JLPT Countdown Timer

The JLPT is held twice a year, typically on the first Sunday of July and the first Sunday of December. The upcoming test dates are July 6, 2025, December 7, 2025, July 5, 2026, and December 6, 2026. Exact dates may vary slightly by country, so always confirm with your local test site. Registration usually opens approximately 3 to 4 months before each test date.

Registration procedures vary by country. In Japan, you can register online through the official JLPT website (jlpt.jp). Outside Japan, registration is managed by local test site organizations, which may have different deadlines and procedures. Registration typically opens 3 to 4 months before the test date. You will need to choose your test level (N1 through N5) and preferred test location at the time of registration.

The JLPT has five levels ranging from N5 (beginner) to N1 (advanced). N5 tests basic Japanese comprehension including hiragana, katakana, basic kanji, and simple grammar. N4 covers elementary Japanese used in everyday situations. N3 is an intermediate level that bridges basic and advanced Japanese. N2 tests the ability to understand Japanese used in a variety of everyday and academic contexts. N1 is the most advanced level, requiring comprehension of complex and abstract Japanese.

Study time varies by level and prior experience. For N5, most learners need 3 to 6 months of consistent study. N4 typically requires 6 to 9 months total. N3 usually takes 9 to 12 months. N2 generally needs 12 to 18 months of dedicated study. N1 often requires 18 to 24 months or more. These estimates assume regular daily study of 1 to 2 hours. Your actual timeline may be shorter or longer depending on your study intensity and immersion opportunities.

The JLPT uses a scaled scoring system. For N1, the maximum score is 180 and the passing score is 100. For N2, the maximum is also 180 with a passing score of 90. N3 has a maximum of 180 and requires 95 to pass. N4 has a maximum of 180 with a passing score of 90. N5 has a maximum of 180 and requires 80 to pass. Additionally, each section (language knowledge, reading, and listening) has a minimum required score that must also be met.