JLPT Scoring System Explained
Passing scores, sectional minimums, IRT scaling, CEFR equivalence, and pass rate data for all five JLPT levels — everything you need to understand how the exam is graded.
Passing Scores by Level
| Level | Difficulty | Pass Score | Pass Rate | CEFR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| N5 | Beginner | 80 / 180 | 49.5% | A1 |
| N4 | Elementary | 90 / 180 | 55.9% | A2 |
| N3 | Intermediate | 95 / 180 | 34.8% | B1 |
| N2 | Upper Intermediate | 90 / 180 | 35.8% | B2 |
| N1 | Advanced | 100 / 180 | 28.7% | C1 |
Pass rates from the December 2024 exam.
Sectional Minimum Scores
Even if your total score exceeds the passing threshold, you fail if any section is below its minimum. Both conditions must be met simultaneously.
How JLPT Scores Are Scaled (IRT)
JLPT scores are not raw counts of correct answers. They use Item Response Theory (IRT) — a statistical method that adjusts scores based on the difficulty of questions. This means two different exam sittings are directly comparable even if the questions differ. A raw score of 30 correct answers might result in a scaled score of 45 or 55 depending on how hard those specific questions were. The total scaled score ranges from 0 to 180, with sectional scores scaled proportionally.
CEFR Equivalence (New: December 2025)
Starting with the December 2025 exam, JLPT score reports include a CEFR reference level alongside the total scaled score. The Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) is the international standard for language proficiency. Approximate equivalences:
The CEFR reference only appears on score reports when the exam is passed. The mapping is approximate — JLPT tests only reading and listening, not speaking or writing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the passing score for each JLPT level?
N5: 80/180, N4: 90/180, N3: 95/180, N2: 90/180, N1: 100/180. But total score alone is not enough — you must also meet the sectional minimum score in every section simultaneously.
What happens if I score above the passing total but fail a section minimum?
You fail the exam. For example, if you score 100/180 on N2 but score 15/60 on Listening (below the 19-point minimum), you fail despite exceeding the total passing score. Section minimums are a strict gate for every section.
What are the section minimums for N1, N2, and N3?
For N1, N2, and N3, each section is scored independently (Language Knowledge, Reading, Listening), each out of 60 points with a minimum of 19 points. All three sections must exceed 19.
What are the section minimums for N4 and N5?
N4 and N5 have two sections: Language Knowledge + Reading (combined, out of 120, minimum 38) and Listening (out of 60, minimum 19). Both must be met.
Are JLPT scores scaled?
Yes. JLPT uses Item Response Theory (IRT) to scale scores, so raw scores are converted to ensure fairness across different exam sittings. This means the same number of correct answers may result in slightly different scaled scores depending on question difficulty.
What CEFR level is each JLPT level?
Approximate equivalences: N5 ≈ A1, N4 ≈ A2, N3 ≈ B1, N2 ≈ B2, N1 ≈ C1. As of December 2025, official JLPT score reports include a CEFR reference level for passing candidates.
Do JLPT certificates expire?
No. JLPT certificates are valid for life with no expiration date. However, some employers and institutions may prefer recent certificates (within 2–5 years) to demonstrate current proficiency.
Can I skip JLPT levels?
Yes. You can register for any level without passing a lower level first. Many learners skip N5 and start at N4 or N3. However, studying the material systematically — even without taking the exam — builds a stronger foundation.
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