The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is a test dedicated to testing people’s understanding of the Japanese language. As long as the Japanese language is concerned, it is known as the most widely recognized test. This test is available in 5 different levels, namely:
- JLPT N1 – hardest level to pass
- JLPT N2
- JLPT N3
- JLPT N4
- JLPT N5 – easiest level to pass
You can take any of these 5 levels whenever you want. Apart from Japan, this test can also be taken in other countries such as the US, UK, and lots more. It is worthwhile to realize that the JLPT can play a crucial role in determining the success of your stay, education, and employment in Japan. Besides, taking the test can help you to socialize and get to know more about the people and culture of Japan.
So, can you take JLPT twice in the same year?
Now, it is time to answer the initial question of this post.
Yes,you can take JLPT twice in the same year. This is because the test is usually conducted for different levels twice a year. The first time is in July while the second time is in December. So, you can take the test in July and still do it again in December without any hassle.
However, you should note that the test is only conducted once in some countries. So, if you are planning to take the JLPT twice outside of Japan, you may want to consult the right authority to be certain whether the test is held once or twice in your country.
How can you take JLPT twice in a single year?
Generally, taking JLPT twice in a single year can work in two main ways:
- You can take the same level of the exam twice in a single year. For instance, if you have taken N2 in July, you can decide to retake the same level in December. This could be for different reasons that will be explained later.
- Another way is to take different levels of the test in a single year. Let’s assume that you have taken the JLPT N2 in July. You can take N1 in December.
Regardless of the option you are considering, there is no penalty or restriction for taking the JLPT twice a year.
What can make you take the JLPT twice in a single year?
Having explained that you can take the test twice a year, it is important to explain why you may want to take JLPT twice a year.
To pass after failing
For lots of learners, passing different JLPT levels can be difficult. Therefore, it is not surprising that many people usually fail the test. Of course, such learners may want to retake the test as quickly as possible.
Let’s assume that someone took N4 in July, got the result, and discovered that he didn’t pass because of points in the Grammar section. Such a person may want to restudy the Grammar section extensively and take the whole test again in December to pass N4.
- To get employment
Many job opportunities are only available for foreigners who have passed N2 or N1. However, many learners cannot jump from level 0 to the JLPT N1 or N2 as they are likely going to fail. Such learners may decide to first take N4 or N3 in July and then proceed to study seriously and take the most difficult levels (N1 and N2) at the end of the same year.
- To get the perfect score
Although getting the perfect score in any JLPT level doesn’t have any practical advantage, some learners cherish the idea. Hence, after taking a level of the test the first time in July without getting the perfect score, they may want to retake it in December.
Notably, the test results for July would have come out before the commencement of the registration for the next test. Thus, you can take the test twice in the same year.
Is it feasible or rational to take JLPT twice a year?
As shown above, it is feasible to take it twice a year. You can take the first one in July and another in December.
However, is rational to take the test twice? Well, this depends entirely on why you are taking it. For instance, if you are taking it because of a well-paying job in Japan, it may be worth the risk.
But would you be able to prepare enough to pass the test if it is taken twice a year? You only have a period of about 5 months between the two tests in a year. Hence, it can be difficult to study enough for it within this short period especially if you aim to take a higher level. Therefore, no one can give a one-size-fits-all answer to this question.
Does taking JLPT twice a year reduce its cost?
So, you may want to know if taking JLPT twice a year will reduce the cost. No, taking it twice a year will not reduce the cost. In general, you need to spend about ¥5000 on each test in Japan. In the UK, the cost is usually around £85. Mostly, the cost is the same for any level of the test.
Regardless of the number of times you are taking the test in a year, the cost will remain the same. This means that there is no economic advantage of taking the test twice in a single year. However, if you are attending a class, some schools may offer you a discount if you are retaking the class.
Verdict
In a nutshell, you can take JLPT twice a year (the first time in July and later in December) as long as the test is conducted twice annually in your location. However, don’t rush into taking the test. Take the time to consider many of the factors explained above before taking the test two times in a year.