Japanese-Language Proficiency Test

日本語能力試験 · Nihongo Nōryoku Shiken

The JLPT is a standardized test to evaluate Japanese language proficiency for non-native speakers, covering reading and listening comprehension. It does not test speaking or writing. Established in 1984 by the Japan Foundation, it reached a record 1.47 million examinees in 2024 across 87+ countries. Certificates do not expire.

Estimated Study Hours

Total hours needed to reach each level (not cumulative)

Without Kanji knowledge Learners without prior knowledge of Chinese characters

With Kanji knowledge Learners from countries using Chinese characters (e.g. China, Taiwan, Korea)

Click the chart to calculate time to next level

Level Details

Test structure, pass marks, and pass rates for each level

CEFR Equivalency

Correspondence of JLPT score ranges to the Common European Framework

Recognition in Japan

How JLPT levels are used for immigration, employment, and education

Test Taker Growth

Annual examinees worldwide, 2011–2024

Preparing for the Test

Resources to help you practice and improve your Japanese

Logrio

A language learning platform for daily writing practice through diary entries, with AI-powered grammar feedback, vocabulary tools, and progress tracking.

logrio.com