6 Common Japanese Language Tests in India

Learning Japanese is increasingly popular in India, with many individuals pursuing certifications to enhance their career prospects, academic ambitions, or personal interests. Fortunately, there are several Japanese language proficiency tests available in India, each catering to different needs and goals. Below is an overview of the key tests, along with their unique features and advantages.

List of Common Japanese Language Tests in India

In India, learners of Japanese can choose from several proficiency tests depending on their goals. The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is the most widely recognized, offering five levels (N5 to N1) and assessing grammar, reading, and listening skills—commonly required for jobs, higher education, and visa applications in Japan. The Nihongo Achievement Test (NAT-Test) is similar in format but is conducted more frequently with quicker result turnaround, making it a convenient alternative for regular assessment. For individuals planning to work in Japan under the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa, the Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese (JFT-Basic) evaluates basic conversation skills and is conducted as a computer-based test. Professionals seeking to demonstrate their ability to use Japanese in corporate settings can take the Business Japanese Proficiency Test (BJT), which emphasizes real-world business communication. Aspiring university students can opt for the Examination for Japanese University Admission (EJU), which tests both Japanese language and academic subjects like math and science. Lastly, the Japanese Computerized Adaptive Test (J-CAT) is an online diagnostic test useful for measuring current proficiency quickly, although it does not provide official certification. Each test serves a specific purpose, helping learners choose based on academic, professional, or immigration needs.

Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT)
Nihongo Achievement Test (NAT-Test)
Business Japanese Proficiency Test (BJT)
Examination for Japanese University Admission (EJU)
Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese (JFT-Basic)
Japanese Computerized Adaptive Test (J-CAT)

1. Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT)

The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is a globally recognized standardized test that evaluates and certifies the Japanese language proficiency of non-native speakers. Administered by the Japan Foundation and Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES), the JLPT is held twice a year in many countries, including India. It comprises five levels, ranging from N5 (beginner) to N1 (most advanced), with each level testing reading, listening, vocabulary, and grammar skills. The test does not include a speaking section but is widely accepted by universities, employers, and government institutions as proof of Japanese language competence. Achieving higher JLPT levels, particularly N2 and N1, can open doors to academic scholarships, job opportunities in Japanese companies, and eligibility for visa benefits in Japan.

JLPT in India

Levels: 5 levels (N5 to N1). N5 is beginner, while N1 is the most advanced.
Focus: Vocabulary, grammar, reading, and listening (No speaking or writing components).
Exam Schedule: Conducted twice a year (July and December).
Test Centers in India: 8 locations, including New Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata.
Fees: INR 1400–2100, depending on the level.
Benefits: Widely accepted for study/work visas, scholarships, and global job opportunities.

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2. Nihongo Achievement Test (NAT-Test)

The Nihongo Achievement Test (NAT-Test) is a standardized Japanese language examination designed to measure the language proficiency of non-native speakers, similar in format and structure to the JLPT. Conducted multiple times a year across various countries, including India, the NAT-Test offers five levels — Level 5 (beginner) to Level 1 (advanced) — each assessing grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, and listening skills. What sets the NAT-Test apart is its frequent test schedule and quick result turnaround, making it a convenient option for students and professionals who need timely certification. It is especially popular among learners preparing to study or work in Japan, as it provides a realistic assessment of one's Japanese abilities and serves as a valuable supplement to JLPT preparation.

The NAT-Test, conducted by Senmon Kyouiku Publishing Company, is the second most popular Japanese exam.

NAT-Test in India

Levels: 5 levels (Q5 to Q1), matching JLPT levels.
Focus: Grammar, vocabulary, listening, and reading comprehension.
Exam Schedule: Conducted 6 times annually, offering flexibility.
Test Centers in India: 4 locations, including New Delhi, Chennai, Pune, and Mumbai.
Fees: INR 2300–3500.
Benefits: Provides detailed score reports and is ideal for those needing quick results for study or work purposes.

3. Business Japanese Proficiency Test (BJT)

The Business Japanese Proficiency Test (BJT) is a specialized language proficiency exam designed to assess the communicative skills of non-native speakers in practical business contexts. Unlike general language tests like the JLPT, the BJT focuses on how effectively a person can understand and use Japanese in real-life business situations, including emails, meetings, presentations, and professional interactions. Administered by the Japan Kanji Aptitude Testing Foundation, the BJT is evaluated on a scale of 0 to 800, rather than fixed levels, and covers areas such as listening comprehension, reading comprehension, and visual interpretation. It is widely recognized by Japanese corporations and multinational companies for recruitment and internal assessments, making it a valuable credential for professionals aiming to work in a Japanese business environment or in Japan.

The BJT is designed for those seeking to demonstrate Japanese proficiency in a professional, business-oriented environment.

Key Highlights

Scoring System: Levels range from J5 (basic) to J1 (advanced).
Format: Focuses on workplace language, including business etiquette, presentations, and negotiations.
Exam Schedule: Flexible, computer-based test (CBT) available on any day.
Test Centers in India: New Delhi and Chennai.
Fees: Approx. INR 2800.
Benefits: Ideal for candidates seeking corporate jobs or working in Japanese business settings.

4. Examination for Japanese University Admission (EJU)

The Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU) is a standardized test used to assess the academic and language abilities of non-Japanese students who wish to enroll in undergraduate programs at Japanese universities. Administered by the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO), the EJU evaluates proficiency in Japanese as a foreign language, along with subjects like science (physics, chemistry, biology), mathematics, and Japan and the World—depending on the applicant’s chosen field of study. Unlike general language tests, the EJU is tailored to academic settings and is often a mandatory requirement for admission to many public and private universities in Japan. Conducted twice a year in Japan and various international locations, the EJU plays a critical role in the university admission process and is often used in place of entrance exams by many institutions.

