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Notes on building a life in the Netherlands

Categorie: Learning Dutch

  • Dutch Civic Integration: Tips for Passing Schrijven (Writing) B1 Exam

    So I passed my Schrijven B1 (Writing B1) exam as part of my Dutch inburgering.

    This exam is, for many people going through inburgering, the part that feels the most intimidating. There’s no multiple choice to fall back on — you actually have to produce text, under time pressure. You are allowed to bring a dictionary, but only one specific one: the paper Van Dale Pocketwoordenboek Nederlands als tweede taal (NT2). No translation apps, no other dictionaries.

    I know the feeling well. But with the right preparation, it’s absolutely possible to walk in feeling confident. Here’s what helped me.

    What is the Schrijven B1 Exam?

    Schrijven B1 is the Writing exam at language level B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). It’s one of the exams required for inburgering (civic integration) in the Netherlands, and for some residence permit or citizenship applications.

    The exam asks you to complete short, practical writing tasks, such as filling in a form, writing a short email or letter, or responding to a message in a realistic everyday situation (think: cancelling an appointment, requesting information, or making a complaint).

    It tests whether you can communicate clearly in writing, not whether you can write beautifully. That distinction matters a lot for how you prepare.

    My Personal Tips

    Learn Fixed Phrases by Heart

    Most writing tasks fall into a handful of recurring situations: cancelling, requesting, apologizing, thanking, complaining. For each of these, there are standard phrases that Dutch speakers actually use, like:

    • Ik schrijf u om… (I am writing to you to…)
    • Helaas kan ik niet… (Unfortunately I cannot…)
    • Zou het mogelijk zijn om… (Would it be possible to…)
    • Met vriendelijke groet, (Kind regards,)

    Memorize a small bank of these. During the exam, you won’t have time to construct sentences from scratch, so having ready-made building blocks saves precious minutes and reduces mistakes.

    Know the Structure of a Formal Letter or Email

    Almost every formal message follows the same skeleton:

    1. Greeting (Geachte heer/mevrouw or Beste…)
    2. Reason for writing (why are you writing this?)
    3. Main message (what exactly do you want to say or ask?)
    4. Closing line (thank them, mention a next step)
    5. Sign-off (Met vriendelijke groet, + your name)

    Practice this structure until it’s automatic. The less you have to think about form, the more attention you can give to actually answering the task correctly.

    Practice with Official Sample Exams

    Just like with Lezen, the DUO website has official practice materials for Schrijven that closely match the real exam in tone and difficulty. Do them under timed conditions, without a translation app. This is the single best way to get used to the pressure of the real thing.

    Write Short and Clear, Not Fancy

    A common mistake is trying to write long, impressive-sounding sentences to show off. Don’t. The exam rewards clear, correct communication, not complexity. A short, accurate sentence will score better than a long one with grammar mistakes.

    For example:

    • ❌ Ik zou graag, indien mogelijk en wanneer het u uitkomt, een afspraak willen maken om…
    • ✅ Ik wil graag een afspraak maken voor…

    Double-Check Your Verb Tenses

    A frequent slip at B1 level is mixing up tenses. Before you finish a task, quickly check each sentence:

    • Did it already happen? → past tense or present perfect
    • Is it a plan or future action? → present tense with gaan or zullen
    • Is it a fact or habit? → simple present

    A quick mental read-through at the end, sentence by sentence, can catch most of these errors.

    Follow the Task Instructions Exactly

    Each writing task tells you exactly what to include (for example: “explain why,” “ask for…,” “give two reasons”). A lot of points are lost simply because candidates miss part of the instruction. As you write, mentally tick off each requirement to make sure you’ve covered everything asked.

    Build a Mental Checklist

    Since you’ll only have your approved dictionary (and shouldn’t rely on it too much because looking up words eats into your time), it helps to run through a quick checklist for every task:

    1. What’s the goal of this message? (complain, ask, cancel, thank…)
    2. Which greeting and sign-off fit this situation?
    3. Which fixed phrases can I use here?
    4. Have I answered every part of the task?
    5. Are my verb tenses correct?

    The Schrijven exam isn’t about perfect Dutch – it’s about communicating clearly and showing comprehension within the time you’re given. Practice with real exam-style tasks, learn your fixed phrases and structures, and stay calm: you don’t need to be a writer, you just need to get your message across.

    Good luck to anyone preparing, and feel free to share your own tips or questions in the comments!

  • Dutch Civic Integration: Tips for Passing Lezen (Reading) B1 Exam

    In April 2025, I took the Lezen B1 (Reading B1) exam as part of my Dutch inburgering and I’m happy to share that I passed with a score of 557 out of 700!

    If you’re preparing for this exam too, I hope my experience and tips can help you get ready with more confidence and clarity.

