JFT-Basic vs JLPT: Differences
Test frequency, visa use and levels side by side, from published data.
Key points
- FrequencyJFT-Basic Year-round (CBT; varies by country) ／ JLPT Twice a year (July & December)
- VisaUsable with both: Work as a Specified Skilled Worker (i), Move from Technical Intern Training to Specified Skilled Worker, Study abroad — Enrol at a Japanese-language institution
JLPT only: Get a job under Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services, Obtain the Business Manager status of residence, Study abroad — Vocational and specialised training schools - CEFRSame CEFR A2: JFT-Basic A2.2 and JLPT N4, N3 (95–103 points) (Level comparison)
Comparison table
| Attribute | JFT-Basic (Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese) | Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Judges everyday Japanese for work (≈CEFR A2); meets the Specified Skilled Worker requirement | The world's largest test certifying Japanese ability for non-native speakers |
| Frequency | Year-round (CBT; varies by country) | Twice a year (July & December) |
| Organizer | The Japan Foundation | The Japan Foundation / Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES) |
| Levels / CEFR | A1 · A2.1 · A2（A2.2） (CEFR A1–A2) | N1 · N2 · N3 · N4 · N5 (CEFR A1–C1) |
| Countries | — | 23 |
| Typical fee | ¥10,000 | ¥7,500 |
| Official site | Official site ↗ | Official site ↗ |
Which to choose by purpose
Descriptions from each residence-status guide, side by side.
Work as a Specified Skilled Worker (i)
JFT-Basic
The mainstream choice for Specified Skilled Worker (i). CBT, frequent sittings, fast results.
JLPT
N4 meets the requirement. Twice a year, but well recognised and continuous to N3・N2.
Move from Technical Intern Training to Specified Skilled Worker
JFT-Basic
The requirement when changing fields or not completing (ii). Easy to sit (CBT).
JLPT
N4 meets the requirement. If moving within the same field, the exam itself is waived.
Study abroad — Enrol at a Japanese-language institution
JFT-Basic
Many computer-based test dates and fast results. Since August 2026, results are A1, A2.1 or A2.2.
JLPT
The most recognised. Continuous to N3・N2 in the same system. Twice a year.
Upcoming test dates
FAQ
JFT-Basic or JLPT: which can I use for SSW?
Both meet the SSW (i) Japanese requirement (JFT-Basic: A2 (pass), JLPT: N4 or above).
Which levels are at the same CEFR level?
At CEFR A2: JFT-Basic A2.2 and JLPT N4, N3 (95–103 points).