JLPT: Japenese Test
Cost
$60–75 USD
Varies by country and level
Register with
jlpt.jp →Always verify with your test center. Exam formats, dates, fees, and requirements change regularly. This guide is for reference only — confirm current details directly with the official exam body before registering.
In this guide
Looking for more JLPT guides, books, and resources?
More about JLPT →1. What is the JLPT?
The JLPT (Japanese-Language Proficiency Test) is the world's most widely recognized certification for non-native Japanese speakers, jointly administered by the Japan Foundation and Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES). With over 610,000 examinees annually in 85+ countries, it is the definitive standard for demonstrating Japanese proficiency for study, work, and visa purposes.
The JLPT tests reading, listening, vocabulary, and grammar — but notably does not include a speaking or writing (production) component. It is entirely multiple-choice.
Certificates never expire. Unlike TOEFL or IELTS (valid 2 years), JLPT certificates are permanent. However, some employers and institutions prefer scores from the last 2-5 years, so check with your target organization.
2. Levels N5 to N1
| Level | Description | Approximate CEFR | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| N5 | Basic Japanese; everyday greetings and simple sentences | A1 | Beginners; first milestone |
| N4 | Basic Japanese; understand conversations on familiar topics spoken slowly | A2 | Some hospitality/service jobs; "Specified Skilled Worker" visa entry level |
| N3 | Intermediate; understand everyday Japanese to a reasonable degree | B1 | Bridge level; many use it as a stepping stone to N2 |
| N2 | Near-native reading; can understand newspapers and follow news | B2 | Standard for most professional office jobs in Japan; many university programs |
| N1 | Advanced; understand Japanese in a wide variety of complex situations | C1/C2 | High-level professional roles; academic careers; strongest credential |
N2 is the key threshold for most professional and academic purposes in Japan. JLPT N2 is the standard requirement for most office-based jobs, and many Japanese university graduate programs require N2 or N1 for non-native speakers.
3. Format and sections
The JLPT is entirely paper-based — there is currently no online exam option. All answers are multiple-choice, marked on answer sheets. The exam covers three main areas, though the exact section breakdown varies by level.
| Level | Language Knowledge (Vocab/Grammar) | Reading | Listening | Total time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| N5 | 25 min | 50 min (combined) | 30 min | ~105 min |
| N4 | 30 min | 60 min (combined) | 35 min | ~125 min |
| N3 | 30 min | 70 min (combined) | 40 min | ~140 min |
| N2 | 60 min (combined) | combined above | 50 min | ~155 min |
| N1 | 60 min (combined) | combined above | 55 min | ~170 min |
No speaking or writing production. The JLPT only measures passive language skills (reading, listening, grammar recognition). If you need to demonstrate speaking ability for a job or visa, you may also need to pass a separate speaking assessment or interview.
4. Scoring and passing
The JLPT uses a scaled scoring system. Unlike many exams, you must meet both a minimum total score AND a minimum score in each individual section. Failing one section means you do not pass, even if your total is above the threshold.
| Level | Total score range | Passing total | Section minimums apply? |
|---|---|---|---|
| N5 | 0–180 | 80/180 | Yes |
| N4 | 0–180 | 90/180 | Yes |
| N3 | 0–180 | 95/180 | Yes |
| N2 | 0–180 | 90/180 | Yes |
| N1 | 0–180 | 100/180 | Yes |
Results are released approximately 2 months after the exam. From December 2025 onward, score reports also include a CEFR level for international reference.
5. Why take the JLPT?
- Work in Japan: N2 is the standard for most professional office jobs; N1 for high-level roles and interpretation.
- Study in Japan: Most Japanese universities require N2 for graduate programs taught in Japanese.
- Visa and immigration: JLPT N4 or N3 may satisfy language requirements for certain visa categories ("Specified Skilled Worker").
- International employers: Companies with Japan operations increasingly recognize JLPT as proof of Mandarin ability.
- Personal achievement: A permanent, globally recognized certificate of your Japanese level.
6. Test dates 2026
The JLPT is offered twice per year globally. Check the official JLPT schedule and your local host institution for registration deadlines, which vary by country.
| Session | Exam date | Results released |
|---|---|---|
| July session | July 5, 2026 | August/September 2026 |
| December session | December 6, 2026 | January/February 2027 |
Registration typically opens 3-4 months before each session. Seats fill quickly, especially in high-demand cities — register as early as possible. You cannot change your level after registering, so choose carefully.
7. Prep resources
JLPT Official Sample Questions
Free sample questions for all levels from the official JLPT website. Essential for understanding the real exam format and difficulty before committing to a level.
JLPT Study
Comprehensive online practice platform with grammar, vocabulary, reading, and listening exercises organized by level. One of the most widely used third-party JLPT resources.
r/LearnJapanese (Reddit)
The largest Japanese learning community online. JLPT level recommendations, study resource reviews, and experience reports from recent test-takers at all levels.
WaniKani
Spaced repetition system for learning kanji and vocabulary. Particularly effective for building the reading foundation needed for N3, N2, and N1. Free trial available.
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