How well do you know the Japanese language?
If you have been studying for a while, you may want to prove your language proficiency at one point. If so, take the Japanese NAT-TEST to find your exact level. In the end, you will get an international certificate.
How is this different from the JLPT? Is there any benefit? How do I apply? What are the test centers, dates, cost, question format, and exam structure? How do I prepare?
Here is all the information you need about the Japanese NAT test. So let’s get started!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Japanese Language NAT TEST
- Why take the NAT test?
- All About Nihongo Achievement Test?
- How to Apply?
- How to prepare?
- Should you take the Japanese NAT exam?
Japanese Language NAT TEST
The Nihongo Achievement Test (NAT-TEST) is a criterion-referenced exam. They designed the test to check and certify the Japanese language proficiency of non-native speakers.
This started in 1989 in Japan and other nations like China, Taiwan, and South Korea. But, in 2007, they changed the name to NAT test.
NAT is the second most popular Japanese language test globally. It is offered in over 50 cities in 16 Asian countries.
This test has 5 difficulty levels (Q1 to Q5) and measures the candidate’s ability in vocabulary and grammar, reading, and listening comprehension.
Each year, over 150,000 candidates take the test in various testing centers.
Who conducts this exam?
The Senmon Kyouiku Publishing Co. administration board manages the NAT test in Shinjuku, Tokyo.
Each country that conducts the test has a regional office. They provide support and technical help to ensure the exam runs smoothly.
They have a “Fairness Code” and “Code of Honor” to ensure everyone involved in the test is unbiased and genuine. This maintains the credibility and prestige of the exam.
Why take the NAT test?
There are many benefits to taking the Japanese NAT test.
First, the score helps apply for student visas or admission requirements in Japan. This includes schools, vocational institutions, language schools, colleges, and universities.
Do you want to work as an ESL teacher in Japan?
If you want to apply for a job in Japan, a test like this can add excellent value to your resume.
Most employers ask for a valid certificate for jobs requiring Japanese language skills. Thus, a NAT test score can help you get a job.
The format of the NAT test is similar to the Japanese proficiency test, so it is one of the best ways to prepare for the JLPT.
Do you wish to know how good you are at Japanese?
This exam can help provide you with this information. Plus, you will be able to identify your flaws. This will enable you to prepare more effectively for the next exam.
All About Nihongo Achievement Test?
All you need to know about the NAT (Nihongo Achievement Test) is here. Let’s find out!
What are the various levels?
Like JLPT, the NAT test has five independent levels: Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4, and Q5.
Q5 is the easiest, while Q1 is the hardest.
To some extent, this is like CEFR. For example, 5th grade/Q5 and N5 are somewhat equal to A1. Likewise, Q2/N2 is like B2.
Still, they are not precisely the same. This is because CEFRL comprises reading, writing, speaking, and listening, the NAT test measures only listening and reading skills.
This exam has the same name, number of levels, format, and standard as the JLPT. Yet, the Japanese NAT test is slightly more complex than the comparable JLPT levels.
This test provides an excellent opportunity to revise, practice, and prepare for JLPT.
You may not have to take the JLPT test after passing this test. But if you decide to take it, you can easily crack it.
Who can take this test?
There are no specific eligibility criteria for the NAT test.
It is available to anyone irrespective of gender, age, nationality, and the goal of taking the test. Candidates do not need any prior and specific documents for it.
NAT exam structure
The language in levels 1 and 2 includes reading, grammar, and vocabulary. It also has a reading comprehension and listening section.
Levels 3, 4, and 5 contain language sections such as kanji and vocabulary. There is also a grammar, reading, and listening component.
Every question is a multiple-choice question.
Choose one correct answer from the four options. Then, fill in a solid, dark circle in the designated place on the answer sheets.
The test format and curriculum
| Level | Course content and exam timing |
|---|---|
| Level 1 (Q1) | Language (reading, vocabulary, grammar), Listening comprehension: 60 minutes, Reading comprehension: 110 minutes. |
| Level 2 (Q2) | Language (reading, vocabulary, grammar), Listening comprehension: 50 minutes, Reading comprehension: 105 minutes. |
| Level 3 (Q3) | Language (reading, vocabulary): 30 minutes, Language (grammar), Listening: 40 minutes, Reading: 70 minutes. |
| Level 4 (Q4) | Language (reading, vocabulary): 30 minutes, Language (grammar), Listening: 35 minutes, Reading: 60 minutes. |
| Level 5 (Q5) | Language (reading, vocabulary): 25 minutes, Language (grammar), Listening: 30 minutes, Reading: 50 minutes. |
Test duration
The exam time varies according to the level. The process takes two to three hours, with a ten-minute break between each segment.
