Japanese Language Proficiency Test

The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is an internationally recognised qualification for non-native speakers, sponsored by the Japan Foundation. 

In the UK the test is administered by the SOAS Japan Research Centre, Cardiff University, University of Edinburgh and University of Leicester on behalf of the Japan Foundation. The highest level is N1, and the lowest is N5.

Please note that the SOAS Japan Research Centre does not offer a level check for candidates. Consult your teacher for advice. 

Exam dates

JLPT takes place first Sundays of July and December every year.

Fees and payment

• Fee: £100

You will be directed to make your payment once you have completed the online application form (Payment links will be available after you have completed the form).

No refund will be given (no transfer to another test can be made either) under any circumstances once payment has been accepted unless cancellation is made by the Japan Foundation, the Japan Education Exchanges and Services or the Japan Research Centre at SOAS University of London.

The Japanese Language Proficiency Test guide

The JLPT test guide is just for your information. Please note that there is no need to print out the form in the guide and hand it in person. The application for JLPT in London is done only via online form.

Application procedure

The SOAS JLPT venue only accepts online applications.

When application registration opens, you can find the online application form link on our website. Please apply using the link.

If you have a physical disability or other impairments and need Special Testing Accommodations, please notify us via email immediately after your application. 

Please note, that the application process differs for each institution.

Exam format

It is entirely in “multiple questions - answers” format; where candidates’ kanji, vocabulary, grammar, reading and listening abilities are tested. There is no interview or oral paper.

The exact same test questions of every exam are not available. 

You can find the results online from Friday 31 January at 10:00am (JST) till Monday 31 March at 5:00pm (JST).

• Japanese results
• English results

We will start sending the physical certificates from March to April.

We will announce the application opening date in the early March.

Please note that we will NOT open the application form in the early March.

The JLPT SOAS venue welcomes everyone as long as you can sit the exam on the test day by yourself (we cannot accept any guardians in the test room) regardless of their nationalities or ages.

Please note that only candidates are allowed to enter the exam floors and rooms. Guardians must be in the assigned waiting area during the exam (including before the exam and during the break time) and they are not allowed to enter the other places anytime.