The EJU is mandatory for international students applying to Japanese universities for undergraduate or postgraduate courses.

Key Highlights

Subjects: Includes Japanese as a Foreign Language, Science, Mathematics, and Japan and the World.
Format: Combines multiple-choice questions and written responses.
Exam Schedule: Conducted twice a year (June and November).
Test Center in India: Sri Venkateswara College, Delhi.
Fees: INR 1300.
Benefits: Focused on academic goals, this test is essential for securing university admission in Japan.

5. Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese (JFT-Basic)

The Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese (JFT-Basic) is a language proficiency test designed to evaluate the basic communicative skills of non-native Japanese learners, particularly those aiming to work or reside in Japan under the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa program. Developed by the Japan Foundation, this test focuses on everyday conversation and practical language use, assessing four key areas: reading, listening, vocabulary, and grammar. The JFT-Basic is structured around the A1 to A2 levels of the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages), making it ideal for beginners. Unlike the JLPT, it is available more frequently throughout the year and is conducted via computer-based testing (CBT) in multiple countries. Passing the JFT-Basic is one of the language requirements for certain employment categories in Japan, making it a valuable option for those pursuing entry-level jobs or technical internships in the country.

The JFT-Basic assesses Japanese skills necessary for daily life and is a gateway for candidates seeking the "Specified Skilled Worker" residency status in Japan.

Key Highlights

Format: Includes vocabulary, conversation, reading, and listening. A single 60-minute test.
Exam Schedule: Conducted several times a month.
Test Centers in India: Bengaluru, Guwahati, and Gurgaon.
Fees: INR 3540.
Benefits: Best suited for elementary-level learners or those looking to move to Japan for basic employment.

👉 Struggling with Kanji? Our Top Kanji Learning Tips will help you master Kanji faster with effective techniques and tools.

6. Japanese Computerized Adaptive Test (J-CAT)

The Japanese Computerized Adaptive Test (J-CAT) is an online Japanese language proficiency test designed to provide a quick and accurate assessment of a learner’s ability across listening, vocabulary, grammar, and reading. Unlike traditional paper-based exams, J-CAT uses adaptive testing technology, meaning the difficulty of the questions adjusts in real-time based on the test-taker’s responses. This allows for a more precise evaluation of proficiency in a shorter time, typically around 40 to 60 minutes. Developed by the Tokyo University of Foreign Studies, the J-CAT is widely used by educational institutions and language learners to gauge current proficiency levels for placement or personal study goals. It does not issue official certification like the JLPT, but its fast, flexible format makes it a valuable diagnostic tool for those preparing for formal exams or tracking language progress.

The J-CAT is an online, adaptive test that adjusts its difficulty based on the test-taker’s answers.

Key Highlights

Focus Areas: Vocabulary, grammar, reading, and listening.
Scoring: Maximum score of 400 points.
Exam Schedule: Available anytime online.
Fees: INR 600–2500 (depending on certification type).
Benefits: Offers flexibility and immediate results but is less widely accepted than other exams.

Comparison of Japanese Language Tests in India

Test Name	Levels	Frequency	Focus	Fees (INR)	Best For
JLPT	N5 to N1	Twice a year	Reading, Listening	1400–2100	Students, professionals
NAT-Test	Q5 to Q1	6 times a year	Reading, Listening	2300–3500	Quick results seekers
BJT	J5 to J1	Flexible scheduling	Business Japanese	2800	Business professionals
EJU	Academic-based	Twice a year	Academic subjects	1300	University admissions
JFT-Basic	Basic	Multiple times a month	Everyday Japanese	3540	SSW Visa applicants
J-CAT	Adaptive	Anytime (Online)	Grammar, Reading, Listening	600–2500	Self-learners

Which Test Should You Choose?

Selecting the right Japanese language test depends on your objectives. Whether you're aiming for globally recognized certifications like JLPT, need faster results with NAT-Test, or require business-specific credentials like BJT, each test serves a unique purpose. Evaluate your goals, current proficiency, and future plans to make an informed choice.

Test Options and Their Purpose:

✅ JLPT – The most globally recognized certification, ideal for career advancement and academic goals.
✅ NAT-Test – A great alternative for quick certification and frequent testing opportunities.
✅ BJT – Perfect for corporate jobs requiring business Japanese skills.
✅ EJU – Essential for university admissions in Japan.
✅ JFT-Basic – Best for those seeking entry-level language validation for living in Japan.
✅ J-CAT – Excellent for self-assessment and tracking progress, though limited in acceptance.

Each test serves different purposes, so choose the one that aligns with your objectives. With the right preparation and resources, you’ll be one step closer to mastering Japanese!

Now that you've passed the JLPT, what's next? Discover the best strategies for advancing your skills in our guide: Passed JLPT? Next Steps in Learning Japanese.

FAQs

1. Which Japanese language test is the most widely recognized in India?

The JLPT is the most recognized and accepted Japanese language certification in India and globally. It is ideal for academic, career, and visa purposes.

2. How often are these Japanese language tests conducted in India?

JLPT: Twice a year (July and December).
NAT-Test: 6 times a year.
EJU: Twice a year (June and November).
JFT-Basic: Multiple times a month.
BJT: Flexible (Computer-based test available anytime).
J-CAT: Anytime (Online test).

3. Which test is best for studying at Japanese universities?
The Examination for Japanese University Admission (EJU) is specifically designed for international students applying to undergraduate or postgraduate programs in Japan.

4. Which test is best for corporate jobs in Japan?
The Business Japanese Proficiency Test (BJT) is perfect for professionals looking to demonstrate their Japanese proficiency in workplace settings.