Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
What the Code's annex lists
Under Article 5.2, an international student applying to an English-taught programme must hold a certificate from a test in the annex at the listed minimum (language annex). Test providers can apply each year between 1 October and 1 February to be added, and tests are included for six years before reassessment (Code documents).
| Test | In the annex? | Bachelor's or master's minimum |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | Yes (test centre) | 6.0 |
| PTE Academic | Yes | 61 |
| TOEFL iBT | Yes | 4.5 |
| Cambridge English, Linguaskill | Yes | Scale 169 to 175 |
| LanguageCert Academic | Yes | 65 |
| TOEIC | Yes | L&R 865 and S&W 335 |
| IELTS Online, TOEFL iBT Home Edition, Linguaskill online | Yes, exceptional situations only | 6.0 / 4.5 / scale 169 to 175 |
| Duolingo English Test | Not listed | - |
Online tests: only in exceptional situations
Article 5.6 of the Code says online tests in the annex are allowed only when it is not possible to use the regular tests because test centres are closed or unreachable due to unsafe situations in a country. In normal circumstances, sit IELTS Academic on paper or computer at a test centre.
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Before you book
The annex applies to international students applying to English-taught programmes. Check your programme's admission page: it can require more than the annex minimum and may list fewer tests. Requirements change between intakes and scholarship rounds. Confirm the current rule on the Code of Conduct language annex before you book a test or apply. This guide is general information, not admissions advice.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Duolingo for a Dutch bachelor's?+
The Duolingo English Test is not in the Code of Conduct annex for international students. Choose a listed test such as IELTS Academic, PTE Academic or TOEFL iBT.
Is IELTS Online accepted in the Netherlands?+
It is in the annex, but online tests are allowed only in exceptional situations, such as test centres being closed or unreachable for safety reasons.
Is TOEFL Home Edition accepted?+
Under the same exceptional-situation rule as IELTS Online. The minimum for degree entry is 4.5.
Could Duolingo be added later?+
Test providers can apply each year between 1 October and 1 February to join the annex. Check the current annex before you book.
Keep reading
Related
- Minimum IELTS for Dutch universities
- Duolingo vs IELTS for universities
- Are IELTS Online results official?
- IELTS for the Netherlands
- All 3605 guides
Guide updated on 31 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
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