JLPT in India: dates, cities, registration and pass marks
Everything you need to plan for the JLPT as a candidate in India.
Last checked: 16 October 2026
When is the JLPT held?
Twice a year: on the first Sunday of July and the first Sunday of December. In 2026 the dates were 5 July and 6 December. The next test after December 2026 is in July 2027; the exact date will be confirmed on the official site.
Source: jlpt.jp
Where can you take it in India?
Test cities include New Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Santiniketan and Karur. Each city has its own host institution that runs registration, so there is no single national portal. Seats are first-come, first-served and fill quickly, so watch for the registration window several weeks before the test.
Source: JLPT overseas test sites
How is it scored?
Every level is scored out of 180. To pass you need the overall pass mark and the minimum score in each section:
- N1: 100 overall
- N2: 90 overall
- N3: 95 overall
- N4: 90 overall
- N5: 80 overall
Source: JLPT results and scoring
What does the test include?
Language knowledge (vocabulary and grammar), reading and listening. There is no speaking or writing section. Results arrive about two months after the test.
Does the certificate expire?
No. The JLPT certificate does not expire. Some employers or schools set their own limit on how old a result can be, so check their requirement.
Prepare with us
Our live online JLPT N5–N1 courses include mock tests in the exam pattern. Book a free demo to find your level. Rules, dates and fees change. Treat this page as a starting point and confirm on the official website before you apply. Japanese Ninjas cannot guarantee a job, a scholarship or a visa.
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Book your free demo classFrequently asked questions
How many times a year is the JLPT held in India?
Twice a year, in July and December.
What is the passing score for JLPT N3?
The overall pass mark for N3 is 95 out of 180, and you must also reach the minimum in each section.
How do I register for the JLPT in India?
Through the host institution of the city where you will take the test — each runs its own registration window. Check the official JLPT site for the host and dates.