    What is Lezen B1 Exam?

    Lezen B1 is the Reading exam at language level B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). It is one of the exams you may need to pass for inburgering (integration) in the Netherlands or applying for a residence permit/Dutch citizenship.

    The exam measures your ability to read and understand everyday written Dutch, such as letters and emails, instructions and signs, short articles and advertisements, and workplace or government documents.

    It basically tests your reading comprehension, ability to find specific information, and your understanding of the main ideas and details in written texts.

    My Personal Tips

    Here are a few strategies that helped me pass the Lezen B1 exam:

    Practice with Past Exam Questions

    The DUO website offers past exam samples. These practice tests are extremely valuable. They help you understand the structure and style of the real exam questions. I strongly recommend doing them and timing yourself. That way, you can:

    • Get used to the type of texts and questions
    • Train your reading speed
    • Learn how to manage your time under pressure

    This was one of the most effective parts of my preparation!

    Build Strong Vocabulary

    The more words you know, the faster you’ll understand the text. Building your vocabulary at the B1 level will not only improve your reading skills but also reduce the need for a dictionary during the exam.

    Reading Dutch books has really helped me expand my vocabulary. Here are some of the books I’ve read in Dutch: Lezen in het Nederlands: Deel 1 (Reading in Dutch: Part 1) and Lezen in het Nederlands: Deel 2 (Reading in Dutch: Part 2)

    Pay Attention to Keywords

    Don’t try to understand every single word in the text. Focus on keywords in the question and match them with the relevant part of the article.
    For example;
    Question: Wat moet je meenemen naar de afspraak?
    Look for words like meenemen, afspraak, benodigdheden in the article.

    You don’t need to translate every word, just find the main idea.

    Read the Question First (When Instructed)

    In certain sections, you’re advised to read the question before diving into the article. This instruction can be incredibly helpful as it allows you to read with a clear purpose in mind. Instead of trying to absorb every detail of the article, you can focus your attention on finding the specific information needed to answer the question. Not only does this make your reading more efficient, but it also helps you avoid getting overwhelmed by unnecessary details. It’s a smart way to save time and stay focused, especially during exams or timed practice sessions.

    Manage Your Time Wisely

    If you find yourself stuck on a question, don’t waste time, just skip it and return to it later. It’s much more effective to work through all the easier questions first, securing those points and building momentum. Spending too much time on one difficult question can eat into the time you need for others that you might answer correctly with ease. By prioritizing the questions you feel confident about, you manage your time better and reduce stress during the exam.

    Stay consistent with your Dutch practice, build a good vocabulary base, and use smart strategies during the test. Good luck to anyone preparing! And feel free to drop questions or share your own experience in the comments!

  • Lezen in het Nederlands: Deel 2 (Reading in Dutch: Part 2)


    Check out Lezen in het Lezen in het Nederlands: Deel 1 (Reading in Dutch: Part 1)

    Daar waar de rivierkreeften zingen by Delia Owens

    Daar waar de rivierkreeften zingen (Where the Crawdads Sing) by Delia Owens tells the story of Kya Clark, a young girl who grows up isolated in the swamps of North Carolina after being abandoned by her family. As she matures, Kya becomes a skilled naturalist, but her solitude is interrupted when she’s implicated in the murder of a local man. The novel weaves themes of loneliness, survival, love and the beauty of nature, all while unraveling the mystery of the crime. Where the Crawdads Sing was adapted into a Netflix movie. The film released in 2022.

    Sonny Boy by Annejet van der Zijl

    Sonny Boy by Annejet van der Zijl is a poignant true story about the unlikely and passionate love between Rika van der Lans, a Dutch woman in her forties, and Waldemar Nods, a young Surinamese student. Despite the societal taboos surrounding their interracial relationship in 1920s and 1930s Netherlands, they build a life together, even welcoming a son, Waldy, affectionately called “Sonny Boy.” The book beautifully explores themes of love, racial prejudice and the challenges of maintaining family bonds during turbulent times, especially with the backdrop of World War II. It’s a moving tale about courage, defying societal norms, and the enduring power of love.

    Joe Speedboot by Tommy Wieringa

    Joe Speedboot by Tommy Wieringa is a coming-of-age novel that follows Fransje Hermans, a young boy who is paralyzed after a lawnmower accident. The story is told from his perspective as he faces the challenges of adolescence while navigating life in a wheelchair. Through his friendship with the charismatic and adventurous Joe Speedboot, Fransje learns to embrace life despite his disability. The novel explores themes of friendship, love and personal growth, as Fransje struggles to define his identity and find his place in the world. Wieringa’s writing is poetic and thought-provoking, blending humor with moments of deep emotion. Joe Speedboot is a poignant exploration of how individuals overcome personal limitations and societal expectations, making it a powerful and memorable read.

