The Japanese NAT-TEST is an essential language proficiency exam for non-native speakers, assessing their skills in Grammar, Vocabulary, Listening, and Reading Comprehension. Recognized by educational institutions and employers, it serves as a great alternative to JLPT, offering six exam sessions annually for more flexibility. 

This article provides a detailed schedule, registration deadlines, test centers, and preparation resources to help you plan efficiently. If you aim to study or work in Japan, passing the NAT-TEST can significantly enhance your application. Learn Japanese with TLS, the top institute for Japanese language training!

What is Japanese NAT-TEST

Japanese NAT (Nihongo Achievement Test) – A Globally Recognized Japanese Proficiency Exam

The Japanese NAT Test is a widely recognized language proficiency exam designed for non-native speakers to assess and certify their Japanese language skills.

First introduced in 1989 in Japan, China, South Korea, and Taiwan, it was rebranded as the NAT Test in 2007. Today, it is the second most popular Japanese language exam, conducted in 50 cities across 16 Asian countries.

With 150,000 candidates annually, the NAT Test offers a structured evaluation for students and professionals looking to enhance their Japanese language proficiency.

Japanese NAT Exam 2025 Dates & Test Centers

The Japanese NAT-TEST is an important language proficiency exam for non-native speakers, assessing Grammar, Vocabulary, Listening, and Reading Comprehension. It follows the same structure as the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) but is conducted six times a year, offering more opportunities to certify your skills.

Unlike JLPT, which is held once or twice a year, the NAT exam is conducted six times annually at various locations across India.

📌 For the latest updates on test centers and registration, visit: NAT Test Registration Dates 2025

Why Choose NAT Over JLPT?

While both JLPT and NAT are highly regarded, the NAT exam is held more frequently and offers quicker results. Here’s a comparison:

📌 Interested in JLPT? Visit our detailed guide: JLPT Exam Details

Japanese NAT Exam Levels & Structure

The NAT exam consists of five levels (5Q to 1Q), corresponding to JLPT N5 to N1.

NAT Exam Result & Certificate

After appearing for the NAT (Nihongo Achievement Test), candidates eagerly await two important things: their exam result and the official certificate of qualification. These documents not only confirm your performance but also serve as proof of your Japanese language skills, useful for jobs, higher studies, or visa applications.

✅ NAT Exam Result: Usually declared within a few weeks of the test, it includes your total score, individual section performance (Language Knowledge, Listening, and Reading), and pass/fail status.

🎓 NAT Certificate: Issued to students who pass the exam, this certificate is an official recognition of your Japanese language proficiency at levels N5 to N1. It can be submitted to universities, companies, or immigration offices.

Whether you’re preparing for future exams or waiting for your score, staying updated on result timelines and certificate dispatch details is crucial.

📍 Looking for where to take the test? Explore the full list of authorized NAT test centers in India here 👉 NAT test centers in India

How to Prepare for NAT Japanese Exam

The NAT (Nihongo Achievement Test) is a popular exam for non-native speakers to assess their Japanese language skills across five levels—N5 to N1. Whether you're starting at N5 or aiming higher, preparation with a strategic approach is key.

🎯 1. Understand the NAT Exam Structure

The NAT exam includes three major sections:

Language Knowledge (Vocabulary, Grammar, Kanji)

Listening Comprehension

Reading Comprehension

Each section is scored separately, and you must pass all to qualify.

📚 2. Use Recommended Study Materials

To score well, make use of trusted resources such as:

Minna no Nihongo and Try! JLPT Series

NAT-TEST Practice Workbooks

Flashcards via Anki or JLPT apps for Kanji and vocabulary

✨ Team Language Services (TLS) also offers specially curated NAT preparation material, including PDF guides, video lessons, and downloadable mock test series for every level.

Not sure which level to aim for? Understand all NAT test levels and their difficulty 👉 NAT test levels

🈶 3. Build Vocabulary, Kanji & Grammar Together

For levels like N5 and N4, mastering the basics is essential:

Learn 100–300 Kanji with example words

Use sentence-building techniques to apply grammar rules

Revise vocabulary in thematic groups (daily life, school, etc.)

