What Is JLPT?

The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test

The JLPT is a standardised test for non-native speakers, run by the Japan Foundation and Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES). It is taken by over a million people each year around the world.

There are five levels. N5 is the easiest and covers basic everyday Japanese; N1 is the hardest and covers the language of newspapers, academic texts and business.

The five levels at a glance

• N5: basic phrases, hiragana, katakana and about 100 kanji
• N4: everyday conversations and about 300 kanji
• N3: the bridge to real-world Japanese, about 650 kanji
• N2: workplace and news-level Japanese, about 1,000 kanji
• N1: advanced and formal Japanese, about 2,000 kanji

What it tests

Every level has three parts: language knowledge (vocabulary, kanji and grammar), reading, and listening. All questions are multiple choice.

The JLPT does not test speaking or writing. That is why separate speaking practice matters. Many learners pass N3 but still find conversation difficult.

Scoring and passing

You need both an overall pass mark and a minimum score in each section. A very strong reading score cannot make up for a very weak listening score, so prepare all sections evenly.

When is it held in India?

In India the JLPT is usually held twice a year, on the first Sunday of July and December, in several cities including New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata and Pune. Registration typically opens a few months before each test.

Always check the official JLPT website and the local organiser for current dates, fees and centres.

Why take it

JLPT results are widely used by universities, employers and some immigration programmes as evidence of Japanese ability. N2 is often requested for office jobs in Japan, and some scholarships ask for N3 or above. Requirements vary, so check with the specific institution.