Best Free JLPT Resources 2024

Quality JLPT preparation doesn't have to be expensive. Here are the best free resources for every level.

Comprehensive Platforms

1. NHK World - Easy Japanese

• What: Simple news and lessons
• Best for: N5-N4
• URL: nhk.or.jp/lesson/english
• Features: Audio, transcripts, vocabulary lists

2. JLPT Sensei

• What: Grammar, vocabulary, practice tests
• Best for: All levels
• URL: jlptsensei.com
• Features: Comprehensive grammar lists, example sentences

3. Tanos

• What: JLPT study materials
• Best for: All levels
• URL: tanos.co.uk/jlpt
• Features: Vocabulary lists, practice tests, resources

Vocabulary & Kanji

1. Anki (Free Decks)

• Platform: Desktop (free), Android (free), iOS ($25)
• Content: Thousands of pre-made decks
• Best Decks: Core 2K/6K, JLPT Tango
• Why it's great: Spaced repetition mastery

2. Jisho.org

• What: Japanese dictionary
• Features:
  • Example sentences
  • Kanji lookup by radical
  • Audio pronunciation
  • Mobile-friendly

3. WaniKani (Partially Free)

• What: Kanji and vocabulary learning
• Free: First 3 levels (60 kanji)
• Method: Mnemonics and SRS
• Great for: Beginners

4. Kanji Koohii

• What: RTK study companion
• Features: User-created mnemonic stories
• Community: Active forums
• Free: Completely

Grammar Resources

1. Bunpro (Free Trial)

• What: Grammar SRS
• Free: First lessons of each level
• Best for: All levels
• Features: Example sentences, explanations

2. Tae Kim's Guide

• What: Complete grammar guide
• Best for: Understanding fundamentals
• Format: Website and free PDF
• Strength: Logical explanations

3. Imabi

• What: Comprehensive grammar resource
• Best for: Deep understanding
• Levels: Beginner to advanced
• Free: Completely

4. Maggie Sensei

• What: Grammar lessons and cultural notes
• Style: Fun, conversational
• Best for: Intermediate+
• Updates: Regular new content

Listening Practice

1. YouTube Channels

Comprehensible Japanese

• Natural speed Japanese
• Subtitles available
• Beginner to intermediate

Japanese Ammo with Misa

• Clear explanations
• Grammar and vocabulary
• N5-N3 focus

Nihongo no Mori

• JLPT-focused content
• All levels covered
• Test strategies

Sambon Juku

• Listening practice
• Natural conversations
• Intermediate+

2. Podcasts

JapanesePod101

• Lessons for all levels
• Free episodes available
• Transcripts included

Learn Japanese Pod

• Conversational Japanese
• Cultural insights
• Free episodes

NHK Easy Japanese Podcast

• News in simple Japanese
• Great for N5-N4
• Regular updates

3. Netflix (If you have it)

• Japanese shows with subtitles
• Anime with Japanese CC
• Variety shows
• Use Language Reactor extension (free)

Reading Practice

1. NHK Easy News

• URL: www3.nhk.or.jp/news/easy
• Level: N4-N3
• Updates: Daily
• Features: Furigana, audio

2. Satori Reader (Free Articles)

• Some articles free
• Inline definitions
• Audio included
• Progressive difficulty

3. Watanoc

• What: Easy Japanese reading
• Features: Furigana, translations
• Topics: Variety of subjects
• Free: Completely

4. Tadoku Graded Readers

• Free level 0-1 stories
• PDF downloads
• Multiple levels
• No translations (immersion)

Practice Tests

1. JLPT Official Sample Questions

• Source: JLPT website
• Content: Sample questions all levels
• Format: PDF downloads
• Authentic: Official materials

2. JTest4You

• What: Online practice tests
• All levels: N5-N1
• Features: Instant grading
• Free: Multiple tests per level

3. Japanese-Test

• What: Online quizzes
• Coverage: All JLPT sections
• Features: Timed tests
• Free: Unlimited attempts

Apps (Free Versions)

1. HelloTalk

• What: Language exchange
• Practice: Writing and speaking
• Features: Native speaker corrections
• Free: Base version

2. Tandem

• Similar to: HelloTalk
• Focus: Conversation practice
• Features: Video/audio calls
• Free: Core features

3. LingoDeer (Free Lessons)

• What: Structured lessons
• Free content: Hiragana, Katakana, basics
• Method: Gamified learning

4. Japanese Dungeon

• What: Vocabulary game
• Format: RPG-style
• Free: Base game
• Fun: Addictive gameplay

Community Resources

1. Reddit Communities

• /r/LearnJapanese: General learning
• /r/JLPT: Test-specific
• Active: Daily posts
• Helpful: Supportive community

2. Discord Servers

• English-Japanese Language Exchange
• Japanese Study Space
• JLPT Study Group
• Features: Study sessions, voice chat

3. Lang-8 / HiNative

• What: Writing correction
• How: Native speakers correct your writing
• Free: Base version
• Valuable: Real feedback

Creating Your Free Study Plan

N5 (3-4 months)

• Vocabulary: Anki Core 2K (first 500)
• Grammar: Tae Kim + JLPT Sensei
• Listening: Comprehensible Japanese
• Reading: NHK Easy News
• Practice: JTest4You tests
• Cost: $0

N4 (6 months)

• Vocabulary: Anki Core 2K complete
• Grammar: Tae Kim + Imabi + JLPT Sensei
• Listening: Japanese Pod + YouTube
• Reading: NHK Easy + Watanoc
• Speaking: HelloTalk
• Cost: $0

N3 (8-10 months)

• Vocabulary: Anki Core 6K (up to 3000)
• Grammar: Imabi + Maggie Sensei
• Listening: Podcasts + Netflix
• Reading: NHK News + Satori Reader
• Practice: Multiple practice tests
• Cost: $0 (or Netflix if you already have it)

N2-N1 (12+ months each)

• Vocabulary: Anki Core 6K/10K
• Grammar: Advanced Imabi + Native materials
• Listening: News, podcasts, shows
• Reading: Newspapers, books, blogs
• Practice: All available free tests
• Cost: $0

Tips for Maximizing Free Resources

1. Combine Multiple Resources

Don't rely on just one - use 3-4 together.

2. Create a Schedule

Free doesn't mean disorganized.

3. Join Communities

Free support and motivation.

4. Track Progress

Use free spreadsheets or apps.

5. Don't Skip Practice Tests

Essential for test prep.

When to Consider Paid Resources

Free resources can absolutely get you to pass JLPT. Consider paid if:

• You need structured curriculum
• You want personal tutoring
• You have extra budget
• You prefer premium features

Conclusion

Everything you need to pass JLPT is available for FREE online. Success depends on:

• Consistent daily study
• Using quality resources (listed above)
• Practice, practice, practice
• Staying motivated

Don't let budget be an excuse. Start studying today!

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