13 Different Types of Japanese Language Exams in 2026

Do you want to know about various Japanese language exams to check your language ability? If so, you’re at the right place!

Today, a variety of Japanese language examinations are available. Many tests address diverse needs, skill levels, and purposes today. But with so many options, how do you choose the right one?

Most Japanese learners are familiar with only a few tests, such as the JLPT or the NAT. However, you would be surprised to know there are more than a dozen options. Some are pretty similar in format, but many differ significantly.

While not every test is appropriate for everyone, they serve a specific purpose for many learners. It depends entirely on your individual needs.

Here’s a comprehensive look at the globally most common Japanese language competence tests.

13 Most Common Japanese Language Tests
Final Words on which Japanese proficiency test to choose

13 Most Common Japanese Language Tests

I have covered 13 of the most well-known Japanese language proficiency tests recognized worldwide in this guide.

Each test is a valuable tool for assessing a learner’s knowledge of Japanese. It caters to different levels and specific skills. Before you register, check the availability of test centers and dates in your region.

I hope this ultimate guide to various Japanese language exams can help you make an informed decision.

1. Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT)

The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is the most famous test for non-native speakers. The Japan Foundation (JF) and Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES) manage it worldwide.

The JLPT offers many benefits, such as study visas, employment, and scholarships in Japan. You can also determine your current level and build a successful career. Thus, it is valuable and opens a door to many possibilities.

The JLPT was established in 1984 and assesses vocabulary, grammar, reading, and listening skills. There are no speaking or writing sections. You must get a minimum specific score in each section and an overall score to pass.

Despite its popularity, it lacks speaking and writing. This has led some to question whether it fully accounts for students’ Japanese proficiency.

The JLPT has five levels: N1 (most advanced) to N5 (beginner). N5 and N4 focus on everyday Japanese, while N3 is for intermediate skills. The advanced N2 and N1 cover complex texts and conversations.

Today, a wealth of resources is available to prepare for the JLPT. You can practice grammar and vocabulary, and take mock and past-year exams.

Many online resources exist, such as official materials, books, apps for learning Japanese free, and online teachers to help you succeed.

You also don’t need to worry about the difficulty of passing the JLPT. You can embrace this challenge; it’s more than just a test—it’s a pathway to a world of Japanese!

Test Centers and Exam Dates of JLPT

The JLPT is held twice yearly, on the first Sunday of July and December. In some regions, it is administered only once, in December.
As of 2026, they conduct the test in nearly 273 cities in 100 countries.
There are 8 JLPT test centers in India: New Delhi, Pune, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Santiniketan (WB), and Karur (TN).

2. Nihongo Achievement Test (NAT-TEST)

The Nihongo Achievement Test (NAT) is the second most well-known Japanese test after the JLPT. It checks and certifies the proficiency of non-native speakers.

More than 150,000 candidates take the test annually. The format and structure are like the JLPT.

The administration board of Senmon Kyouiku Publishing Co. manages the NAT test in Shinjuku, Tokyo. Each country that holds the test has a regional office and support to ensure the exam runs smoothly.

The NAT-Test benefits students who aim to work or study in Japan. Japanese universities and other organizations accept scores as evidence of language proficiency.

There is one more key advantage: it provides a detailed score report. This helps test takers see what they excel at and where to improve. The NAT test has no specific eligibility criteria.

The NAT test has three main parts: language knowledge and grammar, reading, and listening. Each level corresponds to a JLPT level (e.g., NAT Level Q5 corresponds to JLPT N5).

The NAT test has five levels, from Q1 to Q5. The easiest Q1 focuses on essential phrases and sentences. The most advanced Q5 requires complex vocabulary, kanji, grammar, reading, and listening comprehension.

Test Centers and Exam Dates of NAT-Test

They organize the NAT Test almost every month. Test schedules are unavailable at all centers and vary by country; consult your country-specific exam dates.
NAT test centers are in 83 cities in 16 nations: the Philippines, Vietnam, India, Japan, Thailand, Sri Lanka, China, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Myanmar, Cambodia, Nepal, and Uzbekistan.
As of 2026, there are 4 NAT-Test centers in India (New Delhi, Pune, Mumbai, and Chennai).

3. Business Japanese Proficiency Test (BJT)

The Business Japanese Proficiency Test (BJT) measures your Japanese skills in the workplace. Many government-approved institutions in Japan support this exam.

