CEFR Level JLPT Guide: JLPT CEFR Levels, JLPT to CEFR Conversion, and CEFR Level in JLPT Explained

The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is a globally recognized examination for non-native Japanese speakers. From December 2025, JLPT score reports will include a reference CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) level, helping learners and institutions better understand language proficiency in an international context.

In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about CEFR level JLPT, JLPT CEFR equivalent, JLPT to CEFR conversion, and how to use this reference to improve your Japanese language learning journey.

For those interested in structured learning, consider exploring the Japanese Language Courses at Team International Language School.

The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is a globally recognized examination for non-native Japanese speakers. From December 2025, JLPT score reports will include a reference CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) level, helping learners and institutions better understand language proficiency in an international context.

In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about CEFR level JLPT, JLPT CEFR equivalent, JLPT to CEFR conversion, and how to use this reference to improve your Japanese language learning journey.

For those interested in structured learning, consider exploring the Japanese Language Courses at Team International Language School.

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What is CEFR? CEFR Japanese Levels Explained for JLPT Learners (A1–C1 Framework)

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is the global benchmark for measuring language proficiency. Created by the Council of Europe, CEFR provides a clear and consistent way to assess how well someone can read, write, listen, and speak in a foreign language.

Used widely across Europe and around the world, CEFR Japanese levels help learners, teachers, and employers understand language skills in a universal way.

In 2001, the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, teaching, assessment) was published by the Council of Europe as the reference framework intended for common use in learning, teaching, and assessment for languages in Europe.

In the CEFR, foreign language proficiency is divided into six (6) levels of A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2 (C2 being the highest level). The foreign language proficiency of a person at each level is indicated by the illustrative descriptors formatted as "can-do."

The CEFR has been translated into as many as forty (40) languages, and is now widely used as an international framework able to show foreign language proficiency on a common basis across languages and borders.

References & Useful Links

• Official JLPT Website
• Council of Europe – CEFR Manual
• CEFR Companion Volume 2020

CEFR Levels Explained for Japanese Learners | CEFR Levels Japanese (A1–C2 Guide for JLPT)

CEFR defines six main levels of language proficiency from beginner to advanced:

Key Point: CEFR is not limited to reading and writing; it also evaluates listening, speaking, and interaction skills.

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CEFR in Japanese Language Education | Japanese CEFR Levels for JLPT Learners

For Japanese, the CEFR framework has been thoughtfully adapted to create clear, shared standards across learning and testing. Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs published 「日本語教育の参照枠」 (Reference Framework for Japanese-Language Education), while the Japan Foundation developed the JF Standard for Japanese-Language Education—both grounded in CEFR principles.

These initiatives recognized a growing need for common proficiency indicators that work across different Japanese exams and institutions. As a result, CEFR Japanese levels will be added as reference information in JLPT score reports from December 2025, making JLPT CEFR levels easier to understand, compare, and use worldwide.

Important Announcement: JLPT CEFR Reference Starts December 2025

The inclusion of CEFR levels as reference information on JLPT score reports was originally planned to begin in July 2025. To ensure that learners, institutions, and stakeholders have sufficient time to understand and prepare for this update, the implementation timeline has been revised.

The CEFR reference level will now officially appear on score reports starting from the December 2025 JLPT, providing a clearer, internationally recognized benchmark for Japanese language proficiency.

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CEFR Levels in Relation to JLPT | JLPT CEFR Level, JLPT to CEFR

From December 2025, JLPT score reports will include a CEFR reference level, helping learners understand their Japanese proficiency on a globally recognized scale. This JLPT to CEFR mapping makes it easier for universities, employers, and institutions worldwide to interpret your results with clarity.

Note: The highest CEFR reference shown in JLPT is C1. JLPT scores do not map to C2 (Mastery level).

JLPT Levels Compared to CEFR | Official JLPT–CEFR Equivalent Table

With the introduction of CEFR reference levels in JLPT score reports from December 2025, learners can clearly see how their total score aligns with internationally recognized proficiency standards. This official JLPT to CEFR conversion is based on carefully set cut scores determined through CEFR linking procedures.

