Where can I take the JLPT exam?
Quick Answer
JLPT is offered in 80+ countries worldwide. Major cities have test centers, but availability varies. Japan has the most centers; other countries may have limited locations.
The JLPT is administered globally with test centers in over 80 countries. Here's what you need to know:
Worldwide Availability
- 80+ countries offer JLPT - Not all levels offered everywhere - December test more widely available than July - Some countries only offer December exam
Test Centers by Region
Japan
- Most test centers (47 prefectures) - All levels available - Both July and December - Easiest to find available spots
North America
- USA: ~15-20 cities (major metros) - Canada: Vancouver, Toronto, others - High demand, fills quickly - All levels typically available
Europe
- UK, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, etc. - Usually capital cities only - May only offer December exam - Contact Japan Foundation for specifics
Asia
- China, Korea, Taiwan: Many centers - Southeast Asia: Major cities - High demand, register early - All levels usually available
How to Find Your Nearest Center
1. **Visit JLPT Official Site** - jlpt.jp/e/application/overseas_list.html - Lists all countries and contacts
2. **Contact Local Organizer** - Japan Foundation office - Partner educational institutions - Embassy cultural sections
3. **During Registration** - Centers listed with available spots - Select first and second choice - Availability shown in real-time
What Determines Test Center Locations
- Japan Foundation partnerships - Local demand for Japanese testing - Facility availability - Proctoring capability
If No Test Center Nearby
Options
- Travel to nearest test center - Some people travel internationally for tests - Plan accommodation if needed - Consider which test date has better availability
Planning Tips
1. Book travel after registration confirms 2. Stay near test center night before 3. Scout location in advance if possible 4. Factor travel into test day preparation
Popular Centers Fill Fast
- New York, Los Angeles, Tokyo, London - Register within first 1-2 days - Have backup center choice ready - Some cities add extra capacity
Special Circumstances
- Disability accommodations: Contact organizer early - Alternative testing: Very limited, case by case - Home testing: Not available for JLPT
Country-Specific Resources
- Each country has dedicated organizer - Registration systems may differ - Fees vary by country - Check local deadlines carefully
Key Takeaways
- 180+ countries offer JLPT testing
- 2Major cities typically have test centers
- 3December exam more widely available
- 4Popular centers fill quickly - register early
- 5Contact local Japan Foundation for specific locations
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