JLPT Levels: N5 to N1 Explained

The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is the standard certification for non-native Japanese speakers. It has five levels, from N5 (beginner) to N1 (near-native). Each level has a rough vocabulary and kanji target, and the jumps between levels are non-linear: N3 takes roughly twice as long as N4, and N2 is a serious commitment.

You do not have to take the JLPT to learn Japanese. Most learners use the levels as milestones rather than certification goals.

• JLPT N5

  The first JLPT level. Basic Japanese, around 800 words and 100 kanji. The floor of 'can hold a simple conversation.'

  800 words

  100 kanji

  N5 is the entry-level JLPT. It certifies that you can read and listen to basic Japanese in classroom-paced conversations and on simple written material. For most adult learners, reaching N5 takes 3 to 6 months of consistent study.

• JLPT N4

  The second JLPT level. About 1,500 words and 300 kanji. Where Japanese starts feeling like a real second language.

  1,500 words

  300 kanji

  N4 covers slightly more complex grammar and expands vocabulary to about 1,500 words and 300 kanji. At N4, you can hold a slow but real conversation about daily topics and read simple paragraphs.

• JLPT N3

  The middle JLPT level. About 3,750 words and 650 kanji. The bridge between 'student' and 'can actually live in Japan.'

  3,750 words

  650 kanji

  N3 is the most commonly cited 'real Japanese' milestone. You can read a newspaper article with some effort, follow TV shows aimed at natives, and handle everyday interactions in Japan. Most learners reach N3 after 18-24 months of consistent study.

• JLPT N2

  The near-professional JLPT level. About 6,000 words and 1,000 kanji. 'Can work in a Japanese company.'

  6,000 words

  1000 kanji

  N2 certifies that you can read a wide range of Japanese text fluently, understand conversational Japanese without aid, and work in many Japanese-language professional contexts. Most learners reach N2 in 3-4 years of consistent study.

• JLPT N1

  The highest JLPT level. Near-native reading and listening. Deep kanji familiarity and nuanced comprehension.

  10,000 words

  2000 kanji

  N1 is the highest level of the JLPT. It tests your ability to read and understand Japanese across a wide range of contexts, including specialized vocabulary, cultural allusions, and complex grammar. Most learners reach N1 after 4-7 years of serious study.

What WaniKani level is enough for JLPT N5?

WaniKani estimates that level 10 covers nearly all of the kanji it associates with N5. That is a kanji-coverage estimate, not a passing requirement. Its own breakdown puts levels 1–3 at around 55% and level 5 at around 80%. See WaniKani’s explanation.

The JLPT no longer publishes fixed vocabulary, kanji, and grammar lists. Its official study FAQ explains why. N5 also requires basic grammar, reading, and listening, so a WaniKani level cannot show whether you are ready for the whole test. Check the N5 skill description and try the official sample questions to find the skill you need to practise next. Then use the N5 study plan to cover more than kanji.

Sources checked September 14, 2026.

Inku includes 2,461 vocabulary cards across JLPT N5 through N1 in the current app library. Start with N5, or read the full learning roadmap for how JLPT fits into real study.