What is the indication of the CEFR level as a reference?

This is an indication that links the JLPT's total score to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) language proficiency levels (A1 to C1, with C1 being the highest level).

What is the CEFR level? What levels are available?

There are six levels of language proficiency indicated by the CEFR: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2 (with C2 being the highest level). For each level, see the "Global Scale: Common Reference Levels" of CEFR.
In the CEFR-CV (Companion Volume) published in 2020, PreA1 and + levels (A2+, B1+, etc.) are also indicated, but the JLPT does not include these indications as a reference.

How does each level of the JLPT correspond to the CEFR level?

The correspondence of each level of JLPT to the CEFR level is shown in "Figure 1: Correspondence of the JLPT Total Score (N5 to N1) to the CEFR Level (A1 to C1)."

How was each level of the JLPT linked to the CEFR level?

The reference indication of the CEFR level was developed based on the steps shown in by "Relating Language Examinations to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, teaching, assessment (CEFR). A Manual" published by the Council of Europe in 2009. This procedure is also outlined in the 「日本語能力試験のCEFRレベル参考表示に向けて― 対応付けの手続きを中心に ―」(For Indication of the CEFR Level of the JLPT ~ on the Linking Procedures ~; available in Japanese only) released in February 2024

Why is there no C2 level on the reference indication of the CEFR level in JLPT?

The results of linking the JLPT total score to CEFR levels indicated that the corresponding level was up to C1.

Is the reference indication of the CEFR level also shown for those who have failed the test?

The reference indication of the CEFR level is only shown for those who have passed the test, and not for those who have failed the test.

With the introduction of the reference indication of the CEFR level, will there be any changes to the JLPT test contents? Do I have to change how to study for the JLPT?

There will be no changes in the JLPT test contents; you do not have to change how to study for the JLPT.

Does the CEFR level indicated as a reference include all "Reading," "Listening," Speaking," and "Writing" skills?

The "Language Knowledge (Vocabulary/Grammar)," "Reading" and "Listening" tested by the JLPT correspond to the "Linguistic" and "Reception" (reading, listening) in the CEFR. It does not include skills such as "Production (speaking, writing)" and "Interaction" in the CEFR.

Can I see my CEFR level for each scoring section ("Language Knowledge," "Reading" and "Listening")?

The CEFR level corresponding to the "total score," which is the sum of the scores by scoring section, is indicated as a reference. The CEFR level for each scoring section are not provided.

After the December 2025 JLPT, will score reports issued in or before the July 2025 JLPT without the reference indication of the CEFR level become invalid?

The CEFR level designation given to score reports is assigned only as reference information; reports and certificates for tests taken in and before July 2025 will remain valid.

If my goal is to achieve the CEFR B1 level, which level of the JLPT should I take?

Please take the N3 or N2 test. For N3, if you pass with a total score of 104 points or higher, the reference indication is the B1 level. For N2, if you pass with a total score of up to 111 points, the reference indication is the B1 level.

Are both B1 level in N3 and B1 level in N2 considered as the CEFR B1 level?

According to the CEFR, both can be considered to be the same B1 level.

I want to request a duplicated copy of my Certificate of Result and Scores for a test in or before the July 2025 JLPT. Will the CEFR level indicated as a reference?

Duplicated copies of the Certificate of Result and Scores for tests taken in and before the July 2025 JLPT will not have the CEFR level indicated as a reference (a "＊" will be shown).
Those who took the test between 2010 and the July 2025 can check their own CEFR level as a reference for learning by using "Figure 1: Correspondence of JLPT Total Score (N5 to N1) to the CEFR Level (A1 to C1)." Note that issuing a duplicated copy of your Certificate of Result and Scores with the CEFR level indicated as a reference is not possible.

How can I use the CEFR level indicated as a reference?

1. JLPT's results can be cross-referenced with other Japanese language tests that comply with the CEFR or have been linked to the CEFR.
2. With regards to whether the CEFR level indicated as a reference of the JLPT is recognized as a qualification, etc., please inquire with the school, company, or institution in charge of systems utilizing the results of the JLPT.