If you plan to integrate in the Netherlands, you might think about borrowing money from DUO. This is a good option because integration can be expensive. Therefore, DUO offers loans for courses and exams. In this blog, you will learn who can borrow, how to apply, and what to remember.
Who can borrow money from DUO?
Most people who must integrate can borrow money from DUO. You can borrow for different types of courses, such as:
- Dutch language courses at A2, B1, or B2 levels
- Literacy courses if you are just starting with reading and writing
- Exams related to integration
However, if you are an asylum status holder under the 2021 Civic Integration Act, you cannot borrow money from DUO. Instead, your municipality will pay for your course and two exam attempts. Therefore, it is important to know your status first.
If you are from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, you can also borrow. However, your income must not be too high. Otherwise, you cannot get the loan.
How to apply for borrowing money from DUO
Applying for borrowing money from DUO is easy. You must follow these steps:
- Go to the Mijn Inburgering website.
- Log in with your DigiD.
- Click on ‘Lening aanvragen’ (Apply for a loan).
Make sure you choose a school that is listed on zoekinburgerschool.nl. Otherwise, you cannot borrow money for that course. In addition, you can borrow money to pay for your exams.
How borrowing money from DUO works
When you borrow money from DUO, DUO pays directly to your school or exam center. You do not receive the money in your bank account. Therefore, it is safe and simple.
In some cases, you do not need to pay back the full loan. If you meet all integration rules, part of your loan can be canceled. This can save you a lot of money. However, if you do not finish your integration, you must pay everything back. Moreover, you also have to pay interest.
Interest rates for loans
Interest is the extra money you pay over time. Since 2020, the interest was very low. It was even 0% from 2018 to 2022. However, now the interest rate has gone up.
For example:
- In 2023, the interest was 1.78%.
- It became 2.95% in 2024.
- In 2025, it is 2.21%.
Therefore, it is important to finish your integration as soon as possible. This way, you will pay less interest.
Important tips
- Always check if your school is approved.
- Apply for your loan early.
- Keep all documents safe.
- Follow your integration plan carefully.
In addition, remember that borrowing money from DUO is a responsibility. You must be sure you want to study and finish your integration.
NT2 Oefening: Your partner for Dutch exam practice
NT2 Oefening is an online platform that helps you practice Dutch for integration exams. It is designed to prepare you for the Inburgering and Staatsexamen NT2 exams.
You can practice with exercises that are very similar to the real exam. You get instant feedback after each question, so you learn from your mistakes quickly. Moreover, NT2 Oefening covers all language levels, from beginner to advanced.
Because the practice matches real exam topics and question types, you will feel more confident on exam day. Therefore, using NT2 Oefening while borrowing money from DUO for your course is a smart choice. It helps you pass faster and with less stress!
Start practicing today and get well prepared for your Dutch future!