The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) and My Japanese

 

The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) and My Japanese

Researched by Janpha Thadphoothon

I know a little Japanese and took a few Japanese courses many years ago. However, I have forgotten most of what I learned. I believe I reached the 3rd level of the Japanese proficiency test (Noryoku Shiken). I would like to refresh my Japanese skills and knowledge through some review and research—both for my own benefit and perhaps to help others learning the language. Please note that the text below is partially AI-assisted.

The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) or 日本語能力試験（JLPT）is a standardized test that assesses non-native speakers' proficiency in Japanese. It is divided into five levels (N5 to N1), with N5 being the easiest and N1 being the most difficult. [試験は5つのレベル（N5からN1）に分かれており、N5が最も簡単で、N1が最も難しいです。] The test evaluates reading, listening, vocabulary, and grammar skills but does not include a speaking component.

1. JLPT Levels and Competencies

JLPT Level	Proficiency Level	Expected Skills
N5 (Beginner)	Basic understanding of simple phrases and daily expressions	Can read hiragana, katakana, and basic kanji. Can understand short sentences about familiar topics.
N4 (Elementary)	Basic conversational skills in daily life	Can read and understand basic texts. Can understand slow, clear spoken Japanese.
N3 (Intermediate)	Able to understand everyday conversations and some news reports	Can read general articles and grasp important points. Can understand spoken conversations at normal speed.
N2 (Upper-Intermediate)	Comfortable with work-related and academic Japanese	Can read complex texts. Can comprehend TV programs and discussions.
N1 (Advanced)	Fluent in professional and academic Japanese	Can read editorials, literary works, and academic texts. Can understand complex spoken discourse.

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2. JLPT Test Structure and Question Types

Each level consists of different sections:

(1) Vocabulary & Grammar Section

✅ Example (N5 - Basic Vocabulary)
📌 What is the correct reading for this kanji?
日曜日
(A) にちようび (B) げつようび (C) きんようび

✅ Example (N2 - Complex Grammar)
📌 Choose the best phrase to complete the sentence:
彼は会議に（　　）ながら、スマホを見ていた。
(A) 参加する (B) 参加し (C) 参加している

📌 Rubric (N2 Grammar Scoring Criteria)

Criteria	Score	Description
Correct Usage	5	Uses correct verb form and structure
Partially Correct	3	Some errors but meaning is understandable
Incorrect	0	Incorrect word choice or grammar

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(2) Reading Comprehension Section

✅ Example (N3 - Mid-Level Reading)
📌 Read the passage and answer the question:

「最近はネットショッピングをする人が増えています。特に若い人は買い物に行く時間がないため、ネットで買うことが多いです。」

Q: Why do young people prefer online shopping?
(A) They do not like physical stores.
(B) They have no time to go shopping.
(C) They do not trust online stores.

📌 Rubric (N3 Reading Comprehension Scoring)

Criteria	Score	Description
Correct Answer	5	Clear understanding of the passage
Partially Correct	3	Some understanding but slightly off-topic
Incorrect	0	Incorrect or no response

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(3) Listening Section

✅ Example (N1 - Advanced Listening)
📌 Listen to the dialogue and answer the question:

👂 (Audio: A business meeting discussing market expansion)
Q: What is the main point of the speaker’s argument?
(A) The company should enter a new market.
(B) The company should focus on existing customers.
(C) The company should change its marketing strategy.

📌 Rubric (N1 Listening Scoring Criteria)

Criteria	Score	Description
Full Comprehension	5	Understands key points and details
Partial Understanding	3	Misses some information but gets general idea
Incorrect Answer	0	Misinterprets or does not answer correctly

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3. Scoring and Passing Criteria

Each level has a total score of 180 points. To pass, you must meet both the total score requirement and the sectional minimum score.

JLPT Level	Total Passing Score	Minimum Score Per Section
N5	80/180	19/60
N4	90/180	19/60
N3	95/180	19/60
N2	90/180	19/60
N1	100/180	19/60

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4. Key Takeaways for JLPT Test-Takers

1. Focus on vocabulary and kanji – Higher levels require a large vocabulary.
2. Practice listening regularly – JLPT does not allow note-taking during listening tests.
3. Master reading speed – Higher levels require quick comprehension of complex texts.
4. Familiarize yourself with test formats – The more you practice with past JLPT papers, the better your performance.

The phrase "Applicants must pass JLPT N2 or an equivalent proficiency test" means that:

1. JLPT N2 Requirement – Applicants need to pass the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) at level N2, which indicates an upper-intermediate level of Japanese. This means they can:

   • Understand complex written texts on everyday and work-related topics.
   • Follow spoken Japanese at normal speed, including TV programs and discussions.
   • Use advanced grammar and vocabulary correctly in professional or academic settings.

2. Equivalent Proficiency Test – If applicants have not taken the JLPT N2, they can demonstrate their proficiency through another recognized test that measures Japanese skills at the same level as JLPT N2. Examples of equivalent tests may include:

   • Business Japanese Proficiency Test (BJT) – Score J2 or higher
   • TOPJ (Test of Practical Japanese) – Intermediate level
   • University Placement Tests that assess the same level of language skills

In summary, this requirement ensures that applicants have sufficient Japanese skills to function in work or academic environments where Japanese is the primary language.

