Learning Dutch and Language Classes
Many Dutch people speak English well, especially in larger cities, universities, and international workplaces. But still, learning Dutch can make daily life easier and help you feel more connected to your local community. Dutch can help when speaking with neighbours, understanding letters, arranging practical matters, joining local activities, supporting children at school, volunteering, or looking for work. You do not need to be fluent to start. Even basic phrases can make everyday interactions easier.
This page explains different ways to learn and practise Dutch in Groningen, Friesland, and Drenthe, including language classes, informal practice, online learning, NT2 preparation, civic integration, and IWCN language activities.
What you can find on this page:
Ways to learn Dutch
There are different ways to learn Dutch, depending on your goal, schedule, budget, and current level. You can choose a formal language course, private tutoring, online learning, informal conversation groups, self-study, or exam preparation.
Before choosing a course or activity, think about what you need Dutch for. For example, you may want to learn Dutch for daily conversations, work, study, volunteering, parenting, citizenship, or long-term integration.
It is also useful to think about how you learn best. Some people prefer a structured class with grammar and homework, while others learn better through conversation, practical exercises, or one-to-one lessons.
Dutch classes and language schools
Dutch language classes are available through different types of providers. These may include universities, language centres, MBO institutions, libraries, community organisations, private language schools, and independent teachers.
Courses can differ in level, pace, price, location, and teaching style. Some are classroom-based, while others are online or hybrid. Some focus on general Dutch, while others focus on speaking practice, workplace Dutch, academic Dutch, or exam preparation.
IWCN partners also offer Dutch learning options for internationals in the region. The University of Groningen Language Centre offers free online MOOC courses, including Dutch and Frisian courses, for different levels and learning goals, including courses for students, staff, and other learners. Our service provider, Flowently, also offers flexible Dutch lessons and language coaching, including options for learners who want practical, personalised support.
When comparing Dutch courses, check whether the level, pace, format (online or in-person), price, and teaching style match your goal. Some courses focus on general Dutch, while others focus more on speaking practice, workplace Dutch, academic Dutch, grammar, or exam preparation. If you are unsure of your level, ask whether the provider offers a free level test before you start.
If you are learning Dutch for work, study, civic integration, or an official exam, make sure the course matches your goal before registering.
Informal language practice
Formal classes can be helpful, especially if you need a certificate, but you also need opportunities to practise. Informal language practice can make Dutch feel less intimidating and more useful in daily life.
You can practise Dutch through conversation groups, language cafés, volunteer activities, libraries, neighbourhood centres, student organisations, sports clubs, hobby groups, or local events. Many neighbourhoods and community organisations arrange language cafés, known in Dutch as taalcafés, where people can practise Dutch in an informal setting.
IWCN also offers activities that can help internationals practise Dutch and connect with local life. Let’s Talk Dutch gives participants a chance to practise everyday Dutch in a friendly setting, while My Local Friend connects internationals with local residents for informal contact, language practice, and cultural exchange.
Informal practice is especially useful if you already know some Dutch but find it difficult to speak. It can help you build confidence, improve listening skills, and learn everyday words that are not always covered in textbooks.
Do not worry if people switch to English when you try to speak Dutch. This often happens because people want to be helpful or efficient. If you want to keep practising, you can say: “Zouden we in het Nederlands kunnen blijven praten? Ik wil graag mijn Nederlands oefenen“, which means “Could we keep talking in Dutch? I would like to practise my Dutch.”.
NT2 and civic integration
Some people learn Dutch because they want or need to take an exam. Two common terms you may come across are NT2 and civic integration (inburgering).
NT2 means Dutch as a second language (Nederlands als tweede taal). NT2 exams are often relevant for people who want to prove their Dutch language level for work, study, or other official purposes.
Civic integration, or inburgering, is a broader process that may apply to some newcomers in the Netherlands. It can include Dutch language learning and knowledge of Dutch society. Whether civic integration applies to you depends on your nationality, residence status, arrival date, and personal situation.
The rules, requirements, and exam routes can change. Always check official government information or ask the relevant organisation if you are learning Dutch for civic integration, residence, naturalisation, work, or study.
FAQ about Learning Dutch and Language Classes
Do I need to speak fluent Dutch to live in the Netherlands?
You can manage many situations in English, especially in international environments. However, learning Dutch can make daily life easier, help you understand official letters, and make it easier to connect with neighbours, colleagues, schools, and local services. So in short, you don't have to have mastered the Dutch language when you arrive, but keep learning as you go! It will be rewarding.
What if Dutch people switch to English when I try to speak Dutch?
This happens often, and it does not mean your Dutch is bad. Many Dutch people switch to English because they want to be helpful or efficient. If you want to keep practising, you can say: "Kunnen we in het Nederlands blijven praten? Ik wil graag mijn Nederlands oefenen." This means: “Can we keep speaking Dutch? I would like to practise my Dutch.”
What is the best way to practise speaking Dutch?
The best way to practise is to use Dutch regularly, even in small everyday moments. Try greeting people in Dutch, ordering something at a café, speaking to sellers at the market, or asking a simple question in a shop. Conversation groups, taalcafés, local events, volunteering, sports clubs, and language buddies (like My Local Friend) can also help you practise in a friendly setting.
What is NT2?
NT2 means Dutch as a second language (Nederlands als tweede taal). NT2 exams can be useful if you want to show your Dutch language level for work, study, or other official purposes such as naturalisation. Not all foreigners are obliged to take an NT2 exam, so check whether it is relevant for your personal goal.
Is civic integration the same as learning Dutch?
Not exactly. Civic integration, or inburgering, may include Dutch language learning, but it can also include knowledge of Dutch society and other requirements. Whether you need to do civic integration depends on your nationality, residence status, arrival date, and personal situation. If you have any questions about this, you can contact the IND to ask for more information.