Obtaining a language certificate for the healthcare sector
Did you earn your medical degree outside the Netherlands and do you want to work in healthcare? To work in the healthcare sector, you must be registered in the BIG Register. Healthcare workers must obtain a Dutch language certificate to do so. Read all about the language certificate assessment and find out how you can prepare for it at Babel.
More than just a certificate
Earning a language certificate at Babel is more than just a piece of paper. It’s your journey toward working with confidence in the Dutch healthcare sector. We’re not just here for the language assessment. We guide you from start to finish.
Choose Your Path
The path to certification is different for everyone. What fits your situation best?
Freestanding exams and assesments for medics
Have you already reached the required language level? If so, you can sit a standalone exam. Professionals with MBO or HBO qualifications can sit the NT2 State Examination.
For medical professionals, we offer a language test that enables you to obtain a B2+ language certificate for the BIG register. The language test consists of two exam components, both of which are compulsory for your BIG registration. You can sit both components on the same day with us, but you must register for each component separately.
What we offer:
Exam – Reading & Writing
Have you already passed the Listening & Speaking part of the exam? Here you’ll find all the information you need to sit the Reading & Writing test.
Exam – Listening & Speaking
Have you already passed the Reading & Writing part of the exam? Here you’ll find all the information you need to sit the Listening & Speaking test.
Preparation for the Dutch Language Certificate for Medical Professionals (B2+)
Would you like to take a course to prepare for the Dutch Language Certificate for Medical Professionals (B2+) exam and sit the exam straight away during the final lessons? Take a look at this course.
English reading test
For candidates outside the EEA, an English reading comprehension test is required in addition to a language certificate. We offer this test on A2, B1, or B2 level. You’ll also find information about the test format and sample exams, so you’ll know what to expect.
Click on your level below to register:
The English reading test:
- consists of 5 to 6 general English passages with approximately 20 to 30 multiple-choice questions.
- takes 40 to 50 minutes, depending on the version.
- includes passages on general topics unrelated to healthcare.
Curious about what the test looks like? Check out a sample exam at your level below.
We offer exam preparation for English reading comprehension as a tailored programme, fully customised to meet specific learning needs. Would you like to improve your general English language skills? Then check out our selection of general English courses or take our placement test to find a course that matches your level.
Why choose Babel?
Boost your confidence
You learn and practise in a safe, stimulating environment. This will give you the confidence to use the language with conviction.
Push your boundaries
Our teaching methods challenge you to get the most out of yourself and open doors to new worlds.
Achieve measurable results
With clear personal goals and dedicated teachers, you will see noticeable and measurable progress in your language skills.
Take the next step
We offer you the words to express yourself, collaborate and take the next step with confidence.
Frequently asked questions
When do I need to obtain a Dutch language certificate?
To work in the healthcare sector, registration in the BIG register is compulsory. To do this, healthcare workers who did not obtain their qualification in the Netherlands must obtain a language certificate. To obtain the language certificate, the language level must be B1 for medical professions at MBO level, B2 for professions at HBO level, and B2+ for academic professions.
How do I reach the right level for my exam or assessment?
We offer a clear pathway for MBO professionals, HBO professionals and academic doctors. You can find the pathways here. Not sure which one is best for you? Then take our free entry test.
What is the difference between the Babel assesment and the State Examination in Dutch?
The difference between the two relates to the level of education. For academic healthcare professionals (medical practitioners), we offer the Dutch for Medical Practitioners B2+ assement, which enables them to obtain their recognised language certificate. Healthcare professionals at higher professional education (HBO) level (such as physiotherapists, physician assistants, midwives and registered dental hygienists) can sit the NT2 State Examination Programme II. Healthcare professionals at senior secondary vocational education (MBO) level (such as nurses) can sit the NT2 State Examination Programme I.
Is Babel’s B2+ certificate officially recognised?
Yes, Babel’s B2+ certificate is recognised by the CIBG and confirms that you have mastered the language at B2+ level, as required for medical professionals at academic level. The assessment for the language certificates consist of two parts, each covering two skills: Reading & Writing and Listening & Speaking. If you register for a single part, you will receive a partial certificate upon successfully completing each part. If you opt for the full assessment (‘all parts’), you will receive a single certificate for all four skills, provided you pass both parts. If you pass only one section of this full assessment, you can apply for a partial certificate yourself. This is not done automatically.
Is the AKV test still in use?
No, the AKV test has been replaced by language certificates with effect from 1 January 2024. To register with the BIG, you must now submit a language certificate at B1 level for vocational qualifications (MBO), B2 for higher professional education (HBO) qualifications, or B2+ for academic qualifications. Babel’s language certificate is recognised by the CIBG.