Level comparison with CEFR/JLPT

Each JLCT level corresponds to each level of CEFR and JLPT.

Level Classification

5 levels available from JCT1 to JCT5

Level comparison with CEFR/JLPT

Each JLCT level corresponds to each level of CEFR and JLPT.

JLCT	CEFR	JLPT	Language proficiency
JCT1	C1	N1	The ability to deeply understand the structure and nuances of long and complex texts or conversations. The ability to understand the implications and speaker’s intentions through text and voice/audio containing abstract topics or specialized content, and accurately understand the necessary information in a wide range of contexts.
			Reading Comprehension	One is able to read long complex texts on a wide range of topics, such as critiques, newspaper editorial, and deeply understand the structure of the text and the author’s intent. One is able to accurately understand texts that include literary expressions or specialized content, while recognizing differences in writing styles. One is able to read technical articles and long explanatory texts and grasp the detailed information, even if the content is beyond one’s field of knowledge.
			Listening Comprehension	One is able to listen to coherent conversations, news reports and lectures at natural speed and is able to follow their ideas and comprehend their complex contents that includes logical structure and implicit relationships. With a high degree of accuracy, one is able to understand long discussions where the structure is not explicit, as well as audio information that contains the speaker’s intentions and nuances. Additionally, through TV shows and movies, one is able to capture high-level content information with precision.
JCT2	B2	N2	The ability to understand not only specific topics but also abstract and complex content in Japanese. The ability to comprehend the main points and the perspective of the author or speaker through long texts, conversations, or lectures. The ability to accurately understand the necessary information in a wide range of contexts, including news and current affairs.
			Reading Comprehension	One is able to read materials written clearly on a variety of topics, such as articles and commentaries in newspapers and magazines as well as simple critiques, and comprehend their contents. One is able to spot important information and accurately retrieve necessary information even in long sentences. One is able to read materials related to one’s field of study and articles on contemporary issues to understand and evaluate the importance of information and opinions. One is able to understand the basic content of modern literary prose.
			Listening Comprehension	One is able to listen to coherent conversations and lectures at a natural speed, spoken about everyday life and social topics such as work, school, entertainment, etc., and understand the main content and the speaker’s intentions. When the topic is somewhat familiar, one is able to follow long conversations and complex discussions, grasping the main points. One is able to understand specific information and key points from news broadcasts or programs dealing with current events on TV or radio.
JCT3	B1	N3	The ability to understand familiar topics encountered in daily life, such as work, school, and recreation. The ability to read texts related to daily life or work to grasp information. The ability to understand the main points of conversations or audio information that are spoken clearly and relatively slowly.
			Reading Comprehension	One is able to understand texts written with vocabulary and expressions related to daily life and work. One is able to extract important information and main points from newspaper headlines, articles, and announcements. One is able to read texts that describe events or plans and grasp the main points by using context and paraphrasing as clues.
			Listening Comprehension	One is able to listen to and understand the main content of natural conversations spoken in clear, common language about familiar topics of daily life, such as work, school, and entertainment. If the speech is relatively slow, one is able to grasp the gist of radio and TV programs on current events, personal interests, or topics relevant to their work.
JCT4	A2	N4	The ability to understand commonly used expressions and basic sentences related to areas directly relevant to oneself, such as personal information, family, shopping, neighborhood, and work, through reading texts and conversations. The ability to accurately extract necessary information from simple messages or short conversations and texts provided in everyday situations.
			Reading Comprehension	One is able to understand short and simple sentences, as well as texts that include basic kanji used in daily life. One is able to capture specific information from everyday documents such as advertisements, brochures, menus, and schedules. One is able to read simple letters, brochures, and short newspaper articles to extract the main points and specific information. One is able to read concise explanations and rules and understand the necessary instructions and information.
			Listening Comprehension	One is able to listen to conversations or announcements spoken slowly and clearly, and understand the necessary information related to familiar topics. One is able to accurately understand simple explanations and instructions related to shopping, transportation, or work. One is able to catch the main points of routine and predictable content through short recordings or TV news programs.
JCT5	A1	N5	The ability to understand commonly used everyday expressions and basic phrases. The ability to comprehend specific information about oneself, family, and the surrounding environment through short sentences and simple conversations. The ability to understand the basic content of a conversation when the speaker speaks slowly and clearly.
			Reading Comprehension	One is able to read and understand typical expressions and short sentences written in hiragana, katakana, and basic kanji. One is able to read and understand familiar names and basic expressions from simple postings, signs, pamphlets, etc. One is able to accurately understand short informational text and directional instructions with visual aids.
			Listening Comprehension	One is able to listen to simple expressions and short conversations spoken slowly, and understand the content and basic expressions, especially those relating to specific topics about oneself, family and the surrounding environment.

※ The CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) is an international standard for evaluating foreign language proficiency and operational ability using the same criteria.
※ While the CEFR covers all language skills (listening, reading, writing and speaking)., JLCT is based on the language skills of reading and listening.
※ The JLCT, JLPT and CEFR are respectively designed with different evaluation criteria and objectives. Therefore, direct comparisons may not be entirely consistent.
※ This chart is to provide a general guide for learners to compare their Japanese ability with other standards.

The JLCT Score Report can serve as proof that the Japanese language proficiency is equivalent to A2 level or higher, required for the “Student” visa status.

As shown in “Various reports based on the public notice standards for Japanese language education institutions”, JCT4 or higher level has been certified as equivalent to or above the A2 level of the “Frame of Reference for Japanese Language Education”

(Immigration Service Agency: List of exams to prove that the Japanese language proficiency required for the “Student” visa status is equivalent to A2 or higher level of the “Japanese Language Education Reference Framework”