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.
Find Your NAT-TEST Coach
Work with a certified NAT-TEST coach who knows exactly what the examiners are looking for.
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