• N5 (80 or above) → A1
• N4 (90 or above) → A2
• N3 (95–103) → A2, 104 or above → B1 (JLPT N3 CEFR Level)
• N2 (90–111) → B1, 112 or above → B2 (JLPT N2 CEFR Equivalent / B2 Japanese Level)
• N1 (100–141) → B2, 142 or above → C1 (JLPT N1 CEFR Equivalent)

This table helps you interpret your JLPT CEFR equivalent at a glance and understand exactly where your Japanese ability stands on the CEFR Japanese levels scale.

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Method for Linking JLPT to CEFR | JLPT to CEFR Conversion Method

The JLPT to CEFR conversion is grounded in a rigorous, research-based process to ensure international accuracy and credibility. The linking procedure follows the guidelines set out in the Council of Europe 2009 CEFR Manual, “Relating Language Examinations to the CEFR.”

In October 2024, a formal standard-setting study was conducted by assessment specialists and Japanese-language education experts from Japan and abroad. These experts evaluated JLPT reading and listening items across levels (N5–N1) against CEFR descriptors and established precise cut scores that determine the CEFR level in JLPT based on total marks.

This careful methodology ensures that every JLPT CEFR level shown on your score report reflects a valid, internationally comparable measure of Japanese language proficiency.

How JLPT Scores Are Linked to CEFR | Understanding the CEFR Level in JLPT

The CEFR level shown in JLPT score reports is determined through a clear, standardized method designed for international comparability and transparency.

• Based on Total Score: Your overall JLPT marks determine the CEFR reference level.
• Shown Only for Passing Candidates: The CEFR level appears only if you pass the test and meet all sectional requirements.
• Aligned to Linguistic & Reception Skills: The mapping reflects performance in vocabulary, grammar, reading, and listening—the core skills assessed by JLPT.
• Speaking and Writing Not Included: Since JLPT does not test production or interaction skills, these CEFR domains are not part of the reference.

This approach ensures that the JLPT CEFR level accurately represents the skills the exam measures while aligning your result with a globally recognized proficiency scale.

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Detailed Mapping | JLPT N4 CEFR Level, JLPT B1 Level, JLPT N2 CEFR

Understanding how each JLPT level aligns with CEFR helps you set clear goals and measure your Japanese proficiency on a global scale. Here’s a practical view of the JLPT–CEFR mapping and what it means for your real-world communication skills:

• JLPT N5 → CEFR A1
  Ability to use basic Japanese phrases, simple greetings, and self-introductions.
• JLPT N4 → CEFR A2 (JLPT N4 CEFR Level)
  Confidence in handling everyday situations like shopping, travel, and routine conversations.
• JLPT N3 → CEFR B1 (JLPT B1 Level at 104 )
   Intermediate communication—manage daily discussions, understand standard texts, and express opinions.
• JLPT N2 → CEFR B2 (JLPT N2 CEFR / B2 Japanese Level)
   High-intermediate proficiency—follow complex conversations, read detailed materials, and interact fluently.
• JLPT N1 → CEFR C1
   Advanced academic and professional Japanese with strong comprehension and expression skills.

This mapping shows exactly where your JLPT CEFR equivalent stands and how your level translates into practical Japanese ability.

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Why CEFR JLPT Reference Matters | CEFR to JLPT Understanding

Adding a CEFR reference level to your JLPT score report does more than add a label—it makes your Japanese proficiency instantly understandable across borders and institutions.

• International Comparison: Your JLPT result can be compared with other CEFR-aligned language tests worldwide.
• University Admissions: Institutions can quickly gauge your Japanese level using familiar CEFR standards.
• Employment Assessment: Employers get a clear, reliable benchmark of your practical language ability.
• Self-Assessment & Goal Setting: You can track progress and set targets using globally recognized CEFR descriptors.

In short, the JLPT CEFR level turns your score into a universally readable measure of Japanese proficiency.

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Score Report Indication from December 2025 | How CEFR Appears on JLPT Results

Beginning with the December 2025 JLPT, your score report will display a CEFR reference level in a clear, standardized format designed for global understanding.

• CEFR Level Shown Only If You Pass: The reference appears for candidates who meet both total and sectional pass criteria.
• “＊” Displayed If You Do Not Pass: If you fail (including sectional shortfall), the CEFR field will show an asterisk instead of a level.
• Calculated from Your Total Score: The CEFR level is determined by your overall marks, not individual sections.
• Percentile Rank for Overseas Candidates: Those testing outside Japan will also see a percentile rank alongside the CEFR reference.

