The JLPT, explained. Then practise it.

Which level you need, what each one tests, and mock papers built from sample questions so the exam holds no surprises.

Pick your level

What the JLPT is

The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (日本語能力試験) is the standard certificate of Japanese ability for non-native speakers. It is run by the Japan Foundation and JEES, held twice a year in Japan and in about 90 countries, and taken by roughly 1.5 million people a year. It tests reading and listening only: there is no speaking or writing section. Scores are scaled to 180 points, and you need both a total above the pass mark and a minimum in each section.

Read the full overview: format, scoring, dates, fees and results.

Why people take it

• Immigration points. N1 is worth 15 points and N2 10 points under Japan's Highly Skilled Professional system, which leads to permanent residency in 1 to 3 years instead of 10.
• Work visas. The Specified Skilled Worker visa accepts N4 as proof of Japanese; care work, nursing and medicine set the bar at N3 to N1.
• Jobs and study. N2 is the usual requirement for office jobs and vocational schools; N1 for client-facing roles and many universities.

All the places a JLPT level is required or rewarded.

Practise with sample questions in the real format

Our bank holds 3,629 sample questions, every one tagged by level and question type (漢字読み, 文脈規定, 文の組み立て, 課題理解 and the rest). We assemble them into full mock papers in the official booklet layout, with an answer key at the end.