What is JLPT?
JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) is a standardized international test that assesses and certifies non-native Japanese speakers. The 2.5–3-hours JLPT test evaluates Japanese writing, listening, reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary.
Recognition & Acceptance
Japanese Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES) administers this test. However, the JF (Japan Foundation) uses local universities to conduct abroad testing. JLPT is the most popular Japanese language certification exam. The non-native speaker exam design makes it trusted by most corporations, public and private schools, and governments.
Benefits of JLPT at a Glance
JLPT Certificate offers a large number of benefits. Some of the most common ones include the following:
JLPT helps you study in Japan
If you want to study in Japan, JLPT helps boost your profile while applying to Japanese institutions. Many universities need JLPT scores, however requirements may vary. They may accept JLPT N1 from overseas students instead of the EJU entry test.
JLPT helps you find work in Japan
Japan is one of the most monolingual countries in Asia. Most Japanese jobs call for a strong command of the language. If you achieve JLPT N2, it will help you find work in the country. If you want to be a nurse, caregiver, doctor, or likewise medical professional, JLPT N1 is typically required for Japan's national nursing and medical examinations. The government's "Point-based Preferential Immigration Treatment System for Highly Skilled Foreign Professionals" gives you 15 and 10 points for passing N2 and N1, respectively. If you score 70 or better, immigration will prioritize your application. In Japan, a good interview process starts with a documented Japanese skill test followed by other CV criteria.
JLPT expands professional options and horizons
JLPT is a credible global certificate of Japanese aptitude. Therefore, most firms, government agencies, and professions seeking Japanese language applicants accept it. The ratings help them assess candidates' linguistic and personality qualities. Thus, this may improve work prospects for Japanese-language professions. JLPT's value has expanded considerably in recent years as more Japanese-required occupations emerge. In case you want to work as a Japanese language trainer, then JLPT may add features and wings to your CV.
JLPT increases scholarship chances
JLPT test scores are required for many Japanese scholarships, fellowships, and rewards for qualified overseas students. This scholarship provides monthly salary and other benefits in Japan. You may receive a good education in Japan for cheap or even free. JLPT N2/200 points in the EJU/CEFR B2 invites candidates for special treatment.
JLPT determines your level and inspires you
Let's imagine you've been studying Japanese for a while but doubt your accuracy. In such a case, take the JLPT test to determine your JLPT levels. This language test will help you assess your knowledge and discover areas for improvement. It will also motivate you to prepare better for the upcoming JLPT exam. It also shows success relative to other Japanese learners worldwide. A Japanese certification is a ticket to be conspicuous among your peers and prove your Japanese proficiency. All this surely takes your confidence to the next level. JLPT levels also motivate you to achieve greater Japanese language objectives.
JLPT Levels at a glance
The JLPT exam has 5 levels ranging from N1 to N5. Each level tests grammar, vocabulary, kanji, reading, and listening. Here are JLPT levels:
The Nihongo Nōryoku Shiken - Level 1
The highest JLPT level targets advanced competency. It involves advanced Japanese grammar, vocabulary, and reading and comprehension of complicated literature.
The Nihongo Nōryoku Shiken - Level 2
This high level needs strong grammar, vocabulary, and kanji. Japan typically requires it for academic or professional objectives.
The Nihongo Nōryoku Shiken - Level 3
JLPT N3 Test, an intermediate level, tests general and particular Japanese comprehension. It is for individuals who have learned the fundamentals and can tackle more sophisticated linguistic challenges.
The Nihongo Nōryoku Shiken - Level 4
This upper-beginner JLPT level examines grammar, vocabulary, and reading. It's a fantastic place to start assessing general communication skills.
The Nihongo Nōryoku Shiken - Level 5
The simplest level is N5 for novices. It teaches fundamental Japanese vocabulary, grammar, and sentence comprehension. Japan and other countries regard JLPT certificates as proof of Japanese language ability. Many companies and schools utilize JLPT N5 results to assess language proficiency.
What are the eligibility criteria to appear for a JLPT India exam?
As for eligibility criteria, the JLPT qualifying requirements may differ by country or location, so verify with the local exam organizer. The following are some general guidelines:
No Age Limit
JLPT eligibility is not age-based. Participants might be of any age.
Educational Background Not Required
The exam has no educational prerequisites. Anyone may test their Japanese language skills through the JLPT India exam at any of the JLPT exam centers in India.
Non-native Speakers
The JLPT targets non-native Japanese speakers. Due to its focus on foreign language learners, the exam discourages native speakers from taking it.
Different Levels
N5 is the simplest JLPT level, while N1 is the most difficult one. Candidates may choose their competency level. There are no requirements for any level, but you should select one that matches your language ability.
