JFT-Basic Explained: Format, Score, Prometric Dhaka Booking & Who Needs It

You've probably heard of the JLPT, but what about JFT-Basic? For many students heading to Japan, this exam is completely new. One day, a student in my counseling session said, 'Sir, I've already passed JLPT N4, but now I hear I need another test for the visa—what is this?' Yes, my friend, that's JFT-Basic. Let's break it down today—what it is, why it matters, and how to go about it.

What Is JFT-Basic and Who Needs It?

JFT-Basic stands for Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese. It was mainly created for foreign nationals who are going to Japan under the Technical Intern Training or Specified Skilled Worker visas—in other words, for work purposes. This test proves your language ability for those work routes.

But if you're going on a student visa (like a language school or university), you typically don't need JFT-Basic. Instead, you'll need a JLPT score or another recognized test. However, some language schools or colleges may ask for JFT-Basic as part of their admission requirements, especially if you don't have a JLPT score. So always check the school's specific requirements before applying.

Let me be clear—JFT-Basic is not a replacement for JLPT. JLPT is mainly for study, while JFT-Basic is for work. But there's some overlap. For instance, a passing score of A2 level in JFT-Basic is sometimes considered equivalent to JLPT N4 for certain visa categories.

Format and Scoring of JFT-Basic

JFT-Basic is fully computer-based. You'll sit at a computer, no paper or pen. The test lasts 60 minutes.

The exam has three main sections:

• Kanji and Vocabulary (15 questions)
• Conversation and Communication (15 questions)
• Listening (15 questions)

That's 45 questions in total. Each question is worth 1 raw point. The total score is scaled out of 180. The scoring system is a bit different—raw scores are converted to a scaled score.

To pass, you need an Overall Score of 120+ and at least 24 points in each section. So even if your total is good, you can't fail a section.

Results are released within 2-3 weeks after the test. You can check your score online and download your certificate.

Booking JFT-Basic at Prometric Dhaka

In Bangladesh, JFT-Basic is held at Prometric Testing Center. There's a center in Dhaka. The test is usually held once a month, sometimes twice.

Steps to book:

1. First, register on the official JFT-Basic website.
2. Upload your personal information and photo.
3. Choose a test date and center—select the Prometric center in Dhaka.
4. Pay the exam fee. It's approximately 10,000 yen (around 8,500-9,000 BDT, depending on exchange rate).
5. You'll receive a confirmation email. On the test day, bring your passport or national ID.

Remember—check your necessity before booking. If you're going on a student visa, you might not need JFT-Basic at all. In that case, focusing on JLPT is better.

Preparation Plan: What to Do This Week

If you have 2-3 months to prepare, follow this plan:

• Take the official mock test: There's a free mock test on the JFT-Basic website. Use it to gauge your level.
• Learn kanji and vocabulary daily for 1 hour: The test mainly covers N4-level kanji and vocabulary.
• Practice listening: Listen to Japanese anime or podcasts, but try without subtitles.
• Find a Japanese conversation partner: Practice speaking with native speakers online.

And yes, get a good night's sleep before the exam, and arrive at the test center 30 minutes early.

JFT-Basic vs JLPT: Which One Do You Need?

Let me simplify:

• Going to Japan to work (Technical Intern or Specified Skilled Worker) → JFT-Basic
• Going to Japan to study (language school, college, university) → JLPT (usually N5 or N4 is enough)
• You can take both, but if your goal is study, focus on JLPT.

Many people think passing JLPT N5 solves everything. But reality is, language schools usually require N5 or equivalent, while work visas require A2 or higher in JFT-Basic.

I had a client who passed JLPT N4 but still took JFT-Basic to go on a work visa because his school required it. So decide based on your plan.

Another thing—JFT-Basic is valid for 2 years. You need to apply for the visa within 2 years of taking the test. So keep that in mind.

Honest Caveats and Advice

Let me be straightforward—some people think JFT-Basic is very easy and try to wing it. But no, the test is not that easy. The listening section trips up many. So don't go in unprepared.

Also, some agencies claim 'You can't go to Japan without JFT-Basic'—that's not entirely true. For student visas, JLPT is usually sufficient. So don't be misled by agency talk. Do your own research, and feel free to talk to us.

Finally, the dream of studying in Japan is big, but the path has many steps. Whether it's JFT-Basic or JLPT, learning the language is the most important part of life in Japan. Because knowing the language makes it easier to find a part-time job, and studying abroad becomes more enjoyable.

If you're planning to study in Japan, our experienced counselors can guide you. I counsel at our Dhaka office (North Badda, Pragati Sarani)—just 13 minutes from the Japan Embassy. Inochi Global Education Institute will stand by you throughout the entire process. To learn more about our Japan study visa services, visit our office or give us a call. We're here to help you achieve your dream.