The JLPT exam syllabus is the foundation for every Japanese learner preparing for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test. Whether you’re a beginner starting with Hiragana or an advanced learner working toward N1, understanding the JLPT exam syllabus is essential for efficient study planning and exam success. At TLS – The Japanese Language School we help students master each level through structured learning, practice tests, and real world Japanese usage.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the full JLPT exam syllabus, including skills tested, level wise topics, grammar, vocabulary, kanji requirements, and preparation strategies to help you confidently clear JLPT N5 to N1.
What Is the JLPT Exam Syllabus?
The JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) measures Japanese reading and listening ability across five levels:
- N5 – Basic Japanese
- N4 – Elementary Japanese
- N3 – Intermediate Japanese
- N2 – Business Level Japanese
- N1 – Advanced Japanese
Each level of the JLPT exam syllabus includes:
- Vocabulary (語彙 Goi)
- Kanji (漢字 Kanji)
- Grammar (文法 Bunpō)
- Reading (読解 Dokkai)
- Listening (聴解 Chōkai)
The higher the level, the more complex the vocabulary, kanji, grammar, and comprehension tasks become.
JLPT Exam Syllabus for N5 Beginner Level
JLPT N5 is the starting point for new learners.
Vocabulary & Kanji
- 100 120 Kanji
- 600 800 vocabulary words
- Basic nouns, verbs, adjectives, and everyday expressions
Grammar
- Present/past forms
- Simple particles (は, が, に, で, を)
- Basic sentence patterns
Reading
- Short, simple sentences
- Basic daily-life texts
Listening
- Slow, clear dialogues
- Common daily conversations
N5 Skills You Gain
- Introducing yourself
- Asking basic questions
- Reading short phrases and signs
N5 lays the foundation for all higher JLPT levels.
JLPT Exam Syllabus for N4 Elementary Level
N4 reinforces what students learned in N5 and expands knowledge of kanji, vocabulary, and grammar.
Vocabulary & Kanji
- 300 Kanji
- 1,500 vocabulary words
Grammar
- Te-form & Ta-form
- Polite speech patterns
- Complex particles
- Basic conditionals and comparisons
Reading
- Short passages
- Stories, daily topics, simple instructions
Listening
- Everyday conversations spoken at natural but slower than normal speed
N4 Skills You Gain
- Understanding simple texts
- Speaking comfortably about familiar topics
- Decoding basic written Japanese in daily life
JLPT Exam Syllabus for N3 Intermediate Level
N3 is where the JLPT exam syllabus becomes more challenging. It bridges elementary knowledge with advanced language ability.
Vocabulary & Kanji
- 600 Kanji
- 3,500 vocabulary words
Grammar
- Intermediate level grammar forms such as:
- ～そうだ
- ～ながら
- ～ように
- ～らしい
- ～みたい
- ～そうだ
Reading
- Medium length passages
- News summaries, advertisements, schedules
Listening
- Conversations with normal speed
- Group discussions, explanations, instructions
N3 Skills You Gain
- Understanding everyday conversations
- Reading general topics
- Handling travel, work, and basic business situations
Companies often consider N3 as the minimum requirement for communication roles.
JLPT Exam Syllabus for N2 Business Level Proficiency
N2 demonstrates strong Japanese comprehension and professional communication ability.
Vocabulary & Kanji
- 1,000 Kanji
- 6,000 vocabulary words
Grammar
Advanced grammar patterns such as:
- ～わけではない
- ～に違いない
- ～ざるを得ない
- ～ものの
Reading
- Newspaper articles
- Technical descriptions
- Long passages requiring inference
Listening
- Natural-speed conversations
- Business discussions
- Interview style content
N2 Skills You Gain
- Understanding complex information
- Communicating in professional environments
- Reading Japanese used in workplaces and universities
N2 opens doors to Japanese corporate jobs, internships, and visas.
JLPT Exam Syllabus for N1 Advanced & Academic Level
N1 is the highest JLPT level and requires near native comprehension skills.
Vocabulary & Kanji
- 2,000+ Kanji
- 10,000+ vocabulary words
- Academic terms, idioms, proverbs
Grammar
- Highly advanced grammar used in writing, literature, and media
- Complex sentence structures
Reading
- Newspaper editorials
- Reports, essays, research texts
- Content requiring deep analysis & logical understanding
Listening
- Fast, natural Japanese
- Debates, lectures, interviews, professional settings
N1 Skills You Gain
- Fluency in professional and academic communication
- Ability to interpret complex written and spoken language
- Qualification for translation, interpretation, and high level careers
JLPT Exam Syllabus Structure (Level Wise Comparison)
| Level | Vocabulary | Kanji | Reading Difficulty | Listening Difficulty |
| N5 | 800 | 100 | Very Easy | Easy |
| N4 | 1,500 | 300 | Easy | Moderate |
| N3 | 3,500 | 600 | Moderate | Moderate |
| N2 | 6,000 | 1,000 | Hard | Fast |
| N1 | 10,000+ | 2,000+ | Very Hard | Very Fast |
This structure helps learners clearly understand progression from beginner to advanced.
