If you're serious about working in Japan through the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) route, the JFT-Basic is one of the two language tests that can get you there — and unlike the JLPT (which runs only twice a year), it's offered year-round at test centres in India.
Looking for Japanese classes in India? Find verified institutes near you → This guide covers everything you need: which cities actually hold the exam, the exact fee in ₹, the score you need to pass, and how to book when the next window opens.
Key takeaway: JFT-Basic runs year-round at Prometric centres in Bengaluru, Gurgaon, and Guwahati (as of July 2026 — confirm current centres when booking). The fee is ₹3,540, the test takes ~60 minutes, and you need 200 out of 250 points (A2 level) to satisfy the SSW language requirement. Booking windows open roughly every two months — check below for the current dates.
What is JFT-Basic?
The Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese (JFT-Basic) is a computer-based test that measures whether you can handle everyday conversation in Japanese — the level needed for the SSW visa. It's accepted as proof of Japanese ability for SSW-1 applications, on par with JLPT N4. (Japan Foundation)
Unlike the JLPT (paper-based, twice a year, results in months), JFT-Basic is:
- Computer-based — you get results on the spot
- Year-round — multiple booking windows throughout the year
- Offered in India — at select Prometric centres
Test Centres in India (City List)
As of July 2026, JFT-Basic is offered at these three centres:
| City | Centre | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Bengaluru | Prometric Testing Pvt Ltd | 3rd Floor Tower B, Prestige ShantiNiketan, Whitefield ITPL Road |
| Gurgaon | Prometric Testing Pvt Ltd | 208-212, Tower A, Iris Tech Park, Sector 48, Sohna Road |
| Guwahati | DCEL Exams India | Assam Don Bosco University (Azara campus), Airport Road |
Important: Not every Prometric centre in India offers JFT-Basic — Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai have Prometric centres but are not currently JFT-Basic venues. Always verify available centres when booking. (Prometric overseas centres)
Guwahati recently gained additional sessions — a sign that India capacity is expanding as SSW demand grows.
JFT-Basic Fees in India (₹)
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Fee | ₹3,540 (2026 — verify at booking) |
| Currency | Payable in INR at registration |
| Refund | Generally non-refundable; check cancellation policy |
The fee may change — always verify the current amount when you book through the Prometric site.
JFT-Basic Exam Dates 2026
Bookings for JFT-Basic open in windows, roughly every two months. Upcoming windows:
| Window | Booking Opens | Booking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Aug–Sep 2026 | 28 July 2026 | 10:00 JST (6:30 AM IST) |
| Oct–Nov 2026 | TBA (typically late Sep) | 10:00 JST |
| Dec 2026–Jan 2027 | TBA (typically late Nov) | 10:00 JST |
Seats are limited and released by date/time/centre — booking promptly on opening morning matters. The system uses a virtual waiting room during high traffic; once you get access, you have about 20 minutes to complete your reservation. (Prometric reservation notice)
Passing Score
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Score range | 10–250 points |
| Pass threshold | 200+ points (A2 level) |
| Test duration | ~60 minutes |
The test covers listening and reading in everyday situations — shopping, asking directions, workplace basics. There's no speaking or writing section.
From August 2026, JFT-Basic results will also indicate A1 and A2.1 levels in addition to A2. However, the SSW language requirement remains A2 — reaching A1 or A2.1 alone does not satisfy the visa requirement. (Prometric notice)
How to Register on Prometric (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to book your JFT-Basic test:
- Create a Prometric ID at prometric-jp.com if you don't have one
- Log in when the booking window opens (10:00 JST / 6:30 AM IST on the opening date)
- Select JFT-Basic, your preferred centre (Bengaluru/Gurgaon/Guwahati), and date
- Pay the ₹3,540 fee online
- Receive confirmation — print or save your appointment details
Book at least 3 working days before your preferred test date. (Prometric booking)
Tips for booking day:
- Set an alarm for 6:25 AM IST — be ready before the window opens
- Have your payment method ready (card details)
- Popular centres (Bengaluru) fill fastest — have backup dates ready
- If the site shows a waiting room, stay patient — don't refresh repeatedly
JFT-Basic vs JLPT N4
Both satisfy the SSW language requirement. Here's how they compare:
| JFT-Basic | JLPT N4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Computer-based | Paper-based |
| Frequency | Year-round (windows) | Twice/year (July, December) |
| Results | Same day | ~2 months |
| India centres | 3 cities | 7+ cities |
| Pass threshold | 200/250 (A2) | ~90/180 (~50%) |
If you need results fast or missed the JLPT window, JFT-Basic is your friend. If you prefer paper tests or have more cities to choose from, JLPT works too. See our JFT-Basic vs JLPT N4 comparison for the full breakdown.
Preparing for the Test
The JFT-Basic tests A2-level Japanese — roughly equivalent to JLPT N4. You should be able to:
- Understand everyday conversations about familiar topics
- Read simple sentences about daily life
- Follow basic workplace instructions
Study resources:
- Free vocabulary decks — start with N5, then N4
- Graded reading practice — build comprehension at your level
- Japanese for each visa level — see exactly what's expected
When to book: Once your practice scores are consistently hitting A2 level (around 80%+ on N4 practice tests), you're ready. Don't book too early — you can't reschedule easily, and failing means waiting for the next window.
FAQ
Which cities in India hold the JFT-Basic? As of July 2026: Bengaluru, Gurgaon, and Guwahati. Not all Indian Prometric centres offer JFT-Basic — always verify when booking. (Prometric overseas centres)
What score do I need to pass? 200 out of 250 points, which corresponds to A2 level. This satisfies the SSW language requirement.
When does the next booking window open? The Aug–Sep 2026 window opens 28 July 2026 at 10:00 JST (6:30 AM IST). Windows typically open every two months. (Prometric notice)
How much does JFT-Basic cost in India? ₹3,540 as of 2026. Verify the current fee when booking.
How long is the test? About 60 minutes, covering listening and reading sections.
Do I get results immediately? Yes — you'll see your score on screen right after completing the test.
Is JFT-Basic easier than JLPT N4? They test similar levels (A2 / N4). JFT-Basic is computer-based with instant results; JLPT is paper-based. Neither is objectively "easier" — it depends on your test-taking style.
Your next step: If you're aiming for SSW, start building your Japanese now — you'll need it whether you choose JFT-Basic or JLPT. Begin with our free N5 vocabulary decks, then read our SSW visa guide to see the full path.
This article is general information, not legal, immigration, or professional advice. Test fees, centres, and booking windows change — verify the latest details on the official Prometric SSW site and Japan Foundation JFT-Basic site before booking.
Find Japanese Classes in India
Ready to start learning Japanese for the JFT-Basic exam? Browse verified institutes in your city.