JLPT N1 — Passing Score, Test Time & Level

Passing criteria

You pass only if your total score is at or above the passing score AND every scoring section is at or above its pass mark. If any section falls short, you fail regardless of your total score.

Test sections and times

N1 level summary

"The ability to understand Japanese used in a variety of circumstances."

Source: JLPT official website "N1-N5: Summary of Linguistic Competence Required for Each Level"

See the detailed reading and listening descriptions on the official website ↗

CEFR correspondence

• Passing N1 (total score 100–141)B2
• Passing N1 (total score 142+)C1

See the level comparison table for other tests →

Residence statuses you can use N1 for

We compared the Japanese-language requirement of each residence status with N1.

• Work as a Specified Skilled Worker (i)✓ Meets it

  + You also need to pass the skills test for your field.

• Move from Technical Intern Training to Specified Skilled Worker✓ Meets it

  Exempt from the Japanese test if you transfer within the same field.

• Get a job under Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services✓ Meets it
• Obtain the Business Manager status of residence✓ Meets it
• Study abroad — Enrol at a Japanese-language institution✓ Meets it
• Study abroad — Vocational and specialised training schools✓ Meets it

FAQ