Unlike the JLPT, which tests general Japanese, BJT is for the language used in business situations. As a result, it makes an excellent option for anyone who wants to work in Japan or with Japanese companies.

The BJT scoring system uses a scale of 0 to 800 points. The six-level ranking system, from highest to lowest, is J1+, J1, J2, J3, J4, and J5. It comprises three parts: listening, reading, and combined listening and reading.

This is a CBT (computer-based test). Once you have taken it, you cannot retake it for the next three months. The good news is that you can apply and take the test any day that suits you.

The exam covers vocabulary, grammar, professional etiquette, complex communication skills, and document interpretation. You will also be familiar with meetings, negotiations, presentations, emails, and business correspondence.

BJT helps you learn more about Japanese business culture and customs. It is valuable for companies to assess how well qualified candidates perform in a business setting, without relying on JLPT scores.

The examination fee is JPY 7,000 in Japan. The cost varies across countries, depending on the test location.

Test Centers and Exam Dates of BJT Test

You can apply and take any test date that is convenient for you.
More than 100 exam centers are located in 20 countries: Japan, China, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Myanmar, England, the USA, India, Australia, Singapore, Mexico, Brazil, France, Germany, and Italy.
As of 2026, there are 4 BJT exam centers in India (New Delhi, Pune, Chennai, and Mumbai).

4. Japanese Test (J-Test)

The J-Test, also known as the Japanese test, started in 1991. It measures the extent to which non-native speakers can use Japanese in practical situations.

The listening component of this test is a valuable measure of effective language skills. The exam assesses practical skills in Japanese.

J-Test helps you understand your current language skills and plan for your future goals. Many Japanese school students, company staff, and Japanese embassies in Japan use it for this purpose.

The J-Test has three broad levels: Basic (E-F), Intermediate (A-D), and Advanced (A-D). Each level checks writing (vocabulary and grammar), reading, and listening comprehension. Overall, it focuses on practical communication.

Your score decides your level out of a maximum of 1,000 marks. It ranges from beginner (250-499), intermediate (500-799), to advanced (800-1,000). Candidates will fail if they score less than 250.

The questions are primarily multiple-choice and include a listening area. You will get a detailed score report showing strengths and weaknesses.

Test Centers and Exam Dates of J-Test

They meet 6 times per year: January, March, May, July, September, and November. In some places, it occurs only three times a year.
Test centers are in Japan, China, Taiwan, Nepal, Vietnam, Mongolia, South Korea, Brazil, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Laos.
There is no test center in India.

5. Nihongo Kentei

Most Japanese language learners outside Japan may not be familiar with the Nihongo Kentei test. This is because the test was designed solely for native Japanese speakers.

As you’d expect, the difficulty level of Nihongo Kentei is much higher than that of other Japanese tests, such as JLPT or NAT. Nihongo Kentei Iinkai administers this exam twice yearly (in June and November), only in Japan.

This test has a wide range of topics and covers unique aspects of the Japanese language. It includes six types of questions:

Keigo (敬語けいご) — Honorifics
Bunpō (文法ぶんぽう) — Grammar
Kanji (漢字かんじ) — Characters
Goi (語彙ごい) — Vocabulary
Hyōki (表記ひょうき) — Expressions
Kotoba no imi (言葉ことばの意味いみ) — Definitions

The questions target challenging features of Japanese, such as honorifics, complex grammar, advanced Kanji, and extensive vocabulary.

Unlike the JLPT’s MCQ format, the Nihongo Kentei uses written answers. That is because it targets native speakers, so levels are more complex. The test does not include listening and speaking sections.

Anyone from school-going students to working professionals can take this test if they are native speakers. It benefits those aiming to master advanced forms such as Keigo.

Most foreign learners of Japanese attempt the JLPT at some point, but most Japanese people never take the Nihongo Kentei. Approximately 300,000 test takers annually constitute a small fraction of Japan’s 125 million population.

Passing a certain level of Nihongo Kentei can be helpful in some cases. Some educational institutions offer academic credits for it. You can also get bonus points for a job requiring good Japanese language mastery.

The test has seven levels. The highest level, 1, is for professionals. Levels 2 to 7 are for university and school students. The test lasts 60 minutes for levels 1, 2, and 3 and 50 minutes for levels 4, 5, 6, and 7.

