Staatsexamen NT2 Programma I: Registration Fees and Payment Information
Are you preparing for the Staatsexamen NT2 Programma I? This official Dutch language exam, administered by the College voor Toetsen en Examens (CvTE), certifies your Dutch proficiency at CEFR B1 level. It is a key requirement for immigration (inburgering), vocational education, and professional recognition in the Netherlands. Understanding the costs and payment procedures is crucial for a smooth registration. This guide provides everything you need to know about fees, payment methods, refunds, and waivers for the 2026 exam cycle.
Exam Overview
The NT2 Programma I exam tests your Dutch language skills in four components: Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking. Each section is assessed separately, and you must pass all four to receive the diploma. The exam is held several times a year at designated examination centres across the Netherlands.
Exam Structure and Timing
- Reading (Leesvaardigheid): 45 minutes, multiple-choice questions based on short texts.
- Listening (Luistervaardigheid): 50 minutes, multiple-choice questions after audio fragments.
- Writing (Schrijfvaardigheid): 100 minutes, includes short texts, forms, and a letter.
- Speaking (Spreekvaardigheid): 15 minutes, computer-based, with short responses to questions and situations.
You can take the four components separately or together, depending on your needs. Scores are reported on a scale of 0-100, with a passing score of 80 or higher per component.
Registration Fees for 2026
The registration fee for the Staatsexamen NT2 Programma I varies by country and currency. As of 2026, the fee for the full exam (all four components) is approximately €160 when taken in the Netherlands. If you register for individual components, the fee is €45 per component. These fees are set by the CvTE and may be subject to annual adjustment. Always check the official CvTE website for the most current fees before registering.
Fees by Country/Currency
For candidates residing outside the Netherlands, fees may differ due to local costs and exchange rates. Below is an indicative list of fees in various currencies for the full exam (four components) in 2026:
- Netherlands (EUR): €160
- Belgium (EUR): €160 (if taken in the Netherlands)
- Suriname (SRD): approximately SRD 1,100 (check with the Dutch embassy)
- Caribbean Netherlands (USD): approximately $180
- Other countries: Fees are typically set in euros and payable via international bank transfer or credit card.
Please note: Fees are non-refundable unless the exam is cancelled by the CvTE. Additional bank charges or currency conversion fees may apply.
How to Pay
The CvTE accepts several payment methods for registration. Choose the one that best suits your location and convenience:
- iDEAL: Available for candidates with a Dutch bank account.
- Credit Card: Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are accepted for online payments.
- Bank Transfer: For international candidates, a bank transfer to the CvTE's account is possible. Ensure you include your registration number as reference.
- PayPal: Available in some countries; check the registration portal for options.
Step-by-Step Registration Payment
- 1Create an account on the official CvTE registration portal (DUO).
- 2Fill in your personal details and choose the exam components.
- 3Select your exam location and date.
- 4Proceed to payment – choose your preferred method.
- 5Receive confirmation – you will get an email with your registration details and receipt.
All payments must be made in full at the time of registration. Incomplete payments may result in cancellation of your registration.
Refund and Cancellation Policy
Understanding the refund policy is essential. The CvTE has a strict policy:
- Cancellation by Candidate: If you cancel your registration more than 4 weeks before the exam date, you will receive a refund of 50% of the fee. Cancellations made within 4 weeks of the exam are non-refundable.
- No-show: If you do not attend the exam without prior cancellation, no refund will be given.
- Illness or Emergency: In exceptional cases (e.g., medical emergency with a doctor's certificate), you may apply for a full refund or a transfer to a later exam date. Applications must be submitted within 14 days of the exam date.
- Cancellation by CvTE: If the CvTE cancels an exam session (e.g., due to force majeure), you will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.
To request a refund, you must submit a written application via the contact form on the CvTE website. Refunds are processed within 8 weeks and returned to the original payment method.
Fee Waivers and Exemptions
Are there any fee waivers available? Yes, in certain circumstances:
- Low-income individuals: If you are a resident of the Netherlands and receive social assistance (bijstand), you may apply for a fee reduction. Contact your gemeente (municipality) for a declaration, and submit it with your registration.
- Inburgering (civic integration): If you are required to take the exam as part of the Dutch civic integration process, your municipality may cover the costs. Check with your inburgeringsconsulent.
- Students: Some educational institutions reimburse the exam fee for their students. Ask your school's international office.
- Refugees: Asylum seekers with a valid status may be eligible for a fee waiver through the Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (COA).
To apply for a waiver, you must provide supporting documents before payment. The CvTE will assess your eligibility within 10 working days.
Important Dates for 2026
The exam is offered on fixed dates throughout the year. For 2026, the registration deadlines are typically 6 weeks before each exam date. Here are the planned exam periods (subject to change):
- February 2026: Registration opens in December 2025
- April 2026: Registration opens in February 2026
- June 2026: Registration opens in April 2026
- September 2026: Registration opens in July 2026
- November 2026: Registration opens in September 2026
Results are published 6 to 8 weeks after the exam. You will receive an email notification when your results are available online.
Additional Costs to Consider
Besides the exam fee, you may incur other costs:
- Preparation materials: Official practice exams cost around €15 each.
- Travel expenses: If the exam centre is far from your home.
- Resit fees: If you need to retake a component, you pay the per-component fee again.
Plan your budget accordingly to avoid surprises.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the registration fee for NT2 Programma I in 2026?
The full exam fee is approximately €160 in the Netherlands. Individual components are €45 each. Fees may vary by country and are subject to change.
Can I pay the exam fee with a credit card?
Yes, credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted for online payments. iDEAL and bank transfer are also available.
What is the refund policy if I cancel my registration?
If you cancel more than 4 weeks before the exam, you get a 50% refund. Cancellations within 4 weeks are non-refundable. Exceptional cases like medical emergencies may receive full refunds.
Are there any fee waivers for low-income candidates?
Yes, if you receive social assistance (bijstand) in the Netherlands, you can apply for a fee reduction through your municipality. Asylum seekers may also qualify via COA.
How long does it take to receive exam results?
Results are typically published 6-8 weeks after the exam. You will be notified by email when they are available.
Can I take the exam components separately?
Yes, you can register for individual components. Each component is priced at €45. You must pass all four to obtain the diploma, but you can resit failed components.