How do you pass the Japanese test?
To qualify and pass the test, you must meet these 2 conditions:
- You need to score at least 25% on each section.
- For a “passing” grade, a score of 60% (in most cases) is required.
NAT test centers across the world in 2025
As of January 2025, 83 testing centers were in 16 countries, all in Asia, mainly in China, Central, Southeast, and South Asia.
There are 45 in China, 8 in Vietnam, 6 in Indonesia, 4 in Nepal, and 3 in Uzbekistan. There are 2 each in Myanmar, Japan, and Sri Lanka.
Bangladesh, Bhutan, Mongolia, Cambodia, the Philippines, Kyrgyzstan, and Thailand have one exam center.
India has four testing centers: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Pune.
2025 Examination dates
You can take the JLPT only once or twice per year. However, the NAT test is organized six times yearly, only on Sundays.
They conduct the test nearly every month. For 2025, they are organizing the test every month except March.
The dates can vary depending on the testing center. For detailed schedules, refer to the page for each test center.
NAT-Test Dates and Centers in India for 2025
| Exam Date | Test Deadline | Venue (Test Centers) |
|---|---|---|
| 19th January 2025 | 20th December 2024 | Chennai |
| 16th February 2025 | 17th January 2025 | All Venues |
| 13th April 2025 | 3rd March 2025 | All Venues |
| 11th May 2025 | 11th April 2025 | Chennai |
| 22nd June 2025 | 23rd May 2025 | Pune, Chennai, Mumbai |
| 13th July 2025 | 13th June 2025 | New Delhi, Chennai |
| 24th August 2025 | 18th July 2025 | All Venues |
| 14th September 2025 | 15th August 2025 | Chennai |
| 26th October 2025 | 26th September 2025 | All Venues |
| 16th November 2025 | 17th October 2025 | Chennai |
| 14th December 2025 | 14th November 2025 | All Venues |
What is the cost of the exam?
Each level has a different registration fee, depending on where you intend to take the test.
The registration fee is relatively lower than other European tests, such as DELE, DELF, TCF, SIELE, Goethe-Zertifikat, and CILS.
The cost is ₹ 2,360 in India, for example. In China, it ranges from RMB 520 for 1Q and 2Q to RMB 430 for 3Q, 4Q, and 5Q.
The price is VND 800,000 (Vietnam), IDR 500,000 (Indonesia), NPR 4,500 (Nepal), JPY 5,500 (Japan), MMK 60,000 (Myanmar), LKR 7,000 (SL), UZS 400,000 (Uzbekistan), MNT 65,000 (Mongolia), USD 30 (Cambodia), KGS 2,000 (Kyrgyzstan), TN 2,980 (Bhutan), BDT 4,000 (Bangladesh), USD 60 (Philippines), Band THB 1,500 – 1Q, 2Q and THB 1,000 – 3Q, 4Q, 5Q (Thailand).
How to Apply?
You can apply online before the last date deadline on the website of your test center.
You must upload your latest passport-size photo showing your face with a pale or white background color. Also, add a government identity card.
The process will be complete once they receive the registration amount. However, once you pay, there will be no refund.
After submitting your form, they will mail your ticket 1-2 weeks before exam day. If you don’t receive it, you can contact them.
The ticket includes your name, registration number, gender, date of birth, and photo. At the time of the test, you will need a valid ID card and the receipt from your application.
When do you get the result?
They often release the test results within 3 weeks of the exam.
You get detailed scores, evaluations of each segment, and strengths and weaknesses on your report card. You will also receive a “pass certificate.”
How to prepare?
This Japanese test follows a format similar to that of the JLPT. Thus, you do not need special preparation to take the JLPT.
Since Japanese is a complex language, I advise you to enroll in a formal course. You can find a tutor or a language institute for that.
You can prepare for the test by studying mock tests, sample papers for JLPT, and question papers from the previous year.
Model papers and sample questions are available on the official website.
They also list many reference books (Let’s Learn Nihongo Series) and workbooks (official questions from the Japanese NAT test). They are available for each level.
You can find it on the NAT website, bookstores, and online shopping sites like Amazon.
Should you take the Japanese NAT exam?
As a Japanese learner, you surely want to check your level and how much you have studied. This is a splendid choice if you are preparing for the JLPT.
To apply for a study or work visa in Japan, you need a minimum score and a globally recognized and authentic certificate of proficiency.
You may want to improve your ability to use Japanese for career advancement to show likely interviewers how proficient you are.
Whatever your motivation to learn Japanese, the NAT test can be a superb asset to your CV and help you gain an edge over your competitors.
This is an incredible effort to encourage you to succeed in your personal, professional, and academic lives.
Do you have questions or doubts? Share in the comment section below.