TLS provides offline and online Japanese coaching, ensuring daily revision plans and interactive practice sessions tailored to NAT exam requirements.

🎧 4. Strengthen Your Listening Skills

Practice with NAT audio samples and JLPT listening tracks

Watch Japanese content with and without subtitles

Use TLS listening modules to simulate the actual exam environment

📖 5. Improve Reading Comprehension

For the reading section:

Start with short paragraphs and work up to full texts

Use NHK Easy News or beginner manga with Furigana

TLS students get access to weekly reading comprehension worksheets aligned with NAT levels

Have you checked the latest results? See the NAT Japanese Test April 2025 results now 👉 NAT Japanese Test April 2025 results

✍️ 6. Take Mock Tests Regularly

Mock tests help track your improvement and exam readiness:

Time-bound mock exams

Section-wise analysis

Score tracking

🏆 At Team Language Services, every student undergoes weekly NAT mock tests and receives expert feedback to strengthen weak areas.

New to the exam? Don’t miss this detailed NAT Japanese Test Complete Guide covering everything from levels to preparation 👉 NAT Japanese Test Complete Guide

📅 7. Follow a 30-Day Prep Plan

TLS recommends the following for NAT N5/N4 levels:

Week 1–2: Kanji + Vocabulary + Grammar basics

Week 3: Listening + Reading drills + Small quizzes

Week 4: Full-length mock tests + Revision + Strategy tips

Our expert mentors help you customize the plan based on your performance.

👨‍🏫 8. Join NAT Coaching by Experts

📍 Team Language Services (TLS) offers both online and classroom-based Japanese language coaching designed specifically for NAT and JLPT exams.
Get access to:

Certified instructors

1:1 doubt clearing sessions

Flexible batch timings (weekday/weekend)

Placement guidance post-certification

📝 9. On Exam Day – Be Exam Ready

Carry the required documents and ID proof

Keep calm and manage your time wisely

Use your practice strategy—don’t second-guess under pressure

Confused between JLPT and NAT? Read this comparison to decide which exam suits your goals 👉 JLPT vs NAT: Which Japanese Language Test is Right for You

📍 Start Your NAT Preparation with TLS Today

Visit Us: 2/81-82, Ground Floor, Lalita Park, Gali No - 2, Laxmi Nagar, New Delhi - 110092
Call: +91 8700956038
Email: info@teamlanguageservices.com

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between NAT-TEST and JLPT?
   NAT-TEST is held more frequently and has a faster result declaration than JLPT.
2. How often is the NAT-TEST conducted?
   It is conducted six times a year.
3. What are the exam fees for NAT-TEST?
   Exam fees vary by level and location. Contact us for detailed pricing.
4. Where can I register for the NAT-TEST in India?
   You can register online or through authorized test centers.
5. Is NAT-TEST accepted for student visa applications?
   Yes, it is recognized by many Japanese educational institutions.
6. How long does it take to receive NAT-TEST results?
   Results are typically available within a few weeks after the exam.
7. Can I take NAT-TEST online?
   No, the NAT-TEST must be taken at designated test centers.
8. Which level of NAT-TEST should I take?
   Choose a level based on your Japanese proficiency. Beginners should start with 5Q, while advanced learners can attempt 1Q or 2Q.
9. What is the passing score for NAT-TEST?
   The minimum passing score varies by level but generally requires a balanced performance in all sections.
10. Is NAT-TEST valid for job applications in Japan?
    Yes, many Japanese employers accept NAT-TEST certification as proof of language proficiency.

📌 For a full list of NAT-TEST centers in India, visit: NAT Test Centers in India

Learn Japanese with TLS – Best Language Institute

At TLS, we offer the best Japanese language courses to help you ace the NAT-TEST and JLPT exams.

✅ Expert Faculty – Native & Certified Trainers
✅ Flexible Learning – Online & Offline Classes
✅ Student Visa Assistance – Study & Work in Japan
✅ Job Placement Support – Career Opportunities in Japan

📞 Contact Us Today!
📍 TLS – The Best Japanese Learning School
📞 91 8700956038
📧 tls@teamlanguages.com

🚀 Start your journey to mastering Japanese today!