Japanese Ability Test (日本語NAT-TEST) (NAT-TEST)
by Senmon Kyouiku Publishing Co., Ltd.
Valid for 2 years
Relocation Pathways
| Country | Purpose | Requirement | Visa / Pathway |
|---|---|---|---|
| Japan | Work | Level 4 (N4 equivalent) | Specified Skilled Worker (特定技能) |
| Japan | Work | Level 3+ for nursing care | Specified Skilled Worker (Nursing Care) |
Levels & Pricing (USD)
- Level 5~$351h 30m
- Level 4~$351h 45m
- Level 3~$402h
- Level 2~$452h 25m
- Level 1~$452h 45m
Dates & Locations
Offered 6 times per year: February, April, June, August, October, and December.
Why Take NAT-TEST?
Specified Skilled Worker Visa
NAT-TEST Level 4 (N4 equivalent) satisfies the Japanese language requirement for the Specified Skilled Worker No. 1 visa, accepted alongside JLPT.
Caregiving & Nursing
Level 3 or higher is typically required for nursing and caregiving pathways, including the EPA Caregiver Program for candidates from Southeast Asia.
More Frequent Than JLPT
NAT-TEST is offered 6 times per year (vs. JLPT's 2), making it practical for immigration timelines when you can't wait for the next JLPT date.
Exam Structure
Vocabulary & Grammar
Reading
Listening
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between NAT-TEST and JLPT?
Same 5-level structure (Level 5 easiest, Level 1 hardest) and same skill areas. NAT-TEST is offered 6 times per year vs. JLPT's 2. Both are accepted for the Specified Skilled Worker visa. JLPT has broader international recognition.
Is NAT-TEST accepted for immigration?
Yes. Japanese immigration explicitly lists NAT-TEST as an accepted alternative to JLPT for the Specified Skilled Worker (Tokutei Ginou) visa. Level 4 or higher is required.
Where is NAT-TEST available?
In Japan and multiple overseas locations, primarily in Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Myanmar, Nepal, Indonesia). It is especially popular among SSW and technical intern visa applicants from these countries.
