2008 JLPT Results

The 2008 JLPT results have been out for a while now.  If you are one of the diligent few who is starting their study early for JLPT then have probably searched online for last year’s results.  I thought I would post them for you. Compared to 2007,  overall more examinees passed in 2008.  Either, the test is getting easier or study methods are getting better. Things are looking up for you.

In 2007 only 35.1 % passed the JLPT. Last year 44% passed. Almost a 10%  increase in the number of examinees passing.  However, with only 44% passing you now realize how difficult the JLPT is. Remember Level 1 requires a score of  70% and above to pass. Levels 2,3 and 4 require a score of 60% and above.

Here are the results.

Results of examinees who took the test in Japan

Level 1:   39.3% passed

Level 2:   47.8% passed

Level 3:   65.4% passed

Level 4:   70.8% passed

Results of examinees who took the test outside of Japan

Level 1:   33.5% passed

Level 2:   37% passed

Level 3:   57.7% passed

Level 4:   55.9% passed

So, if you are living in Japan you have a better chance of passing.  As you probably guessed a majority of the examinees would be students. Keep in mind the majority of people taking the JLPT in Japan take levels 1 and 2. Last year only 3,903  examinees took level 4 in Japan, while 46,953 took level 1. Outside of Japan, 55,828 took level 4.

One of the biggest problems when studying for the JLPT, outside of Japan, is the lack of quality preparation materials. There aren’t many courses  or books for English speakers. In Japan, there are books and practice tests, but they have no explanations in English. To add to this this almost nothing in the way of  practice materials for the listening section. The listening section is generally what fails examinees taking level 4.

So if you are taking level 3 or 4 for the first time get started now. Start listening to Japanese radio or podcasts.

Don’t forget you can pick a free bronze membership of Japanese proficiency power. In the members area you have access to practice tests for level 3 and 4, video tutorial samples and other bonuses.

Sign up below and get instant access.