BJT vs JLPT: Differences
Test frequency, visa use and levels side by side, from published data.
Key points
- FrequencyBJT Year-round (computer-based) ／ JLPT Twice a year (July & December)
- VisaUsable with both: Get a job under Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services, Obtain the Business Manager status of residence, Study abroad — Enrol at a Japanese-language institution, Study abroad — Vocational and specialised training schools
JLPT only: Work as a Specified Skilled Worker (i), Move from Technical Intern Training to Specified Skilled Worker
Comparison table
| Attribute | Business Japanese Proficiency Test (BJT) | Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Score-based assessment of Japanese communication ability in business settings | The world's largest test certifying Japanese ability for non-native speakers |
| Frequency | Year-round (computer-based) | Twice a year (July & December) |
| Organizer | The Japan Kanji Aptitude Testing Foundation | The Japan Foundation / Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES) |
| Levels / CEFR | J1+ · J1 · J2 · J3 · J4 · J5 | N1 · N2 · N3 · N4 · N5 (CEFR A1–C1) |
| Countries | — | 23 |
| Typical fee | ¥8,000 | ¥7,500 |
| Official site | Official site ↗ | Official site ↗ |
Which to choose by purpose
Descriptions from each residence-status guide, side by side.
Get a job under Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services
BJT
Shows working ability in business settings. Year-round. 480+ for Highly Skilled Professional points.
JLPT
N2 is the most widely accepted proof.
Obtain the Business Manager status of residence
BJT
Year-round. Business-oriented.
JLPT
The most common proof treated as B2-equivalent.
Study abroad — Enrol at a Japanese-language institution
BJT
Scores Japanese for business situations. Computer-based, available year-round.
JLPT
The most recognised. Continuous to N3・N2 in the same system. Twice a year.
Study abroad — Vocational and specialised training schools
BJT
Item (c). Year-round.
JLPT
Meets item (a) of the notice. Accepted by many vocational schools.
Upcoming test dates
FAQ
BJT or JLPT: which can I use for SSW?
JLPT (N4 or above) meets the SSW (i) Japanese requirement. BJT is not listed for it.