Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese
Japan’s labor shortage has prompted lawmakers to make some changes to the country’s immigration policies. Over the next 5 years, This has opened up some great opportunities for people all over the world, especially for those from the 9 countries approved to receive Specified Skills Visas. To work and live in Japan, basic Japanese language skills are needed. The most widely recognized evaluation of Japanese language skills is the JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) which is held only twice a year. There are 5 levels of the JLPT: N5, N4, N3, N2, N1. The easiest level is N5, and the hardest is N1. The minimum requirement for foreign workers hoping to get a job in Japan is N4. There are two sections that are graded for the exam: Language Knowledge (grammar, vocabulary, reading) and Listening.
However there is now another way to measure your grasp of basic Japanese with the Japan Fountain Test for Basic Japanese (JFT-Basic). Tailored specifically for foreigner workers, the JFT-Basic welcomes eager participants who aim to find a job in Japan under the new Specified Skills Visa.
The test lasts 60 minutes and contains approximately 60 questions, so you will have to be confident and quick to finish the exam on time. Contents of the exam include writing and vocabulary, conversation and expression, listening comprehension, and reading comprehension. Each section contains about 15 questions.
The JFT-Basic is a computer based tests aimed toward foreigner nationals who plan to move to Japan for work. As it is meant for beginners, the test questions will be displayed on the screen in English or whichever language you select at the beginning.
Best of all, since the JFT-Basic is a computer based exam, the results are given immediately or within a week. Simple Hiragana, Katakai, Kanji, Vocabulary and Phrases are needed to pass the exam. Successful participants should be able to…
- Understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g. very basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment).
- Communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters.
- Describe in simple terms aspects of his/her background, immediate environment and matters in areas of immediate need.
The application process may differ from country to country. For more information, please visit the official website of the Japan Foundation.
Good luck!
