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Learn JLPT

Build the kanji, grammar and listening skills for your JLPT level.

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The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test measures Japanese ability across five levels, from N5, the most basic, to N1, the most advanced. It tests language knowledge, meaning vocabulary, kanji and grammar, along with reading and listening, all in multiple-choice format. There is no speaking or writing section, so it rewards recognition skills. The test is offered on set dates each year, with some locations holding it more than once. Learnr is not affiliated with the JLPT organizers; it builds courses targeting the vocabulary and grammar of your level.

How to learn JLPT, step by step

Pick a realistic target level. Try official sample questions for two adjacent levels and see where you can answer most questions comfortably. Aim for the level just above your current ability, and register early, since test dates are limited.
Learn kana completely before kanji. Hiragana and katakana should be instant before you start N5 or N4 study. Read them aloud until you never pause, because slow kana reading drags down every reading and vocabulary question.
Study kanji through vocabulary. Learn kanji inside real words, such as 学生 and 学校, rather than memorizing readings in isolation. Pay attention to on and kun readings, and quiz yourself on the words at your level. Learnr lessons can recycle missed words daily.
Learn grammar patterns with example sentences. JLPT grammar is pattern based, such as ～てしまう or ～ばかり. For each pattern, learn the meaning, the conjugation it attaches to, and two example sentences, then practice choosing between similar patterns.
Train listening with natural audio. Listen daily to Japanese podcasts, dramas or news at your level, and practice the JLPT format of hearing a question before or after audio. Shadowing, repeating along with audio, speeds up recognition.
Do timed practice with official materials. Reading sections at higher levels are long, and time runs out easily. Use official practice workbooks under real timing, and keep the language knowledge section fast so reading gets enough time.

What you'll learn

Read hiragana, katakana and the kanji expected at your level
Recognize and use the grammar patterns for your target level
Expand vocabulary, including words with multiple readings
Read passages and notices for specific information
Follow spoken Japanese at natural speed in conversations and announcements

What's inside your JLPT course

A sample path Learnr builds for JLPT. Your real course adapts to your goal and level.

1. Choosing a JLPT level and how the test works
2. Kana and kanji foundations
3. Vocabulary for your level
4. Grammar patterns for your level
5. Reading comprehension practice
6. Listening comprehension practice

How long does it take to learn JLPT?

Progress depends heavily on whether you already read Chinese characters and how much you study. Reaching N5 can take a few months of steady study, while N2 and N1 typically take several years of consistent work.

What you need before you start

For N5, just an interest in Japanese. Higher levels assume you know the kana, kanji, vocabulary and grammar of the levels below.

Common mistakes to avoid

Neglecting listening because the test has no speaking. Listening is a full section, so daily audio practice is essential.
Studying kanji alone without vocabulary. Many questions test word readings and usage, so learn kanji in context.
Running out of time on reading at N3 and above. Practice reading speed with timed passages well before test day.

How Learnr builds your course

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JLPT questions, answered

Does the JLPT test speaking?

No. The JLPT has no speaking or writing section. It tests language knowledge, reading and listening through multiple-choice questions.

How often is the JLPT held?

It is held on set dates each year, and the number of sessions depends on the country and test site. Check the official JLPT website or your local host institution for dates and registration.