Learning Dutch on a Budget: Tips and Tricks to Learn the Language for Free!

Starting to learn Dutch (colloquially: Dutch) can be exciting and, believe it or not, it doesn’t have to cost a dime! Here are some tips and tricks to help you learn Dutch for free:

Take advantage of free online courses and apps : Platforms like Duolingo , Babbel and Memrise offer free Dutch language courses. They’re great for building a foundation of vocabulary and basic grammar.
Dutch online courses:
oefenen.nl/programma/soort/taal – requires registration
nt2taalmenu.nl

Immerse yourself in Dutch media : Listen to Dutch radio, watch Dutch TV shows or films, and read Dutch websites and books. Immersing yourself in the language is one of the best ways to learn. Websites like Project Gutenberg offer free books in Dutch, perfect for practicing your reading skills.
www.bnr.nl – radio
jeugdjournaal.nl – news for younger viewers, therefore broadcast in accessible language
www.gutenberg.org/browse/languages/nl – project Gutenberg in Dutch

Take part in free conversation groups : Many cities in the Netherlands organize free language exchange meetings or conversation groups in local libraries. These are great for practicing speaking and listening in a relaxed atmosphere, e.g.
www.bibliotheek.rotterdam.nl/activiteiten/taal – Rotterdam Library, learn Dutch
www.bibliotheekdenhaag.nl/leren/nederlands-leren.html – The Hague Library, learn Dutch

Practice regularly: Consistency is the key to learning languages. Take some time each day to practice your Dutch. This can be as simple as learning a few new words or phrases each day.

Use YouTube : Follow creators who dedicate their channels to learning Dutch and often post useful learning materials and tips, such as
www.youtube.com/@NiderlandzkiJestProsty/videos
www.youtube.com/@szkolatulipan/videos

Mark your surroundings : Mark objects in your home with their Dutch names. This will help you learn new words naturally throughout the day.

Remember that learning a new language takes time and patience. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes – they’re part of the learning process. With these tips and your commitment, you’ll be speaking Dutch in no time.