JLPT N4 tests your ability to understand and use Japanese in familiar contexts, such as daily conversations, simple written texts, and basic instructions. It requires knowledge of approximately 1,500 vocabulary words, 300 kanji, and intermediate grammar structures like ている (progressive) and てもいい (permission). The test is administered by the Japan Foundation and Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES) and is globally recognized.
Key Information
- Level: Upper-beginner (second easiest of the five JLPT levels: N5 to N1).
- Purpose: Certifies proficiency for basic communication, study, or entry-level career opportunities.
- Skills Tested: Vocabulary, grammar, reading, and listening comprehension.
- Test Frequency: Held twice a year in Japan and select countries (July and December); once a year in some regions (either July or December).
- Certificate Validity: JLPT certificates do not expire.
Exam Pattern and Marks Distribution
The JLPT N4 exam is divided into three sections with a total score of 180 points. To pass, you need an overall score of at least 90/180 (50%) and a minimum of 38/120 (31.67%) for Language Knowledge (Vocabulary/Grammar) & Reading, and 19/60 (31.67%) for Listening. All questions are multiple-choice with four options.
| Section |
Duration |
Questions |
Score |
Passing Score |
Syllabus |
| Language Knowledge (Vocabulary) |
25 min |
~30 |
120 |
38 |
~1,500 vocabulary words, ~300 kanji, hiragana, katakana, word usage in context. |
| Language Knowledge (Grammar) & Reading |
55 min |
~25 |
Basic grammar (e.g., ている, てもいい, なければならない), reading short passages, sentence completion. |
| Listening |
35 min |
~20 |
60 |
19 |
Comprehending short conversations, instructions, and announcements spoken at a moderate pace. |
| Total |
115 min |
~75 |
180 |
90 |
- |
Test Dates for 2025
The JLPT N4 is scheduled for the following dates in 2025:
- July 6, 2025: Registration typically opens March 5–March 28, 2025.
- December 7, 2025: Registration typically opens in mid-August.
- Note: Test availability varies by region; some locations may offer only one session. Check with local test centers (e.g., MOSAI for India) for details.
Career Opportunities with JLPT N4
JLPT N4 certification enhances your resume for various opportunities, though it’s often a stepping stone to higher levels like N3 or N2 for more advanced roles:
- Education: Supports applications for Japanese language programs or preparatory courses for universities in Japan.
- Entry-Level Jobs: Useful for roles in tourism, retail, or customer service requiring basic Japanese communication.
- Cultural Immersion: Demonstrates proficiency for travel, cultural exchange, or volunteering in Japan.
- Pathway to Higher Levels: Prepares you for N3, which is often required for technical or professional roles in Japan.
Preparation Tips
- Master ~300 kanji and ~1,500 vocabulary words using flashcards or apps like Anki.
- Study grammar points like ている (progressive), てもいい (permission), and なければならない (obligation).
- Practice reading short stories, blogs, or manga to improve comprehension.
- Listen to intermediate-level podcasts, anime, or dramas to enhance listening skills.
- Take mock exams to get familiar with the test format and timing. Free resources are available at jlpt.jp or through TLS courses.
- Join a study group or enroll in a course like TLS’s JLPT N4 Prep Course for structured learning.
Trends in JLPT N4 (2015–2024)
The JLPT N4 has seen steady growth in global participation, reflecting the rising popularity of Japanese language learning. Below is a graph showing the estimated number of N4 test-takers worldwide from 2015 to 2024 (data for 2024 is based on July session and estimates).