Located in Asia, Japan is home to more than 126 million people. Japan possesses the 3rd largest exponentially growing economy in the world and is considered to be a hub for innovation. It is often considered by international students since it consists of well-accredited and top-notch institutes providing exceptional education across various fields. Lastly, Japan is a relatively safe country with a low criminal activity level; this encourages students to study and live in this haven.
The official language of the country is Japanese and is used as a means of communication by almost the entire nation. However, international students can avail the opportunities Japan has to offer by knowing the Japanese or English language. If you are looking for exciting opportunities to study abroad, opt for Japan, and don’t miss out on the immersive rich culture this country has to offer to its international students!
If you’re planning to study here, make sure to read more as we tackle the different language tests in Japan!
What are the basic language requirements needed in Japan for International Students?
The language requirements for international students are different according to the college/university they apply along with the degree chosen. It is of common occurrence that a large majority of Japanese institutes require international students to have a basic knowledge and understanding of the Japanese language proven through a proficiency test.
At times, universities can also make it mandatory for students to study a particular language alongside their regular studies. For example, some programs require prior knowledge of the English language.
Language Tests in Japan for International Students
International students who wish to pursue their studies in Japan ought to give Japanese proficiency tests to get accepted into various institutes. English proficiency tests are also required by several colleges and universities to determine the language skills of international students. Each test has its grading system and it is advised that students score above the minimum requirement to secure admission to their desired educational institute.
Japanese Language Tests for International Students
The following two Japanese language tests are accepted across the nations and test the current language skills of the applicants.
1. Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT)
The JLPT test is a Japanese language test for people with native languages other than Japanese. It has various levels ranging from N5 (beginner) to N1 (advanced) and students can opt for any of the levels depending on their command of the language. This test measures grammar, vocabulary, fluency, etc. to accurately determine the language skill set of the applicant. JLPT can be taken twice a year with the test dates usually being scheduled in July and December in Japan as well as in other countries.
All the levels from N5 to N1 are 180 points each with a passing percentage requirement of 55% which is equivalent to 100 points. However, this score is not standardized and each institute may accept a lower or higher score hence, it is best to research and see the requirements of the desired universities.
JLPT is accepted nationwide but to list prominent universities which accept this test include The University of Tokyo, Tokyo Institute of Technology, and Kyushu University amongst many others.
2. Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU)
The EJU is also another Japanese language proficiency test administered twice a year with the test dates usually being scheduled in June and November. EJU is conducted under the supervision of the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO). This test is divided into two sections: academic and language. The academic section of EJU determines the skills and abilities in subjects such as mathematics, science, general knowledge (Japan and around the world), English, etc. whereas the language section tests the students holistically in comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, writing, etc.
As mentioned above, students are tested in a total of 5 areas comprising academic and language sections. Students are scored on a range of 0 to 200 in each section with a passing score of 80 points in each. However, this score is not standardized and each institute may accept a lower or higher score hence, it is best to research and see the requirements of the desired universities.
EJU is accepted by all the major educational institutes including but not limited to Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Hokkaido University, and Osaka University.
English Language Tests for International Students
Japan accepts various English tests as proof of language skills from international students.
1. International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
IELTS is one of the most common English Language proficiency tests which tests students across 4 sections namely: speaking, listening, speaking, and writing. IELTS is conducted all around the year to make it easier and more accessible to students. Students are expected to score 6 on each of the 4 sections minimum and an overall band of a minimum of 6.5. However, institutes may accept a lower or higher score depending on their requirements.
IELTS is accepted by all the major educational institutes including Kyoto University, Osaka University, and Sophia University, amongst many others.
2. Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
TOEFL is another accredited English language proficiency test conducted by the well-renowned Educational Testing Service (ETS); this test is especially for those international students that have a native language besides English. TOEFL proficiency exam tests students across 4 sections namely: speaking, listening, speaking, and writing with each section having a score of 30 points hence, making the combined total of 120 points. The minimum requirement of scores in Japan is 80-90 points depending on the institute and the level of education applied for.
TOEFL is accepted by almost all universities nationwide such as Hiroshima University, Sophia University, and Tohoku University, amongst others.
3. Duolingo
Duolingo is an English Language test that can be taken from the comfort of one’s home; this test is accepted by some educational universities in Japan as a substitute for IELTS and TOEFL. The tests determine the student’s skills across 4 sections namely: speaking, listening, speaking, and writing with the scores ranging from 10-160. Universities usually require a score of above 90 for international students.
Duolingo is accepted by universities such as the Tokyo University of Foreign Studies. This language test needed in Japan might be optional in some universities, so make sure to research if they accept this examination.
Japan is amongst the most preferred destinations for higher studies within the international students’ community due to the presence of vast opportunities. To acquire admission in Japan, students must show proof of language proficiency in Japanese and English.
I hope that this article on the language tests needed in Japan for international students was helpful. Make sure to also check out the Asia Scholarships Page to find out more about universities and scholarships in Japan!
