Everything You Need to Know About the JLPT N5: Your First Step Toward Inevitable Japanese

Are you planning to learn Japanese and have heard about the JLPT N5, but you're not sure where to start or what to expect?

Don't worry, because in this blog post we'll give you a comprehensive overview of the JLPT N5 — the first and easiest level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT). This article will help you prepare for the JLPT N5 exam. Let's get started!

What is JLPT N5?

The JLPT (日本語能力試験 - nihongo nōryoku shiken), or Japanese Language Proficiency Test, is an internationally recognized language test that measures the Japanese proficiency of non-native speakers. The test has five levels: N1 through N5. N5 is the lowest level, and N1 is the highest. The N5 level is the entry point and is considered the first major milestone for beginners. The exam tests basic understanding of the Japanese language and the ability to use it.

Why JLPT N5 is Important

Passing the JLPT N5 is not only proof of your language skills, but also a motivational boost! It shows that you've built a foundation for further study and that you're ready to take your Japanese skills to the next level. It may also be a requirement for certain educational programs.

Exam Details

The N5 exam consists of three parts:

1. Vocabulary (20 minutes): This part tests your knowledge of vocabulary.
2. Grammar and Reading (40 minutes): You will be tested on grammar and your ability to extract basic information from short, simple texts.
3. Listening (30 minutes): This part tests how well you understand simple conversations and pick out relevant information.

Study Tips for JLPT N5

1. Start with Hiragana and Katakana: Learning these two Japanese scripts is crucial. Make sure you can read them fluently to move through the test faster. Some questions (especially reading ones) can be quite long. The faster you read, the more time you have to think about your answer. We offer a Hiragana & Katakana study package for self-study.
2. Build your vocabulary: Focus on the most commonly used words and expressions in everyday life. Word lists are available online. Note: there's no official list of N5 words. The lists are often based on frequently occurring words and past JLPT N5 content.
3. Learn basic grammar: Understanding basic grammatical structures is essential for forming sentences. As with vocabulary, online content is based on frequently used grammar and grammar that appeared in past JLPT N5 exams.
4. Practice listening skills: Regularly listen to Japanese through podcasts, music, or TV shows. This is the best way to get familiar with spoken Japanese. Here are some useful links to help you practice:
   • NHK World Japan
   • Erin's Challenge
   • Netflix also has a lot of Japanese content
   • Easy Japanese Podcast
5. Take practice tests: Practicing with old exams can help you get used to the format and timing of the real test.

In our JLPT N5 course, you will get:

1. Vocabulary: An up-to-date list (including an Anki deck) of frequently used words and words that appeared in recent JLPT N5 exams.
2. Grammar: An up-to-date list (including an Anki deck) of frequently used grammar and grammar that has appeared in recent JLPT N5 exams.
3. Listening: We’ll practice listening skills through various tasks. We’ll also discuss how N5 listening material is structured so you’ll know what to pay attention to during audio clips.
4. Practice tests: Together, we go through mock tests. Based on your answers, we tailor the following lessons to focus on any grammar points or areas that need extra attention.
5. Always room for questions and personal guidance: If you have any specific questions or requests during or after the lessons, feel free to ask!

Sign up for our JLPT N5 course! Together, we’ll get you fully prepared for the exam.

Learning Resources

There are plenty of online resources, apps, and books available to help you prepare for the JLPT N5. Popular textbooks like “Genki” and “Minna no Nihongo” offer comprehensive lessons tailored to beginners. Apps like Anki or Memrise can help with reviewing and memorizing new words and expressions.

We offer various courses to help you reach JLPT N5 level.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for and passing the JLPT N5 can be a challenging but rewarding experience. With the right resources, a solid study plan, and enough practice, you’ll be well on your way to achieving this first important milestone in mastering the Japanese language!