By admin 
If you’re moving to Japan to study Japanese (maybe you’re coming here to learn German, but that would be making things more difficult for you for no reason), you’ll probably want to take the JLPT – the Japanese Language Proficiency Test ( in Japanese). It almost sounds like I’m trying to force you to take tests outside of class, but the JLPT can be very useful, especially for those looking to extend their stay in Japan for the long term. In this article, we’ll share some tips on how to prepare for the JLPT .
The JLPT is a standardized exam that is designed to assess and certify the level of proficiency in Japanese. In Japan, as well as in some other countries, it is held twice a year, while in other countries it is held only once a year. Once you pass it (and you will, if you study hard!), the certificates awarded are valid for life.
The format
From the lowest level, N5, to the most advanced level, N1 (which, by the way, includes kanji that many Japanese people don’t know), the JLPT tests the following skills : vocabulary, reading comprehension, and listening comprehension. At the N5 and N4 levels, candidates should be able to understand basic Japanese. This means knowing hiragana , katakana , and basic kanji , as well as the ability to understand simple conversations on everyday topics when speaking slowly. At the N3 level, one should be able to understand the main points of a newspaper article and everyday conversations at normal speed. It’s at the N2 and N1 levels that things get tricky.
Those attempting the N2 test should be able to read newspaper and magazine articles, as well as understand TV news at a natural speed. If you are considering taking the N1, you probably don’t need any advice from me! This level involves reading complex articles covering a wide range of topics, as well as being able to listen in detail to a lesson or conversations.
The test is graded in such a way that a certain total score must be obtained, as well as each individual section must be passed. There is some leeway in this method, and the passing score depends on the level. For N5, for example, this score must be 80/180 (44.44%), but for N1, this score must be at least 100/180 (55.55%). Now that you know the distribution of the test, let’s get to the study!
Preparing for the JLPT
While everyone has their own way of studying, one of the most important and certain aspects of this test will be the kanji. There is no shortcut: it is all about memorization. However, you can be smart about it! When I worked in schools, and saw elementary and secondary students practicing their own kanji, I saw schoolbags filled with characters written ad nauseum. I tried this same method, and to my great frustration, progress came slowly.
The Heisig Method , developed by James Heisig, teaches readers to create their own mnemonic systems to construct stories and attach meaning to kanji. The “roots” of kanji, the individual parts that make up the kanji, are given a story, and this is what gives the character its meaning. Since each story is unique to each person, it was this personalized method that helped me remember the characters I was trying to memorize.
I also asked a few friends for their feedback, since what works for me might not work for everyone. My friend Nicholas, who passed the N2 level, suggests going online and visiting sites that offer multiple-choice practice questions from past JLPT tests. Maya told me, “Some people fill up pages and pages of kanji or use markers or notes to mark important grammar points, while others get specialized prep booklets or try to find examples from real life. There is no superior way to study; you have to find the method that works for you.”
When I was preparing for the JLPT, I used the Nihongo Sou Matome (日本語総まとめ) books, and I think they did a good job. They are very well structured, with books for each category, and they offer the ability to improve your knowledge without feeling lost in the process. The only problem is that they can be a bit expensive, and they won’t provide any help with colloquial Japanese. That said, if you find yourself in Japan, why bother, with Japanese people all around you to learn it? No need to feel embarrassed about studying abroad.
If you are the type of person who wants an intensive preparation session, Go! Go! Nihon can help you with that! Our partner Studytrip.com has launched a study tour dedicated to JLPT preparation. You will have the chance to come and take the exam in Japan in July, with the unique preparation that only a school specializing in Japanese language teaching can offer. You normally have to be a resident of Japan to register for the exam, but we will take care of that for you! To learn more, visit this webpage on study tours in Japan .
Online courses dedicated to the JLPT
In collaboration with our partner language schools, we offer online Japanese courses that you can easily take from home. For beginners, our 12-week Akamonkai course is perfect for learning all the basics of the language. For those who have already studied some Japanese, our Tokyo Galaxy JLPT N3 Exam Preparation Course is designed to help you prepare for the N3 exam.
Please note that our offered trainings/courses are currently only available in English!
What the JLPT can do for you
Aside from the endless fun of walking into a room to take a standardized test (who needs to skydive when you have a big book full of questions??), the JLPT offers many benefits. While the JLPT N5, N4, and N3 levels are great for testing your own knowledge and developing your Japanese, in general, these levels will not get you a job in Japan.
People who successfully pass the N2 and N1 level can do bilingual work, such as translation, or be part of a Japanese company. With this certificate, you will not have to limit your prospects in Japan: this level will allow you to find work in your country if you feel like it, whether in translation, business or politics.
If this all sounds a little intimidating, remember that the first few tests aren’t that bad. Just evaluate them as a way to see how much your Japanese has improved, not as a competition. Make sure you register, though. With only two tests a year, and sometimes only one, be careful not to miss the registration deadline! Not all schools prepare students for the JLPT specifically: if you’re determined to take the JLPT, contact Go! Go! Nihon . They’ll help you find a school that will make sure to show you how to prepare for the JLPT.