    Komt een vrouw bij de dokter by Kluun

    Komt een vrouw bij de dokter (translated as Love Life in English) is a semi-autobiographical novel by Dutch author Kluun (Raymond van de Klundert). It tells the story of Stijn, a successful, hedonistic advertising executive in Amsterdam, whose life takes a dramatic turn when his wife Carmen is diagnosed with breast cancer. Despite her illness, Stijn continues to cheat on her, unable or unwilling to give up his compulsive pursuit of sex, drugs and nightlife. The novel explores his internal struggle between loyalty and selfishness, love and escapism, as Carmen’s condition worsens. Through her illness and eventual death, Stijn is forced to confront the consequences of his actions and the true meaning of love, grief and responsibility. Told in raw, brutally honest language, the novel examines themes of infidelity, denial, mortality and emotional growth. It became a bestseller in the Netherlands and sparked widespread debate for its controversial portrayal of a man coping with his wife’s terminal illness in such a self-destructive way.

    Loved these reads? I’ve got another great Dutch book recommendation for you. Check it out here!

  • Lezen in het Nederlands: Deel 1 (Reading in Dutch: Part 1)

    Learning Dutch hasn’t always been easy, but reading books in the language has made a big difference for me. In this post, I’m sharing five Dutch books that I’ve actually read; all of which helped me improve my vocabulary, reading flow, and cultural understanding. These books were published in makkelijke taal (simple Dutch), specifically designed to help readers at A2 or B1 level better understand and enjoy the language. Some were easy, others were a challenge, but each one was worth it.

    Het dagboek by Annelie Drewsen

    Het dagboek by Annelie Drewsen is a touching story about Tarek, a refugee adjusting to life in a new country. Learning Dutch is difficult for him; it feels unfamiliar and emotionless. His teacher gives him a diary, encouraging him to write each day. At first, Tarek hesitates, as his memories are painful, but slowly, he begins to express himself through writing. As the words flow, he starts to find comfort and hope. This hopeful story highlights the significance of language and the power of multilingualism. Written in simple Dutch (A1/A2 level), this book is great for language learners and offers a moving insight into the refugee experience and the power of storytelling.

    De kraai by Kader Abdollah

    De kraai, written as the 2011 Boekenweekgeschenk (Book Week Gift), is a semi-autobiographical novella by Kader Abdolah. It follows Refiq Foad, an Iranian refugee who builds a new life in the Netherlands. Refiq shares anecdotes from his youth in Iran, his escape to the Netherlands, and his experiences as an immigrant. A crow appears as a recurring symbol during pivotal moments in his life. The book offers an accessible writing style and weaves elements from Dutch literature, making it interesting for readers seeking insight into immigrant experiences and integration into a new culture

    Mevrouw mijn moeder by Yvonne Keuls

    Mevrouw mijn moeder by Yvonne Keuls is a heartfelt and personal account of the author’s mother, Jopi, an Indonesian woman who moved to the Netherlands. The book reflects on Jopi’s strength, independence, and the challenges she faced as an immigrant adjusting to a new culture. Through anecdotes and memories, Keuls captures her mother’s resilience and how she maintained her cultural roots while growing older. The story combines humor and emotion, offering a deep and moving look at identity, aging, and the immigrant experience, with a focus on the bond between mother and daughter.

    Er is hoop by Renate Dorrestein

    Is er hoop by Renate Dorrestein tells the story of Igor, a 16-year-old boy with intellectual disabilities, who lives with his grandmother, Nettie. Igor works at a sheltered workshop where he meets Lisa, a homeless girl. Together, they find an abandoned baby girl and decide to take her home. Nettie embraces Lisa and the baby, creating an unconventional household. The novel explores themes of love, hope, and the complexities of human relationships, offering a touching perspective on the good intentions of imperfect people and the extraordinary bonds that connect them.

    Fatale liefde by Carry Slee

    Fatale Liefde by Carry Slee is a short but intense story about love, obsession, and betrayal. The book follows a teenage girl who falls deeply in love, but her relationship takes a dark turn. The story is easy to read, with simple language and a fast pace, making it great for Dutch learners. The emotions feel real, and the tension builds up well. Though the ending is predictable, it still leaves an impact. If you enjoy dramatic young adult stories, this is a good choice. However, it might feel a bit too short for those who like deeper character development.

    These five books have each helped me in my Dutch learning journey. Whether through simple language or powerful storytelling, they helped me connect more deeply with the language and culture of the Netherlands. If you’re learning Dutch at the A2 or B1 level, I hope some of these titles will inspire and support your own progress too. More book recommendations are coming soon in the next part of this series. Stay tuned!

    Meanwhile, check out my other Dutch books recommendation here.

