The Japanese Language Proficiency Test or JLPT is one of the best ways you can test your language skills, especially if you are studying abroad and have less access to daily Japanese. One of the best things I did while studying Japanese in the US, was to sign up for the JLPT every year. That way, I could track my progress, and have that extra motivation to study!
If you’re considering enrolling in a Japanese university or seeking employment at a Japanese company, the JLPT is an important exam you should think about taking. Although there are other ways to gauge Japanese language proficiency, the JLPT remains a prominent and widely recognized assessment tool.
There is an abundance of resources tailored for Japanese learners preparing for the JLPT, including courses, books, websites, and apps. So, if you’re interested in studying or working in Japan or simply wish to evaluate your Japanese language skills, you’ve found the right source. In this guide, we will explore the JLPT, its structure, and how to prepare for the exam. Additionally, we’ll share valuable resources to support your preparation efforts.
Let’s dive in!
What is the JLPT?
The 日本語能力試験 (nihongo noryoku shiken), or JLPT, is a standardized exam designed to evaluate and certify Japanese language proficiency among non-native speakers. Established in 1984 by the Japan Foundation and Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES), the JLPT has grown to become the largest and most comprehensive Japanese language test worldwide, with over a million students taking it in 2018.
Why is it important?
The primary aim of the JLPT is to assess the Japanese language proficiency of non-native speakers. The test has gained increasing importance in recent years, as many companies and universities have made it a requirement for hiring or admitting international candidates. Some students take the JLPT for reasons other than working or studying in Japan, as it allows them to evaluate their progress and test their knowledge. However, most agree that the JLPT is not the optimal tool for measuring language proficiency, as it does not assess all communication skills.
Where can I take the exam?
The JLPT is administered twice a year (July and December) worldwide, except in a few countries where it is only held once a year. To register, you must sign up at the Japanese language institution in your country responsible for organizing and conducting the JLPT. If you’re unsure where to take the test, consult the list on the official JLPT website. The institution overseeing the exam in your country will provide information about registration deadlines and dates. Typically, registration for the July session begins in March, and registration for the December session starts in September, but it’s always wise to confirm. There is a fee for taking the JLPT, which varies depending on the country.
The JLPT: Structure and Levels
The JLPT has five levels, ranging from N5 (beginner level) to N1 (the most advanced). You may take any level you prefer, without needing to pass a lower-level exam first. The complexity of each level varies, with N5 covering basic vocabulary, grammar, listening comprehension exercises, and simple conversations, while N1 assesses advanced knowledge of Japanese in various situations and settings.
How to prepare for the JLPT
Preparing for the JLPT involves tackling different sections of the exam individually. Creating a study plan will help you manage your time effectively and ensure you cover all the essential areas. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the JLPT:
Enhance Your Vocabulary
Expanding your vocabulary is crucial for JLPT success. There are a lot of unofficial vocabulary lists online for each level to familiarize yourself with, however, none of these lists are concrete. So make sure to incorporate as many new words as you can into your daily language use. Practice using flashcards or apps like Anki to memorize new terms and reinforce your learning.
Master Kanji
Don’t let the kanji scare you! Kanji is an integral part of the Japanese language, and it’s essential to learn the necessary characters for your JLPT level. But it doesn’t have to be daunting. Begin with the basics and progressively build your knowledge as you move through the levels. Learn kanji radicals and focus on how each part of a kanji can give you hints about pronunciation and meaning.
Approach Grammar Effectively
Grammar is a vital aspect of any language, and Japanese is no exception. If you think of vocabulary like puzzle pieces, grammar is how you put them together. Take the time to learn and practice essential grammar structures for your JLPT level. Resources like Bunpo, JapaneseTest4You, and A Dictionary of Basic/Intermediate/Advanced Japanese Grammar are excellent tools to help you study grammar.
Read with Intent
Reading comprehension is an important skill to develop for the JLPT. For most test-takers, the JLPT will be the first time they sit down to read Japanese texts for two hours or more. Don’t let this be you! Get a lot of reading practice so you can be more comfortable when you take the test. Choose reading materials suited to your level and read them regularly. Pay close attention to sentence structures and new vocabulary words. Websites like NHK News Web Easy, Satori Reader, and TangoRisto can provide engaging and level-appropriate reading materials.
Hone Your Listening Skills
Listening comprehension is another key aspect of the JLPT, and one most people overlook. If you are not currently in Japan this can be one of the trickier aspects of the test. Make sure you incorporate listening practice into your study routine. Resources like Nihongo con Teppei, JapanesePod101, and JLPT listening practice tests are great for improving your listening skills.
Websites and Apps
Websites:
JLPT Sensei: This is a comprehensive website offering a range of study materials, such as vocabulary lists, grammar guides, reading comprehension exercises, and practice tests for all levels of the JLPT. You can also find blog posts with study tips and insights into Japanese culture.
Japanesetest4you: This website offers a lot of practice exercises for grammar, vocabulary, kanji, listening and reading, all divided per JLPT level. They also have mock exams which can help you to prepare for the actual test.
Apps:
Bunpo: This app provides interactive grammar exercises and detailed explanations, which can be very helpful for studying Japanese. The lessons are organized by JLPT level, making it easy to focus your study on the content relevant for the level you’re preparing for.
Anki: While not specifically designed for the JLPT, Anki is an excellent flashcard app that can help you remember vocabulary, kanji, and grammar points. You can find pre-made JLPT decks or make your own according to your study needs.
Please note that these resources should be used as part of a broader study plan that includes practice with listening, speaking, and writing, as well as studying vocabulary and grammar.
JLPT Textbooks and Resources
As you prepare for the JLPT, it’s crucial to utilize resources designed specifically for the test. We have gone over some great online sites and apps, but here are some recommendations for more structured books to help you with your studies:
Textbooks
- Genki (beginner level)
- Minna no Nihongo (beginner to intermediate)
- Tobira: Gateway to Advanced Japanese (intermediate level)
- New Kanzen Master (all levels)
- Sou Matome (all levels)
JLPT Exam Experience Stories
Test-takers’ Experiences and Advice
As someone who has taken the JLPT multiple times, the absolute best advice I can give you is to read as much as possible. Of course, practicing grammar, kanji, and listening are all incredibly important, but reading is the skill that encompasses the largest portion of the test. When you sit down to take the exam, you will essentially be reading in Japanese for over two hours. If you get used to reading in Japanese, this will be simple for you, and you won’t get tired or frustrated as you move through the sections. Not only that, but reading helps you reinforce all the aspects you have been studying, it allows you to perfect that grammar, review the kanji, and make sure you can understand sentences as a whole. So find some good articles, short stories, or even practice tests, and get reading to brush up on all your skills before you take the JLPT.
Preparing for the JLPT can be challenging, but with dedication and the right resources, you can achieve the level you want. Remember to stay consistent in your studies, make use of various resources, and focus on your weak areas. Most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy the learning process! Good luck on your JLPT journey!
