Learning Dutch
Would you like to learn to speak, write and read Dutch better? Do you want to actively participate in society or are you required to take a civic integration course? Different courses and programmes are available in The Hague.
Approximately 1 in 10 residents of The Hague has difficulty reading and writing. This includes people who were born in the Netherlands and went to school here.
For other people speaking, reading and writing are tough because Dutch is their second language. This can lead to problems, for example, at work, in shops, at home when reading aloud to (grand) children, at school or at the doctor.
Speaking, reading and writing Dutch better
There are many ways to learn Dutch:
- ROC Mondriaan offers many different language classes, for example the course. Look at the website of Begin external link: ROC Mondriaan(External link), end external link. for more information.
- Taal aan Zee provides Dutch language lessons to isolated foreign women, asylum seekers and refugees. Read more on the website of Begin external link: Taal aan Zee(External link), end external link.
- The website Begin external link: Oefenen.nl(External link), end external link. offers programmes and exercises for you to improve your Dutch reading and writing skills.
- You can borrow Dutch language course materials from The Hague Public Library. Are you taking a language course from a certified organisation? Then you can have free library membership for 2 years. Library staff can tell you more about the conditions.
Taalhuis in the Central Library
Are you having trouble reading, writing or speaking Dutch? And would you like to get help? Go to the Taalhuis on the 2nd floor of the Central Library. Volunteers there can help you find a suitable language course in The Hague. There is also a collection of materials you can check out of the library and use to work at home. Take a look at the information about the Begin external link: Taalhuis(External link), end external link..
Studying in the Netherlands?
Would you like to study in the Netherlands and need proof that you have a good command of Dutch? Then you can take the Nederlands als tweede taal (NT2), or Dutch as a Second Language state exam. The NT2 qualification is also valuable on the employment market. More information about the NT2 exam, costs and registration are on the website of Begin external link: Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs(External link), end external link..
Would you like Dutch citizenship?
To get Dutch citizenship, you are required to learn Dutch. If you would like Dutch citizenship (nationality), you need to pass the civic integration examination. More information can be found on the website of the Begin external link: Integration in the Netherlands(External link), end external link..
Language requirement for welfare benefits
If you apply for benefits on or after 1 January 2016, you will be subject to a Dutch language requirement. See Begin link: Language requirement when receiving benefits, end link. .
Video
How important is language for participating in society? A colourful and diverse group of immigrants living in The Hague give you their answer.
Bekijk de video Taal kent veel vormen (YouTube channel of The Municipality of The Hague) (External link)
Also see
More detailed information including links to private language schools can be found on the websites below.