The A2 speaking exam, explained
In the speaking exam you talk to a computer, not to a person. Here is how it works, and what helps.
By the Kora team: Alex, Mariel and Abena, who did inburgering themselves. Written with help from AI. Every fact is checked against the official source. How we write our guides
Checked against official sources on 2026-10-26 · Plain text version to copy (.md)
How it works
You take Spreken A2 on a computer at a DUO exam location. You wear headphones and watch short videos or look at pictures. Then you answer the questions out loud, into a microphone. You speak to the computer, not to a person.
Time and marking
The exam takes 35 minutes. Before it starts, there are 15 minutes of explanation. Your answers are marked partly by a computer and partly by people. The result is pass or fail.
Tips that help
These tips are about how you answer, not about the content of the real exam.
- Listen to the whole question. Many questions have two parts: answer both.
- Use short, full sentences. Simple and complete is better than long and unfinished.
- If you forget a word, say it in another way. Keep talking.
- When there are pictures, talk about what you see, and say why if the question asks for it.
- Practice with headphones and a microphone, so the setup feels normal on the day.
Results
Results normally arrive within 8 weeks. Since 31 July 2026, DUO says results for Spreken A2 can take up to 16 weeks because of high demand.
Questions
Do I talk to a person in the A2 speaking exam?
No. You answer into a microphone at a computer.
How long is the A2 speaking exam?
35 minutes, plus 15 minutes of explanation before it starts.
Who marks my answers?
Partly a computer and partly people.
Official sources
- inburgeren.nl: language exams A2, B1, B2
- DUO exam regulations (PDF)
- DUO: results for Spreken A2 and Schrijven A2 delayed
General information, not legal advice. Your letters from DUO and your municipality decide what applies to you.
Practice for the exam with Kora
Practice questions that change every time, with explanations in your own language. 7 days free, no card needed.