JLPT vs EJU — Which Exam Do You Need to Study in Japan? | Nihongo to Japan
JLPT vs EJU: Core Differences
JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) - Organizer: Japan Foundation & Japan Educational Exchanges and Services - Purpose: Japanese language certification for work, immigration, language study verification - Levels: N5 (beginner) to N1 (advanced), 5 levels - Content: Vocabulary, grammar, reading, listening - Locations: Worldwide (Taiwan: July and December each year) - Validity: Generally accepted without expiry; some employers/schools require results within 2 years
EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students) - Organizer: JASSO (Japan Student Services Organization) - Purpose: Academic screening for international students applying to Japanese universities, junior colleges and vocational schools - Subjects: Japanese, science, general studies, mathematics (select based on target major) - Locations: Primarily Japan, with some overseas sites - Validity: Most universities accept scores within 2 years
Key takeaway: Confirming your Japanese level → JLPT Applying to a Japanese university → EJU (+ possibly JLPT) Japanese workplace requirement → JLPT N2 or above Language school admission → Neither is required
Can I Take Both?
Yes, and for students with university goals, taking both makes sense.
JLPT gives you a recognized Japanese proficiency certificate. EJU is the gateway to Japanese university admission. Both require strong Japanese — preparing for one naturally supports the other.
Common advice: Use JLPT as an initial goal and benchmark. As your Japanese improves at language school and you reach around N2 level, start preparing for EJU's additional subjects (science, math, etc.).
Key tips
- JLPT is held in Taiwan in July and December; registration is typically March-April and September-October
- For EJU registration, check JASSO's website; Taiwan may not have a local test site
- Find JLPT prep resources on this site: challenge quiz bank and grammar guides
FAQ
Which is harder, JLPT N2 or EJU Japanese?
Both are roughly similar in difficulty, but the format differs. JLPT N2 tests reading and listening. EJU Japanese also includes a written composition section — writing your own opinions in Japanese. The written section is an additional challenge for many learners.
Do I need JLPT to enter a language school?
No. Language schools use their own placement tests and accept beginners. JLPT is not required for language school admission, but may be needed for subsequent university applications or employment.