The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is the world’s most recognized Japanese certification. Whether you’re studying for university, work in Japan, or personal goals, the JLPT levels provide a clear roadmap from beginner to advanced.
Overview: What Each Level Requires
| Level | Kanji | Vocabulary | Study Time* | Ability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| N5 | ~100 | ~800 | ~350 hours | Basic phrases, Hiragana/Katakana |
| N4 | ~300 | ~1,500 | ~600 hours | Basic conversations, simple reading |
| N3 | ~650 | ~3,750 | ~950 hours | Everyday topics, some native content |
| N2 | ~1,000 | ~6,000 | ~1,600 hours | News, business, most native content |
| N1 | ~2,000 | ~10,000 | ~3,000 hours | Near-native comprehension |
*Study time is cumulative from zero, based on JLPT official estimates.
JLPT N5 — Your First Step
N5 tests your ability to understand basic Japanese. You’ll need to read Hiragana, Katakana, and ~100 basic Kanji. Topics include self-introduction, daily routines, and simple directions.
Kanji examples: 日 (day), 人 (person), 大 (big), 水 (water), 一 (one)
Kanjijo covers all N5 Kanji and Vocabulary in structured, bite-sized lessons with mnemonics for each character.
JLPT N4 — Building Foundation
N4 expands to everyday conversations and basic reading. You’ll learn ~300 Kanji covering topics like shopping, travel, weather, and family.
Key grammar: ～たい (want to), ～てもいいですか (may I?), ～なければならない (must)
JLPT N3 — The Intermediate Plateau
N3 is where many learners plateau. The jump from N4 to N3 doubles the Kanji requirement and introduces abstract concepts. You need ~650 Kanji and the ability to understand Japanese used in everyday situations.
Tip: N3 is the most critical level. If you can push through the N3 plateau, N2 and N1 become achievable. SRS is essential here to manage the growing number of items.
JLPT N2 — Professional Level
N2 is the most commonly requested level for jobs in Japan. You can read newspapers, understand TV programs, and write business emails. ~1,000 Kanji required.
Many companies and universities accept N2 as proof of Japanese proficiency.
JLPT N1 — Near-Native
The final boss. N1 tests your ability to understand Japanese in virtually all situations. You need ~2,000 Kanji and ~10,000 vocabulary. Reading includes academic papers, literature, and complex arguments.
N1 holders can work in Japanese-only environments, read novels, and understand nuanced cultural references.
How Kanjijo Maps to JLPT
Kanjijo contains 2,000+ Kanji and 6,000+ Vocabulary organized precisely by JLPT level:
- Content is divided into sequential lessons (15-20 items each)
- Each lesson has a proficiency test — score 80+ to unlock the next
- SRS reviews keep previously learned items fresh
- Lock screen and home screen widgets provide passive review
- OCR scanning lets you practice with real-world Japanese materials
Free to download. All JLPT levels included.