1. What is the NAT Japanese Test?

The NAT Japanese Test is an exam designed to measure Japanese language proficiency for non-native speakers. It is similar to the JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) but is conducted six times a year, offering more frequent opportunities to take the test.

You can register through the official NAT test website or designated testing centers in your country. Registration deadlines vary by exam date. Check the NAT Exam Registration page for details.

The NAT test is held six times a year (January, March, May, July, September, and November). Exam dates may differ based on location. Visit NAT Exam Dates for the latest schedule.

The exam consists of five levels (5Q to 1Q):

  • 5Q (Beginner – equivalent to JLPT N5)
  • 4Q (Lower Intermediate – equivalent to JLPT N4)
  • 3Q (Intermediate – equivalent to JLPT N3)
  • 2Q (Upper Intermediate – equivalent to JLPT N2)
  • 1Q (Advanced – equivalent to JLPT N1)

Each level has a total score of 180 points, divided into three sections:

  • Language Knowledge (Vocabulary & Grammar)
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Listening ComprehensionA minimum score in each section is required to pass the test.

Preparation time depends on your level:

  • 5Q & 4Q: ~150-400 hours
  • 3Q: ~700-1000 hours
  • 2Q & 1Q: ~1500+ hours For study strategies, visit our NAT Study Plan.

No, the NAT Test is an offline exam conducted at designated test centers. There is no online version available.

The best books vary by level. Some recommended options include:

  • 5Q & 4Q: Genki, Minna no Nihongo
  • 3Q: Try! N3, Soumatome N3, Shin Kanzen Master N3
  • 2Q & 1Q: Shin Kanzen Master, Soumatome, Nihongo no Mori (YouTube) For detailed book recommendations, visit our NAT Study Resources.

Results are available online within one month after the exam. Printed certificates are sent by mail and may take longer to arrive.

You can access official sample questions on the NAT Test website and additional mock tests at NAT Practice Tests.