JLPT 日本語能力試験

JLPT N1: requirements, vocabulary and CEFR level

Read logically complex and abstract writing; follow lectures, news and coherent conversations at natural speed.

The short answer

JLPT N1 is the hardest level: complex written Japanese and natural-speed speech on abstract and specialised topics. This page shows the kanji and vocabulary targets, test sections, pass marks, estimated study hours and the approximate CEFR equivalent.

10000Words

2000Kanji

165Minutes

CEFR (approx.)

B2–C1

How official is that?

official reference ranges, score-dependent (see JLPT CEFR reference)

Pass mark

100/180

Sections

Language knowledge and reading 110 min; listening 55 min. Pass: 100/180 with at least 19/60 in each section

Notes

Vocab/kanji counts are community estimates; JLPT has published no official lists since 2010

Kungfucius says: The summit. Note that a bare pass is officially B2; you need 142+ for the C1 badge.

How it compares

JLPT N1 ≈ CEFR C1official reference, score-dependentJLPT reference: N1 142+ = C1, but a pass of 100–141 = B2. Add an N1 to CEFR B2 row.

JLPT N1 ≈ CEFR B2official reference, score-dependentJLPT reference: a pass at the lower end of the JLPT N1 score range is reported as B2.

Keep reading

/tests/jlpt/n2//tests/jlpt/study-plan//tests/jlpt-to-cefr/