To reach certain levels of Nihongo Kentei, you need to have higher scores and pass all categories. The fee varies from 6,800 ¥ for grade 1 to 2,200 ¥ for grade 7.

Test Centers and Exam Dates of Nihongo Kentei

The test is held twice a year, in June and November.
You can sit only for the Nihongo Kentei in Japan, which is intended only for native Japanese speakers. There are 47 test centers in Japan.

6. Examination for Japanese University (EJU)

The Japanese University Admission (EJU) is a standard Japanese exam for non-Japanese students. It is for international students seeking to apply to undergraduate or graduate programs at Japanese universities.

EJU was created in 2002 as a replacement for the JLPT. Today, the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) manages this exam on behalf of the government of Japan.

First, international students must check if academic institutions in Japan use EJU for applications. Then, candidates take the exam for the required subjects. Finally, JASSO sends a score report to the concerned institution.

This exam has two parts: (i) Reading & listening and listening & reading comprehension, and (ii) writing. Test duration is 125 minutes for language and 80 minutes for Science, Maths, and Japan & the World papers.

On the official EJU websites, you can download or check past exam questions and sample answers. You can also register online for the next test before the deadline.

Test Centers and Exam Dates of EJU

JASSO conducts the EJU exam twice a year. Both dates fall on the same Sunday in June and November. The exact date may vary in other regions.
There are more than 30 EJU test centers in Japan and in 13 other countries (Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam).
There is also a center in New Delhi, India.

7. Japanese Proficiency Test (JPT)

The Japanese Proficiency Test (JPT) is another exam for non-native speakers. Don’t get confused with the JLPT examination.

The Immigration Services Agency of the Ministry of Justice, on behalf of the government of Japan, uses JPT as a residence exam.

Like the English test, the TOEIC, and the JPT have 100 listening and 100 reading comprehension questions. This is the same across beginner and advanced levels.

This computer-based test has only MCQs. It assesses your Japanese proficiency and indicates whether you meet at least A1 or A2, similar to the CEFR.

Since this isn’t a level test, there is no pass/fail. You can score anything on a scale of 10 to 990. The scale ranges from 5 to 495 for reading and listening, with each question worth 5 points.

A statistical process called “equating” calculates this scaled score, which is 990 points. A recent survey indicates that a JPT score of 370 or higher corresponds to at least CEFR A2.

Candidates may take the JPT 12 times per year. That’s right, they conduct the examination every month. You can register 1-2 months in advance and receive the result 1 month after the test date.

There is also a “JPT Elementary” for beginner-level learners, such as the JLPT N4 and N5. It covers listening and reading for 40 questions, each lasting 25 minutes. You can score a maximum of 100 in each one, totaling 200.

Test results vary by country; consult your local testing center. To get the latest information, visit the website in your country or the nearest test center.

Test Centers and Exam Dates of JPT

JASSO conducts EJU twice a year on Sundays in June and November. The exact date may vary in other regions.
Japan has five test centers (Tokyo, Osaka, Aichi, Fukuoka, and Okayama). Some centers are located in Asian countries, including China, South Korea, Taiwan, Nepal, Cambodia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Bangladesh.
There is no JPT test center in India.

8. Test of Practical Japanese (TOPJ)

The Asia International Exchange Scholarship Foundation oversees the Test of Practical Japanese (TOPJ). This highly reputed global Japanese exam is widely recognized in Japan and globally.

Experts and educators in Japanese language education from Japan and abroad have developed the TOPJ. One of its standout features is its practical approach.

TOPJ goes beyond vocabulary, phrases, grammar rules, and sentence structure. It also explores Japan’s rich customs and culture and how people interact daily and in various work situations.

As a result, it establishes a solid foundation in Japanese and adapts to Japanese society. It aids individuals, particularly foreigners, who plan to live, work, or study in Japan.

TOPJ has three broad levels: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. The test lasts 90 to 120 minutes. Each level has a maximum of 500 points; you need at least 140/500 to qualify for a certificate.

TOPJ tests four key areas: grammar, reading, listening, and cultural understanding of Japan. As with the JLPT, the results will serve as valid evidence of language proficiency when applying to study in Japan.

The Beginner A allows you to study Japanese at an educational institution in Japan. Likewise, Advanced level A means you are aware of Japanese society and qualify you to work as a Japanese interpreter.

