- Written and reviewed by the Inochi Global Education counselling team
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Why the 150–180 hours matter as much as the JLPT
Since Japanese Immigration tightened checks on applicants from Bangladesh and several other countries, a COE file needs both a test result and evidence of sustained study: a certificate naming the institute, the course, total hours (150 minimum, 180 typical), the period, and attendance. Immigration also compares the certificate with the applicant's performance at the school's Skype interview — a 180-hour certificate from an institute the student cannot name, or Japanese the student cannot speak, is a common refusal reason.
Checklist: 8 things to verify before you pay a course fee
- Teachers: ask to see instructors' JLPT N2/N1 certificates; ask whether a Japanese national teaches conversation.
- Hours: a written syllabus totalling at least 150 hours of classroom time (not 'self-study' padding).
- Certificate: see a sample — institute name, registration, course level, hours, dates, attendance %, signature and seal.
- Format: in-person, 4–6 days a week, class size under 25, with speaking and listening every session.
- Materials: a standard textbook (Minna no Nihongo, Genki, Marugoto) plus JLPT past papers — not photocopied notes only.
- Mock tests and interview practice built in, ideally over Skype/Zoom with a Japan-based teacher.
- Fees in writing with a receipt; no 'package' that bundles an unrefundable visa fee into the language course.
- Results: ask for last year's JLPT pass rate and to meet two or three former students.
What Inochi's courses include
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Japanese language course cost in Dhaka?
A 180-hour JLPT N5 course typically costs 18,000–25,000 BDT; N4 20,000–30,000 BDT. Inochi's N5 course is 18,000–22,000 BDT including mock tests and the attendance certificate.
How long is the Japanese course needed for a Japan student visa?
At least 150 hours of formal classes — most institutes and schools use 180 hours, which takes about 3 months at 4 days a week or 4–6 months at a slower pace.
Is there a Japanese language course in Narayanganj or Barishal?
Yes — Inochi runs the same 180-hour N5 and N4 courses at its Narayanganj (Chashara) and Barishal (Nobogram Road) branches with the same certified instructors and certificate as Dhaka.
Can I learn Japanese in Bangladesh without going to Japan?
Yes. N5 and N4 are routinely achieved in Bangladesh; N3 is possible with 6–9 months of serious study. N2 usually needs immersion in Japan, which is why the language-school route exists.
Official sources
Rules and fees change — always confirm with the official source or an Inochi counsellor before you act.
Sit a free placement test at the nearest branch
Dhaka (North Badda), Narayanganj (Chashara) or Barishal (Nobogram Road) — new N5 batches start every month. Walk in, or message us for the next start date.
This guide is general information based on official Japanese government and institutional sources at the time of writing. It is not legal or immigration advice. Immigration rules, fees and exchange rates change; confirm the latest requirements with the Embassy of Japan in Bangladesh, the school, or an Inochi counsellor.