Dutch Language Tests for PhD Applications

The Netherlands is a popular choice for PhD students with many internationally focused programmes and friendly campuses. Even if your programme is mostly in English, knowing Dutch helps with research, everyday life, and meeting people.

Tests like NT2 and CNaVT show that you have the language skills universities expect. This guide explains the main exams, what level you will need, and ways to prepare without stress.

Studying a PhD in the Netherlands (or in Dutch-speaking parts of Belgium) may require a language test to show you can work effectively in a Dutch-language academic environment. While not all universities make Dutch proficiency a formal entry requirement, some do, and speaking the local language can be a big advantage when attending conferences, presenting research, or publishing within Dutch-speaking academic communities.

Dutch language certification can also be useful after your PhD, especially if you want to continue working or doing research in the country where you studied.

There are two main Dutch language tests used by universities. The Staatsexamen Nederlands als tweede taal (NT2) is run by the Dutch education office and is aimed mainly at students planning to study in the Netherlands. The Certificaat Nederlands als Vreemde Taal (CNaVT) is an internationally recognised test designed for academic study across Dutch-speaking regions, including parts of Belgium.

There are two levels (referred to as 'programmes' or 'schedules') at which the NT2 exam is offered.

PhD students will usually need to complete Schedule II. This is the test of Dutch for university study or employment in the Netherlands. It is recognised within the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) and is measured at level B2 of the CEFR scale. This means that a Schedule II NT2 certificate will demonstrate that you are an independent speaker, with upper intermediate language skills and the ability to comprehend and discuss abstract academic concepts in Dutch.

There are four individual components in the NT2 exam and you can complete each of them separately. Some are assessed using a conventional exam paper, whilst others will use computerised testing.

• The Speaking exam tests your ability to speak on particular subjects at varying degrees of length and complexity.
• The Listening asks you to answer questions following selections of spoken recordings, testing your comprehension of what you have heard.
• The Reading exam is designed to assess your comprehension of written samples and works through multiple choice questioning.
• The Writing exam will first ask you to complete partial Dutch sentences and then to write short and medium pieces of your own on given topics.

Each component of the NT2 is graded individually, with candidates either passing or failing. You can still receive certificates for passed tests if you have been unsuccessful in others. This allows you to continue re-testing in particular areas until you have the four certificates necessary for the full NT2 qualification. More information on the content and procedure for individual tests is available at the website of the Dutch College of Tests and Exams (CvTE).

Enrolment for the NT2 exam takes place at the website of the DUO. The actual testing is usually done in the Netherlands, with venues in various major cities. You will be charged for test components individually. Each costs €50, meaning the combined fee for the entire NT2 exam is €200.

Tips from the author:

Here are some quick tips to help you before you take that language test:

• NT2 Schedule II is usually enough for university study.
• CNaVT certificates can be helpful if your program values international recognition.
• Practising all skills—writing, reading, listening, speaking—is crucial for NT2 exams.

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