This layout ensures your JLPT CEFR level is easy to read, compare, and use wherever Japanese proficiency needs to be verified.

FAQs | CEFR JLPT, CEFR Levels JLPT

Q1: What is the indication of the CEFR level as a reference?
A: The CEFR reference links your JLPT total score to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) levels, ranging from A1 to C1, with C1 being the highest level. It provides a global benchmark for your Japanese proficiency.

Q2: What is the CEFR level? What levels are available?
A: CEFR defines six main language proficiency levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2, with C2 being the highest. The CEFR-CV (Companion Volume, 2020) also mentions Pre-A1 and “ ” levels (like A2 , B1 ), but JLPT only uses A1 to C1 for reference.

Q3: How does each JLPT level correspond to the CEFR level?
A: The correspondence is based on the total JLPT score, shown in "Figure 1: Correspondence of the JLPT Total Score (N5–N1) to the CEFR Level (A1–C1)." For example:

• N5 → A1
• N4 → A2
• N3 → B1
• N2 → B2
• N1 → C1

Q4: How was each JLPT level linked to CEFR?
A: The CEFR reference was developed using the Council of Europe’s 2009 CEFR Manual, “Relating Language Examinations to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment.” This methodology was further detailed in a 2024 Japanese report on linking JLPT scores to CEFR.

Q5: Why is there no C2 level in JLPT CEFR reference?
A: Research shows that JLPT scores only correspond up to C1, so C2 is not applicable.

Q6: Is the CEFR reference shown for failed JLPT candidates?
A: No. The CEFR reference is only indicated for passing candidates.

Q7: Does CEFR reference include all skills – reading, listening, speaking, and writing?
A: No. JLPT covers Language Knowledge (Vocabulary & Grammar), Reading, and Listening, which correspond to CEFR’s Linguistic and Reception skills. Speaking and writing (CEFR production and interaction skills) are not included.

Q8: Can I see my CEFR level for each scoring section?
A: No. The CEFR reference is based on the total score, not individual sections.

Q9: Will score reports before July 2025 become invalid with the new CEFR reference?
A: No. Reports and certificates issued before December 2025 remain valid. CEFR levels are additional reference information only.

Q10: Which JLPT level corresponds to CEFR B1?
A: Both N3 (104 points) and N2 (up to 111 points) can correspond to CEFR B1, depending on your total score.

Q11: Are B1 levels in N3 and N2 considered the same?
A: Yes. According to CEFR, both represent the same B1 proficiency level.

Q12: Can I request a duplicated copy of my JLPT certificate with CEFR reference?
A: No. Duplicated copies for tests taken before July 2025 will not show CEFR levels. A “＊” will be indicated instead.

Q13: How can I use the CEFR reference?
A: CEFR allows JLPT results to be cross-referenced with other CEFR-aligned Japanese tests. For official recognition in schools, workplaces, or institutions, check with the organization using the results.

Q14: Should I change my JLPT preparation with the introduction of CEFR reference?
A: No. The test content and preparation methods remain unchanged; the CEFR reference is simply an additional guide.

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How to Prepare Using the CEFR Japanese Benchmark for JLPT

Using the CEFR Japanese benchmark alongside your JLPT goals can make your preparation more focused, measurable, and effective.

• Set a CEFR-Aligned Target: Decide your goal first (e.g., B1) and map it to the corresponding JLPT level (N3). This gives your study plan a clear direction.
• Prioritize JLPT Core Skills: Concentrate on reading, listening, vocabulary, and grammar—the exact skills reflected in the CEFR reference for JLPT.
• Use CEFR “Can-Do” Descriptors: Refer to CEFR level descriptors to understand what real-world tasks you should be able to perform at your target level.
• Track Progress with Mock Tests: Take regular JLPT practice tests and compare your scores with CEFR cutoffs to measure improvement.

By aligning your study strategy with CEFR levels and JLPT, you prepare with purpose and track your Japanese proficiency against an international standard.

Conclusion | JLPT CEFR Levels and CEFR Japanese

The addition of CEFR level JLPT reference from December 2025 creates a powerful international benchmark. Understanding JLPT CEFR levels, JLPT to CEFR conversion, and CEFR Japanese levels helps learners plan, measure, and present their proficiency globally.