KNS vs KNM: Two Different Exams
KNS and KNM sound alike and both cover life in the Netherlands, but they are separate exams. They have different content, a different level, and are taken by different people in different places.
The short answer
KNS is part of the basic exam you take abroad, at A1 level, before you apply for an MVV. KNM is part of the integration exam you take in the Netherlands, and is usually taken together with Dutch language exams such as the Staatsexamen NT2. Passing one is not the same as passing the other.
KNS and KNM side by side
| KNS | KNM | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Kennis van de Nederlandse Samenleving | Kennis van de Nederlandse Maatschappij |
| Part of | The basic exam abroad (basisexamen inburgering buitenland, BIB), next to reading and speaking | The integration exam in the Netherlands |
| Level | The basic exam abroad is A1. Its reading and speaking parts are at A1. | DUO lists its KNM practice exams under A2. |
| What it is for | The MVV: you pass the basic exam before you travel to the Netherlands. | Integrating in the Netherlands, usually together with a Dutch language exam such as the Staatsexamen NT2. |
| Where | At a Dutch embassy or consulate abroad | In the Netherlands, booked through DUO |
| Format | 30 questions in 30 minutes, marked by computer | On a computer, with several themes, 45 minutes |
| Content | How people in the Netherlands live together and what the rules are. You prepare with the film Naar Nederland and the photo book, and you can read all the questions and answers at home. | Questions in themes such as housing and work and income. The exam was revised on 1 July 2025. |
| Practice | Free on this site, and the official Naar Nederland practice exams | DUO's official practice exams (not on this site) |
Which exam do you need?
You need KNS if
You live abroad and are applying for an MVV to join a partner in the Netherlands, so you must pass the basic exam abroad first.
You need KNM if
You must integrate in the Netherlands and take the integration exam. We do not offer KNM practice, so use the official DUO practice exams. DUO has two for KNM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is KNS the same as KNM?+
No. KNS (Kennis van de Nederlandse Samenleving) is a part of the basic exam abroad. KNM (Kennis van de Nederlandse Maatschappij) is a part of the integration exam in the Netherlands. They are separate exams with different questions.
Which exam do I need for an MVV?+
The basic exam abroad, which includes KNS. KNM is not part of it.
Do KNS and KNM cover the same topics?+
Both are about life in the Netherlands, but they are prepared for in different ways. The KNS questions come from a fixed set you can study in advance, using the film Naar Nederland and the photo book. KNM asks about everyday situations in themes such as housing and work and income.
Can I practice KNM on Taaldus?+
No. We only offer KNS practice. For KNM, use DUO's official practice exams on inburgeren.nl.
Did the KNM exam change recently?+
Yes. DUO revised the KNM exam on 1 July 2025. Older practice material and textbooks may not match it, so use DUO's current practice exams.
Can I practice KNS for free?+
Yes. The KNS quiz on this site is free and needs no account.
Sources
Checked in November 2026. Exam rules change, so check the current details before you book.