JLPT N4 Explained: What to Expect and How to Prepare

JLPT N4 is the second level of the exam. It shows you can understand basic Japanese across everyday situations — a real step up from N5.

What N4 covers

• ~1,500 vocabulary words and ~300 kanji (including the N5 kanji).
• Expanded grammar — the te-form, plain form, conditional patterns, giving/receiving, and more connectors.
• Reading short everyday texts and listening to natural, slightly faster speech.

Exam format

Like all JLPT levels, N4 is multiple choice across vocabulary, grammar & reading, and listening, with a minimum score required in each section.

How to prepare

1. Solidify N5 first — N4 assumes you know it cold.
2. Master the te-form — it unlocks a huge amount of N4 grammar.
3. Read short passages daily to build speed and comprehension.
4. Level up your listening with everyday dialogues, not just textbook audio.

Common N4 challenges

Learners often struggle with verb conjugation patterns and with listening at natural speed. Both improve quickly with daily, focused practice.

N4 is where Japanese starts to feel genuinely useful — you can hold real conversations and read simple written Japanese.