The Netherlands is a popular destination for students wishing to pursue higher education abroad. In the 2024-25 academic year, 131,004 international degree students were enrolled at Dutch universities of applied sciences and research universities. The country is known for its wide range of English-taught courses and good value for money compared with many other study destinations.
However, as you transition from one country to another, there is a chance you might face a language barrier. To help you prepare, we can explain the different language tests you may need to become an international student in the Netherlands. Let’s take a closer look at them!
Language Proficiency Tests Needed in the Netherlands
The language tests you need for Dutch universities depend on the program’s language of instruction. English-taught programs usually ask for an English proficiency test unless you qualify for an exemption, while Dutch-taught programs require proof of Dutch proficiency. Here are the specific tests:
Dutch Language Tests for International Students
Many programs in the Netherlands are offered in English, especially at the master’s level, but Dutch-taught programs still require Dutch proficiency. If you enroll in a Dutch-taught course, your university may ask you to pass one of the following tests.
1. Nt2 Test
The Staatsexamen Nt2, or Nederlands als tweede taal test, is a Dutch language proficiency exam for people who are not native Dutch speakers. Its name translates to “Dutch as a Second Language,” and it can be used to demonstrate Dutch proficiency for study, work, or integration purposes in the Netherlands.
For Dutch-taught higher education, universities usually ask for NT2-II rather than NT2-I. For example, the University of Amsterdam requires the Dutch as a Second Language state examination, program II, for applicants who do not have other accepted proof. Tilburg University and Wageningen University & Research also list NT2-II among accepted proofs for Dutch proficiency.
The NT2 exam has four parts: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. Each part costs €50, and the full exam costs €200. Check your target university’s program page to see whether NT2-II is required and whether any exemptions apply.
2. CNaVT – Certificaat Nederlands als Vreemde Taal
Another recognized Dutch proficiency option is the CNaVT. Its English name is Certificate Dutch as a Foreign Language. The CNaVT certifies Dutch proficiency worldwide through exams aligned with CEFR levels and designed for different study, work, and social purposes.
At university level, the relevant CNaVT profiles are usually Educatief Startbekwaam (STRT, B2), for students who want to start a study at a Dutch or Flemish higher education institution, and Educatief Professioneel (EDUP, C1), for education or business contexts requiring a higher level of proficiency.
Universities such as Tilburg University and Wageningen University & Research accept these profiles as proof for Dutch-taught programs. Requirements can vary by program, so confirm the exact CNaVT profile on your university’s admissions page before registering.
English Language Tests for International Students
When applying for programs taught in English, most universities in the Netherlands require international students to submit proof of English proficiency unless they qualify for an exemption. Let’s take a closer look at common tests and minimum required scores.
1. IELTS – International English Language Testing System
The IELTS test plays a pivotal role for international students aiming to study at universities in the Netherlands. It is a globally recognized language proficiency test that evaluates English language skills.
It consists of four core components: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each section assesses a specific language skill, ranging from understanding spoken English to expressing complex ideas verbally and in writing.
IELTS minimum scoring varies by degree level, university, and program. There is no single nationwide IELTS score requirement. Many Dutch university pages set minimum IELTS Academic scores around 6.0 to 7.0. For example, Leiden University lists IELTS 6.0, 6.5, 7.0, and 7.5 in its bachelor’s score equivalency table, and its exchange admissions page requires IELTS Academic 6.5. The University of Amsterdam Graduate School of Humanities requires IELTS Academic 7.0 overall, with at least 6.5 in each subscore.
2. TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language
Another well-known test for admission to universities in the Netherlands is TOEFL. It helps universities assess whether students have the language skills needed for active participation in academic study.
The TOEFL iBT test has four main sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. These sections measure skills such as reading academic texts, understanding spoken English, speaking, and writing in an academic context.
Most universities specify a minimum TOEFL score as part of their admission criteria. A TOEFL iBT score around 80 to 100 on the old 0-120 scale is common, depending on the university, degree level, and program. ETS introduced a new 1-6 TOEFL iBT scoring scale in 2026, and university pages now often specify which scale applies based on the test date. Always check the current admissions page for your chosen program.
3. DET – Duolingo English Test
The Duolingo English Test is an online English proficiency test accepted by some institutions worldwide. However, it is not as widely accepted in the Netherlands as IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge English tests, and, in some cases, PTE Academic or LanguageCert. Do not assume the DET is accepted for getting into a university in the Netherlands.
Acceptance and score requirements vary by institution and by program. Some Dutch programs may accept the DET in limited cases, but several Dutch university admissions pages either do not list Duolingo among accepted English tests or explicitly say they do not accept it. Because of this, use the DET only when your specific program’s official admissions page says it is accepted and gives a minimum score.
If you plan to become an international student in the Netherlands, start preparing early for language tests such as NT2-II, CNaVT, IELTS, TOEFL, or another test accepted by your chosen program. By doing so, you’ll be better prepared to communicate effectively with your teachers and fellow students, which will help you in the long run.
We hope this article has taught you a lot about language tests required by universities in the Netherlands. If you want to know more about studying in this country, check out our Study in the Netherlands and Available Programs for International Students pages for more informative articles!
