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Learning the Dutch language

The Netherlands has one of the highest levels of English proficiency in Europe. Up to 93% of Dutch people are comfortable speaking English, and many also speak a third language such as German or French. You will notice that the Dutch are very accommodating towards non-Dutch speakers and will generally switch to English to make things easier for you. But in order to really get to know the country and converse with locals, having at least a basic understanding of Dutch is invaluable. This is especially true outside the largest towns and cities; and when communicating with older people. The Netherlands also has a number of regional languages with varying statuses; Frisian (the language of the Province of Friesland) has official status, whilst other local dialects are spoken across the country: from Limburgs to Gronings.
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  • Types of Dutch courses
  • Free Dutch courses
  • Official Dutch examinations
  • Benefits of learning Dutch
  • Relevant website
  • Disover what it's like to live in the Netherlands
A woman reading a book in the bookstore.
NBTC / © Jan Bijl Fotografie

Types of Dutch courses

Wherever you are in the Netherlands, language courses and schools are available. These range from traditional language schools through to casual conversation groups, and initiatives such as My Local Friend. that pair you with a native speaker for one-on-one sessions. With such a large selection of Dutch courses on offer, you will have no trouble finding the course that's right for you. Whether you're looking for an intensive course to pick up the language as quickly as possible, prefer a sociable style that includes interesting lessons on Dutch culture, or lessons tailor-made for professionals, the options are endless. Several institutes are also CEDEO certified in regards to customer satisfaction and quality.

Free Dutch courses

Some Dutch language courses are even available for free. Municipalities such as the City of Amsterdam and education providers like the University of Groningen offer complimentary language programmes to eligible participants.

 

People sitting on a terrace at the waterfront in Utrecht.
NBTC / Hollandse Hoogte / ANP © Erik van 't Woud

Official Dutch examinations

The Dutch government developed an examination system known as the NT2, which will give you an officially recognised diploma and proves that you have a good command of the Dutch language - this course may be required for some immigration procedures (and is sometimes subsidised). If you are following a Civic Integration (inburgeren) programme as part of your immigration criteria, it should be noted that the language level is beneath NT2, focused primarily on the basics of reading, writing and speaking Dutch, as well as aspects of traditional Dutch culture. For this, you’ll have to learn Dutch up to about the IELTS level ‘B1’. More information, and language schools specifically to prepare you for Civic Integration is available via the Minstry of Education .

Dutch Language Proficiency Levels

Dutch language certifications align with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR):

A1-A2: Basic User

B1-B2: Independent User

C1-C2: Proficient User

The required level varies depending on the purpose.

 

Benefits of learning Dutch

The majority of people in Amsterdam do speak English and will likely switch to it once they hear the foreign accent fumbling through the guttural Dutch 'g'. However, though daunting at times, learning the local language helps one gain insight into Dutch culture, customs, structure, current events and history, as well as making it easier to delve into the rich cultural scene, develop social contacts and assimilate. Acquiring even an elementary level of Dutch will make your life easier and make you feel more at home. One final tip - English, German and Dutch have similar linguistic roots, so if you already speak one of these languages, you are likely to pick up Dutch more easily.

Relevant website

Disover what it's like to live in the Netherlands