So, you’ve decided to learn Japanese—whether you’re prepping for work, study, or just trying to get through anime without pausing every five seconds for subtitles. But how do you prove you’re truly fluent? And what level of proficiency do you actually need? Let’s break it down, from the official language standards to your best study strategies!
How is Japanese proficiency measured?
When it comes to assessing your Japanese skills, the go-to measure is the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT). Think of it as your official passport to proving how well you know Japanese—though, fair warning, there are no speaking tests here! The JLPT breaks things down into five levels:
- N5 (Basic): You can greet people and identify some common kanji—think of it as the Japanese version of “hello” and “goodbye.”
- N4 (Beginner-Intermediate): You’re getting a hang of everyday conversations and learning more kanji.
- N3 (Intermediate): You’re comfortable handling daily conversations and reading basic texts.
- N2 (Advanced): You’re ready for work or study in Japan—no problem navigating more complex interactions.
- N1 (Fluent/Professional): You can breeze through complex texts and deep discussions, like a native!
Now, unlike other proficiency frameworks like the CEFR, the JLPT doesn’t include speaking, so if you need to prove your speaking ability, you might want to look at other options. But don’t worry, we got you! Let’s look into it…
Japanese certification: Which exam should you take?
Now, if you’re looking for that official certificate to back up your Japanese skills, you do have a couple of options, depending on your needs.
JLPT (Japanese-Language Proficiency Test):
As we mentioned before, this is the most well-known certification, accepted worldwide for jobs, studies, and visas. It’s held twice a year and covers everything from basic vocabulary to complex grammar and kanji. If you’re aiming for the N5-N1 levels, this is the one to go for.
BJT (Business Japanese Proficiency Test):
If you’re planning to work in Japan and want to prove your professional language skills, this test focuses specifically on the business language and etiquette of Japanese workplaces. It’s a great option for anyone looking to make a strong impression in the corporate world. This certification does have a speaking component for some of its levels!
EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students):
While the EJU isn’t a proficiency test like the JLPT, it’s required for admission to universities in Japan for international students. It includes sections for listening, reading, writing, and speaking. The speaking section is particularly useful if you’re planning to study in Japan and need to demonstrate your spoken Japanese ability in an academic setting.
J-Test (Test of Practical Proficiency in Japanese):
While this may sound like a musica genre, the J-Test is actually another option that evaluates all aspects of Japanese, including speaking. It has a broader focus than the JLPT, and it’s designed to measure practical proficiency in both every day and business situations. It’s a useful option if you’re looking for a more comprehensive test that includes speaking.
Why prepare with a native proficiency teacher?
Japanese can be tricky, especially with kanji, keigo (formal speech), and different dialects. Studying with a native teacher helps because:
- You get real conversational practice (not just textbook phrases).
- They guide you through honorifics, slang, and cultural nuances.
- You get expert advice on tackling the JLPT or BJT exams, or other options you may be looking into.
At inlingua Utah, we offer customized Japanese prep courses to help you hit your goals faster and more effectively.
Immersing yourself at home
Not in Japan? No problem! As you know, we love the immersive aspect of language learning and here are some easy ways of bringing Japan all the way to your every-day life:
- Podcasts: “Nihongo con Teppei,” “Let’s Learn Japanese with Sakura.”
- Netflix Shows: Midnight Diner, Terrace House, Alice in Borderland, SpyxFamily or why not the entire Miyazaki collection!
- Music: J-pop, anime openings, or classic Enka ballads.
Ready to get certified?
At inlingua Utah, we offer one-on-one classes with native teachers to help you master Japanese, ace your exams, and feel confident using the language in real life. Let’s get started!