Test Centers and Exam Dates of TOPJ

They conduct the exam six times yearly in January, March, May, July, September, and November.
As of 2026, there are seven testing centers in Japan (Tokyo, Chiba, Kanagawa, Kyoto, Osaka, Fukuoka, and Okinawa). Many centers exist in Indonesia, Japan, China, Taiwan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Vietnam, Myanmar, and Bangladesh.
TOPJ tests are unavailable in India.

9. Japanese Computerized Adaptive Test (J-CAT)

The Japanese Computerized Adaptive Test (J-CAT) is an online Japanese exam. It is a fast and reliable way to assess your current skills. That is why many self-learners, students, and professionals favor it.

Unlike regular tests with fixed questions, the J-CAT adjusts the difficulty based on your answers. Hence, it provides more personal experience and enables you to quickly and accurately assess your language skills.

The J-CAT tests four main areas: listening, grammar, vocabulary, and reading. The maximum score is 400 points, with each section contributing to the total.

You can practice grammar, boost your word list, and hone your listening skills to ace the J-CAT. There are many authentic Japanese study materials, like Japanese language flashcards, apps, textbooks, and podcasts to study Japanese.

You can try answering sample J-CAT questions. On the official website of J-CAT, you can find mock tests and sample papers for practice.

A post-test report pinpoints your strengths and weaknesses, guiding your future studies. Thus, it can help you focus on what you must work on and develop an effective study plan to achieve your goal.

Test Centers and Exam Dates of J-CAT

Since the J-CAT is 100% online, you can take the test anywhere and at any time with internet access.

10. Japanese Language Capability Test (JLCT)

The Japanese Language Capability Test (JLCT) is another Japanese test. Any non-native speakers and Japanese learners can take this test.

The Immigration Service Agency recognizes JLCT as proof of Japanese-language proficiency for admission to Japanese institutions.

There are five levels: JCT5 (Beginner), JCT4 (Pre-Intermediate), JCT3 (Pre-Intermediate), JCT2 (Pre-Advanced), and JCT1 (Advanced).

There’s a simple correlation between JLCT, CEFR, and JLPT levels. For example, JCT1 is like N1, C1, JCT2 = N2, B2, JCT3 = N3, B1, JCT4 = N4, A2, and JCT5 = N5 and A1.

The JLCT is a paper-based test (PBT) with a multiple-choice exam using a mark sheet. The questions are practical and valuable for real-world use.

Each level has two or three sections (vocabulary, grammar, reading, and listening comprehension). The number of questions and test duration vary by level.

Your pass/fail status depends on your total and section scores. For example, you need 40 points to pass the JCT5 exam, with 10 points each for grammar and reading and 8 for listening.

The Office of Healthcare Policy of Japan’s Cabinet Secretariat also approves the Nursing Care JLCT. This test checks nursing communication skills at the program’s N3 level.

The Nursing Care JLCT Test comprises three sections: characters (Hiragana, Katakana, and vocabulary), conversations and phrases, and reading and listening comprehension.

Test Centers and Exam Dates of JLCT

They conduct JLCT 6 times a year in January, March, May, July, September, and November.
As of 2026, there are over 20 JLCT test centers in Japan, China, Indonesia, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar, Pakistan, the UAE, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Egypt, the Philippines, and Malaysia.
They offer JLCT for Nursing Care three times per year: March, July, and November. Exam centers are in Japan, China, Nepal, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka.
There is no JLCT test center in India.

11. Standard Test for Business Japanese (STBJ)

The Standard Test for Business Japanese (STBJ) assesses business Japanese skills starting at a basic level. It’s worthwhile for job seekers targeting Japanese companies and for students hoping to study in Japan.

The International Education and Cooperation Promotion Association manages STBJ. The test, which began in 2007, is administered to employees of a Japanese company.

The STBJ syllabus covers business-related vocabulary, sentences, and grammar. As a result, it suits those who want to improve their Japanese skills in the workplace, trade, and business.

The Immigration Services Agency recognizes this test as evidence of Japanese-language proficiency for admission to Japanese-language learning centers. According to Japanese institutions, a score of 350 or higher corresponds to CEFR A2.

The STBJ test comprises seven parts: two types of listening comprehension, two types of reading and listening, speech, reading, and vocabulary. There are 60 questions in total.

STBJ level scale from 0 to 1000. You get BJ5 for 0 to 249, BJ4 for 250 to 449, BJ3 for 450 to 649, BJ2 for 650 to 849, and BJ1 for 850 to 1000.

