Official Japanese Certifications
A comprehensive guide to the JLPT, NAT-TEST, and EJU — with offline & online training in Pune.
In short: Japanese proficiency is measured mainly by the JLPT, with five levels from N5 (beginner) to N1 (near-native); its lifetime certificate is the most widely accepted by employers and for student visas. The NAT-TEST mirrors the JLPT but runs more often, while the EJU is used for Japanese university admission. Most IT jobs seek N3–N2.
JLPT (Japanese-Language Proficiency Test)
The JLPT is the worldwide standard test for evaluating and certifying Japanese language proficiency of non-native speakers. It has five levels—from N5, the easiest, to N1, the most difficult.
- Most preferred by Japanese companies for hiring
- Held twice a year (July and December)
- Lifetime certificate validity
- Standard for student visa eligibility
NAT-TEST
The NAT-TEST is an examination that measures the Japanese language ability of non-native speakers. Its structure and difficulty mirror the JLPT, but it is held six times a year, providing faster assessment options.
- Six exam dates every year
- Quick results (usually within 3 weeks)
- Format identical to JLPT
EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission)
The Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU) evaluates Japanese language skills and basic academic abilities needed to study at the undergraduate level in Japanese universities.
- Required for University scholarship applications
- Tests academic subjects along with language
- Recognized by most Japanese universities
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the JLPT levels N5 to N1 mean?
The JLPT has five levels. N5 is the entry level (basic Hiragana, Katakana, and simple sentences), N4 covers basic everyday Japanese, N3 is the bridge to intermediate, N2 shows strong, business-ready comprehension, and N1 is the most advanced, near-native level. You take one level per sitting; there is no combined pass, so choose the level that matches your current ability and goal.
Which JLPT level do I need for IT or engineering jobs in Japan?
It varies by employer, but most Japanese IT and engineering roles look for around N3 to N2, with N2 giving a clear advantage in interviews and daily work. Some global teams accept N3 plus strong English. Since each company sets its own bar, confirm the requirement in the job posting. We prepare learners through the N5, N4, and N3 levels.
JFT-Basic or JLPT — which do I need for the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa?
For the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) route, Japan accepts either the JFT-Basic (Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese) or the JLPT at N4 or above as proof of language ability. The JFT-Basic is a separate computer-based test aimed at that visa. These requirements are set by Japanese immigration and can change, so verify the current rule for your job category before booking.
Should I take the NAT-TEST or the JLPT?
The JLPT is the most widely recognised and is usually the safer choice for jobs, universities, and visas. The NAT-TEST follows the same level structure and difficulty but is held about six times a year with faster results, so it is useful for practice or when you need proof sooner. If a specific institution names one exam, follow that.
Are LingoThoughts certificates official? Do you conduct the JLPT?
No. LingoThoughts is a coaching institute — we prepare you for the JLPT and other exams, but we do not conduct them or issue any certificate. In India the JLPT is administered by the Japan Foundation and Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES) at their authorised centres. We build your Kanji, grammar, and exam skills, but the exam and result come from the official board, and we cannot guarantee a pass.
How long is the JLPT certificate valid, and which level do I need for a student visa?
The JLPT certificate does not expire — it is valid for life. For a Japanese student visa, many language schools expect around N5 to N4 as a starting point, with higher levels needed for degree programmes taught in Japanese. As always, the exact level is set by the institution and immigration, so confirm their current requirement before you apply.
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