Take Japanese-Language Test
The Japan Foundation implements Japanese-language tests that measure and provide certification of the Japanese-language proficiency of non-native Japanese-language learners. The tests are widely taken among Japanese-language learners all over the world.
There are two Japanese-language tests that differ according to the target and objective of the test takers.
Please visit the official test websites for more information.
Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT)
＊To obtain the status of residence of “Specified Skilled Worker (i)”, “Employment for Skill Development” and “Student” (for enrollment in a Japanese language education institution), consider taking the Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese (JFT-Basic). It is generally held monthly in 13 countries overseas and Japan, and provides immediate results after the test.
- Target
- Non-native speakers of Japanese
- Feature
- The JLPT measures comprehensive Japanese-language communicative competence through three elements: "Language Knowledge", "Reading", and "Listening".
- Level
- The JLPT has five levels, with N5 being for beginners and increasing in difficulty towards N1.
- Test Site/Months
-
- The JLPT is held twice a year, in July and December (There are countries where test is only held once, either in July or December)
※In Japan, the JLPT is run by Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES)
- Past Test Data
- The JLPT is held twice a year, in July and December (There are countries where test is only held once, either in July or December)
- Utilization of Test Results
- The JLPT is used in the following situations; application for status of residence, employment, salary and promotion, entrance examinations, recognition of various qualifications etc.
The Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese (JFT-Basic)
- Target
- Foreign nationals who are not native speakers of Japanese (mainly those who are about to reside in Japan for work)
- Feature
- Measures the level of Japanese language proficiency needed by foreign nationals about to reside in Japan mainly for work to communicate in everyday life situations. It is conducted through computer-based testing (CBT). Test results are available immediately.
- Level
- Assesses whether test-takers have reached A1, A2.1, or A2.2 (A2) under the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment (CEFR), the JF Standard for Japanese-Language Education, and the Reference Framework for Japanese Language Education.
- Test Site/Months
- 13 countries overseas and Japan / As a rule, held every month (There are some countries in which it is not held every month.)
- Utilization of Test Results
- The test can be used to apply for the status of residence of “Specified Skilled Worker (i)”, “Employment for Skill Development” and “Student” (for enrollment in a Japanese language education institution).
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