JLPT pass calculator: did you pass?
Updated: 2026-11-09
To pass the JLPT you need both: a total at or above the pass mark, and every scoring section at or above its minimum. One section below the minimum fails the whole test, however high the total.
Pass marks and section minimums by level
| Level | Pass mark (total) | Sections and minimums |
|---|---|---|
| N1 | 100/180 | Language knowledge (vocabulary, grammar): 19/60 Reading: 19/60 Listening: 19/60 |
| N2 | 90/180 | Language knowledge (vocabulary, grammar): 19/60 Reading: 19/60 Listening: 19/60 |
| N3 | 95/180 | Language knowledge (vocabulary, grammar): 19/60 Reading: 19/60 Listening: 19/60 |
| N4 | 90/180 | Language knowledge (vocabulary, grammar) and reading: 38/120 Listening: 19/60 |
| N5 | 80/180 | Language knowledge (vocabulary, grammar) and reading: 38/120 Listening: 19/60 |
Source: official JLPT website, pass/fail criteria. Applied since July 2010 (N4 and N5 since December 2010).
What this calculator cannot tell you
- JLPT scores are scaled scores, not the number of correct answers. The conversion is not published, so a score worked out from a practice test is only an estimate.
- If you miss any part of the test, you fail.
FAQ
What score do you need to pass JLPT N3?
At least 95 of 180 in total, and at least 19 of 60 in each of the three sections.
What are the pass marks for N2 and N1?
N2: 90 of 180. N1: 100 of 180. Both also need at least 19 of 60 in each section.
Can you fail with a high total?
Yes. If any section is below its minimum (19 of 60 for N1–N3; for N4–N5, 38 of 120 in language knowledge and reading, 19 of 60 in listening), you fail regardless of the total.
What if I miss one part of the test?
Missing any part of the test means you fail.
Also on this site: Days until the December JLPT · How many words for N3 · Word lists N5–N1 (CSV)