So here we have part 3 and the last blog in this series of the JLPT tests.
Here I wil go into deeper details of test day. What do you need to take with you to the test location. What did I do on or right before those days? What are my tips and tricks so to speak ^^.
Not that I am a perfect model for it, but sharing my experience might just help you feel more prepared and thus also a little more relaxed for your test.
So without furter ado ... Let's get on with the show!
Link to part 1.
Link to part 2.
What I will discuss:
What do you need to take with you to the test?
Here I wil go into deeper details of test day. What do you need to take with you to the test location. What did I do on or right before those days? What are my tips and tricks so to speak ^^.
Not that I am a perfect model for it, but sharing my experience might just help you feel more prepared and thus also a little more relaxed for your test.
So without furter ado ... Let's get on with the show!
Link to part 1.
Link to part 2.
JLPT test days
What I will discuss:
What do you need to take with you to the test?
What are the do's and don'ts?
How does it work at the location? How are the tests divided?
Personal experiences.
So now I have given all the practical information, time to share some actual experience of the entire ordeal.
Like I mentioned before, I have taken the test twice. Both different levels, N2 and N1. The first thing I would like to say is, dont overestimate, but also don't underestimate the test. Sound kind of vague but I shall start with my example.
Ik totally overestimated the diffculty of the test, (mostly N1 and N2). Everyone was always making a really BIG deal out of that test. So what I thought was, N1 indicates the level that every average Japanese person has. And N2 shows you can manage yourself quite wel and are somewhat below average.
I was wong ..... so wrong. So the first time I took a JLPT test I was insanely stressed about making it. Because I should be able to get that level at least. On top of that, most people were saying it was really difficult. I sat down opened the pages and.... it was easy. I was sitting there and wondering what the fuss was all about!
Then later I learned that all those stories made me overestimate the level. N2 is pretty much what every basisc Japanese person can do. I know quite a few Japanese friends who are definitely regular avarage Japanese, and even they could not pass the N1 exam. N1 is pretty insane if you look at it that way. So no N1 is not the level that every Japanese person has... it is more than that ^^;.
But I have also encounterd people who just thought they could sit down make the test and wing it. Without any practice or much study at all. Some might be such masterminds they could pull it off, but not the average person. So tip number one, know what you are signing up for based on factual information. And not exagerations of other people.
So make sure you study your material, understand it, and practice sample questions. Because it does get easier if you are used to the type of questions they used.
When I took the N2 examn the first time. They recently changed the setting of the listening exam questions. And I practiced everything I ever learned, and them some, in 4 years of acedemic study of Japanese. But not the type of questions they had. For the most part that did not matter.
In a lot of tests at univeristy I was prepared for simular questions with reading and grammar etc. But not listening, so that threw me of for a bit en I am sure it cost me some points in the first minute of blind panic ^^;.
So tip number two, practice with simular test questions. It helps you prepare for what cpuld actually appear in the test. And that will make you feel more at ease when taking taking the actual test.
And these are probably the most important things I learned from my experiences. And that is what I would firstly say to anyone who asks me about these tests.But that is rather short and there is probably a lot more I can share.
For instance: taking test in your own country vs, in a foreign country.
I have done both. For me personally it was because there was no test in Leiden yet (I think, I'm not sure). And if it was, I could only arrange time off for December and not July. So the first time I needed to go abroad for the test.
I looked at various options, and in the end I went for London. My main reasons:
What do you need to take with you to the test?
So test day is coming up, what are all the things you absolutely need for the test?
Actually you are not even alloud to bring a whole lot with you into the room where you take the test. What you can/must take are the following:
- Your test voucher
- pencils
(med-soft No.2 or HB)
side note bring extra incase of broken pencils, no sharpner etc. - eraser
- sharpner
- Id with Photo (pasport, ID card, driver's license)
Without it you cannot take the test! - Water
You do have to take of any labels and such, just a platisc bottle.
Just incase you stashed some notes in there I guess. - Sometimes they also ask for extra copies of your photo. This can vary so carefully follow the intructions of your test location.
If you've got all of these you are pretty much set to go.
You can take a bag with you, but it must be placed out of reach and be completely closed. Or if you come with a partner that does not take the test, he or she can watch your bag during the test.
But there are always instructions giving by the local organisers, so read the e-mails and follow the instructions given at the test site. But mainly these things are what you can safely bring into the room.
What are the do's and don'ts?
So what are the thing you need to know when taking the test?
