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Learning Japanese has become a big goal for many people today. Whether it is for studying in Japan, working with Japanese companies, or simply enjoying Japanese culture, language is the first step. To check your progress and get official proof of your skills, several exams are available. One of the most popular is the NAT Test or Nihongo Achievement Test. This exam helps students measure their Japanese language ability at different levels and is taken by thousands of learners worldwide. In this guide, we will explain everything about the NAT Test, including its levels, structure, benefits, and preparation methods, in simple and clear language.
The NAT Test is a Japanese language proficiency exam designed for non-native speakers. Its purpose is to measure how well you can understand and use Japanese in everyday and professional life. The exam is divided into five levels, starting from Level 5 (beginner) to Level 1 (advanced). Each level checks three main skills: grammar and vocabulary, reading comprehension, and listening.
The NAT Test is similar to the JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test), but it is held more frequently and results are released faster. This makes it especially helpful for learners who want quicker certification or more opportunities to test themselves during the year.
The NAT Test has five levels, N1 to N5, with N1 being the most advanced and N5 the beginner level.
Level 5 is the easiest stage of the NAT Test. It is for beginners who have just started learning Japanese. At this level, you are tested on hiragana, katakana, a few basic kanji, and simple vocabulary. Sentences are short and very easy, focusing on greetings, numbers, and basic daily conversation. Passing this level proves that you understand the foundation of Japanese.
This level is for learners who know the basics and are ready to move forward. The grammar and vocabulary are slightly more complex. You can expect short dialogues, questions about common expressions, and passages that are a little longer. Level 4 prepares you to handle more everyday situations in Japanese.
Level 3 is the middle level of the NAT Test. It is suitable for students who can already read short passages and understand simple conversations. At this level, the exam introduces more kanji, longer sentences, and practical grammar structures. Listening becomes a little faster, and reading comprehension includes short articles or dialogues that resemble real-life material.
This level is close to professional use of Japanese. The vocabulary is wider, kanji is more advanced, and listening materials include faster, natural conversations. Reading passages may include news-style articles, essays, or business-related topics. Passing Level 2 shows that you can use Japanese for studies, part-time jobs, or professional communication.
Level 1 is the highest stage of the NAT Test. It is for advanced learners who are almost fluent in Japanese. The reading passages are long, complex, and formal. Listening exercises are fast and may include lectures, debates, or business meetings. This level is challenging and proves your ability to use Japanese at a near-native level.
Every NAT Test follows the same structure. There are three sections in the exam.
The first section is Grammar and Vocabulary, which tests your knowledge of Japanese words, kanji, grammar rules, and sentence building. Most of the questions are multiple-choice.
The second section is Reading Comprehension. In this part, you are given passages or dialogues, and you must answer questions based on them. The passages become longer and more difficult as the level increases.
The third section is Listening Comprehension. Here, you listen to recorded Japanese conversations, announcements, or short talks. After listening, you must answer related questions.
The total exam time is around two hours, and the maximum score is usually 180 points. You need to perform well in each section to pass.
The NAT Test offers several benefits for learners. One major advantage is its frequency. Since it is held six times a year, you do not have to wait long if you want to retake it. Another benefit is the quick results, which help students apply for schools or jobs without delay.
The NAT Test also provides a clear measurement of progress. Because it has five levels, you can start at the beginner stage and slowly move to advanced stages. This step-by-step growth keeps learners motivated. It is also an excellent practice exam for those who aim to clear the JLPT in the future.
Prepare for the NAT Test by practicing Japanese grammar, vocabulary, reading, listening, and speaking skills; use past papers, mock tests, and study guides for all levels.
There are official textbooks for the NAT Test, such as the “Manabo! Nihongo” series. These books are designed for each level and include grammar explanations, vocabulary lists, practice exercises, and listening drills. Many learners find them very helpful.
Past question papers and sample tests are important resources. Solving them helps you understand the exam format and manage your time effectively.
Mock tests allow you to experience the exam environment. By taking them regularly, you can build speed, accuracy, and confidence. They are also a good way to identify weak areas in your preparation.
There are also online lessons and videos that cover grammar points, listening exercises, and reading practice. Beginners are encouraged to first master hiragana, katakana, and basic kanji before moving on to advanced grammar.
Choosing the right level is important. If you are completely new to Japanese, start with Level 5. If you already know hiragana, katakana, and some basic grammar, Level 4 may be suitable. Intermediate learners who can read short texts should go for Level 3. Level 2 is for students aiming for higher studies or work, while Level 1 is only for advanced learners with near-native skills.
Taking the right level ensures that you do not feel overwhelmed and can progress smoothly.
A good study plan should include daily practice of vocabulary, grammar, listening, and reading. For example, you can spend the first hour revising grammar, the next 30 minutes practicing vocabulary, and then do listening or reading exercises. Consistency is the key. Even 1–2 hours of study daily can bring good results if done regularly.
You should also schedule mock tests every two weeks. This will help you track your progress and adjust your study methods as needed.
The NAT Test is not just an exam; it can also be a career step. Many schools and companies use it to measure a student’s or employee’s Japanese skills. It is also useful for learners who want to build a strong base before attempting the JLPT, which is required for certain visas and advanced jobs in Japan.
Passing the NAT Test at higher levels shows commitment and opens opportunities in education, translation, tourism, and even corporate jobs where Japanese is needed.
The NAT Test is one of the best exams for learners of Japanese. It is divided into five levels, each testing grammar, vocabulary, reading, and listening. The test is held six times a year, and results are released quickly. Compared to JLPT, the NAT Test is more flexible and practical, though the JLPT has wider recognition worldwide.
By using the right textbooks, practicing past papers, and taking mock exams, you can prepare effectively for this test. The NAT Test not only measures your progress but also motivates you to improve your Japanese step by step. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced learner, the NAT Test can guide your learning journey and open doors to new opportunities in study, work, and cultural exchange.
Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, the NAT Japanese Test (NAT-J) offers a reliable and structured approach to assess your proficiency in Japanese.
