Certifying language tests

Certifying language tests

Do you need a Dutch language certificate to apply for Belgian citizenship, for your work, studies at college or the social interpreter training course? Atlas organises certifying language tests A1/A2 and B1/B2.

Make an application

Certifying Dutch language test A1/A2

When do you need a Dutch language level A2 certificate?

  • to apply for Belgian nationality
  • to apply for a taxi licence (bestuurderspas)
  • to receive an exemption for Dutch language lessons (A1 + A2) in the civic integration programme

Note

Do you need a Dutch language level A2 certificate to apply for Belgian citizenship?

  • First, gather all the necessary documents.

  • Then pay the registration fee (€1000).

What is the certifying Dutch language test A2?

The full test A2 consists of 2 test sections:

  • A2 written (reading and writing in Dutch)
  • A2 oral (listening and speaking in Dutch)

You only take the part(s) of the test you need.
Do you need to take the full test? You take A2 written first. Then you do A2 oral.

Read the procedure at Atlas

How is the evaluation of the test done?

The test evaluation is based on the European Framework of Reference.

  • Read what you need to be able to do for writing.
  • Read what you need to be able to do for speaking.

Want to practise for the test?

Read more tips in the procedure.

How much does the test cost?

  • You pay €90 for the written test parts reading and writing.
  • You pay €90 for the oral test parts listening and speaking.

The full test (written and oral) costs €180.
You pay when you make an appointment for the test.

Please note: if you cancel your appointment and do not want a new appointment? Atlas will not refund your money.

Who should not pay for the test?

In the following situations, you may take the test for free once:

Situation 1:

  • You are required to follow the civic integration programme.
  • You want an exemption for the Dutch language level A2 part of the programme.
  • You have not yet signed a civic integration contract.
  • You have never taken a certifying language test.

Situation 2:

  • You want to follow the civic integration programme.
  • You want an exemption for the Dutch language level A2 part of the programme.
  • You have not yet signed a civic integration contract.
  • You have never taken a certifying language test.

Situation 3:

  • You signed a civic integration contract before 1 March 2022.
  • You learned Dutch through self-study.
  • You have never taken a certifying language test.
  • You have not yet obtained a civic integration certificate.


Would you like information on the full procedure?

Make an application

Certifying Dutch language test B1/B2

When do you need a certificate for Dutch language level B1 or B2?

  • to apply for a taxi licence (bestuurderspas)
  • to start higher studies at a college
  • to work in childcare
  • to take the social interpreter training course. For more information, please read Dutch language test for social interpreter training.
  • to work for the municipal, Flemish or federal government
  • to prove language level B1 (oral) after your civic integration programme

Please note

  • Would you like to study at a college and need to present a certificate B2? Check whether the college accepts the B2 certificate from Atlas.

  • Need to prove your level B2 for another reason? Check whether the organisation accepts the B2 certificate from Atlas.

What is the certifying Dutch language test B1/B2?

The full B1/B2 test consists of 2 test sections:

  • B1/B2 written (reading and writing in Dutch)
  • B1/B2 oral (listening and speaking in Dutch)

You only take the part(s) of the test you need.
Do you have to take the full test? You will discuss with an Atlas staff member whether to start with B1/B2 written or B1/B2 oral.

Read the procedure at Atlas

How is the evaluation of the test done?

The test evaluation is based on the European Framework of Reference.

  • Read what you need to be able to do for writing.
  • Read what you need to be able to do for speaking.

Want to practise for the test?

Read more tips in the procedure.

How much does the test cost?

  • You pay €90 for the written test parts reading and writing.
  • You pay €90 for the oral test parts listening and speaking.

The full test (written and oral) costs €180.
You pay when you make an appointment for the test.

Please note: If you cancel your appointment and do not want a new appointment? Atlas will not refund your money.

Would you like information on the full procedure?

Make an application

Certifying Dutch language test C1

Atlas does not organise certifying Dutch language tests C1.

Where can you take the test?

Who may take the certifying language test?

You can always take a test, except in these situations:

  • Are you currently taking classes at a Centrum voor Volwassenenonderwijs (CVO), Ligo Centrum voor Basiseducatie or a University Language Centre? You may not take a test for the level of that course.
  • Was the end of your last Dutch language course at CVO, Ligo or a University Centre less than 3 months ago? You are not allowed to take a test for the level of that course.
  • Did you take a certifying language test less than 3 months ago? You may not take a language test for the test parts (reading, listening, writing, speaking) you did for that level. You must wait a minimum of 3 months to take the test again.

How to apply for a certifying language test?

1. Make an application via the form.

2. Atlas reviews your application. Atlas checks that you meet the criteria to take the test. Sometimes Atlas contacts you for additional information.

3. If you don't meet the criteria, you are not allowed to take the test. You will receive an email explaining why.
If you meet the criteria, you may take the test. You will receive an email with information on how to make an appointment for the test.

Make an application