Introduction[]
Whether through formal classes or self-study, it is a good idea to study and learn Japanese while you are in Japan. Improving your Japanese language communication skills will naturally help to improve the quality of your daily life and overall experience in Japan. You will gain a greater sense of independence and broaden your opportunities for social interaction both inside and outside of work. Language study is a great way to utilize your downtime at work when there is little else to do due to school vacation or student examinations.
JET-Sponsored Language Classes[]
CLAIR offers all JETs access to an online Japanese language course. These courses include 'beginner', 'intermediate' and 'advanced levels' (N5, N4 and N3 of the JLPT respectively). Consult CLAIR's website linked below for the application form and more information on the course. The application deadline is the 10th of every month and the 6-month course will start from the 1st of the following month.
Jet Programme Online Japanese Language Courses
Public and Private Language Classes in Tokyo[]
Tokyo Nihongo Volunteer Network
Many local wards arrange volunteer language classes through the Tokyo Nihongo Volunteer Network. Please contact TNVN at TEL: 03-3235-1171(Mon.13:00-20:00) or E-MAIL:webadmin@tnvn.jp
Private Japanese Language Schools in Tokyo
There are many private language schools in Tokyo which offer Japanese language courses at various proficiency levels. Please see some of the available listings through the link below. Please note that these courses are available by your own private arrangement and you will be responsible for all required fees.
NB: Look for the part-time, casual courses which are designed for working residents.
(Enrolling in courses designed for formal students may require you to seek the relevant exemptions with regards to permitted activities under your VISA Status).
Japanese Language Schools in Tokyo
Japanese Language Textbook Resources[]
All JETs receive the 'Japanese for JETs' or 'Japanese for CIR's' textbooks from CLAIR. It gives you need-to-know language information for specific situations at the office or at home. You may also consider using the textbooks below.
Textbooks for Learning Japanese
-Marugoto Series (Created and published by The Japan Foundation )
- Genki Series (Published by The Japan Times)
- Japanese for Busy People Series (Created and Published by AJALT)
- Tobira: Gateway to Advanced Japanese (Kurosio Publishers)
- Minna no Nihongo Series by 3A Corporation, Japan
Textbooks for preparing for the JLPT
- Nihongo Sou Matome no Renshuu Series
- Shin Kanzen Master Series
- Mainichi no Kikitori Series
The Japanese Language Proficiency Test[]
The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is held twice a year (July and December) in Japan. It is jointly organized by the Japan Foundation (JF) and Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES). Examinees may choose to sit the test at one of five (5) proficiency levels according to the JF Standard and CEFR as follows;
Beginner (A1) - JLPT N5
Elementary (A2) - JLPT N4
Low Intermediate (B1) - JLPT N3
High Intermediate (B2) - JLPT N2
Advanced (C1) - JLPT N1
A certificate of proficiency will be issued to individual candidates after successfully passing the JLPT examination at the registered level. For more information on the JLPT and how to register, visit the official JLPT website.
NB The C2 level of Japanese ('Proficient') is not tested by the JLPT, nor by any other known Japanese Language Test for L2 speakers of Japanese. It is sometimes referred to as level 'N0' by learners.
CLAIR Grant for Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT)[]
CLAIR currently offers a grant for JET Programme participants who pass the N1, N2, or N3 levels of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test. The grant is not offered for the elementary levels of the test (N5 and N4). This grant is offered as a 'REFUND of the test fee, awarded AFTER you have successfully taken and passed the intermediate to advanced levels. You MUST show proof of payment of the examination fee, so please save the receipt and put it in a safe place. Scan and send the receipt along with your examination certificate to receive the refund.
Grant Eligibility Criteria
1) The test date must be in the same fiscal year as the corresponding year in which the JLPT Grant is being offered
2) You must have passed N3 , N2 or N1 of the JLPT
3) You must be a current JET participant at the time of the test
4) You must have not previously passed the same level of the JLPT or higher than the level being taken for the grant
5) You must have taken the JLPT at a test site in Japan
6) You must be able to provide proof of payment for the test in YOUR name
7) You must have a bank account in Japan for receiving payment of the grant
Grant Amount
As of April 2021, the grant amount is 6,500 yen. If you plan to take multiple levels of the test, this money adds up (to 19,500 yen!), so it is a great idea to claim the refunds and use that money for something ese!
Deadlines for grant applications
Fiscal Year: 2021-2022
- For JLPT examinations taken in July 2021, the deadline is Friday, October 29th, 2021.
- For JLPT examinations taken in December 2021, The deadline is Friday, February 25th, 2022.
Visit CLAIR website for more information
For up-to-date information, guidelines and grant application forms, see the link to the CLAIR/JET website below.
CLAIR Grant for Japanese Language Proficiency Test