If you’re considering a job that requires you to be proficient in Japanese, you are probably familiar with the JLPT, or Japanese Language Proficiency Test. The JLPT determines your level of understanding of the Japanese language that will, in turn, be beneficial to you reaching your corporate goals.
Can you get a job with JLPT N3? You may be able to get a job with the JLPT N3, but it is not guaranteed. Having this achievement on a resume will look good to potential employers, however, most prefer or require N2 or N1 levels of understanding.
Keep reading to learn more about the JLPT and perks to taking the test, Level N3 of the JLPT, and the role it can play as you pursue a job, and what levels N2 and N1 of the JLPT entail should you choose to move forward with the JLPT.
Can You Get a Job with JPLT N3?
The JLPT N3 is the upper-intermediate level exam that requires an understanding of approximately 3,750 Japanese vocabulary words and the ability to understand and follow along with everyday conversations. Passing the JLPT N3 shows you have a respectable understanding of the Japanese language.
The JPLT level N3 is described as “the ability to understand Japanese used in everyday situations to a certain degree.” (Source) The level N3 test requires:
- The ability to comprehend newspaper headlines.
- The ability to read and comprehend more difficult texts.
- The ability to understand the difference between similar terms and grammar patterns.
- The ability to follow along in basic, everyday conversations spoken at a natural speed.
In an interview with The Japan Times, Yuji Shinohara, president of Daijob.com, one of Japan’s largest multilingual job search engines, explained that the JLPT is absolutely a way for employers to measure just how fluent an applicant is in Japanese.
He goes on to explain that “58 percent of job offers on his site requires that applicants speak “fluent” Japanese, and 39 percent say their applicants should be able to speak “business-level” Japanese. Fluent can be construed as N1 level, while business-level could be translated as N2 level.” Shinohara also adds that a JLPT score isn’t required to receive a job, but it will go a long way when searching for one. (Source)
Jobs that require at least a level N3 understanding of the Japanese language include:
- Interpreter/translator
- Customer service
- Various consultant positions
- Various positions at IBM
- Technology development
If any of these positions are of interest to you and you have taken the JLPT and passed N3, you’ve got a great shot at landing your desired job.
It’s important to keep in mind that while an N3 score may not be the most desirable or sought after score for many companies, it does show a willingness to learn the language. If you’re searching for a job, and plan to continue to perfect your Japanese language skills, it would be beneficial to include this in your resume and/or mention it to potential employers.
Perks of Taking the JLPT
The Japanese Language Proficiency Test determines a person’s understanding of Japanese vocabulary, grammar, and ability to hold a conversation through the elements of language knowledge, reading, and listening. The JLPT does not measure speaking or writing.
The test is only administered once or twice a year depending on where you live, you can go here for the complete list of test cities, test dates, and contact information.
There are five levels of the JLPT. N1 and N2 are the more difficult levels that require an understanding of everyday interactions, level N4 and N5 are the easier levels of basic Japanese that are typically learned in a classroom setting, and N3 bridges the gap between the levels.
While the JLPT exam is not required, it is beneficial for several reasons:
- Proof to future employers that you have some credentials, other than your education, that will help you excel in the role they are hiring for. Taking the JLPT proves you are serious about learning the language and that effective communication is important to you.
- If you play to apply to live or work in Japan, you’ll be doing so through the Immigration Bureau of Japan, and you’ll be required to obtain a certain amount of points to get preferential treatment. The ability to pass level N1 and N2 will help you acquire the points you need.
- If you’re hoping to work in the medical field in Japan, passing the JLPT level N1 is necessary.
- While you may not be considering a move to Japan, there are many jobs across many industries that may require or prefer Japanese speaking applicants, and JLPT results look great on a resume.
Level N2 and N1 of the JLPT
It’s not at all impossible to get a job with a level N3 understanding of the Japanese language, but many potential employers prefer level N2 and N1. So what exactly do those levels entail?
Level N2 is described as “the ability to understand Japanese used in everyday situations and in a variety of circumstances to a certain degree.” (Source) Specifically, level N2 involves:
- The ability to read and understand material written on a number of topics.
- Read, understand, and interpret topics as well as writers’ intent.
- Ability to comprehend conversations and broadcasts at nearly natural speed in a variety of settings.
Level N1 is the most fluent of all the JLPT levels and is described as, “the ability to understand Japanese used in a variety of circumstances.” (Source) Level N1 involves:
- The ability to read and write complex and/or abstract pieces on nearly any given topic.
- The ability to read and understand material on profound topics and understand the writer’s intent.
- The ability to understand and comprehend a variety of orally presented materials spoken at a natural speed, and understand the relationship among those involved.
More About the JLPT and Your Job Search
The JLPT, or Japanese Language Proficiency Test, measures how well you know and understand the Japanese language in a number of settings. Proficiency is determined by levels, N1, N2, N3, N4, and N5, with levels 1 and 2 being the most difficult, levels 4 and 5 being the most simple, and level 3 bridging the gap.
There are several benefits to taking the JLPT including immigration purposes and helping you land a job.
Level N3 means you have a pretty deep understanding of the Japanese language and can read and comprehend headlines, various texts, grammar patterns, and follow along in basic conversations spoken at a natural speed.
While many jobs prefer or require a level N2 or even N1 understanding there are several jobs available for those that have passed the N3 test such as positions in customer service or technology development. And if you’ve passed N3 but plan on continuing to perfect your language skills, let potential future employers know you’re working toward that goal.
Landing Your Dream Job with the JLPT
It’s not impossible to get a job level N3 knowledge and understanding, but if level N3 is holding you back, it may be worth checking into studying for levels N2 or N1. N2 and N1 are more in-depth, fluent understandings of the language such as reading and comprehending complicated texts on virtually any topic, understanding not only a writer’s content, but their intent, and understanding and comprehending a variety of materials presented orally at a natural speed.
Being fluent in another language always looks great on a resume, as well as the desire to continue to deepen your knowledge and understanding of another language. Your hard work will most certainly pay off as you search for your dream job. Good luck!