Welocome to
The Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese (JFT-Basic) is designed for people who want to live and work in Japan, especially under the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa program. The test checks if you can use Japanese for everyday life situations like shopping, travelling, working, or asking for help.
Unlike JLPT, which focuses more on academic and advanced use of Japanese, JFT-Basic is practical and life-focused, making it ideal for Nepalese students and workers aiming to move to Japan.
In this course, you will be taught to handle everyday tasks, hold basic conversations, and understand Japanese culture.
JFT is focused on improving your Japanese language so that you can feel comfortable making practical communication for daily life in Japan. The exam evaluates your ability to communicate in daily life across four skills:
| Language Skills | What You Learn |
|---|---|
| Reading | Understanding signs, notices, menus, and simple texts |
| Listening | Following conversations, announcements, and instructions |
| Speaking | Answering questions and having basic conversations (tested indirectly) |
| Interaction Skills | Responding naturally in common situations like commuting or shopping |
It is based on CEFR (A1–A2 level), which matches beginner-level Japanese proficiency.
The JLPT is for anyone who wants to study, work, or live long-term in Japan. It’s especially useful for students applying to Japanese universities, professionals seeking career opportunities, and individuals aiming for permanent residency or skilled visas.
The JFT-Basic exam is conducted entirely on a computer and is designed to check if you can handle everyday Japanese. It evaluates four main skills through practical, scenario-based multiple-choice questions. The test duration is about 1 hour, and results are usually available within a week.
| Skill Tested | What It Covers | Example Question Type |
|---|---|---|
| Reading | Understanding short texts, notices, menus, and signs used in daily life. | Reading a train schedule and choosing the correct departure time. |
| Listening | Comprehending spoken Japanese in daily contexts like shopping or commuting. | Listening to a shopkeeper and selecting the right item being discussed. |
| Vocabulary | Knowledge of everyday words and phrases needed for work and life in Japan. | Choosing the correct word for objects like 'umbrella' or 'ticket'. |
| Grammar | Applying basic grammar patterns to form and understand simple sentences. | Completing a sentence with the correct particle (e.g., は, が, を). |
Taking the JFT opens up many doors if you’re planning to study, work, or live in Japan. Here’s why it matters:
Work in Japan
JFT-Basic is essential if you plan to apply under the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa. Without it, you cannot prove the language ability needed for jobs in caregiving, agriculture, food service, and other sectors in Japan.
Practical Language Skills
The test focuses on survival Japanese that you will actually use in real life. It prepares you for situations like shopping at convenience stores, asking for train directions, or chatting politely at work.
Cultural Understanding
Prepare yourself to adjust smoothly to Japanese culture while improving your fluency. The course also teaches how to interact politely, follow social norms, and understand local customs in daily life.
Confidence in Daily Life
JFT gives you the confidence to handle small but important tasks in Japan. From ordering ramen at a restaurant to asking for help at the station, you’ll feel more comfortable living independently.
Thinking of Studying or Working in Japan?
Talk to our expert counsellors for a FREE consultation on your study plans and visa options. Call Us Now!
You can prepare for JFT-Basic at:
Focus on institutes with experienced teachers and mock test practice for the best results.
How much is the JFT exam fee in Nepal?
The JFT-Basic exam fee in Nepal is USD 36 (approx. NPR 5,000) as of August 2025.
Why should I take the JFT exam?
If you want to apply for a Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa in Japan, you must pass JFT. It proves that you can handle basic communication in Japanese daily life.
Do JFT results expire?
Yes. JFT results are valid for 2 years from the test date.
Is JFT easier than JLPT?
Yes, generally JFT is easier because it covers basic, practical Japanese for everyday life, while JLPT (especially N3–N1) tests advanced grammar, vocabulary, and reading.
How is the JFT score calculated?
The total score of JFT is 250 points, which includes all your Reading, Listening, Vocabulary, and Grammar skills. Your scores are automatically calculated by computers based on your answers.
What are the passing marks for JFT?
To pass JFT (A2 level), you generally need around 200 points in total.
How long do JFT results take?
JFT Results are usually available within a week, making it a fast and efficient way to certify your Japanese skills.
+977 01-5917926
