In September 2023, my life changed.
I was on track to become a doctor in the U.S. I had already passed the USMLE Step 1 and was prepping for Step 2. Then I met my partner. By September, I had decided to move to the Netherlands to be with them—and to continue my journey to become a doctor there.
That meant one huge challenge: learning Dutch.
It felt overwhelming. I didn’t speak a word. But I had a goal: pass the Dutch B2+ exam required for diploma recognition and medical practice. Less than a year later, I passed it. Here’s exactly how I did it, how much it cost, and why I created MyDutchJourney to help others learn Dutch fast—smarter and cheaper.
Step 1: Go All In
I started learning Dutch fast by diving into self-study. I used a book from the Dutch institute Regina Coeli. It gave me a solid intro to the language. I studied 4-5 hours a day. After two months, I could form basic sentences. But speaking was still hard.
Step 2: Find a Community
I joined Busuu, an online language platform. It offered solid grammar exercises, reading, and listening. I especially liked the writing section, where native speakers corrected my work. It helped—but speaking still lagged.
To fix that, I started listening to Dutch podcasts. Even when I understood only 40-50%, it trained my ear and helped me adapt to the language’s rhythm. Try free Dutch podcasts like Echt Gebeurd or Laura Speaks Dutch.
Step 3: Face the Speaking Challenge
In January, I flew to the Netherlands. I hoped to join a language school, but everything was full. I had to return home after 90 days.
I was frustrated, but I didn’t give up.
That’s when I discovered italki. I found an amazing Dutch tutor who helped me build confidence in speaking. After one month of regular lessons, my fluency jumped to B2.
Step 4: Push Beyond the Basics
By June 2024, my level was:
- B2 in reading, grammar, and speaking
- B1 in listening
- A2-B1 in writing
I went back to the Netherlands and finally entered a Dutch school that prepared students for the B2+ Staatsexamen. It had only two sessions a week, and the materials weren’t great. But I figured out the system, developed my own method, and studied daily.
Step 5: Create a System That Works
I passed reading, writing, and speaking on the first attempt. Listening was brutal, and I failed it. But I analyzed the format, rebuilt my strategy, and passed it on the second try.
I had officially reached B2+.
That’s when I realized something important: most courses are overpriced and underdeliver.
So I built something better.
Introducing MyDutchJourney: Learn Dutch Fast and Smart
MyDutchJourney is built from my experience. It offers the same tools and techniques that helped me learn Dutch fast and reach B2+ in under a year.
What you get:
- Listening, Writing, and Reading Training (B1-B2-C1)
- Writing Assistant: Upload your writing and get real-time corrections + feedback
- Grammar Support: Get clear explanations on ANY grammar topic
- Affordable Memberships: Way cheaper than most schools
Total Cost of My Journey
- Regina Coeli book: Free
- Busuu membership (6 months): €65
- Grammar book: €40
- italki lessons: €150
- Exam prep school: €500
- Exam fees: €600 (incl. second listening attempt) Total: €1,355
Most people spend 3-5x more—and still don’t pass. I did it smart. You can too.
Final Thoughts: You Don’t Need to Be a Language Genius to Learn Dutch Fast
You just need a system that works. I built MyDutchJourney for students, professionals, and anyone preparing for NT2 Staatsexamen or any B2+ Dutch exam.
If you’re serious about learning Dutch fast, saving money, and actually passing your exam, this platform is for you.
Join the community. Start your journey. Pass with confidence.
Visit MyDutchJourney now to explore the tools, start practicing, and access expert feedback.
Coming Soon: Tips for Improving Dutch Writing (with phrases, structures, and hacks I used to go from A2 to B2+)
Stay tuned. Or better yet, become a member and unlock it all early.