JLPT Registration
Participants must register for the JLPT within the given registration period. Registration dates, JLPT exam dates, and costs might vary by area, region, or country. Thereby, check the official JLPT website or local test organizer for specifics such as JLPT exam fees in India. Remember that this is a wide perspective. Actual qualifying conditions may vary. Please visit the JLPT website or contact the local exam organizer. This way, you'll obtain the most accurate and up-to-date JLPT exam dates and JLPT Fees in India.
JLPT Exam Structure at a Glance
JLPT N1:
Vocabulary
• About 19 Questions
• Advanced vocabulary, kanji readings, context-based use
Grammar
• About 33 Questions
• Advanced grammar, complex sentences, and subtle phrases
Reading
• About 12 Questions • Complete readings, key concepts, details, and conclusions
Choukai (Listening)
• About 12 Questions
• Advanced listening, speech comprehension, and inference
JLPT N2 :
Vocabulary
• About 17 Questions
•Kanji readings, context-based use, and intermediate-to-upper-intermediate vocabulary
Grammar
• About 29 Questions
• Upper-intermediate grammar, sentence patterns, and phrases
Reading
• About 13 Questions
• Reading passages with comprehension, inference, and interpretation problems
Choukai (Listening)
• About 13 Questions
• Understanding spoken Japanese in diverse circumstances at intermediate to upper-intermediate levels
JLPT N3 :
Vocabulary
• About 18 Questions
• Intermediate vocabulary, kanji readings, context-based use
Grammar
• About 32 Questions
• Intermediate grammar, sentence structures, and phrases.
Reading
• About 14 Questions
• Reading passages with comprehension, inference, and detail questions
Choukai (Listening)
• About 14 Questions
• Intermediate-level listening comprehension, daily Japanese dialogue
JLPT N4
Vocabulary
• About 18 Questions
• Kanji readings, context-based use, and basic vocabulary.
Grammar
• About 22 Questions
• Content: Simple grammar, sentence structure, and phrases.
Reading
• About 10 Questions
• Reading passages with basic comprehension, inference, and detail questions.
Choukai (Listening)
• About 12 Questions
• Basic Japanese listening comprehension in everyday scenarios.
JLPT N5
Vocabulary
• About 18 Questions
• Kanji readings, context-based use, and basic vocabulary.
Grammar
• About 8 Questions
• Simple grammar, sentence structure, and phrases
Reading
• About 7 Questions
• Simple information comprehension questions from reading passages
Choukai (Listening):
• About 10 Questions
• Basic Japanese listening comprehension in ordinary circumstances
The JLPT grades each part independently, and the pass/fail judgment is based on the total scores. Please note that N1 and N2 are usually necessary for academic or professional reasons, whereas JLPT N3 exam to N5 are for personal or basic communication.
How to Apply?
Register for the JLPT exam two to three months in advance (early March until late April for July's examination and around early August until late September for December's exam). Find JLPT exam fees in India on the official website. You may register via email or online. Visit the nearest JLPT centers with a passport-sized photograph, registration fee, and photo ID like a driver's license or any other valid one to register. Complete the application form and submit it.
2024 JLPT Test Dates
The authority conducts JLPT exam in July and December in Japanese and foreign cities. In certain places, they run once a year. USA JLPT is available on the first Sunday of December. India allows two attempts (July and December). Sundays of 7th July and 1st December are JLPT exam dates of 2024. For current information, see the official exam centers' website. The test is scheduled in the following shifts:
• 1st shift from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon, and
• 2nd shift in the afternoon from 2:00 to 5:00 pm
JLPT Exam centers in India
1. Bengaluru
2. Chennai
3. Kolkata
4. Mumbai
5. New Delhi
6. Pune
7. Shanti Niketan (West Bengal), and
8. Salem (Tamil Nadu)
When will the JLPT results 2024 be declared?
JLPT exam results are usually available two months after the exam. They usually announce July and December tests in the final week of August and January of the following year. Each level examinee receives a Score Report. Plus, pass-outs get a ‘Certificate of Proficiency.’
Concluding Remarks - How to prepare for the JLPT?
JLPT success requires persistence, curiosity, and practice. You should start with vocabulary. After learning Hiragana and Katakana, start Kanji. Regular practice might increase your Kanji count. Later, it will help with reading, grammar, and listening. Combining everything can help you improve and sound genuine. Online tools might be a beginning point, not the last. It takes a long time to learn Japanese, one of the most difficult languages. Thus, taking Japanese lessons from a tutor or enrolling in local courses is the best. Due to the rising demand for Japanese language professionals, there are various options worldwide. Systematic Japanese language classes connect JLPT abilities to typical Japanese speech. It might reinforce your knowledge weeks before the exam. You can't really grasp Japanese until you know Japan well, therefore, learn about culture first. What’s more, when you join a professional institution to learn Japanese, you will also know everything in detail about JLPT syllabus, JLPT question papers, JLPT N5 sample paper, and JLPT N4 mock test.
Read More: Acing the N5 Japanese Language Course for JLPT Exam Success