Passing
Candidates need both an overall pass mark and sectional minimums; N1 is listed as 100/180 and N2 as 90/180. Check the official site for each level.
Use
A baseline credential for work in Japan and Japanese firms: N2 for many office roles, N1 for client-facing or translation work. It has no speaking section.
FAQ
- Does it expire?
- No, though employers may ask for recent results.
- Is N2 enough?
- Often, but some roles need N1.
Sources reviewed: 2026-10-26
References
- 日本語能力試験 JLPT 公式サイト. https://www.jlpt.jp
- Bachman, L. F., & Palmer, A. S. (1996). Language Testing in Practice. Oxford University Press.
- Council of Europe. (2001). Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment. Cambridge University Press.
