KNM: knowledge of Dutch society
The exam component that is not about language, but about how the Netherlands works day to day.
The guides
01 · 7 min read · PDFThe KNM exam
What is the KNM exam, which eight themes does it cover and how do you prepare? Learn about the content, the duration, the cost and the result of the KNM exam.
02 · 8 min read · PDFWork and income
Finding work, understanding your contract and payslip, dealing with discrimination at work and starting your own business. The KNM theme Work and income.
03 · 7 min read · PDFManners, values and norms
How do people in the Netherlands treat each other? About making appointments, directness, equality and making contact. The KNM theme Manners, values and norms.
04 · 8 min read · PDFHousing
Finding a home, renting or buying, connecting gas water and electricity, and sorting waste. The KNM theme Wonen explained in plain, simple English.
05 · 9 min read · PDFHealth and healthcare
How the huisarts works as your first step, referral to hospital, calling 112 in an emergency, your health insurance and eigen risico. KNM theme 4 explained.
06 · 8 min read · PDFHistory and geography
The main lines of Dutch history and where the provinces, cities and water are. The KNM theme History and geography, explained in simple terms.
07 · 9 min read · PDFInstanties
Gemeente, Belastingdienst, DUO, UWV, the police and Het Juridisch Loket. Who handles what, and where do you go? The KNM theme Instanties explained.
08 · 8 min read · PDFStaatsinrichting en rechtsstaat
How does Dutch democracy work? Learn about the government, parliament, elections, the Grondwet and the independent judge in the KNM theme Staatsinrichting.
09 · 9 min read · PDFEducation and parenting
The Dutch school system, leerplicht, contact with the teacher, school costs and children's rights. The KNM theme Onderwijs en opvoeding explained.
What is KNM?
KNM asks about living in the Netherlands: housing, work, healthcare, education, money and dealing with other people. You watch short clips and look at photos, then choose the answer that fits. It is a separate exam component, alongside the four language ones.
What the questions cover
- Housing and your neighbourhood
Renting, waste, noise and getting along with neighbours.
- Work and money
Applying for jobs, contracts, tax and insurance.
- Healthcare
The GP, the pharmacy and how Dutch healthcare is arranged.
- Education and raising children
School, compulsory education and talking to your child’s teacher.
- Social customs
Making appointments, being on time and how people talk to each other.
See where you stand
Ten questions per component, with an explanation after every answer. No account needed.
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