JLPT N1 (Japanese-Language Proficiency Test)

JLPT N1 is the highest of the five levels of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test, run by the Japan Foundation and Japan Educational Exchanges and Services for non-native speakers of Japanese. It certifies the ability to understand Japanese used in a variety of circumstances, from logically complex writing such as newspaper editorials and critiques to lectures and news reports spoken at natural speed. The test is multiple choice in two sittings: Language Knowledge (Vocabulary/Grammar) and Reading in 110 minutes, then Listening in 55 minutes. It is scored in three sections of 0 to 60 points each, 180 in total. To pass you need at least 100 points overall and at least 19 points in each of Language Knowledge, Reading and Listening. There is no speaking or writing test. The JLPT is held twice a year, in July and December, though some cities outside Japan hold only one sitting.