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A2/B1Exam Guide

Inburgering A2 vs B1 Nt2: What Is the Difference?

Compare A2 inburgering and B1 Staatsexamen Nt2 Programma I by level, exam parts, difficulty, KNM, and practice route so you choose the right exam practice.

Reviewed against official sources - Updated 2026-05-10

A2 inburgering and B1 Nt2 both test Dutch, but they are not the same practice path.

A2 focuses on practical everyday Dutch and, for many learners, includes KNM. B1 Nt2 Programma I is a higher language exam with reading, listening, speaking, and writing at B1 level.

Questions this guide answers

  • Is A2 inburgering the same as B1 Nt2 Programma I?
  • Which exam route should I practice for if my integration route says A2?
  • When does B1 practice become useful after A2?
  • Why does KNM appear in A2 practice but not in B1 Nt2 Programma I practice?

Quick comparison

FeatureA2 InburgeringB1 Nt2 Programma I
LevelA2B1
Typical focusEveryday integration situationsWork, education, and daily life at B1
SkillsReading, listening, speaking, writing, and KNM practiceReading, listening, speaking, and writing
DifficultySimple practical languageLonger texts, more precise answers, more independent language

Which should you practice?

If your integration route says A2, start with A2. If you are preparing for Staatsexamen Nt2 Programma I, practice B1 skills. If you are unsure, check your official route before paying for an exam.

Signs you are ready to move from A2 to B1 practice

  • You can read short practical texts without translating every word.
  • You can explain a simple problem in Dutch.
  • You can write a short email with a clear reason and request.
  • You can listen for main ideas and important details.
A2
A2 Inburgering Practice

Practice A2 exam sections and KNM.

B1
B1 Nt2 Practice

Practice Programma I language skills.

Official references