Japanese-Language Proficiency Test

Japanese-Language Proficiency Test
AcronymJLPT
TypeLanguage proficiency test
Year started1984
LanguagesJapanese
Websitewww.jlpt.jp

The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (日本語能力試験, Nihongo Nōryoku Shiken), or JLPT, is a standardized criterion-referenced test to evaluate and certify Japanese language proficiency for non-native speakers, covering language knowledge, reading ability, and listening ability.[1] The test is held twice a year in Japan and selected countries (on the first Sunday of July and December), and once a year in other regions (either on the first Sunday of December or July depending on region).[2] The JLPT is conducted by the Japan Foundation for tests overseas (with cooperation of local host institutions), and Japan Educational Exchanges and Services for tests in Japan.[3]

The JLPT consists of five independent levels of certification, with 5 the lowest and 1 the highest.[4] Until 2009, the test had four levels of certification.[5] JLPT certificates do not expire or become invalid over time.[6]

  1. ^ "Objectives and History". Japan Foundation. Retrieved June 20, 2011.
  2. ^ "List of Overseas Test Sites, JLPT page". Japan Foundation. Retrieved January 14, 2012.
  3. ^ "FAQ |JLPT Japanese-Language Proficiency Test". jlpt.jp. Retrieved 2023-02-11.
  4. ^ "N1-N5: Summary of Linguistic Competence Required for Each Level". Japan Foundation. Retrieved November 26, 2012.
  5. ^ "Comparison of with Old Tests - JLPT Japanese-Language Proficiency Test". Archived from the original on 29 April 2013. Retrieved 2 May 2015.
  6. ^ "FAQ -JLPT Japanese-Language Proficiency Test". Retrieved 2 May 2015.