?
The CvTE website offers free practice material. Additionally, LanguageTest.in provides realistic mock tests to help you prepare effectively.
Get Ready with LanguageTest.in
Preparing for the Staatsexamen NT2 Programma I requires familiarity with the exam format and time management. At LanguageTest.in, we offer full-length mock tests for all four components, designed to mirror the real exam. Our practice tests help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, so you can focus your preparation and walk into the exam with confidence.
Start your preparation today and take the first step towards your Dutch language goals!