Join the Dutch Challenge and learn Dutch for free
Join the Dutch Challenge and learn Dutch for free
Go from zero to basic Dutch in just 6 weeks
Go from zero to basic Dutch in just 6 weeks
- Work in a digital environment, fully independently.
- 3 short lessons and a wide variety of exercises each week.
- A completely free Dutch course, no strings attached.
Want to learn Dutch, but don't know where to start?
Do you want to learn Dutch but aren’t sure where to start? Or have you tried before but given up? If you find apps too random but don’t want to commit to more expensive lessons (just yet), self-study might just be the solution for you. In our FREE Dutch Challenge, you’ll get a taste of our self-study modules and work entirely on your own at beginner level, so you can move from ‘surviving in the Netherlands’ to truly ‘living in the Netherlands’.
What you will learn in 6 weeks
- The right starting point
Learn Dutch for free the right way, starting with the alphabet, pronunciation, and word order. No rushing, but a solid foundation.
- Basic Dutch grammar
Start with personal pronouns and verb conjugation, and make your sentences more elaborate and detailed step by step.
- Essential vocabulary
Each week you learn cognates and loanwords that, together with useful phrases for everyday situations, quickly expand your vocabulary.
- Short daily conversations
Grocery shopping, dining out, using public transport: work on your speaking skills to feel confident in these and other situations.
- Reading, writing, listening
In addition to basic conversations, you’ll also work on your reading, listening, and writing skills. In short: the whole package!
- Flexible, not all‑or‑nothing
You don’t have to be perfect. Pause lessons during busy weeks, holidays or illness, or slow the pace anytime.
- One dedicated tutor + clear plan
Your tutor sets a plan and we track your progress. You always know the next step and have accountability.
- Safe way out if it’s not a fit
Easily change tutors. If by lesson 3 you feel it’s still not a fit, you can stop and get remaining hours refunded.
- 48-hour cancellation
Life happens. Work becomes demanding. Cancel or move lessons up to 48 hours in advance for free.
- Start small, grow later
You don’t have to commit to a huge package. Many students start small and add hours once they see it works.
Learn basic Dutch for free: how it works
1
Sign up and receive your login details
Signing up takes less than a minute. You’ll receive your login details right away and can get started!
2
Start with the first week
Although you can go to the topics you find difficult right away, we recommend starting this free Dutch self-study course from the beginning. The first week of the Dutch Challenge covers, among others, alphabet, word structure, and pronunciation, allowing you to lay a solid foundation.
3
Complete 3 short lessons per week
From week 2, each self-study week is made up of the following 3 lessons:
Lesson 1: grammar, lesson 2: reading and writing, lesson 3: listening and speaking.
Learn the new grammar in lesson 1, and apply it in the practical lessons 2 and 3.
4
Build your Dutch step by step
Over the course of six weeks you will gradually build a solid foundation in Dutch. You’ll learn to handle everyday situations, and discover whether self-study is the best way for you to continue learning.
Weekly breakdown: here's what you'll be working on
Now
“I have no idea about Dutch, but I’m ready to try!”
Week 1
Alphabet, syllables, pronunciation, word structure, first vocab
Finding your starting point and getting familiar with Dutch
Week 2
Personal pronouns, verb conjugation, and word order
Getting acquainted: sharing information about yourself
Week 3
Negations, closed questions, and prepositions
Learn the Dutch that helps you navigate public transport
Week 4
Demonstrative pro-nouns, open questions, adjectives
Buying groceries and shopping in Dutch made easy
Week 5
Modal verbs, indefinite pronouns
Start speaking Dutch when visiting a cafe or restaurant
Week 6
Conjunctions, degrees of comparison
Learn useful Dutch phrases to voice your thoughts
End
“I understand & speak basic Dutch with confidence”
Are you ready to learn Dutch for free?
- Join the free Dutch Challenge, and take your first step towards understanding and speaking Dutch. Signing up for this free Dutch self-study course for beginners takes less than a minute, and you can get started right away!
Frequently Asked Questions
If you don’t see your question here, write an email to info@dutchready.com or send a WhatsApp message.
Do I need any prior knowledge of Dutch?
No. The Dutch Challenge is designed for absolute beginners (A0). You don’t need any previous experience with the language to start our free Dutch self-study course for beginners.
Is the Dutch Challenge really free?
Definitely! The Dutch Challenge is completely free to join. Our goal is to help beginners take their first structured steps in learning Dutch and experience our teaching approach.
How long does this Challenge take?
This free Dutch course lasts six weeks. Week 1 is a comprehensive introduction to the basics of the language, including the alphabet and pronunciation. After that, each week includes three lessons: a grammar lesson and two practical lessons where you apply what you learned.
On average, learners spend 4-5 hours per week completing the lessons and exercises.
Can I follow the course on my own pace?
All lessons are available on our online learning platform, which makes it possible for you to study whenever it fits your schedule. Although you can go through the lessons at your own pace, we recommend completing a theme (3 lessons) each week, as maintaining a regular learning routine will help you stay on track and get the most out of the challenge.
What will I be able to do after the Dutch Challenge?
After completing the Dutch Challenge you will have a solid foundation in Dutch. You will be able to understand basic Dutch, introduce yourself, ask simple questions, and handle everyday situations such as ordering food or shopping.
What kind of lessons are included in this free self-study course for beginners?
From the second week, each week includes three types of lessons:
• Grammar – learn the basics of Dutch grammar
• Reading & Writing – imporve your reading comprehension and practice daily writing skills
• Listening & Speaking – practice listening to real Dutch and speaking naturally
How do I access the course?
After signing up, you will immediately receive your login details for our online learning platform. From there you can start the Dutch Challenge and access all lessons and exercises.
What happens after I finish the online course?
After the Challenge you will have a strong starting point for learning Dutch. If you want to continue improving your Dutch, you can opt for an annual subscription to our Dutch Academy, where you get access to our full self-study learning platform and live Q&A sessions with teachers. In addition, we also offer private online Dutch lessons, for those who feel they need the structure and guidance of a Dutch tutor.
Can’t find exactly what you’re looking for, or not sure what is best for you? From absolute beginner to upper advanced, we’ve got you covered! With our flexible private Dutch lessons, you’ll be able to get the most out of yourself, no matter your specific learning goal.
Feel free to reach out to us and discover how we can support your Dutch learning journey.
