How to Pass the JLPT N5 Without Dying in the Attempt

If you’re just starting out in the world of Japanese, you’ve probably already heard of the JLPT (Nihongo Nōryoku Shiken), the official exam that measures your language level. And within its five levels, the most basic is the JLPT N5.

Don’t be fooled by the “basic” thing: although it is the first step, this exam requires preparation. I did it myself when I lived in Japan and I assure you that it is an exciting experience… But it can also be a headache if you don’t know how to organize yourself.

In this article I am going to tell you what the JLPT N5 is, what its structure is like, what you should study and how to prepare to pass it without dying trying.

The JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test), known in Japanese as Nihongo Nōryoku Shiken, is the official Japanese proficiency exam recognized worldwide. It has five levels: from N5 (basic) to N1 (advanced).

• N5: For beginners. Evaluate the most basics: hiragana, katakana, simple vocabulary and everyday phrases.
• N4: One more step: more complex phrases and a little more kanji.
• N3: Intermediate level, already requires more advanced reading and comprehension.
• N2 and N1: For professionals or students who want to access Japanese universities or jobs in Japan.

The N5 is the gateway: if you pass it, it means you can understand simple expressions and hold your own in very everyday situations.

• It is an internationally recognized official certificate.
• It motivates you and gives you confidence to keep moving up to N4 and beyond.
• It can be useful if you want to apply for scholarships or study programs in Japan.
• And most importantly: it’s proof that you can now communicate in basic Japanese!

The exam assesses three main areas:

• Vocabulary and writing (basic hiragana, katakana and kanji).
• Grammar and reading comprehension.
• Listening.

The total score is 180 points. To pass you need at least:

• 80 points in total.
• And meet a minimum in each section (you can’t leave a part blank).

• Vocabulary: 20 minutes.
• Grammar and reading: 40 minutes.
• Listen: 30 minutes.

In total, it lasts around 90 minutes. It may seem short, but trust me, it flies by!

The exam includes about 800 basic words:

• Numbers, colors, days of the week, months.
• Frequent verbs (to go, to eat, to see, to sleep).
• Vocabulary of daily life (school, home, food).

Some key points:

• Particles such as は, が, を, に, で, と.
• Simple structures: present, past, negative.
• Basic forms of politeness (-masu, -desu).
• Simple questions with か.

You’ll need to learn about 100 basic kanji. Think of the most commonly used ones: numbers (一, 二, 三), days (日, 月, 火), commonplaces (山, 川, 学, 校).

The syllabaries are the basis. If you are not fluent in hiragana and katakana, forget about the exam. You’ll be asked to read them, write them down, and recognize them in context.

• Divide your study into areas: vocabulary, grammar, kanji, and listening.
• Spend at least 30 minutes a day. Perseverance is more important than studying for single hours.
• Do mock exams to get used to the format.

Some resources that help a lot:

• Books such as Minna no Nihongo or Genki I.
• Apps like Anki to memorize vocabulary.
• Japanese podcasts and videos to train the ear.

• Use flashcards.
• Practice mnemonics to remember kanji.
• Study out loud, repeating complete sentences so that your brain associates sound and writing.

The exam is held twice a year: in July and December. Registrations usually open a few months in advance.

In Spain you can perform in cities such as Madrid, Barcelona or Granada, among others. Each venue has a limited number of places, so sign up quickly!

• There are no age or nationality requirements.
• You only need to register on the official website and pay the fee (about €80-90).

Once registered, you will receive an email with your access password to manage the registration. Shortly before the exam, you will be sent the Test Voucher, which you must print and bring with you on the day of the test along with your ID card or passport.

Don’t linger too long on a single question. Time is limited, so answer what you know and then return to the doubtful.

• Vocabulary: review the examples, they are usually very clear.
• Reading and grammar: look at the particles, they are the key to the sentence.
• Listen: focus on keywords; You don’t need to understand everything, just the essentials.

• Arrive in time.
• It brings a pencil, eraser and the Test Voucher.
• Get a good night’s rest the night before: your brain will thank you.
• And trust what you have studied!

The JLPT N5 exam is your first big step in learning Japanese. It may give respect at first, but with the right preparation and a good study plan, it is totally achievable.

Remember: it’s not just about passing, it’s about building a solid foundation of the Japanese language that will help you advance on your way to higher levels.