N2 Work, study and live in Japanese with confidence.
Formal and written Japanese: newspaper articles, business emails, opinion pieces and fast natural conversation. N2 is commonly requested by Japanese employers and universities, though requirements vary by organisation.
- Grammar200 patternsMeaning, formation, diagrams, examples, mistakes and JLPT tips.
- Vocabulary1,691 wordsWords in context with readings, examples and collocations.
- Kanji369 charactersReadings, common words, look-alikes and memory aids, grouped by day.
- Reading30 passagesShort, medium and long passages with strategy notes and questions.
- Listening30 exercisesScripted conversations with audio and comprehension questions.
- TestsWeekly and phase tests built from the question bank.
- Mock examsTimed, full-length exams with the real section structure.
Frequently asked questions
Official facts about the N2 test and what this course covers. Figures come from the JLPT site; see the JLPT guide for sources.
What does JLPT N2 certify?
Officially, N2 certifies the ability to understand Japanese used in everyday situations, and in a variety of circumstances to a certain degree. The test has three parts at every level: language knowledge (vocabulary and grammar), reading, and listening.
What is the pass mark for JLPT N2?
90 out of 180 overall, and you must also reach the sectional minimum of 19 / 60 in each of vocabulary and grammar, reading, and listening. A section below its minimum is a fail regardless of the total. Scores are scaled, so the number of correct answers does not map one-to-one to points.
How long is the JLPT N2 exam?
155 minutes of testing in total: Vocabulary, grammar and reading 105 minutes, Listening 50 minutes. There is a break between sessions, and instructions add some time on the day.
How many kanji and words do I need for JLPT N2?
The JLPT publishes no official vocabulary, kanji or grammar lists. Commonly cited estimates for N2 are about 1,000 kanji and 6,000 words in total, including everything from the lower levels. Treat these as a guide to the scale, not a checklist.
Does the JLPT test speaking or writing?
No. The JLPT has no speaking or writing section at any level. Every question is multiple choice and answered on a mark sheet; the official FAQ states that neither a conversation nor a composition test is currently included.
When is the JLPT held?
Twice a year, in July and December, on the first Sunday of the month in most countries. Some overseas test sites hold only one of the two sittings, and registration usually opens three to four months before the test through the host institution in your country.
What does Nihongo Path cover for N2?
200 grammar lessons, 1,691 vocabulary entries, 369 kanji, 30 reading passages and 30 listening exercises, plus tests and full-length mock exams in the official section structure. Everything is free to read without an account.
Is JLPT N2 useful for working or studying in Japan?
N2 is commonly requested by Japanese employers and universities as evidence of business-level or study-level Japanese, and it is referenced in Japan's points-based visa system. Requirements vary by organisation, so check the one you are applying to. The certificate itself never expires.