What Is the JLPT? Levels N1 to N5, Test Dates, Passing Criteria and Taking It in Nepal

The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) measures the Japanese ability of people whose native language is not Japanese, and it is held around the world. When preparing to study in Japan, people often ask which level they need and by when. This guide explains the levels, test dates, passing criteria, how to take the test in Nepal, and how it relates to study and further education, using information from the official website.

We checked the official pages listed at the bottom on 7 November 2026. Test dates, application periods and venues change by year and by city. Before you apply, always check the latest information on the official website and from the host institution.

The five levels

The JLPT has five levels, N1 to N5. According to the official website, N5 is the easiest level and N1 is the most difficult.

N4 and N5 measure understanding of the basic Japanese learned mainly in class. N1 and N2 measure understanding of Japanese used across a wider range of real-life situations. N3 is a bridge between them.

Test dates

The test is held twice a year, on Sundays in July and December. In 2026 the dates are 5 July (first test) and 6 December (second test). In Japan it is held twice a year, but outside Japan some cities hold it only in July or only in December. Dates change from year to year.

Taking the test in Nepal

The official list of overseas test sites includes Kathmandu, Nepal. The host institution is the Japanese Language Teachers' Association, Nepal (JALTAN). For 2026 the table shows both July and December. However, confirm directly with JALTAN the application period, test fee, exact venue and the latest status of the test. The official website also tells applicants to contact the host institution for details.

If you take the test in Japan, you apply under the guidance of the host institution in Japan and take it at a venue in Japan.

Passing criteria

The JLPT is scored using "scaled scores." It does not simply add up the number of correct answers. According to the official FAQ, to pass you must meet both of the following.

• Your total score is at or above the pass mark.
• Your score in each scoring section is at or above the pass mark for that section.

If even one section is below its pass mark, you fail, however high your total score is. You also fail if you miss a required section.

The pass marks for the total score (out of 180) are:

The pass mark for each section is 19 points for each section in N1 to N3. In N4 and N5 it is 19 points for Listening and 38 points for Language Knowledge and Reading combined.

You cannot retake only the section you failed. Each time, you must take all sections and meet all the requirements.

When score reports arrive

According to the official website, for tests taken overseas, score reports arrive through the host institution in the city where you took the test: around October for the July test and around March for the December test. The official pages describe this in two ways, "early" and "middle" of the month, so check the latest notice. For tests taken in Japan, reports come in early September for the July test and early February for the December test. If your report has not arrived by the end of the scheduled month, contact the host institution in the city where you took the test.

The JLPT certificate never expires. However, companies and schools may set their own limits on how old a result can be.

From the December 2025 test, the score report of a person who passed shows the CEFR level that corresponds to the total score, as reference information. If you fail, the CEFR level is not shown and "*" is displayed instead.

How it relates to study and further education

When entering a Japanese language school

Passing the JLPT is not always required to enter a Japanese language school. For COE applications for students who plan to enter from October 2026 onward, in principle you need either a test certificate or confirmation of your Japanese ability through an interview by the school. A confirmation document prepared by the school is also required (Immigration Services Agency). Ask the school you want to enter, and check the latest guidance of the Immigration Services Agency, for details such as which tests can be used. For more, see the COE and student visa guide.

When going on to university or vocational school

For universities that teach in Japanese, JLPT N1 or N2 is shown as a benchmark (JASSO). For vocational schools (the postsecondary courses of specialized training colleges) too, passing JLPT N1 or N2 is listed as one of the Japanese ability conditions. Some people can meet the condition in other ways. Conditions differ by school. For more, see the guide to going on to further study after language school.

According to JASSO, building up to about N1 or N2 level takes 600 to 900 hours or more of study. Count back from when you want to go on to further study and think about which level to take and when.

How to prepare

• The official website has sample questions and information on official practice workbooks. First look at the format of the questions for your level.
• Some Japanese language schools have JLPT preparation classes. Ask the school before you enroll.
• Application periods can be short. Start checking the official website and the host institution's notices a few months before the test date.

Frequently asked questions

Does a pass expire?

The JLPT certificate never expires. However, companies and schools may set their own limits on how old a result can be.

Can I retake only the sections I failed?

No. Each time you must take all sections and meet the requirements.

How many times a year can I take it?

In Japan, twice a year, in July and December. Outside Japan, some cities hold only one of the two.

If my total score is above the pass mark, will I always pass?

No. You must also reach the pass mark in each section. If even one section is below its pass mark, you fail.

Can I take it in Nepal?

Kathmandu appears in the official list of overseas test sites, and the host institution is JALTAN. Ask JALTAN whether the test is held, the application period and the fee.

Do I need JLPT N5 to enter a Japanese language school?

Not necessarily. Entry conditions differ by school, and COE applications need confirmation of Japanese ability by a test certificate or an interview. Ask the school you want to enter.

What to do next

Work back from your goals for study or work, and decide the level and timing you want. When you choose a Japanese language school, use How to Choose a Japanese Language School and the school list to compare whether schools offer JLPT or EJU preparation and support for further study. If you need help, contact us. This site is free to use. We do not guarantee admission or a visa.