JLPT

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The Japanese Language Proficiency Test or JLPT for short, is a test to evaluate the Japanese proficiency of non-native Japanese speakers. The test measures how confident and capable an individual is with spoken and written Japanese.

The test is standardized and is administered once a year in December all over the world and also within Japan. Before I explain more about the JLPT you may want to check out our recommendation for the best course for helping you pass the JLPT here: Best JLPT training course (sponsored affiliate links)

There are four levels of proficiency, starting at the easiest level four and progressively getting more difficult until level one is completed. The required percentage to be awarded level's two through to four is 60% and level 1 is 70%. By no means is the JLPT designed to be an easy pass, with just under 70% of the 2007 applicants actually passing level 4 and just over 30% passing level 1.

Content

I guess one good thing is that all the questions in the JLPT are multiple choice, so if you get stuck have a guess (not the best approach). There are Kanji, Grammar, Expression and Vocabulary Lists. The test is NOT written in English, you may think this is a stupid thing to say but some people think that the questions will be written in English and the correct Japanese answer required.

At level four you are required to know approximately 100 Kanji symbols and this increases as you move up through the levels, with level one requiring you to know almost 1000 Kanji symbols. This is also the same for the amount of vocabulary you need to know, however numbers are even higher.

Test Breakdown

Essentially the JLPT at all levels 1-4 is broken down into three major sections, being:

• Writing and Vocabulary
• Listening Comprehension
• Grammar

Obviously the expectations at each level goes up, the higher the level you are attempting. At the most basic level, being 4, you are required to know 100 Kanji symbols, 800 words, write basic sentences and converse at a beginner level in Japanese.

If you want to have a look at some sample questions you can visit the official Japanese Language Proficiency Test website at www. jlpt.jp/e/about/sample.html  

Where Can I Sit The JLPT?  

If outside of Japan you need to find an organisation such as a University or Language School that is approved by the Japan Foundation. Within Japan the 'Japan Educational Exchanges and Services' (JEES) administer the JLPT.

Advice On How To Pass

I want to be honest with you and say that it does take dedication to pass the JLPT, at all levels. To give you a rough indication though, JEES recommend that you do 150 hours study for level four.

Therefore you will need to find a study method that suites you and begin learning the 100 Kanji and 800 Vocabulary required for level 4. The best product that I think is very impressive when it comes to helping people pass the JLPT is called 'Japanese Proficiency Power'.(sponsored affiliate links)

The best thing about this product is that the owner has passed the JLPT and you get to watch him do a test over his shoulder for EVERY question. Now that's pretty cool if you ask me. They also send you free practice tests via email and have over 38 videos to help you ace the JLPT. What's more the course is written by a native Japanese speaker.

You can check out the product by clicking here: Japanese Proficiency Power (sponsored affiliate links)

Hope that helps and enjoy!!

Sayoonara

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