Preparing for Japanese Language Exams Beyond JLPT with SuikaTalk

When people think about Japanese language exams, the JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) is usually the first one that comes to mind. It is the most widely recognised exam for Japanese learners around the world, with five levels ranging from N5, the beginner level, up to N1, the most advanced. For many people, passing JLPT is a personal milestone, and in some cases it is also a requirement for study, work, or even visa applications.

However, JLPT is not the only Japanese exam that exists. In fact, there are many other tests that may be more relevant to your goals, your country, or your academic path. Some of these exams are designed for students who want to study in Japan, some are created for professionals who need Japanese in the workplace, and others are school-based exams that are tied to local education systems.

Different Types of Japanese Exams

Here are some of the main exams that learners might encounter:

• EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students)
  This test is required for international students who want to apply to Japanese universities. It focuses on academic Japanese and measures whether a student can handle university-level studies in Japan.
• BJT (Business Japanese Proficiency Test)
  Aimed at professionals, this exam evaluates the ability to use Japanese in business settings. It is particularly useful for people working with Japanese companies or planning a career in Japan.
• J.TEST and NAT-TEST
  These are alternatives to JLPT. The J.TEST is more practical and emphasises listening skills, while the NAT-TEST is structured similarly to JLPT and is often used as preparation for it.
• TOPJ (Test of Practical Japanese)
  This exam measures not only language skills but also understanding of Japanese society and culture, which can be especially relevant for people working in or with Japanese businesses.
• High school and regional exams
  In some countries, Japanese is included in national or regional high school examinations. Examples include GCSE in the UK, HSC in New South Wales, VCE in Victoria, QCE in Queensland, WACE in Western Australia, NCEA in New Zealand, and the IB (International Baccalaureate) programme, which is recognised internationally.
  There are also other exams such as the HKDSE in Hong Kong, the AP Japanese Language and Culture Exam in the United States and Canada, and even the Abitur in parts of Germany and Finland, where Japanese can sometimes be chosen as a subject.

Each of these exams has its own purpose and its own style. For example, school-based exams usually follow the local education curriculum, while international tests like EJU or IB are designed for broader academic goals. Knowing which exam you are preparing for makes a big difference in how you should study.

How SuikaTalk Fits In

At SuikaTalk, we know that learners have many different reasons for studying Japanese. Some want to pass JLPT to prove their language level, while others want to get into a Japanese university, improve their career prospects, or succeed in school-based exams in their own country.

SuikaTalk is still a young platform, and our community of teachers is steadily growing. At this stage, we may not yet have teachers for every single exam mentioned above, but some of our teachers already specialise in test preparation beyond JLPT. You may find teachers who have experience helping students prepare for EJU, GCSE, IB, or other region-specific exams.

That is why we recommend checking teacher profiles carefully. Not every teacher offers exam preparation. If a teacher does, the exams they cover will be shown on their profile. In their introductions, they may describe their teaching style, their experience, and which exams they can support. If you are aiming for a particular test, you can even send a message to a teacher and ask about their experience with it. In many cases, teachers are happy to adjust their lessons to meet your needs.

Why Test Preparation with a Teacher Matters

Preparing for an exam by yourself can be challenging. Having a teacher who understands the exam structure, the common pitfalls, and effective strategies can save you a lot of time and stress. For example, JLPT has a very specific format and question style, while exams like EJU demand strong academic reading skills. A teacher can guide you through practice questions, correct your mistakes, and help you build confidence before the real test.

Even if your exam is less widely known, working with a teacher who has supported other learners with similar goals can give you a clear advantage. Test preparation is not only about studying grammar and vocabulary, but also about learning how to approach the exam itself.

Find a Teacher for Your Exam

No matter which Japanese exam you are preparing for, SuikaTalk can help you connect with teachers who understand your needs. Whether it is JLPT, EJU, a business-focused exam like BJT, or a school-based qualification in your country, finding the right teacher can make a big difference in your success.

Take a look at our list of teachers who offer exam preparation lessons and see if one of them is the right fit for you.

👉 Browse exam preparation teachers on SuikaTalk