Someone learns Dutch from a book with pictures
Source: Polina Tankilevitch
Article

This is how to learn the Dutch language yourself if you fled from Ukraine

Last updated: 20/01/2025, 20:25

Do you want to learn Dutch and are not following a compulsory education or course? Then there are several ways you can still learn Dutch. Here you can read about the ways you can learn Dutch yourself.

Learn Dutch online if you speak Ukrainian or Russian

  • Karibu App

    : Through this free app you will learn Dutch in a fun way. Find the link to the App Store or Google Play at the bottom of the page.

  • Juf NaTAALka: Juf NaTAALka makes teaching videos on YouTube for Ukrainian people who want to learn Dutch. Juf NaTAALka was born and raised in Kiev and has lived in the Netherlands for many years. In cooperation with

    Vluchtelingenwerk Nederland (VWN)
    , she teaches you the Dutch language in a fun way.

Juf NaTAALka introduces herself

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Learning Dutch from a Dutch volunteer

If you want to learn Dutch from a Dutch person, there are also organisations that can match you with a Dutch person who will help you with the language. This is called a language buddy or language volunteer. These organisations can put you in touch with a Dutch person who can help you with the language:

  • Het Begint met Taal': This organisation helps find a language buddy in your neighbourhood.

  • Municipality: Many municipalities have language buddies who are willing to practice with you for free. Check with your municipality on how to contact a language buddy.

Learn Dutch for free at the library

Many libraries in the Netherlands offer free opportunities to learn Dutch. The library can help you with the following things:

  • Books: You can borrow books specifically for learning Dutch.

  • Activities and language groups: Many libraries organise free activities such as language cafes or practice groups, where you can practice Dutch with others.

  • Digital resources: A library card often gives you access to free e-books and online language resources.

Inquire at the library near you about options.

Learning the Dutch language online if you already speak English

Do you already speak English in addition to your native language? Then you can use these apps to learn Dutch.

On this website you will find a list of apps and websites that can help you learn the Dutch language.

Learning Dutch through a paid course

If you want to learn Dutch with a teacher, you can go to school. There are courses and language schools for learning Dutch as a second language.

There are many different language courses and language schools where you can learn Dutch. In the Netherlands you have two types of language schools: Language schools attached to an ROC (Regional Training Center) or commercial language schools. An ROC is a school for intermediate vocational education where you can often take language courses. ROCs often offer courses for adults, such as language courses. There is an ROC in many cities.

Commercial language schools offer the same courses, but these schools do not offer other courses. Ask your social worker at the municipality or from VluchtelingenWerk Nederland (VWN) where you can find a language course in your area.

Children learn Dutch at school

Children do not have to take a course themselves. They are required to attend school and learn Dutch there. They get extra help if Dutch is not their native language.

  • International transition class (Internationale Schakelklas, ISK): Children who do not speak Dutch well often attend an ISK. In this class, they learn the language quickly.

  • Extra help through primary or secondary school: Many Dutch schools offer extra help for children learning Dutch. Even if your child no longer attends the ISK. Discuss with your child's school what the possibilities are.

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The information you will find on this platform comes from the human rights organisation VluchtelingenWerk Nederland, in cooperation with its partners.
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