What language proficiency tests are accepted for Dutch-taught programs in the Netherlands?

Universities in the Netherlands that teach in Dutch do not all use the exact same certificate, which is the detail most students miss when they start preparing. Instead of one national exam, four or five recognised Dutch language tests circulate across institutions, and each university publishes its own accepted list rather than deferring to a single national standard.

Which Dutch Test Most Universities Accept

• NT2 Programme II (NT2-II): the Dutch State Examination for Dutch as a Second Language, and the most widely accepted option for university level study.
• CNaVT Educatief Startbekwaam (STRT): Certificate Dutch as a Foreign Language at B2, accepted by many universities including Amsterdam and Tilburg.
• CNaVT Educatief Professioneel (EDUP): the C1 level version of the CNaVT, required by some masters programmes.
• ITNA: the Interuniversitaire Taaltest Nederlands voor Anderstaligen, accepted by some universities, typically at B2 or higher.

How Requirements Differ by University and Program

The University of Amsterdam accepts NT2-II plus several CNaVT profiles, including Educatief Startbekwaam and Educatief Professioneel, and also accepts ITNA B2 for relevant programmes. Radboud University accepts NT2-II, its own RU-NT2 exam, CNaVT Startbekwaam or Professioneel, and certain Dutch language diplomas. Tilburg University lists NT2-II, CNaVT STRT or EDUP, and ITNA B2 or higher among its accepted qualifications. Leiden University sets requirements at the faculty level, and some Leiden programmes use their own TUL examination instead of a national one. A masters programme can also demand C1 level Dutch even when a bachelors programme at the same university accepts B2, so check the requirement for the specific degree year and level you are applying to, not just the university as a whole.

Do Not Confuse This With English Test Requirements

A Dutch-taught degree can still require an English test such as IELTS or TOEFL if part of the reading material or a component of the programme is delivered in English. These two requirements are assessed separately, so passing your Dutch test does not remove an English requirement the programme may also list, and vice versa.

This Information Is Also Available On

University of Amsterdam admissions pages, Radboud University language requirements page, Tilburg University admissions office, Leiden University language requirements documentation.

My Advice

If you are starting Dutch from zero, I would treat NT2 Programme II as your default target since it has the broadest acceptance, then check your shortlisted universitys own page before booking, because programme-specific exceptions are common enough that assuming broad acceptance without checking has genuinely cost students a wasted exam fee and months of delay.