JLPT N5 is where most learners start — the beginner level of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test. It won't clear the SSW visa on its own (that needs N4 or JFT-Basic A2), but it's the foundation everything else stands on, and passing it is a huge confidence boost. Here's how to get there.

What is JLPT N5?

N5 is the easiest of the JLPT's five levels (N5 up to N1). It certifies that you can understand basic Japanese — everyday phrases, simple reading, and slow, clear listening. Think of it as your first milestone on the road to N4, which is the level the SSW visa asks for.

What the test covers

N5 has three scored areas:

  • Vocabulary — basic words, hiragana, katakana, and about 100 simple kanji.
  • Grammar and reading — core sentence patterns and short, simple passages.
  • Listening — understanding slow, everyday spoken Japanese.

When and where you can take it

The JLPT is held twice a year — in July and December — at test centres worldwide, including eight cities in India (such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Pune). Because there are only two dates a year, plan your study around them. (If you need more flexibility for SSW, consider JFT-Basic instead — see the comparison.)

A study plan that works

1. Learn the two scripts first

Get comfortable with hiragana and katakana before anything else. (Hiragana · Katakana.)

2. Build vocabulary and kanji with spaced repetition

Work through the N5 vocabulary and kanji in small daily sets, using spaced repetition so they stick. Komichi's free N5 decks and N5 vocabulary list are built for exactly this.

3. Learn core grammar in context

Add the basic grammar patterns, and see them in real sentences through graded reading rather than memorising rules in isolation.

4. Practise listening every day

Listening is where many beginners lose points. A little every day — at N5 speed — pays off fast.

5. Do timed practice before the exam

In the final weeks, take timed practice tests so the format and pacing feel familiar.

How long does N5 take?

For a motivated beginner studying near-daily, a few months is a realistic target. Consistency matters more than long, occasional sessions.

After N5: keep going to N4

N5 is the foundation; N4 (or JFT-Basic A2) is the level the SSW visa needs. So treat N5 as step one, then keep the same habits going toward N4. Start free with Komichi's decks today. Always confirm current JLPT dates and registration on the official JLPT site.