Priority scheme for Dutch-language education in Brussels becomes stricter

Parents wishing to benefit from the priority scheme for Dutch-speaking families in Brussels’ Dutch-language education system will now have to demonstrate that they can read, write, listen to and speak Dutch at B2 level. The Flemish Parliament approved the stricter rules under an expedited procedure on Wednesday. “Anyone who consciously chooses Dutch-language education in Brussels is also making a clear commitment to the Dutch language,” said Members of the Flemish Parliament Koen Daniëls and Karl Vanlouwe.

Full language proficiency must be demonstrated

In Brussels, 65% of places in Dutch-language schools are reserved for children whose parents have a sufficient command of Dutch. A B2 level is required. Until now, that level was assessed through an oral test, even though parents are also expected to be able to write the language.

Under the newly adopted decree, parents will have to prove their proficiency in all four language skills: reading, writing, listening and speaking. Evidence can be provided in several ways, including through the Interuniversity Dutch Language Test for Non-Native Speakers (ITNA) or the Certificate of Dutch as a Foreign Language (CNaVT).

“This clarification ensures that the priority scheme for Dutch speakers is reserved for families who genuinely have a B2-level command of Dutch, both spoken and written. In doing so, we help safeguard the quality of education and parental engagement in Flemish schools in Brussels,” said Koen Daniëls and Karl Vanlouwe.

Flemish Minister for Brussels Cieltje Van Achter added: “A priority scheme only serves its purpose if it benefits the people it was designed for. That is why parents who wish to make use of the priority for Dutch-speaking families will now have to demonstrate their Dutch language skills fully and objectively. Anyone claiming to have a B2 level must be able to provide proof.”

Special education enrolment rules also extended

The emergency decree also addresses a second issue. The current enrolment rules for special education will remain in force for another two years.

For several years, mainstream schools facing capacity shortages have used a digital registration system. This prevents situations where parents have to queue—or even camp outside school gates—to secure a place for their child.

No comparable enrolment system is yet in place for special education. A dedicated enrolment decree has been delayed for some time. The Flemish Parliament has therefore decided to extend the existing arrangements on a temporary basis.