From 1 February, newcomers settling in Flanders who take the compulsory social orientation course will have to score 70 per cent on the final test, instead of the current 50 per cent, Flemish integration minister Hilde Crevits (Christian democrat CD&V) has confirmed.
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Flanders raises bar for newcomers to pass the compulsory social orientation course
Colin Clapson
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The social orientation course is a compulsory part of the integration process. It involves several general objectives focusing on norms and values, including freedom of expression and respect for sexual diversity, and practical questions such as how to take the bus or what your rights and obligations are when renting a house. The course lasts approximately 60 hours.
Currently, integration candidates must achieve an overall score of 50 per cent to pass. That percentage will increase to 70 per cent for the overall score, which involves the social orientation test as well as an evaluation by the teacher. For the general objectives, the bar is set at a minimum of 80 per cent, and for the practical questions, a minimum of 50 per cent.
Minister Crevits is raising the bar because, in her own words, she considers it essential that integration course participants have a good knowledge of Flemish society, know their rights and obligations, and learn enough about our norms and values.
In 2024, 19,535 people took the social orientation course. Ninety per cent passed the test.