Most people start studying Japanese and then panic about which exam to take. Let's do it the other way round. Pick the test that matches your goal — a job in Japan, university, or proof of progress — and the studying suddenly has a target.
Here's the short version: there are two tests that matter for almost everyone reading this, and they do very different jobs.
Key takeaway: If your goal is to work in Japan on a Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa, you need JLPT N4 or JFT-Basic — nothing higher. If your goal is university, a stronger résumé, or proving overall ability, the JLPT ladder (N5 → N1) is the one employers and schools recognise worldwide.
The two tests that matter
JLPT (Japanese-Language Proficiency Test) — the global standard. Five levels, N5 (beginner) up to N1 (advanced). It's the certificate universities and most employers ask for, and it's held twice a year, in July and December (JLPT official). It tests reading and listening — not speaking or writing.
JFT-Basic (Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese) — built specifically for the SSW work visa. It's a single A2-level test (roughly JLPT N4), run on computer through Prometric, and offered several times a month (Japan Foundation). If you want to work in Japan and you want to test soon, this is often the faster route.
Quick comparison
| JLPT | JFT-Basic | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | University, résumé, overall proof | The SSW work visa |
| Levels | N5 → N1 (5 levels) | One test (A2 level ≈ N4) |
| When | Twice a year (Jul & Dec) | Several times a month |
| Format | Paper; reading + listening | Computer; vocab, conversation, reading, listening |
| Length | ~105–170 min by level | 60 minutes |
| In India | 8 cities | Bengaluru, Guwahati, Gurgaon |
| Fee (India) | ~₹1,416–₹1,947 | ~₹3,540 |
| Pass | Score varies by level (see below) | 200 points (A2) |
(Figures current as of mid-2026 — always confirm the latest on the official sites before you pay; fees and dates change yearly. Sources: JLPT, Japan Foundation / Prometric.)
Which one is right for you?
"I want to work in Japan (SSW visa)." You need JLPT N4 or JFT-Basic — either one clears the language bar for Specified Skilled Worker Type 1 (Immigration Services Agency, via MOFA). Take JFT-Basic if you want to test in the next few weeks rather than wait for a JLPT sitting.
"I want to go to university or strengthen my résumé." Go JLPT. Aim for N5 first to build the base, then N4/N3. Many programmes and jobs look for N3 or above.
"I'm just learning and want a goal." Start with JLPT N5. It's the friendliest on-ramp, and it forces you to nail hiragana, katakana, and the first ~800 words.
Here's the thing most guides won't tell you: the two tests aren't a ladder. JFT-Basic isn't "below" JLPT — it's a different tool for a different door. Taking JFT-Basic for a work visa and also chipping away at JLPT for the long game is a completely reasonable plan.
Other tests you might see
- NAT-Test — mirrors JLPT levels, offered more often; useful as practice or a faster certificate.
- J.TEST — finer-grained scoring, popular with employers wanting a precise read.
- BJT — Business Japanese, for advanced professionals.
For most India → Japan journeys, you can safely ignore these until JLPT/JFT-Basic is sorted.
Your next step
Pick your door, then start today. If you're aiming at work in Japan, read our JFT-Basic guide and the SSW visa requirements. If you're going the JLPT route, start with the JLPT N5 guide and learn your first 10 words on the free N5 deck — then lock in hiragana with our printable Hiragana chart.
FAQ
Do I need JLPT to work in Japan? Not necessarily. For the SSW visa, JFT-Basic works just as well as JLPT N4, and it's offered far more often.
Is JFT-Basic easier than JLPT N4? They're pitched at a similar level (A2 ≈ N4), but JFT-Basic leans on practical, situational Japanese, while JLPT N4 has more grammar and reading. Many find JFT-Basic's format friendlier.
How long does it take to pass N5? Commonly cited estimates are 350–500 hours of study from scratch (Coto Academy) — but it depends heavily on your pace and method.
Can I take the tests in India? Yes. JLPT runs in 8 Indian cities twice a year; JFT-Basic runs in Bengaluru, Guwahati, and Gurgaon several times a month.
*This article is general information, not legal, immigration, or education advice. Rules, fees, and dates change and vary by individual circumstances — verify the latest details with official sources (the JLPT organisers, the Japan Foundation, and the Immigration Services Agency of Japan) and consult a qualified professional before making decisions.*
Sources: JLPT official, Japan Foundation — JFT-Basic, Prometric SSW fees, MOFA — SSW procedures.