Aaronsan

Your privacy choices

We use necessary cookies to keep you signed in, protect your account and remember your language. With your permission, we also measure page speed and, when an error happens, record what went wrong on the page with all text hidden, so we can fix problems faster. Nothing is used for advertising. Privacy policy

The JLPT, explained

The JLPT: levels, visas and how to pass

One exam, five levels, many doors.

The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is the world’s most widely taken Japanese exam: 1.94 million people applied in 2025. It runs twice a year, grades reading and listening from N5 to N1, and Japan’s immigration rules now name its levels. Our two guides answer the questions that follow: why take it, and how to pass it.

Last reviewed September 23, 2026

In-depth guides

Two guides, from the visa to exam day

Quick answers

The JLPT in six answers

The questions asked most often, answered in a few lines. Each links to the section that gives the detail and the source.

When is the next JLPT?

The next JLPT is on Sunday, Dec. 6, 2026. The test runs twice a year, in early July and early December, though some cities abroad hold only one session. Registration closes months before the test, often early.

Details and sources
What score do you need to pass the JLPT?

Out of 180 points, the JLPT pass mark is 80 at N5, 90 at N4, 95 at N3, 90 at N2 and 100 at N1. You also need a minimum in every section, so a good total alone is not enough.

Details and sources
How long does it take to reach each level?

The last official figures, from the pre-2010 test, are about 150 hours of study for N5, 300 for N4, 600 for N2 and 900 for N1. Learners who don’t already read kanji usually need more.

Details and sources
Does the JLPT test speaking?

No. The JLPT has no speaking and no writing section. Every question is multiple choice and tests reading or listening.

Details and sources
Which JLPT level do you need to work in Japan?

It depends on the visa. N4 is the bar for Specified Skilled Worker (i), N2 is one proof of B2 for the Business Manager visa, and N1 earns 15 points toward a Highly Skilled Professional visa. Many work visas set no level at all.

Details and sources
What CEFR level is JLPT N2?

Since December 2025, JLPT score reports show a CEFR reference level. N2 shows B2 from 112 points and B1 below that; N1 shows C1 from 142 points and B2 below that.

Details and sources
Using AaronsanThe Aaronsan guideEvery screen of the app explained, from your first session to the mock exam: daily reviews, energy, kanji writing, listening and Premium.Read the app guide

Start preparing

Pick a level. Start today.

Create a free account, choose your target level and daily time, and Aaronsan builds every session from there, all the way to the mock exam.

Create my free accountCompare plans

All of N5 is free, with no time limit.