Subject clusters

Subject clusters consist of a number of compulsory subjects and a number options to be chosen by the pupils.  There are four standard subject clusters: 
• Nature and technology,
• Nature and health,
• Economics and society,
• Culture and society.
In addition six combinations of two clusters are possible.

Dutch, English and maths are compulsory for all pupils. At vwo level German and French are also compulsory, while pupils at havo level must choose German or French. In addition each cluster contains a number of compulsory subjects. The clusters also specify requirements with respect to the content and level of a number of subjects.