Introduction

A About J-Cert

J-cert is a public interest foundation and is a certification test sponsored by the International Human Resources Development Organization (公益財団法人国際人財開発機構) for non-native Japanese speakers to certify their Japanese language proficiency.

J-cert is used as an index of Japanese language proficiency when applying for residence status in Japan and as a reference when finding employment, pursuing higher education, or certifications.

B J-Cert Exam Levels

Level JLPT Equivalent Qualification Standard
C2 —

The ability to fully evaluate the level of proficiency in Japanese and socio-cultural knowledge and understanding that can be used in a variety of business and academic situations, and to talk and discuss about the current and future situation of Japan.
C1 N1

In addition to reading and listening comprehension skills in Japanese, almost understands Japanese societal norms (social customs, etiquette, etc.), has adequate communication skills at work and company meetings, and is able to respond appropriately to various problems.
B2 N2

Have the ability to listen and express at a normal pace, have the ability to attend college and work in a company in Japan, and be at a level that can respond to topics such as social situations.
B1 N3

Acquire communication skills to manage social life by understanding conversations and simple sentences in everyday life. A level that has a basis for school and work.
A2.2 N4

Acquire basic conversational and terminology skills, and can understand slowly. The degree to which you can generally understand social life in Japan and communicate with your neighbors.
A2.1 N5

Learn basic sentence patterns, vocabulary, and kanji. Can speak and understand simple conversations slowly. The level that is usually reached after studying for approximately 3 months (150 hours).

C Exam Question Forms

The J-cert exam focuses on 3 types of questions:

聴解
Listening

Assessment of communication ability with Japanese speakers through listening to conversations, speeches, and other multimedia content.

文字・語彙・文法
Writing, Vocabulary, Grammar

Assessment of proper communication ability in daily life and work environment through understanding of vocabulary, sentence patterns, and writing skills.

社会文化
Sociocultural Knowledge

Assessment of understanding ability needed for life in Japan such as culture, climate, and customs, as well as reading comprehension skills.

D Question Types and Exam Time

Here is the exam time for each level and question type:

Question Type Time (Minutes)
General Material 100
Conversation 30
Total Time 130 minutes

Question Type Time (Minutes)
Grammar & Reading Comprehension 60
Hearing Comprehension 30
Community Culture 40
Total Time 130 minutes

Question Type Time (Minutes)
Grammar & Reading Comprehension 60
Hearing Comprehension 30
Community Culture 40
Total Time 130 minutes

Question Type Time (Minutes)
Grammar & Reading Comprehension 60
Hearing Comprehension 30
Community Culture 40
Total Time 130 minutes

Question Type Time (Minutes)
Writing, Vocabulary, Sentence Pattern 45
Hearing Comprehension 30
Community Culture (Reading Comprehension) 60
Total Time 135 minutes

Question Type Time (Minutes)
Writing, Vocabulary, Sentence Pattern 60
Hearing Comprehension 30
Community Culture 40
Total Time 130 minutes