The NAT Japanese Test (Nihongo Achievement Test) is a widely recognized proficiency exam designed for non-native speakers to evaluate their Japanese language skills. Q4 (Upper Beginner) is the second level of the NAT test, intended for learners who have mastered the basics and want to advance their knowledge. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of NAT Q4, including exam structure, syllabus, preparation strategies, fees, registration process, and expert tips to succeed.
Overview of NAT Q4 (Upper Beginner)
Q4 (Upper Beginner) builds on the foundation laid in Q5 (Beginner) and is roughly equivalent to JLPT N4, the elementary level. It is suitable for learners who:
- Have studied Japanese for 3–6 months.
- Can understand and use basic sentence patterns.
- Are capable of reading simple passages and handling everyday conversations.
- Want to strengthen their grammar and vocabulary in preparation for intermediate levels (Q3–Q1).
The Q4 exam focuses on grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, and listening skills, targeting practical situations such as shopping, traveling, and social interactions.
NAT Q4 Exam Structure
The NAT Q4 exam is divided into three main sections:
a) Grammar and Vocabulary
- Tests understanding of sentence structures beyond the beginner level.
- Key grammar topics include:
- Te-forms of verbs: connecting actions (e.g., 食べて、行って…).
- Comparatives and basic adjectives: 大きい、小さい、面白い.
- Verb conjugations: past, present, negative, potential form.
- Particles in complex sentences: も (also), から (because), まで (until).
- Evaluates knowledge of expanded vocabulary for daily life, work, and school.
b) Reading Comprehension
- Involves short stories, dialogues, announcements, and letters.]
- Tasks may include:
- Matching sentences to pictures.
- Filling missing words in passages.
- Answering multiple-choice comprehension questions.
- Tests reading ability in hiragana, katakana, and approximately 300 basic kanji.
c) Listening Comprehension
- Includes slightly longer dialogues and instructions than Q5.
- Scenarios cover:
- Shopping, dining, directions, and school/work-related conversations.
- Assesses understanding of slightly faster Japanese speech, common expressions, and context.
NAT Q4 Syllabus
The syllabus for Q4 ensures learners progress from basic to elementary Japanese skills:
a) Scripts
- Hiragana and Katakana – review and mastery.
- Kanji – around 300 basic characters including numbers, days, months, and everyday objects.
b) Grammar
- Sentence patterns and connectors:
- 〜てください / 〜てもいいです / 〜てはいけません – Requests, permissions, and prohibitions.
- 〜たい / 〜たくない – Expressing desire.
- 〜ながら – Actions done simultaneously.
- 〜たり〜たりする – Listing multiple actions.
- Use of polite forms and common particles in slightly complex sentences.
c) Vocabulary
- Expanded daily life vocabulary including:
- Food, travel, shopping, hobbies, transportation, and work-related terms.
- Common verbs, adjectives, and adverbs.
- Useful phrases for asking questions, giving directions, making requests, and expressing preferences.
d) Listening
- Comprehension of short monologues, announcements, and conversations.
- Understanding instructions, requests, and basic opinions.
- Recognizing nuances and context in spoken Japanese.
Exam Duration and Scoring
- Total Duration: 75–85 minutes.
- Question Format: Multiple-choice, sentence completion, reading comprehension, and listening.
- Passing Criteria: Typically 60–65% correct answers, though scoring may vary.
- Results: Released online or through test centers 4–6 weeks after the exam.
NAT Q4 Exam Fees in India (2025)
Exam fees for Q4 are slightly higher than Q5 due to the increased level of difficulty:
| Level |
Exam Fee (INR) |
| Q4 |
₹2,800 – ₹3,200 |
Fees may vary slightly depending on the city and test center. Candidates should check the official website for updated fee details.
Registration Process
- Visit the official NAT Japanese Test website:
- Select Q4 (Upper Beginner) as your level.
- Choose your preferred exam date and test center.
- Fill out the application form with accurate personal details.
- Complete the online fee payment.
- Download and print your admit card and carry it with a valid government-issued ID on exam day.=
=Registration closes 4–5 weeks before the exam, so early application is advised.
Preparation Tips for NAT Q4
a) Scripts and Kanji
- Revise hiragana and katakana thoroughly.
- Memorize around 300 kanji using flashcards or apps like Anki.
b) Grammar
- Practice Q4 grammar patterns with example sentences.
- Learn to construct slightly longer sentences and use connectors properly.
c) Vocabulary
- Expand vocabulary in daily life, travel, shopping, and school/work topics.
- Group words thematically for easier recall.
d) Reading Practice
- Read short passages, dialogues, and letters.
- Try comprehension exercises in textbooks like Genki I & II or Minna no Nihongo I & II.
e) Listening Practice
- Listen to slightly faster spoken Japanese using podcasts, apps, or YouTube.
- Practice answering questions from short conversations to improve comprehension.
f) Mock Tests
- Take full-length Q4 mock tests under timed conditions.
- Analyze mistakes and focus on weak areas.
- Familiarize yourself with question types and instructions.
Recommended Resources
- Textbooks: Genki I & II, Minna no Nihongo I & II.
- Online Resources:
- Apps: Anki, Duolingo, LingoDeer, Kanji Study.
- YouTube Channels: JapanesePod101, Nihongo no Mori.
Exam Day Tips
- Arrive 30 minutes early to the test center.
- Bring your admit card and a valid photo ID.
- Read all instructions carefully.
- Start with easier questions and return to harder ones later.
- Manage your time efficiently and stay calm throughout the exam.
FAQ – NAT Q4 (Upper Beginner)
Q1. Who should take NAT Q4?
A: Learners with 3–6 months of Japanese study who can handle basic sentence structures and conversations.
Q2. How long is the Q4 exam?
A: 75–85 minutes.
Q3. What scripts are tested in Q4?
A: Hiragana, Katakana, and around 300 basic kanji characters.
Q4. How much does Q4 cost?
A: Approximately ₹2,800–₹3,200 in India.
Q5. Can I take NAT Q4 online?
A: No, the exam is conducted at physical test centers only.
Q6. How are results released?
A: Results are available 4–6 weeks after the exam, online or through test centers.
Q7. How to prepare effectively for Q4?
A: Focus on expanded grammar, vocabulary, reading, listening, and mock tests to get familiar with the exam pattern.
Conclusion
NAT Q4 (Upper Beginner) is the ideal step for learners who have cleared the basics and want to strengthen their Japanese skills. It provides a bridge from beginner-level conversations to more complex everyday situations, preparing candidates for Q3 and higher levels.
By practicing scripts, grammar, vocabulary, reading, and listening, and by taking mock tests, candidates can maximize their performance and confidently achieve success in NAT Q4.
