De Esdoorn offers teenagers aged 16 and older and adults the opportunity to take the CNaVT exam (Certificate of Dutch as a Foreign Language) with one of the examiners affiliated with De Esdoorn.
In addition, De Esdoorn offers online lessons to help candidates prepare for the CNaVT exam.
For more information about online group lessons or private lessons in preparation for the CNaVT exam, please contact us at [email protected].
What is the CNaVT?
The Certificate of Dutch as a Foreign Language (CNaVT) is an internationally recognized certificate that demonstrates a candidate’s proficiency in Dutch at a specific level.
With a CNaVT certificate, it is possible to:
- pursue Dutch-language tertiary education in Flanders and the Netherlands;
- function in an educational or professional environment where advanced knowledge of Dutch is required;
- facilitate integration, both in the short and long term.
The CNaVT exam follows the CEFR – the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
Exams, Levels, and Domains
The CNaVT consists of five exams, spread across four language levels and three language domains.
The five exams and their levels are:
Social Informal (INFO) – A2
For those who wish to function in informal, everyday situations.
Social Formal (FORM) – B1
For those who wish to function independently in more formal contexts within Dutch or Flemish society.
Professional (PROF) – B2
For those who wish to function in the workplace, particularly in healthcare or administrative roles.
Educational Starting Competence (STRT) – B2
For those who wish to begin studies at a Flemish or Dutch college or university.
Educational Professional (EDUP) – C1
For those who need to master Dutch at an academic or professional level.
The Three Language Domains
The exam assesses three language domains: listening, writing, and speaking.
Part A: Listening and Writing
(individual or group format, in the presence of an examiner)
Part B: Reading and Writing
(individual or group format, in the presence of an examiner)
Part C: Speaking and Conversational Skills
- Levels A2 and B1: conversation
- Levels B2 and C1: conversation and presentation
(This part is always conducted individually with an examiner.)
Practical Information
In 2026, the CNaVT exams will be administered digitally. Registration is open from February 23 to March 23, 2026. The exams will take place between Monday, May 4, 2026, and Friday, May 15, 2026.
The exam will be held at a location determined by De Esdoorn. Both the examiner and the candidate(s) must be present at the designated location with their laptop or device that can link to the internet. .
The exams are assessed by KU Leuven (Katholieke Universiteit Leuven), and results are typically provided to candidates 1 to 2 months after the exam.
For information about exam fees, please click here.
For questions, please contact [email protected].
