Japanese Language Proficiency NAT-Test: What You Need to Know

The need to learn Japanese is becoming more essential than ever. As a reputable and widely recognized Japanese language proficiency test, the NAT-Test is garnering significant interest from students. In this article, HeyJapan will provide detailed information about the NAT-Test for all learners.

NAT Test for Japanese Proficiency

What is the Japanese Language Proficiency NAT-Test?

The NAT-Test is a Japanese language proficiency test designed to assess the Japanese language skills of non-native speakers. It is one of the prominent Japanese proficiency tests in Vietnam. This test is organized, managed, and certified by the Japanese NAT-Test Management Committee. When held overseas, a trusted and authorized local organization is tasked with conducting the test.

First held in 1988, the NAT-Test has since spread and been recognized as a Japanese language proficiency assessment. It has grown and expanded in various countries. In Vietnam, the NAT-Test is the second most popular Japanese language test after the JLPT, with a significant number of candidates registering annually.

NAT-Test is the 2nd most popular Japanese exam in Vietnam

Key Points About the Japanese Language Proficiency NAT-Test

Purpose of the NAT-Test:

• Objectively, transparently, and accurately assess the Japanese language proficiency of learners.
• Provide a standard measure for evaluating Japanese language proficiency for learners, teachers, and educational management agencies.
• Create opportunities for Japanese language learners to access educational and work opportunities in Japan.

Test Schedule and Locations:

The NAT-Test is conducted periodically every year in many countries worldwide, including Vietnam. Information on the test schedule and locations is usually announced on the official website of the Japanese Culture Association (JASSO) and reputable educational information sites. Candidates should follow announcements to get detailed test information.

In Vietnam, the NAT-Test is held regularly in February, April, June, August, October, and December (even months), in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Vinh, and Hai Duong.

NAT-Test is held in even months of the year

Test Duration:

Similar to other Japanese language tests in Vietnam, the NAT-Test usually lasts from morning until afternoon, depending on the number of test sections and participants. Candidates should check the expected test duration information to plan their preparation and participation effectively.

Specific to the timing of each part is shown in the table below:

Time to take the NAT-Test by Skills

Test Sections and Duration:

• Listening Comprehension: 40 questions, assessing the ability to understand information from conversations and short presentations.
• Reading Comprehension: 60 questions, evaluating the ability to understand information from short texts, articles, books, emails, etc.
• Writing: 2 questions, assessing the ability to use Japanese to write essays, emails, letters, etc.
• Vocabulary and Grammar: 40 questions, evaluating the ability to use Japanese vocabulary and grammar.

NAT-Test Levels:

The NAT-Test is divided into 5 levels:

• 5Q: Basic Japanese, approximately 750 vocabulary words and 100 Kanji characters, about 200 hours of study.
• 4Q: Elementary Japanese, about 1,700 vocabulary words (850 new + 750 from 5Q) and 300 Kanji characters (200 new + 100 from 5Q), about 400 hours of study.
• 3Q: Intermediate Japanese, about 3,350 vocabulary words (1,650 new + 1,700 from 4Q) and 650 Kanji characters (350 new + 300 from 4Q), about 600 hours of study.
• 2Q: Upper-intermediate Japanese, about 5,900 vocabulary words (2,550 new + 3,350 from 3Q) and 1,100 Kanji characters (450 new + 650 from 3Q), about 800 hours of study.
• 1Q: Advanced Japanese, about 10,000 vocabulary words and 1,850 Kanji characters, about 1,000 hours of study.

The NAT-Test has 5 levels

The NAT-Test is one of the globally recognized Japanese language proficiency tests. The test scores play a crucial role in proving the Japanese language proficiency of the test-takers. The scoring system of the NAT-Test is based on a 100-point scale, with each section weighted differently. Below is the specific scoring method:

NAT-Test Scoring:

• Listening (60 points): Each correct answer is worth 0.75 points.
• Reading Comprehension and Grammar (60 points): Each correct answer is worth 1 point.
• Vocabulary (60 points): Each correct answer is worth 0.75 points.

The passing scores vary for each level. To pass levels 4Q and 2Q, you need at least 90/180, level 5Q requires 80/180, level 3Q requires 95/180, and the highest level, 1Q, requires a minimum of 100/180 to receive the certificate.

How to Register for the NAT-Test:

Candidates can register for the NAT-Test either online or in person. For online registration, you need to visit the website and follow the instructions via email. Follow these guidelines:

Email Registration:

• Scan your ID photo and take a new photo in JPG format, send it to nattesthanoi1@gmail.com (photo must be taken within the last 3 months, white background, collared shirt, no glasses).
• Name the photo file the same as on the ID.
• Transfer the exam fee (contact hotline 024.66615446 for transfer instructions). After emailing and transferring the fee, wait for the confirmation email from the organizers. If you do not receive a confirmation email within 24 hours, contact the hotline mentioned above.

Postal Registration:

• Submit 2 copies of your ID + 2 photos (4x6, taken within the last 3 months, white background, collared shirt, no glasses).
• Staple the 4x6 photo to the corner of the ID and clearly write your personal information, then send it via express mail to HQ International Education Co., Ltd. The exam fee is 800,000 VND per candidate. Similarly to email registration, if you do not receive a confirmation email within the specified time, contact for support.

In-person Registration:

• Room 201, Building I, Center for Capacity Building and Urban Research - Hanoi University of Architecture.
• HQ Company Office, Room 205, No. 15, Alley 259, Yen Hoa Street, Cau Giay, Hanoi.

NAT-Test can be registered online or offline

Comparing Japanese Language Tests: NAT-Test – TOPJ – JLPT

The Japanese Language Proficiency NAT-Test (にほんご能力試験 - Nihongo Nōryoku Shiken) is a Japanese language proficiency test organized by the Japanese Culture Association (JASSO) in Japan and recognized worldwide. Many universities, Japanese companies, and international institutions accept this test.

Compared to other Japanese language tests like the JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) and TOPJ (Test of Proficiency in Japanese), the NAT-Test has distinct differences:

Conclusion

This article provides essential information about the Japanese Language Proficiency NAT-Test. Understanding the structure, content, scoring system, and registration process will help you prepare better for the test. We hope this article gives you a comprehensive and useful overview of the NAT-Test. HeyJapan wishes you success in conquering this challenge and advancing your Japanese language skills!