JLPT Exam – FAQ and JTLP Test Resources
What is the JLPT Test?
The JLPT Test (or Japanese Language Proficiency Test) is a standardized language test that was created in 1984 to help standardize and evaluate the Japanese proficiency of non-native speakers of the Japanese language. The test has historically (up until 2009) had four levels with N4 being the most elementary level and N1 being the most advanced level. However, now the JLPT Exam now has five levels with the inclusion of an additional level between N2 and N3 level tests making N5 the most elementary level and N1 the most advanced.
Discover the Secrets to Ace the JLPT
How often is the JLPT Test held?
The JLPT is held once a year on the first Sunday in December. Also, in Japan, Korea, China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong the JLPT exam is offered a second time on the First Sunday in July. The July test only covers levels N3 through N1. You will be able to register for the December exam between the first week in August and first week in October, so make sure you stay organized and don’t sign up too late.
When do you receive your score for the JLPT Test?
People that take the JLPT exam will get their scores in February if they took the test in Japan. All other applicants will get their results in March.
How is the JLPT Test structured?
Levels N5 through N3 have 3 sections:
- Vocabulary
- Grammar and Reading
- Listening
Levels N2 and N1 have 2 sections:
- Vocabulary, Grammar, and Reading
- LIstening
Which level of the JLPT Test should I take?
As a general rule of thumb:
N5 – For this level, you should have around 150 hours of Japanese study, know roughly 100 Kanji, and be familiar with 800 words in Japanese. You should be able to read and write basic sentences and have short conversations in Japanese. Most people that have finished the first half of a basic Japanese course should be suited to take this exam.
N4 – For the N4 exam, you have 300 hours of Japanese study, knowledge of 300 Kanji characters, and understanding of 1500 words. At this level you can take part in everyday conversations in Japanese and write and read simple sentences. Typically students that have completed a full basic Japanese course are prepared for this test.
N3 – This is a newly added test to the JLPT exam. It should be considered a half-way between N4 and N2.
N2 – This test is probably right for you if you have 600 hours of study completed, a firm grasp of 1000 Kanji, and a mastery of 6000 words. You should have a very good knowledge of grammar and you can read, write, and converse in Japanese effectively about basic subjects. This is most suited for students that have completed an intermediate level Japanese course.
N1 – This is the most advanced JLPT test given. After 900 hours of study, and mastery of 2000 Kanji, and 10,000 words you should be prepared to take this exam. applicants that pass this exam are considered to be equipped to handle life in Japanese society.
How can I prepare for the JLPT Test?
There are lots of resources available today to help you study for the JLPT exam. On this website there are pages for JLPT Vocabulary, JLPT Listening, and JLPT Grammar tips to help make sure you pass the test.