- Written and reviewed by the Inochi Global Education counselling team
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The five JLPT levels and what each unlocks
| Level | Ability | Study hours (approx.) | Unlocks |
|---|---|---|---|
| N5 | Hiragana, katakana, ~100 kanji, simple sentences | 150–300 | Language school admission + student visa (with 150–180 h certificate) |
| N4 | Daily conversation, ~300 kanji | 300–600 | SSW visa (with skills test), better part-time jobs, some senmon |
| N3 | Everyday Japanese at natural speed, ~650 kanji | 450–900 | Many senmon gakko, EPA nursing, service jobs |
| N2 | Newspapers, meetings, ~1,000 kanji | 900–1,800 | University, senmon, office jobs, Engineer/Specialist visa |
| N1 | Academic / professional fluency, ~2,000 kanji | 1,800–3,000+ | Top universities, professional roles, Highly Skilled Professional points |
Taking the JLPT in Bangladesh
The JLPT is run worldwide by the Japan Foundation and JEES. In Bangladesh it is held in Dhaka on the first Sunday of July and the first Sunday of December. Registration usually opens about 3–4 months before the test (roughly March–April for July, August–September for December) through the local host institution; seats for N5 and N4 fill fast, so register in the first week. Bring the test voucher and your NID/passport on exam day. Results are published online about two months after the test and the certificate follows by post.
Frequently asked questions
Which JLPT level is required for a Japan student visa?
For a language school, N5 (or an equivalent test) plus a certificate of 150–180 hours of Japanese study. Some schools prefer N4 and give priority or discounts for it. Universities need N2.
When is the JLPT exam held in Bangladesh?
Twice a year in Dhaka: the first Sunday of July and the first Sunday of December. Registration opens about 3–4 months earlier and seats are limited.
How long does it take to learn Japanese for N5?
About 150–300 hours of study. With a structured 180-hour course plus daily self-study, most Bangladeshi students pass N5 within 3–6 months.
Is JFT-Basic the same as JLPT N4?
They are different tests with a similar level (CEFR A2). JFT-Basic is computer-based, available year-round, and is designed for the Specified Skilled Worker visa; JLPT N4 is paper-based, twice a year, and more widely recognised by schools and employers.
Can I learn Japanese online for free before joining a course?
Yes — learn hiragana and katakana first using Inochi's free kana flashcards and the Japan Foundation's 'Marugoto' and 'Irodori' materials. Most students then need a teacher for grammar, speaking and listening to pass N5 on the first try.
Official sources
Rules and fees change — always confirm with the official source or an Inochi counsellor before you act.
Start N5 with certified instructors
New batches start every month in Dhaka, Narayanganj and Barishal. Sit a free placement test and see the next JLPT sitting you can realistically target.
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.