JLPT Exam Syllabus Skills Tested in All Levels
1. Vocabulary and Kanji
Tests word recognition, meaning, kanji reading, and usage.
2. Grammar
Assesses ability to form correct sentences, identify patterns, and understand structure.
3. Reading
Evaluates comprehension of passages, instructions, and logical flow.
4. Listening
Tests ability to understand spoken Japanese based on speed, tone, and context.
How to Prepare for the JLPT Exam Syllabus (All Levels)
Here are practical tips for mastering each section:
Build a strong Kanji foundation
Use flashcards and spaced repetition apps.
Create vocabulary sets for each level
Practice daily with JLPT word lists.
Follow the official JLPT exam syllabus
Study only the grammar, kanji, and vocabulary relevant to your level.
Practice reading every day
Start with children’s books (N5/N4) → news summaries (N3) → newspapers (N2/N1).
Improve listening skills
Listen to Japanese podcasts, dramas, anime, and JLPT audio tracks.
Take mock tests
Evaluate timing, accuracy, and comprehension.
Join a structured coaching program
A trained instructor keeps you accountable and ensures fast progress.
Why Study the JLPT Exam Syllabus with TLS The Japanese Language School?
TLS is one of the leading institutes for Japanese language coaching, offering expert-guided preparation for all JLPT levels.
What Makes TLS the Best Choice?
- JLPT focused structured curriculum
- Certified Japanese instructors
- Regular tests & practice sessions
- Speaking, reading, listening immersion
- Beginner to N1 advanced classes
- Flexible timings and affordable fees
- Placement support for N3 N1 students
Whether you’re starting at N5 or aiming for N1 mastery, TLS ensures you follow the correct JLPT exam syllabus with continuous support.
Conclusion Start Learning the JLPT Exam Syllabus Today
The JLPT exam syllabus is the perfect roadmap for mastering Japanese and opening doors to global opportunities. From basic phrases at N5 to advanced fluency at N1, each level offers valuable skills that help you communicate, study, and work confidently in Japan.
If you’re serious about clearing JLPT in 2026, now is the best time to begin.
Join TLS – The Japanese Language School and start learning from expert trainers.
Enroll today and prepare for JLPT N5 to N1 with a structured, proven learning system.
Visit: TLS – The Japanese Language School, Delhi
Call: +91 8700956038
Website: https://www.teamlanguages.com/
Frequently asked question
1. Where can I download the JLPT exam syllabus PDF?
You can download the JLPT exam syllabus PDF from official JLPT websites or trusted Japanese language institutes. The PDF includes vocabulary lists, kanji charts, grammar patterns, reading topics, and listening sections for all levels (N5 to N1).
2. What does the JLPT N5 syllabus PDF include?
The JLPT N5 syllabus PDF contains:
- Basic grammar
- 100 120 kanji
- 800 vocabulary words
- Reading and listening practice topics
- JLPT exam format for N5
It is ideal for absolute beginners preparing for the foundational level of Japanese.
3. What is the JLPT exam time duration?
The JLPT exam time duration varies by level:
- N5: ~105 minutes
- N4: ~125 minutes
- N3: ~140 minutes
- N2: ~155 minutes
- N1: ~165 minutes
Each exam includes different sections with timed reading and listening components.
4. What is the JLPT N5 exam time duration?
The JLPT N5 exam time duration is approximately 105 minutes, divided into:
- Language Knowledge (Vocabulary): ~20 minutes
- Language Knowledge (Grammar) & Reading: ~40 minutes
- Listening: ~30 minutes
5. What is the JLPT N5 exam pattern?
The JLPT N5 exam pattern includes three sections:
- Vocabulary – kanji readings, word meanings
- Grammar & Reading – sentence patterns, short passages
- Listening – simple conversations and instructions
All questions are multiple choice.
6. What is the overall JLPT exam pattern for all levels?
The JLPT exam pattern consists of:
- Vocabulary & Grammar
- Reading comprehension
- Listening comprehension
There is no speaking or writing section in JLPT.
The question format is multiple choice for all levels from N5 to N1.
7. What does the JLPT N4 syllabus PDF contain?
The JLPT N4 syllabus PDF includes:
- 300 kanji list
- 1,500 vocabulary words
- Beginner–intermediate grammar
- Sample reading passages
- Listening practice guidelines
This level tests understanding of basic daily Japanese.
8. What topics are covered in the JLPT N1 syllabus?
The JLPT N1 syllabus covers advanced, near-native Japanese, including:
- 2,000+ kanji
- 10,000+ vocabulary words
- Academic grammar structures
- Long, complex reading passages
- Fast-paced conversational and professional listening
N1 is the highest JLPT level and requires deep comprehension.
9. Are JLPT syllabus PDFs helpful for exam preparation?
Yes, JLPT syllabus PDFs are extremely helpful because they provide:
- Exact kanji lists
- Approved vocabulary sets
- Grammar structures for each level
- Practice reading topics
- Listening formats
Learners can study efficiently using official and structured content.
10. Does JLPT include writing or speaking tests?
No. The JLPT exam pattern does not include speaking or writing sections.
It only tests reading, grammar, vocabulary, and listening skills.