Rule number one what you always should do: Follow the local guidlines and instructions. Can't repeat that enough times. This wil ensure that everything will go as smoothly as possible.
Are you not sure of something?
- Leave it at home, or with friend (that is not taking the test)
- In case of certain actions don't do it.
- Or ask the staff about it.
They can give you a good answer, and tell you what you can and cannot do.
What are things you should avoid at all costs?
- Sound or vibrating of your phone.
If there is a suspicion that one of your belongings made a sound, you are disqualified.
So make sure to not bring it or shut it off comepletely. - Any other apliences that can make sound.
During recent times even watches were banned. But they then also provide a clock of some sort on the testing site. So you can still keep track of time. - Share answers among other examinee's.
Or even talking during the exam. - Use tools (dictionary, phones notes etc.).
- Write answers/notes on you desk before the test.
- Taking the test in someone else's place/ or let anyone take the test in your place.
- Refuse to follow the supervisor's instructions.
- Cause disturbance for others (in any way).
- Share the content of the test with other during or after the test.
(like images, or written texts). - Or if you are helping someone with any of the above mentioned rules.
- And wear of have things with you that include Japanese or even Chinese characters.
If you are even suspected of breaking any of these rules, yes suspected not even proven guilty, you are removed and will not be alloud to finish the test.
The Japan foundation can then also determine that you either need to re-take the test, invalidate your test score, or in worst case scenario invalidate even previous test scores. But then you must have a case of serious misconduct.
So stick to the rules and all will be fine. Normally the test results are valid for life, once you pass them. So it would be a waste to throw all that effort away for stupid things like these.
But what I do highly recommend are 2 things.
- Go to the bathroom before the test and in during break time
- Bring some water
You are aloud to go to the restroom during the test. But you will lose time and you need to be escorted to the restroom by a supervisor. Till the door not inside the actual cubicle/space or whatever. It is kind of awkward and a lot of hassle. Therfore I make sure I go before and or shortly after the tests.
N3 and lower levels do not have insanely long test hours, but N2 and N1 do. And July can be hot, so bring some water. And even in winter more than 1 hour without a sip can be quite annoying. So to help you foccus and stay refressed, do yourself a favour and take some with you.
How does it work at the location? How are the test divided?
First of all let me start with how the tetst of the different levels of the JLPT are set up. And most importantly what their time limit is.
The different levels do not have an equeal amount of tests. The lower levels have the language knowledge test divided over 2 two tests, while the two highest have them in 1 test. So typically these are the time limits given for the exams.
N1 and N2 have 2 tests.
N1
N1
- Language knowledge (vocabulary/grammar) and reading (110 min)
- Listening (60 min)
N2
- Language knowledge (vocabulary/grammar) and reading (105 min)
- Listening (50 min)
N3, N4 and N5 have 3 tests.
N3
- language knowledge (vocabulary) (30 min)
- Language knowledge (grammar) and reading (70 min)
- Listening (40)
N4
- language knowledge (vocabulary) (30 min)
- Language knowledge (grammar) and reading (60 min)
- Listening (35 min)
N5
- language knowledge (vocabulary) (25 min)
- Language knowledge (grammar) and reading (50 min)
- Listening (30 min)
So how does this work? Usually you all gather at the venue of the test location. All the examinees gather in the same hall and are escorted for the introduction. That is done with all the examinees together. There they give a basic introduction about what you can expect, and divide the applicant over supervisiors.
The first thing they do is divide the examinees over the different levels. After that they make groups and you are escorted with a supervisor to the classroom where the test will take place. The amount of applicants can vary per level. Last year N1 had 2 classes only while a lower level needed at least 5.
You are placed in a group accroding to your applicant number on your voucher. I have no insight on how that is decided. You could be placed with random people even though you applied with friends.
You are placed in a group accroding to your applicant number on your voucher. I have no insight on how that is decided. You could be placed with random people even though you applied with friends.
Then before the test begins you need to fill in the form, write your name on the books, and a general introduction and explanation about the test begins. So make sure you have everything you need! This is you last chance to ask for anything you might have missed or lost or whatever.
The supervisors sometimes have extra pencils or erasers or sharpners just in case. Before the test if one of the other applicants can lend you a pencil that is ok, just not during the test.
Then after every test there is a break, for the levels with 2 tests that is usualy 30 min to 45 min. Enough time to eat and drink something for the final tests.
