From International Bridging Class (ISK) to MBO levels 2, 3 and 4  

Did you come to the Netherlands when you were 16 or 17? Then you were often unable to complete high school. As a young asylum seeker you will then enter an Internationale Schakelklas (ISK). In the bridging class you learn the Dutch language and integration. You are sometimes placed in an entrance course. This is equivalent to MBO level 1. For MBO level 2, 3 or 4 you usually need a diploma. 

Are you placed in an entrance course, but do you still want to start with MBO 2, 3 or 4? Then you can have your level of education assessed. 

Appreciate level of education

This can help you learn at your level. Is your level of education comparable to a Dutch VMBO diploma or at least 3 years of HAVO or VWO? You can then enter at MBO level 2, 3 or 4. You must read, speak and write Dutch at minimum language level B1. You must also meet the other admission requirements for the course. Are you still in the ISK? You can then request a free training evaluation through the school. The school can do this through the Collaboration Organization for Vocational Education and Business (SBB).  

Were you unable to bring proof of your previous education? 

Have you lost your diploma or grade lists and can you no longer retrieve them (safely)? Your school can then apply for an Education Level Indication (ION) for you. 

Based on your information, the ION estimates your education level. The ROC will then decide at which level you can start. 

Other possibilities 

Are you not admitted to MBO level 2, 3 or 4 because your education level is too low? There are still options to achieve your goal. These also apply to people who are 18 years or older. Read more below.

There are several ways to pursue higher education. You can do this step by step with the standard programs. For example, you can start with an entry-level program and continue studying until MBO level 4. You can also see if this can be done more quickly. For example: via the Education Route or with secondary general adult education (VAVO). It's important that the level of the program is feasible for you. If so, you can explore how you can still reach this educational level. More information about VAVO can be found below. The Education Route wis offered by the municipality.

The vavo is for: 

• Students from 18 years. 
• Students aged 16 or 17 who are no longer in secondary education, but do not yet meet the admission requirements for secondary vocational education. 

With the VAVO (pre-vocational secondary education) program, you can earn a pre-vocational secondary education (VMBO-TL) diploma. Afterward, you can begin a vocational education (MBO) program at level 3 or 4.   

The UAF supports the vavo VMBO- thickness not. If you are over 18 years old, You can can you sometimes yes student allowance from DUO.   

You will probably have to work alongside the VAVO course because the allowance is not enough to live from. On the website of the National government you can read more about the vavo. 

Do you have a residence permit 'asylum for a limited period'? Then you have to integrate. At various ROCs in the Netherlands you can combine your integration program with vocational training. 

Combined routes  

Are you combining your integration program with vocational training? Then you will learn Dutch better and you will also immediately learn a trade. You will follow a language course and an MBO course at entry level (MBO level 1). You do not need a diploma for this level. So no Dutch diploma and no diploma from your country of origin. If you successfully complete the process, you have passed your integration exam. You also have an MBO diploma that allows you to work. You can also continue your education and do an MBO course at a higher level.  

Admission requirements educational institutions 

Conditions such as:  

• You are over 16 years old.
• You do not yet have a VMBO or higher level diploma in the Netherlands or in your country of origin.
• Dutch is not your mother tongue.
• Would you like to know more about the admission requirements? Please contact the ROC that provides the training.

Content of the route  

A combined course pays a lot of attention to the Dutch language. In any case, you must be able to take the integration exam on A2 level. You are following afterwardsst Subjects such as math, citizenship, and employee skills. You'll also take courses related to your chosen program. Throughout the program, you'll often complete internships, allowing you to put everything you've learned into practice.   

Where to study?  

It is not possible at every ROC to combine the civic integration program and vocational training. Inquire at it ROC near you what the possibilities are.