  • Useful Links for Learning Dutch

    As someone learning Dutch myself, I’ve discovered a range of tools that cater to different learning styles and goals. In this post, I’ll share some of the most helpful links to get you started (or keep you going) on your Dutch learning adventure. Whether you’re preparing for integration exams or just looking to enhance your language skills, these tools can guide you toward success.

    How to Use These Resources

    Before diving into the resource list, it’s helpful to think about your goals and learning style. Are you a beginner looking for structured lessons? Or are you at an intermediate level and want to improve your listening and reading skills? Choose the resources that align with your needs, and don’t be afraid to mix and match. Consistency and variety are key to making steady progress.

    Top Dutch Learning Resources

    • www.hetbegintmettaal.nl: A national support platform offering language coaching for non-native speakers.
    • www.oefenen.nl: A practice platform for language, math, work, money, health, internet, parenting, etc.
    • www.nedbox.be: Provides practical language exercises.
    • www.klokrekenen.nl: A great resource for practicing how to tell time.
    • www.steffie.nl: Offers information about health, leisure, love, food and drink, money, travel, etc.
    • YouTube: Juf M NT2 (Speaking lessons for Dutch learners).
    • www.babadada.com: A picture dictionary in various languages.
    • www.netinnederland.nl: An online platform designed for newcomers.

    Helpful Resources for Integration Exams (inburgeringsexamens)

    If you’re preparing for integration exams, these links provide invaluable offers:

    By leveraging these diverse resources, you can tailor your learning journey to fit your needs and goals. From integration exam preparation to improving your everyday conversational skills, these tools are designed to support you at every stage. Start exploring these resources, and with patience and dedication, you will soon find yourself speaking Dutch. Veel succes!

  • Top Resources to Learn Dutch Effectively for Beginners

    Learning a new language is like opening the door to a whole new world. And Dutch is no exception! Whether you’re planning to move to the Netherlands, explore its landscapes or simply love a good linguistic challenge, this guide will help you kickstart your Dutch-learning journey.

    No matter your learning style, there’s a tool out there for you!

    Fun Apps for Daily Practice

    • Duolingo: Gamify your learning with bite-sized exercises. Perfect for building basic vocabulary.
    • Babbel: Learn grammar and conversations step-by-step in practical lessons.
    • Memrise: Great for memorizing common words and phrases.

    Online Courses and Tools

    Easy-to-read Books

    • Dutch for Dummies: A lighthearted intro with practical tips.
    • Children’s Books: Try Jip en Janneke for simple language that’s easy to understand.
    • Colloquial Dutch: Ideal for mastering everyday conversations.

    Podcasts and Videos

    • Learn Dutch with Bart de Pau: Fun, short lessons that focus on vocabulary and grammar.
    • Zeg Het in Het Nederlands: A podcast made for learners, featuring slow and clear Dutch.
    • NPO Dutch TV: Watch shows or listen to radio programs to train your ears for natural Dutch speech.

    Practice with Real People

    • Join a language exchange group on Meetup or Tandem.
    • Try chatting with locals at the market or coffee shops, it’s a great confidence booster!

    Check out other helpful Dutch learning resources for every stage (from beginners to preparation of integration exams) in Useful Links for Learning Dutch

    TIPS TO MAKE LEARNING DUTCH EASY (AND FUN!)

    1. Start with the basics – Learn greetings, numbers and essential phrases like “Hoe gaat het?” (How are you?), “Mag ik een koffie, alstublieft?” (May I have a coffee, please?) and “Dank u wel” (Thank you).
    2. Don’t fear mistakes – Guess what? Nobody expects you to be perfect. Locals will appreciate the effort and every mistake is a step toward fluency.
    3. Make it part of your day – Consistency is the key! Spend 10-15 minutes a day on Dutch, whether it’s an app, podcast or chatting with a friend.
    4. Immerse yourself – watch Dutch TV shows, listen to Dutch songs and label household items in Dutch to reinforce vocabulary.
    5. Tackle pronunciation early – This is really important! Dutch sounds like g and r can be tricky. Use YouTube or apps to mimic native speakers (it’s the quickest way to master them)
    6. Celebrate your wins – Ordered a coffee in Dutch? Understood a sentence in a TV show? These are big wins! Pat yourself on the back!

    If you’re already living in the Netherlands, make the most of the immersive environment. Join free Dutch classes at your local library (bibliotheek), join community groups in your area, visit markets to practice small talk and watch kids’ shows like Het Klokhuis for simple, clear language.

    Learning Dutch might feel overwhelming at first, but remember: small, consistent steps lead to big progress. With these resources and tips, you will be saying “Ik spreek een beetje Nederlands” (I speak a little Dutch) in no time! So, grab your notebook (or open that app) and start practicing today. Veel succes!