I have no experiene with the levels under N2 so I don't know how long the breaks are. But just know you have some time to rest you mind for a bit in between tests.
I have no experiene with the levels under N2 so I don't know how long the breaks are. But just know you have some time to rest you mind for a bit in between tests.
And you end the day with the listening exam. It starts the same with filling in your information and name on the booklets. Sometimes some paper is provided for taking notes here. If not there is some room left over in your booklet to do so.
Before the test starts you get another introduction and explanation. And after that a sound test. So if anything is unclear or you cannot hear the audio, or not as well as should be, this is the time to raise your hand. Because the supervisor is able to help make any necessary adjustments at this point.
And after it is just go with the flow and your test day is basically done.
And after it is just go with the flow and your test day is basically done.
Your scores will be sent to you at home, with your certificate if you passed. And if you filled in the 8-digit code you can see wether you passed or not earlier around the end of august-begin september for July. For december it should b arounf late Fbruari to early march. It can vary sometimes.
What I would also like to mention is how to fill in the awnser sheets. The test is checked by a computer, so there are very precise instructions. But the booklets and sheets also give perfect examples.
For all the Dutch people out there, you can compare it to the Cito-toets we have to take in elemantary school. Pretty much the same idea and structure.
Completely colour one block, as neatly as possible. Do not go over the lines excesively.
Filled in the wrong answer? try to erase it as neatly as possible and fill in the other option. Do not cross out answers, or mark them with a cross. Otherwise the computer can't read them.
Filled in the wrong answer? try to erase it as neatly as possible and fill in the other option. Do not cross out answers, or mark them with a cross. Otherwise the computer can't read them.
And that was my finaly note on this subject.
Personal experiences.
So now I have given all the practical information, time to share some actual experience of the entire ordeal.
Like I mentioned before, I have taken the test twice. Both different levels, N2 and N1. The first thing I would like to say is, dont overestimate, but also don't underestimate the test. Sound kind of vague but I shall start with my example.
Ik totally overestimated the diffculty of the test, (mostly N1 and N2). Everyone was always making a really BIG deal out of that test. So what I thought was, N1 indicates the level that every average Japanese person has. And N2 shows you can manage yourself quite wel and are somewhat below average.
I was wong ..... so wrong. So the first time I took a JLPT test I was insanely stressed about making it. Because I should be able to get that level at least. On top of that, most people were saying it was really difficult. I sat down opened the pages and.... it was easy. I was sitting there and wondering what the fuss was all about!
Then later I learned that all those stories made me overestimate the level. N2 is pretty much what every basisc Japanese person can do. I know quite a few Japanese friends who are definitely regular avarage Japanese, and even they could not pass the N1 exam. N1 is pretty insane if you look at it that way. So no N1 is not the level that every Japanese person has... it is more than that ^^;.
But I have also encounterd people who just thought they could sit down make the test and wing it. Without any practice or much study at all. Some might be such masterminds they could pull it off, but not the average person. So tip number one, know what you are signing up for based on factual information. And not exagerations of other people.
So make sure you study your material, understand it, and practice sample questions. Because it does get easier if you are used to the type of questions they used.
When I took the N2 examn the first time. They recently changed the setting of the listening exam questions. And I practiced everything I ever learned, and them some, in 4 years of acedemic study of Japanese. But not the type of questions they had. For the most part that did not matter.
In a lot of tests at univeristy I was prepared for simular questions with reading and grammar etc. But not listening, so that threw me of for a bit en I am sure it cost me some points in the first minute of blind panic ^^;.
So tip number two, practice with simular test questions. It helps you prepare for what cpuld actually appear in the test. And that will make you feel more at ease when taking taking the actual test.
And these are probably the most important things I learned from my experiences. And that is what I would firstly say to anyone who asks me about these tests.But that is rather short and there is probably a lot more I can share.
For instance: taking test in your own country vs, in a foreign country.
I have done both. For me personally it was because there was no test in Leiden yet (I think, I'm not sure). And if it was, I could only arrange time off for December and not July. So the first time I needed to go abroad for the test.
I looked at various options, and in the end I went for London. My main reasons:
- I could take the test in December
- I am fluent in English (so no language barrier)
- I studied English before, and just love the U.K.
- I actually made a sort of holiday out of it
Since I was going anyway, might as well treat myself a little after all that hard work XD
So for me it became London. It felt like was work and relaxation at the same time to me. I made sure I was there at least a few days before the test date, and stayed untill a few days after. Basically a 1 week holiday.
