KNM Exam Zone
The core topics for the Kennis van de Nederlandse Maatschappij (KNM) exam. From history and geography to law and healthcare, we explain every essential topic bilingually.
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What is KNM?
Kennis van de Nederlandse Maatschappij (KNM) is the civic integration exam’s knowledge component, covering society, work, health, law, and politics.
The exam contains 40 single-choice questions framed around everyday civic scenarios so you demonstrate understanding of Dutch institutions and services. It usually takes 3 days to get the results.
Topics include: History & Geography (geschiedenis en geografie), Housing (wonen), Politics & Law (staatsinrichting en rechtsstaat), Work & Income (werk en inkomen), Institutions (instanties), Education (onderwijs en opvoeding), Values & Norms (omgangsvormen, waarden en normen), and Healthcare (gezondheid en gezondheidszorg).
Reviewing the official syllabus helps focus your KNM preparation.
Visit the official site for detailsHistory: William of Orange & 80 Years' War
Learn about the Father of the Nation and the origins of Dutch independence.
History: World War II & Liberation
German invasion, Anne Frank, Hunger Winter, and Remembrance/Liberation Day.
History: The Republic & Golden Age
The Eighty Years' War, the VOC, and how the Netherlands became a global trade power.
Geography: Living with Water
How does a country below sea level survive? Polders and Delta Works.
Politics: Parliamentary Democracy
Role of the King, Prime Minister, and the House of Representatives (Tweede Kamer).
Law: Article 1 of the Constitution
Treating everyone equally. Understanding the core of anti-discrimination laws.
Education: The School System
What happens after primary school? Differences between VMBO, HAVO, and VWO.
Healthcare: The General Practitioner (Huisarts)
Why you must see a GP before a specialist in the Netherlands.
Healthcare: Midwifery & Maternity Care
Who to see when pregnant? The role of midwives and maternity care.
Social Care: Elderly & Disabled Support
Learn about home care, nursing homes, and support for independent living.
Institutions: DigiD, ID & Public Services
How to interact with the government? Learn about DigiD, ID rules, and key institutions.
Work: Contracts & Probation
Permanent vs temporary contracts, and basic dismissal protection.
Welfare: Allowances & Benefits
Understanding unemployment benefits, social assistance, and rent/healthcare allowances.
Housing: Renting, Buying & Taxes
Social vs private housing, property tax (OZB), and mandatory insurances.
Environment: Waste Separation & Fines
How to separate GFT and chemical waste? Consequences of wrong disposal.
Etiquette: Visiting & Conflict Resolution
Three kisses, appointments, and solving neighbor disputes.
Culture: Holidays & Traditions
King's Day, Sinterklaas, and essential public holidays & traditions.