JLPT N4 Explained: What to Expect and How to Prepare
2 June 2026 · Mozhippattru Japanese Language School
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
- Solidify N5 first — N4 assumes you know it cold.
- Master the te-form — it unlocks a huge amount of N4 grammar.
- Read short passages daily to build speed and comprehension.
- 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.
Arul Prakash founded and personally teaches at Mozhippattru. He cleared JLPT N1 largely through self-study and spent 4 years as a Japanese interpreter for Fujitsu, Toyota and Sango — and now teaches Japanese in Tamil to beginners across India.
Read his story →Join Mozhippattru Japanese Language School — JLPT N5–N3 with N1-certified teachers. Book a free demo class, no commitment.
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