So mainly I stood up earlier than usual but not too early. And did a little bit of revising in the morning. About an hour or half an hour so. But never more than 1 hour. After that I would just go about my day, go sightseeing, shopping, visit museums etc. And in the vening I would make some time again for revising and went to bed.
In such a few short days there is not much use for more cramming. I was mainly revising just to give myself some peace of mind. I am the type that gets really stressful when I am not studying. To give you an idea this is what typically goes on in my head during exam time(s):
In such a few short days there is not much use for more cramming. I was mainly revising just to give myself some peace of mind. I am the type that gets really stressful when I am not studying. To give you an idea this is what typically goes on in my head during exam time(s):
- What have I studied?
- Do I need to study anythng else
- I wil plan to study certain parts
- I wil remember frequently mistaken parts
- get stressed wether I still know those parts and the actual correct answers
- ancounter random characters and panic because I fotgot their reading
- either I look up the readind, an continue with other characters I encounter
- or of nor 7, figure out it is Chinese and there is no way in hell I could have ever known in the first place.
- Hear grammar stuctures or words and start doubting wether I studied them or if I need to
Or if I don's know what means look it up - put this on repeat 24/7
Might have forgotten some other things that cross my mind. But it would basically have the same vibe. So I was always worn out after tests. And I foud a balance in making a clear study schedule.
So I know I covered everything that needs to be covered. Also make sure it is realistic and not too much.
And then at the end, make sure I revise from time to time to keep it fresh, and give myself validation I still got it. And then in between make sure you have some fun and relaxation times.
Also watching series in Japanese works fine as wel, it is relaxing and training at the same time :D.
So I know I covered everything that needs to be covered. Also make sure it is realistic and not too much.
And then at the end, make sure I revise from time to time to keep it fresh, and give myself validation I still got it. And then in between make sure you have some fun and relaxation times.
Also watching series in Japanese works fine as wel, it is relaxing and training at the same time :D.
So yeah my test experience in London was great. The location is almost around the corner of King's cross station. so easy to acces. I went also went there 1 or 2 days before to check where the location is. Also the instructions were clear. And in between tests and afterwords I also had a great time with other applicants. After the final test I went to get some diner with 5 other people, where we shared our mutaul love and frustation with Japanese and the JLPT test.
The other time I went in Leiden, it was more quick and buisiness like. Got on the train in the morning, very early did not want to be late. So got there early too. There were als people waiting to help guide the examinee's to the test location. I had been to Leiden university before, so Kinf of half knew the way. But either way it was good to have them for guidance, so that you knew you would not get lost and be n time.
Most of the people were dutch, and I actually saw quite a few acuintances during that day. So did not meet as many new people as in London. Plus one of my friends was a supervisor for the N3 that day as a volunteer. So I could meet with her afterwards. Also got to hang and chill with the rest of the volunteers in bar.
And at the end of the day I took the train home and took it easy the rest of the evening. Though I do say that taking the N1 was really difficult, but a nice challenge. And after the test I had an idea of where exactly I stood concerning my N1 studies. Before I was vaguely aware where I could put more effort in, or could use some extra training.
So even though I failed (just barely, which was the most aggravating of the entire N1 test), I learned more about my study status and my progress than by just studying and making mock tests.
When you receive your results you also get a nice overview on different parts and what your strnghts are and what your weaker points are.
Which means you can also train those weaker areas more to gain more points next time. That is what made go for it the last time. I always had the feeling og I might just make it, or I might not make it. But by failing this time I created more insight so I could maybe pass next time.
So if you prepared your materials wel, and put in enough hours, I'd say go for it. It should mean you can at least get a decent score to pass, or if not a close enough score that you can grow with so you can definitely pass the next time.
When you receive your results you also get a nice overview on different parts and what your strnghts are and what your weaker points are.
Which means you can also train those weaker areas more to gain more points next time. That is what made go for it the last time. I always had the feeling og I might just make it, or I might not make it. But by failing this time I created more insight so I could maybe pass next time.
So if you prepared your materials wel, and put in enough hours, I'd say go for it. It should mean you can at least get a decent score to pass, or if not a close enough score that you can grow with so you can definitely pass the next time.
I guess that is all for my JLPT stories. I hope that I have been able to help you start your JLPT journey.(Mostly N5 focussed but Guess the other level can follow 75% op these posts.)
And I wish all of who good luck with your studies!
And I wish all of who good luck with your studies!
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