The test has four different levels; the examinee can choose the level that best matches his or her ability and training. Each test is made up of three sections: Writing-Vocabulary; Listening; Reading-Grammar.
The contents and criteria of the test are as follows:
| Level | Contents | Criteria | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sections | Hours | Points | ||
| 1 | Writing-Vocabulary Listening Reading-Grammar |
45min. 45min. 90min. |
100points 100points 200points |
The examinee has mastered grammar to a high level, knows around 2,000 kanji and 10,000 words, and has an integrated command of the language sufficient for life in Japanese society. This level is normally reached after studying Japanese for around 900 hours. |
| 2 | Writing-Vocabulary Listening Reading-Grammar |
35min. 40min. 70min. |
100points 100points 200points |
The examinee has mastered grammar to a relatively high level, knows around 1,000 kanji and 6,000 words, and has the ability to converse, read, and write about matters of a general nature. This level is normally reached after studying Japanese for around 600 hours and after completion of an intermediate course. |
| 3 | Writing-Vocabulary Listening Reading-Grammar |
35min. 35min. 70min. |
100points 100points 200points |
The examinee has mastered grammar to a limited level, knows around 300 kanji and 1,500 words, has the ability to take part in everyday conversation and read and write simple sentences. This level is normally reached after studying Japanese for around 300 hours and after completion of an elementary course.
|
| 4 | Writing-Vocabulary Listening Reading-Grammar |
25min. 25min. 50min. |
100points 100points 200points |
The examinee has mastered the basic elements of grammar, knows around 100 kanji and 800 words, has the ability to engage in simple conversation and read and write short, simple sentences. This level is normally reached after studying Japanese for around 150 hours and after completion of the first half of an elementary course.
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