These levels also align with CEFR A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and JLPT N5, N4, N3, N2, and N1.

Test Centers and Exam Dates of STBJ

They conduct JLCT 6 times a year in February, April, June, August, October, and December.
You can sit for the STBJ test 2026 in Japan, China, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam. Japanese language institutions also take in Taiwan, South Korea, and Thailand.
There is no STBJ test center in India.

12. Kanji Kentei (Kanken)

The Kanji Kentei, also known as Japanese Kanji Proficiency, measures one’s knowledge of the character kanji.

The Japan Kanji Aptitude Test is conducted. There are two options: individual and group tests. Instead of taking a paper exam, you can also take a CBT (computer-based test) at the nearest authorized test center.

It assesses kanji reading and writing, as well as their meanings. You understand how to use sentences accurately and correct stroke order.

The test comprises 10 levels, with level 10 being the easiest and level 1 the most difficult. They added two extra levels, pre-2 and pre-1.

The test duration is 40 minutes for levels 8–10 and 60 minutes for levels 1–7. You need at least 70% to pass levels 7 to pre-2 and 80% for levels 10, 9, 8, 2, pre-1, and 1.

Levels 10 through 4 are mainly for children up to age 12. High school students and adults typically take levels 3 and above. Level 2 is for higher-education degrees and for those seeking jobs that require Japanese.

Level 1 and pre-1 are the most difficult ones to crack. Even native Japanese language speakers rarely pass these two challenging levels.

Only those who aced the Kanken exam receive this special certificate. This benefits students who aim to apply to some academic bodies.

Test Centers and Exam Dates of Kanji Kentei

They operate the Kanji Kentei test 3 times a year in February, June, and October. The date and start time vary by venue.
There are 47 locations in Japan. They also organize in Australia, Canada, the USA, France, South Korea, Germany, and Thailand.
There is no JLCT Kanji Kentei exam center in India.

13. Japan Foundation Test for Basic (JFT-Basic)

The Japan Foundation offers JFT-Basic for non-native speakers of Japanese.

The test assesses competence according to the CEFRL and the JF Standard for Japanese Language Education. JFT-Basic also helps to get the residency status of “Specified Skilled Worker.”

The JFT-Basic test assesses Japanese proficiency in everyday situations. It helps determine whether someone can engage in routine conversations and manage daily life without difficulty.

This is Computer-Based Testing (CBT). You can answer on computers based on what you see on the screen and hear through headphones. You may take the test only at official test centers in each country.

This test has four sections: script and vocabulary, conversation and expression, and reading and listening comprehension. You can download the material to prepare for the JFT-Basic test.

If you score 200 or more out of 250, you will earn a certification equal to the A2 level. There are no level divisions for this test. You can get the result on the same day after the exam.

Test Centers and Exam Dates of JFT-Basic

They conduct the JFT-Basic several times a month. You can check the upcoming test schedule to register.
Japan has 13 test centers, and 35 centers are in India, Indonesia, Nepal, the Philippines, Mongolia, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, and Uzbekistan.
3 exam centers are in India (Gurgaon, Bengaluru, and Guwahati).

Final Words on which Japanese proficiency test to choose

No matter your level and intent, there is a Japanese language test for you. With several Japanese tests available, picking the right one can be overwhelming.

Before you choose which one to take, consider your current level and learning goal. You may have a specific area of focus, like business, culture, or university studies.

The test’s acceptance and the availability of test centers in your country can also help you decide. You should also see how often they conduct a particular test and its cost.

Each test has unique strengths and drawbacks, so review your plans and needs. Whether you aim for academic success, daily interactions, or jobs demanding Japanese, a Japanese exam is tailored to your requirements.

While the JLPT and NAT are popular, others are valuable as well, depending on your purpose.

For example, BJT is for business contexts, whereas TOPJ centers on cultural understanding and language. Then, you have Kanji Kentei to immerse yourself in Kanji characters and JFT for basic Japanese.

Once you decide, check the test structure, exam centers, and dates. Then, practice regularly with the test format and content. Concentrated study is the key to success in these exams.

Do you know of any other Japanese language tests I may have missed? Please share your thoughts in the comment section below. Happy studying, and good luck!

A Guide to 13 Most Popular Japanese Language Exams

Table of Contents

13 Most Common Japanese Language Tests