Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT)

The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is a standardized criterion-referenced test to evaluate and certify Japanese language proficiency for non-native speakers. The test covers language knowledge, reading ability, and listening ability. The assessment is held twice a year in Japan and in selected countries (on the first Sunday of July and December), and once a year in other regions (on the first Sunday of December). In December 2017, there were 560,704 examinees at 226 cities, in 76 countries throughout the world.

The JLPT consists of five levels: N1, N2, N3, N4, and N5, with N1 being the highest level and N5 the lowest. Each level consists of a reading and listening component. With regards to scoring, the passing rate is based on scaled scores calculated using item-response theory. These are raw scores that are not directly used to determine passing, nor are they reported, except in rough form in the "Reference Information" section. Raw scores are converted to a standard scale, so that equivalent performance on tests from different years and different levels of difficulty yields the same scaled score. The scaled scores are reported, broken down by section, and these are the scores used to determine passing.

The application period is typically around early March until late April for July's examination and around early August until late September for December's exam. Results for the December test are revealed the following February for examinees in Japan, and March for overseas candidates. Test results are sent to the examinees through the testing organization or centre where they applied.

JLPT certificates do not expire or become invalid over time.

For New Zealand applicants, the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) will be offered twice in New Zealand: once in July (Wellington and Auckland) and once in December (Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch). Sunday 5 July 2020 is the official date for this year.

For more information visit the official website here. 

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In the 2017 test, there were 560,704 examinees at 226 cities, in 76 countries throughout the world. This categorizes the competition as highly competitive.

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An examination fee must be paid when submitting the application. The fees for each level are as follows:
Level N1 $75
Level N2 $70
Level N3 $65
Level N4 $60
Level N5 $55

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The knowledge of the Japanese language.

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This event is a one off event per year.

Students must fill out an application form online.