Japan Foundation & Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES)
JLPT N3
Japanese-Language Proficiency Test — Level N3
The intermediate level of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test, certifying the ability to understand Japanese used in everyday situations to a degree. A bridge level often expected for service and support roles in Japan.
What's on the exam
JLPT N3 scoring sections (each scored 0–60 of 180)
Language Knowledge (Vocabulary/Grammar)
60 of 180 pointsKanji readings and orthography · Contextual vocabulary · Paraphrase and word usage · Grammatical forms of sentences · Sentence composition and text grammar
Reading
60 of 180 pointsShort passages · Mid-length passages · Long passages · Information retrieval
Listening
60 of 180 pointsTask-based comprehension · Comprehension of key points · Summary comprehension · Verbal expression · Quick response
Frequently asked questions
How much does the JLPT N3 cost?
Fees vary. Fees vary widely by country (roughly $20–80); set by the local host institution.
How long is the JLPT N3 and how many questions does it have?
Multiple-choice items across vocabulary, grammar, reading, and listening (counts vary by administration) — Approximately 140 minutes (Vocabulary 30 min; Grammar & Reading 70 min; Listening 40 min).
What do you need to pass the JLPT N3?
Overall pass mark of 95/180 plus a sectional minimum of 19/60 in each of the three scored sections.
Can you retake the JLPT N3?
May retake at the next administration.
What is the best way to study for the JLPT N3?
Start from the official outline and your primary study materials: the exam is weighted by domain (Language Knowledge (Vocabulary/Grammar) 60 of 180 points, Reading 60 of 180 points, Listening 60 of 180 points). Once you've learned the material, spaced-repetition flashcards organized by those domains are an efficient way to retain it and refresh it before test day.
Program in development
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