FAQ/Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to the Dutch for Doctors FAQ page, where we answer frequently asked questions about our language courses for dentists, doctors and other healthcare professionals.

Whether you're a beginner or advanced, our flexible courses — individually, in groups or online — help you with medical terminology and patient communication in Dutch.

Here you can find information about enrolment, levels, duration, teaching methods and study materials. Do you have any questions? Feel free to contact us.

About the B2+ language test and BIG registration

Is there a language requirement for BIG registration?

Yes, you must have a B2 level of Dutch if you want to work in the Netherlands. For Belgium, there is a C1 Dutch level. This language level is required so that healthcare professionals from abroad can offer patients the same quality of care and expertise. In addition, it ensures that you have sufficient language skills to recognize, explain and treat medical problems.

What language test do I need to take for BIG registration?

Healthcare professionals with a foreign diploma must obtain a language certificate to register in the Netherlands. From 1 January 2024, the following levels will apply: B1 for MBO nurses, B2 for higher professional education nurses and B2+ for academics.

When can I take the BIG registration language test?

You can take the language test as soon as you have reached the required level of Dutch: B1 for vocational nurses, B2 for higher professional education nurses and B2+ for academics.

Can I work as a healthcare professional in the Netherlands or Belgium without BIG registration

Probably not. You can work as a supervised healthcare professional in the Netherlands. However, you must first find an employer who is willing to hire you without a BIG registration. This is because most employers make BIG registration a prerequisite for hiring a foreign healthcare professional.

What does the BIG registration language test include?

The test for the first step towards BIG registration consists of four parts: speaking, writing, listening and reading. Each component is assessed separately. With us, you can prepare for each of these parts. Get in touch, we'll help you prepare well for the language test.

When will I receive the results of the language test?

You will usually receive the test results within 5 business days.

Can I see the results?

The result form shows the number of points achieved per component: writing, speaking, reading and listening, plus standard feedback about the language. If you pass, there is no language feedback. Underlying assessment forms or video footage cannot be viewed. In the event of an objection, you can start an appeal procedure.

How much time do I get per part of the language test?

The available time varies by section: reading and writing take 1.5 hours each, listening takes 45 minutes and speaking takes 15 minutes.

I did not pass all parts of the test. Can I take a second chance?

You can retake the test, except for the MBO tests. These cannot be recreated.

When will I receive the language certificate?

You will usually receive the language certificate in the mail within two weeks.

Can I take the test for the first step towards BIG registration with Dutch for Doctors?

When you reach the required language level, we'll let you know. You can then register for the language test as part of the first step towards BIG registration. We will provide you with the correct address.

About the Dutch for Doctors courses

Is Dutch a difficult language to learn?

That depends. It is difficult for some students, while others find Dutch easy. Although it's not always easy, we at Dutch for Doctors believe that learning a language at a high level is a valuable and positive experience.

Do I need to prepare anything for the lesson?

Sometimes you will receive an assignment or exercise that you need to prepare in advance.

How long does it take to pass the BIG registration language test?

Healthcare professionals without prior knowledge of Dutch need an average of 11 months of intensive training to meet the language requirements. The duration varies from person to person and depends on factors such as mother tongue, foreign language experience, learning intensity, perseverance, grammatical insight and analytical ability.

Will I reach level B2+ after the Dutch for Doctors course?

Achieving the B2+ level requires regular practice. Dutch for Doctors offers teaching materials, books and notes, but self-study and perseverance are essential. By continuously learning and training, you increase the chances of reaching this level.

Do I need prior knowledge of Dutch for the Dutch for Doctors courses?

No, prior knowledge is not necessary if you choose Dental All the Way or Dental Basic Training.

How do I pay for the training?

The full amount must be paid before the start of the training. We do our best to teach you the language properly, so make sure payment is in order. A deal is a deal, as we say in Dutch!

What should I do if I can't come to class?

Are you unable to attend the lesson? Please let us know at least 24 hours in advance via WhatsApp or email. Without timely cancellation, the missed lesson will be counted as recorded hours.

Do I need to learn new words?

Yes, this is a requirement. Without new vocabulary, you can't learn the language effectively. In order to reach the required language level, it is important to study the teaching materials carefully.

How do Dutch for Doctors' online classes work?

The night before your class, you will receive an email with a link to the Zoom meeting. Click on the link and you will be automatically redirected to the online class.

How quickly can I complete the course?

The more you attend classes, the faster you will complete the course. With fewer lessons, it takes longer. We recommend completing the training as soon as possible so that you can quickly get started in the Netherlands or Belgium.

How often do I have to take classes?

The best results are achieved by taking daily lessons. Is this not feasible due to work? Then you can take lessons before, between or after work.

How long does a language lesson take?

A class is 45 minutes long. You can book a maximum of 5 lessons per day.

When will the language trainer be available?

Lessons can be booked by appointment. Our working hours are from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Questions?

Do you have questions? Feel free to contact us via the contact form, email, phone or WhatsApp. We'd love to help you out!

Get in touch!