日本語Japanese

JAPANESE LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY TEST

The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is a test for non-native speakers of Japanese sponsored by the Japan Foundation and Japan Educational Exchanges and Services, to evaluate and certify proficiency in the Japanese language of non-native speakers. The test has been held since 1984 and revised in 2010 to put focus on communication abilities based on the analysis of data collected during those years.

The JLPT is used worldwide. Outside Japan, the test is jointly administered by the Japan Foundation and local institutions. Inside Japan, it is held twice a year in July and December, administered by Japan Educational Exchanges and Services.

As the JLPT has been recognized as a reliable means of evaluating the Japanese proficiency of non-native speakers, the test result can be used as official proof for schools in applying for admission and companies in applying for a job.

There are five levels to the test: N5 (easiest), N4, N3, N2 and N1 (most difficult).
N4 and N5 measure the ability to understand basic Japanese that is mainly learned in class. N1 and N2 measure the ability to understand Japanese used in a broad range of scenes in everyday life and in a variety of circumstances including academic situations. N3 is a level bridging N4/N5 and N1/N2.
To choose the level to apply for, refer to “N1-N5: Summary of Linguistic Competence Required for Each Level".

For more details, please visit the official website of JLPT.