The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT)

The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT)

The JLPT is an internationally known test, held worldwide, to evaluate and certify the proficiency in Japanese of non-native speakers.

The JLPT is an internationally known test, held worldwide, to evaluate and certify the proficiency in Japanese of non-native speakers.

The JLPT is an internationally known test, held worldwide, to evaluate and certify the proficiency in Japanese of non-native speakers.

The test has been held since 1984. 

The JLPT is held in July and/or December in Australia, depending on the city. 

Note: From 2023 RMIT no longer hosts the JLPT.  For more information on the JLPT in Melbourne, please visit the JLPT Australia site.

2023 JLPT in Australia

Visit JLPT Australia for the most up-to-date information.

2023 dates Melbourne*
 Adelaide Brisbane Canberra Perth Sydney
Sunday 2 July       o    
Sunday 3 December o o o   o o

* Note: From 2023 RMIT no longer hosts the JLPT.   

How do I apply / register?

Applications are administered centrally by the Japan Foundation. Please check the JLPT Australia website for details.

How do I know what level I should be applying for?

Please refer to N1-N5: A summary of linguistic competence required for each level which explains levels in the current test (from 2010) and Comparison of new and old tests which explains approximate equivalence of levels between the new test (from 2010) and old test (until 2009). You can also get an idea of levels from question examples in New Japanese-Language Proficiency Test sample questions.

How much does it cost?

Please see JLPT Australia for information on the test fees.

What can I do to prepare?

First, please be sure to read the test guide (available on the registration site) to find out what you need for the test.

Continuing to study in your accustomed manner should not lead to any problems. However, considering that the current test places importance on both knowledge of the Japanese language and the competence to use the knowledge in practical communication, we suggest using the New Japanese-Language Proficiency Test sample questions. The sample questions cover all question patterns for all levels and they will help you prepare for the test.

Additionally the following websites and on-line forums may also be of use:

  • JLPT study material for the JLPT levels N5 to N1, which contains Kanji list, vocabulary list and grammar points for each level.

Disclaimer: The provision of these URLs does not consist of an endorsement by RMIT of the merits or otherwise of the website. RMIT is simply passing on information that may assist you in your preparation.

When and how do I know the result?

For the December Test, the results are first viewable online from the end of January to the end of March the following year. Hard copy score reports (and certificates for those who passed) are sent out through Australia Post by the end of March. The postal address must be an Australian address.

Information and Enquiries

For more information or to enquire about the JLPT please visit JLPT Australia.

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

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aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.

More information