The Japanese government has begun reviewing how the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is administered in response to growing demand.
During fiscal year 2027, the government will consider several measures, including:
- Increasing the number of JLPT test sessions each year
- Introducing an online testing format
- Creating a new level for the JFT-Basic test
The government has also asked relevant ministries to estimate the number of intermediate-level Japanese learners by the end of fiscal year 2026. These measures are expected to be included in recommendations issued by the Regulatory Reform Promotion Council later this month.
Demand for intermediate-level Japanese certification is expected to increase as the new Employment for Skill Development Program (ESDP) begins in April 2027.
The growing need is already evident. Registration for the July 2026 JLPT exceeded capacity, and applications were closed within just a few weeks.
Another factor is the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) system. Under the planned changes, an intermediate level of Japanese proficiency—roughly equivalent to JLPT N3—is expected to become an important requirement for workers seeking to advance to Specified Skilled Worker No. 2 (SSW2).
The Regulatory Reform Promotion Council is also expected to recommend improvements to skills examinations and technical training evaluation tests. In addition, it plans to encourage more educational opportunities covering topics such as Japan’s health insurance system, pension system, and everyday social manners.
In some countries, the JLPT is currently offered only once a year, making it difficult for learners to take the exam when they need it.
Compared with exams such as TOEIC—which are available monthly and can also be taken online—the JLPT still offers limited testing opportunities.
Expanding access to the JLPT would not only benefit people hoping to study or work in Japan, but also help employees of Japanese companies operating overseas communicate more effectively with their Japanese colleagues.
By Hajime Saito
X: @hajimesaitoYJC
Source:Nikkei (June 28, 2026)