The phrase "The minimum Japanese language requirement is JLPT N4" means that applicants must have at least a basic-intermediate level of Japanese, as measured by the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) at level N4.

What JLPT N4 Means:

JLPT N4 is the second-lowest level of the five-level JLPT system (N5 to N1, with N1 being the highest). A person with N4 proficiency can:

• Understand basic daily conversations in Japanese.
• Read and comprehend simple sentences written in hiragana, katakana, and basic kanji.
• Listen and understand slow, clear speech about familiar topics, such as shopping, travel, and work.

Why JLPT N4 Is Required

Since N4 represents a functional understanding of basic Japanese, it ensures that applicants can:

• Communicate in simple conversations with native speakers.
• Understand basic instructions in work or study settings.
• Read essential information, such as signs, notices, and short written messages.

This level is often required for jobs or programs where basic Japanese communication is necessary, but advanced skills are not yet needed.

The JLPT is essential for non-native speakers who want to study, work, or live in Japan. Each level assesses different aspects of Japanese proficiency, and test-takers must demonstrate strong reading, listening, and comprehension skills to succeed.

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Watashi no Nihongo: My Japanese Language Journey

Anyone studying Japanese wants to know their proficiency level at some point. One way to assess it is by taking a test. In Japanese, a test is called shiken (試験).

• To take a test: 試験を受ける (shiken o ukeru)
• To pass a test: 試験に合格する (shiken ni goukaku suru)

For example:

• 来週、日本語能力試験を受けます。(Raishuu, Nihongo Nouryoku Shiken o ukemasu.) – “Next week, I will take the Japanese Proficiency Test.”
• 彼は試験に合格しました。(Kare wa shiken ni goukaku shimashita.) – “He passed the test.”

I remember my Japanese teacher always urging us to study hard. The word for “study” in Japanese is benkyou suru (勉強する).

• To read a book: 本を読む (hon o yomu)
• To do homework: 宿題をする (shukudai o suru)
• To do exercises: 運動する (undou suru) or 練習する (renshuu suru), depending on the context.

Instead of “ganbatte suru” (頑張ってする), which isn’t commonly used, Japanese people say ganbatte ne (頑張ってね) to encourage someone to do their best.

My Journey Learning Japanese

Learning a new language is both exciting and challenging. Mastering a foreign language requires patience, dedication, and, most importantly, the right learning environment. Looking back, my journey of learning Japanese in Bangkok in 1995 was a defining experience in my life—one worth sharing.

Consistency is key when learning a new language. Many say immersion is the best way to improve, and I couldn’t agree more. Despite having a full-time job, I was determined to study Japanese. I enrolled in evening courses at the Thai-Nichi Institute of Technology (สมาคมส่งเสริมเทคโนโลยี (ไทย-ญี่ปุ่น)) on Sukhumvit Road. This institution has long been known as one of the best places to study Japanese in Thailand, and I can confirm that the teaching quality was exceptional.

I attended classes twice a week in the evenings, juggling work and studies. It wasn’t easy, but motivation pushed me through. Experts say motivation is crucial in language acquisition, and I experienced that firsthand. Fascinated by Japanese culture, I set my sights on passing the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) Level 3.

The Challenge of Learning Japanese

Learning a language requires consistent practice. My classes were intensive, covering grammar, vocabulary, listening, and speaking. Kanji, in particular, was a major challenge. Many say kanji is one of the biggest hurdles for learners, and I completely agree. However, perseverance makes all the difference. I spent countless hours practicing writing characters, memorizing meanings, and learning proper readings.

Studying with a group made the journey more enjoyable. My classmates and I supported one another, practicing conversations and helping with homework. Having study partners can accelerate learning. The teachers at the institute were incredibly patient and supportive. They urged us to study hard, often reminding us:

• “Study” – benkyou suru (勉強する)
• “Read books” – hon o yomu (本を読む)
• “Do homework” – shukudai o suru (宿題をする)
• “Practice exercises” – renshuu suru (練習する)

One of my fondest memories was my teacher’s constant encouragement. She would often say, “Ganbatte ne!” (頑張ってね)—"Do your best!" Simple words, but they made a huge difference when tackling difficult subjects.

Preparing for the JLPT

Effective language learning requires a clear goal. Mine was to pass JLPT Level 3. I dedicated extra time outside class to reviewing materials, listening to Japanese audio recordings, and watching Japanese TV programs. Many say watching foreign media helps with language acquisition, and I found that to be true. Even though I didn’t understand everything at first, my listening skills gradually improved.

The JLPT exam was no easy feat. I was quite nervous on exam day. Standardized tests can be stressful, but preparation is key. The test covered reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and listening. My consistent effort paid off—I passed. Seeing the results was an immensely rewarding moment.

A Lifelong Journey

Looking back, learning Japanese was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It wasn’t just about passing an exam—it was about discipline, commitment, and expanding my horizons. In my opinion, anyone who wants to learn Japanese (or any language) should:

1. Find a supportive learning environment
2. Set clear goals
3. Stay persistent

Language learning is a lifelong journey. Though I’ve forgotten some of what I learned, I still hold a deep appreciation for the Japanese language and culture. My experience studying Japanese in Bangkok remains a cherished memory, and I hope my story inspires others on their own language-learning journey.

Ganbatte ne! 頑張ってね！