The JLPT is the standard test for Japanese proficiency. We break down what you need to know to pass each level, from N5 to N1.

The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is held twice a year (July and December). It has 5 levels.

N5 (Beginner)

• Goal: Basic survival. Hiragana, Katakana, 100 Kanji.
• Study Time: 300 - 400 hours.
• Resources: Genki I.

N4 (Basic)

• Goal: Daily conversation. 300 Kanji.
• Study Time: 600 hours.
• Resources: Genki II.
• Milestone: Minimum requirement for some visas.

N3 (Intermediate)

• Goal: Understanding everyday articles. 650 Kanji.
• Study Time: 1,000 hours.
• Resources: Tobira Gateway to Advanced Japanese.
• Milestone: The "bridge" to fluency.

N2 (Business Level)

• Goal: Working in a Japanese office. 1,000 Kanji.
• Study Time: 1,500 - 2,000 hours.
• Resources: Shin Kanzen Master series.
• Milestone: The Golden Ticket. Most companies require N2 for foreign employees.

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N1 (Native-like)

• Goal: Reading newspapers, academic papers. 2,000 Kanji.
• Study Time: 3,000+ hours.
• Milestone: Required for medical/legal jobs or top universities.

Strategy

• Don't skip N3: The jump from N4 to N2 is too huge.
• Focus on Listening: It's often the hardest section for self-learners.