Everything you need to know about the 2026 JLPT schedule, how to register, test center locations, and what to expect on test day.
The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is the most widely recognized Japanese language certification in the world. Administered by the Japan Foundation and Japan Educational Exchanges and Services, the JLPT is held twice per year — once in July and once in December.
Whether you're aiming for N5 to prove basic proficiency or N1 for professional and academic purposes, planning around the JLPT schedule is essential. This guide covers the 2026 test dates, registration process, and everything you need for test day.
| Test Date | Sunday, July 5, 2026 |
| Levels Offered | N1, N2, N3, N4, N5 (all levels) |
| Registration Period | Approximately March - April 2026 |
| Results Available | Approximately September 2026 |
Note: Some overseas locations only offer the December test. Check your local site for availability.
| Test Date | Sunday, December 6, 2026 |
| Levels Offered | N1, N2, N3, N4, N5 (all levels) |
| Registration Period | Approximately August - September 2026 |
| Results Available | Approximately February 2027 |
Registration is handled differently depending on where you take the test:
Register online through the official JLPT website:
jlpt.jp (Official JLPT Site)Fee: 7,500 yen (approximately $50 USD)
Register through your country's local JLPT organizing institution. Common organizers include:
Fees vary by country, typically $50-80 USD.
| Test | Registration Opens | Registration Closes | Test Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| July 2026 | ~March 2026 | ~April 2026 | July 5, 2026 |
| December 2026 | ~August 2026 | ~September 2026 | December 6, 2026 |
Exact dates vary by country. Popular test sites may fill up quickly — register as early as possible. Late registration is generally not available.
The JLPT is offered in over 90 countries and regions. Major test cities include:
Find your nearest test site at jlpt.jp/e/application/overseas_list.html
Arrival: Arrive at least 30 minutes before the test starts. Latecomers may not be admitted. The test schedule varies by level — check your voucher for your specific start time.
JLPT results are released approximately 2 months after each test:
You can check your results on the official JLPT website. A Certificate of Results and Scores is mailed to passing examinees. The certificate does not expire — JLPT certification is valid for life.
The JLPT is held twice per year worldwide. In 2026, the tests are scheduled for Sunday, July 5 (Test 1) and Sunday, December 6 (Test 2). Some overseas locations only offer the December test.
Registration is handled through the official JLPT website (jlpt.jp) for test-takers in Japan, or through local organizing institutions for overseas test-takers. You must create an account, select your level and test site, upload a photo, and pay the fee. Check your local JLPT site for exact procedures.
Registration typically opens 3-4 months before the test date. For the July test, registration is usually March-April. For the December test, registration is usually August-September. Exact dates vary by country.
In Japan, the JLPT costs 7,500 yen (approximately $50 USD). Overseas fees vary by country, typically ranging from $50-80 USD. Payment is made during registration.
The JLPT is offered in over 90 countries and regions worldwide. Major test cities include Tokyo, Osaka, New York, Los Angeles, London, Sydney, Singapore, Bangkok, and many more. Use the official JLPT website to find test sites near you.
You must bring your test voucher (printed), a valid photo ID (passport for overseas test-takers), HB or No. 2 pencils, and an eraser. Electronic devices, watches, dictionaries, and food/drinks are not allowed in the test room.
JLPT results are typically available online approximately 2 months after the test date. For the July test, results come out around September. For the December test, results come out around February. Official certificates are mailed separately.
No, you can only register for one level per test date. However, you can take a different level at the next test session.
If you miss your test date, the fee is not refundable. You will need to register again for the next available test date. There are no makeup tests offered.
No, the JLPT is only offered as an in-person, paper-based test at authorized test sites. There is no online or computer-based version of the official JLPT.
Planning your study schedule around JLPT test dates is critical. Here's a recommended timeline for each 2026 test:
Use our Study Time Calculator to estimate how many study hours you need before your target test date.