Unique Features of the JTest for Japanese Language Proficiency

Have you heard about the JTest exam but aren't sure what it is or its significance? In this article, HeyJapan will answer those questions for you. You will learn the basic information, schedule, structure, and test regulations, as well as the different levels of the JTest.

What is the JTest?

Similar to other Japanese language exams in Vietnam, the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JTest) is a test that assesses the Japanese language skills of non-native speakers. It is organized by the Japanese Language Examination Council. First held in 1991, the JTest has become widely recognized worldwide and is used as a standard for assessing Japanese language proficiency for learners and foreign workers.

What is the JTest?

The JTest is divided into levels corresponding to the test-taker's Japanese language proficiency, from levels A to G. These levels encompass all Japanese language skills such as listening, speaking, reading, and writing, providing a comprehensive assessment of the test-taker’s proficiency.

The JTest can be used to assess Japanese language skills in various contexts, such as admissions to universities and colleges in Japan, internships, and work in Japan, residency in Japan, or to confirm an individual’s Japanese language proficiency.

Japanese Language JTest Schedule

Currently, the JTest is held six times a year in odd-numbered months: January, March, May, July, September, and November. 

Therefore, you can flexibly choose a suitable test date that fits your work and study schedule. If you do not achieve the desired result in the first attempt, you can retake the test in subsequent sessions.

How many sessions are there in the Japanese Language JTest schedule for 2024?

How to Register for the Japanese Language JTest

You can register for the Japanese Language JTest through the official JTest website or through Japanese language centers that offer test registration. Typically, registration is conducted from mid-August to the end of September each year. During the registration process, you will need to fill out a registration form and pay a test fee. After completing the registration procedures, you will receive a confirmation notice.

JTest Registration Form

You can download the JTest registration form from the official JTest website or through related test announcements. The registration form includes basic information such as name, date of birth, address, and test registration details.

JTest Registration Form

Required Documents for JTest Registration

To register for the JTest, you need to prepare the following documents:

• Registration form
• Passport or ID card (original and photocopy)
• Passport-sized photo
• Test fee payment slip Additionally, you may be required to submit other documents, such as a Japanese language certificate or other relevant registration documents.

Registration Procedures

Before starting the test, you will be required to log in to your computer with the account and password provided in the registration confirmation notice. After completing the test, you will need to submit the test sheet and participation documents to the examination staff. Upon completing the test and verifying the documents, you will receive a receipt to confirm the completion of the test procedures.

Levels and Structure of the Japanese Language JTest

JTest Levels

The JTest is divided into 7 levels corresponding to the test-taker’s Japanese proficiency. These levels are divided into two groups: levels A to C and levels D to G.

Levels A to C (125 minutes)

• Special Level A: This is the highest level of the JTest, for those whose Japanese proficiency is almost equivalent to that of a native speaker. To achieve this level, you need to understand and use Japanese flexibly and accurately in various situations.
• Level A: This level requires test-takers to confidently and flexibly use Japanese in daily situations. To achieve this level, you need to understand and use Japanese accurately and confidently.
• Pre-A Level: This is the lowest level in Group A, for those who are new to learning Japanese. This level assesses basic grammar, vocabulary, and Japanese communication skills.
• Level B: This level assesses the ability to use Japanese in daily situations. Test-takers at this level need to read, understand, and write Japanese accurately and flexibly.
• Pre-B Level: This is the lowest level in Group B, for those who are new to learning Japanese. This level assesses basic grammar, vocabulary, and Japanese communication skills.
• Level C: This level assesses the ability to use Japanese in daily situations. Test-takers at this level need to read, understand, and write Japanese accurately and flexibly.

Levels D to E (105 minutes)

• Level D: This level assesses basic Japanese language skills in daily situations. Test-takers at this level need to have basic knowledge of grammar, vocabulary, and Japanese communication skills.
• Level E: This is the lowest level in Group D-E, for those who are new to learning Japanese. This level assesses basic grammar, vocabulary, and Japanese communication skills.

Levels F to G (85 minutes)

• Level F: This level assesses basic Japanese language skills in daily situations. Test-takers at this level need to have basic knowledge of grammar, vocabulary, and Japanese communication skills.
• Level G: This is the lowest level in Group F-G, for those who are new to learning Japanese. This level assesses basic grammar, vocabulary, and Japanese communication skills.

JTest Structure

The JTest consists of two parts: reading comprehension and listening comprehension. Since there is no break time between the two parts, test-takers need to be mentally prepared and well-hydrated.

• Reading comprehension: Vocabulary questions, grammar questions, reading comprehension questions, Kanji questions.
• Listening comprehension: Picture questions, listening comprehension questions, response questions, conversation questions, explanation questions.

JTest Structure

How JTest Scores Are Calculated

JTest scores are calculated based on the number of correct answers in each section of the test. The objectives for each test level have been predetermined and assessed with corresponding scores. Your total score is calculated by adding up the scores of each section. To receive a certificate, you need to achieve the minimum total score for each level. If you do not achieve this score, you will not be awarded a JTest certificate.

Conclusion

In this article, we have explored the Japanese Language JTest – one of the important and globally recognized Japanese language exams. We have covered the basic information about the test, its schedule, registration regulations, levels, as well as the timing, structure, and key points to note when participating in the JTest 2024.

We hope that the information in this article helps you better understand the JTest and prepare well for the exam. Wishing you success in your Japanese language learning journey and high results in your exam! For more information on Japanese language exams in Vietnam, don’t forget to follow the HeyJapan Blog.