How Many Times Is the NAT Exam Held in a Year? – Complete 2025 Guide

The Nihongo Achievement Test (NAT) is one of the most recognized exams for Japanese language learners in India. Whether you are a student, professional, or language enthusiast, understanding the NAT exam schedule, frequency, and preparation methods is crucial. In this guide, we’ll answer your main question “How many times is the NAT exam held in a year?” and provide everything you need to succeed.

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What is the NAT Japanese Exam?

The NAT Japanese Exam is a globally recognized test that measures the Japanese language proficiency of non-native speakers. It evaluates your skills across four key areas:

Reading Comprehension: Understand written Japanese, from simple sentences to complex passages.
Listening Ability: Follow spoken Japanese in real-life and academic contexts.
Grammar Knowledge: Apply correct grammar in both written and spoken forms.
Vocabulary Usage: Use the right words and expressions in everyday and professional scenarios.

Aligned with international standards, the NAT exam is recognized in both Japan and India. Successfully passing it can open doors to academic opportunities, career prospects, and official language certification, giving your Japanese skills a credible, professional edge.

Learn about the Japanese NAT Exam 2025

How Many Times Is the NAT Exam Held in a Year?

The NAT Japanese Exam is held six times a year in India, offering much more flexibility than other exams like the JLPT, which is conducted only twice annually. This frequent scheduling allows candidates to plan better, retake the test if needed, and receive certification faster.

Why Knowing the NAT Exam Frequency Matters

Flexibility: Choose from multiple exam dates throughout the year to match your study schedule.
Improvement: Retake the exam sooner if you want to improve your score, without waiting months.
Timely Certification: Receive your Japanese language certification promptly, avoiding long delays.

The NAT-TEST is a practical Japanese language assessment designed for non-native speakers who want quick and reliable certification. Its frequent schedule makes it ideal for students and professionals aiming to align exam attempts with career or academic plans.

For detailed information on the Japanese NAT Exam 2025, including exam dates, registration deadlines, fees, and test centers, visit our comprehensive guide: Japanese NAT Exam 2025 – Complete Schedule & Details.

NAT Exam Levels

The NAT Japanese Exam is designed to accommodate learners at every stage, from beginners to near-native speakers. Here’s a breakdown of the levels:

Q5 – Basic Japanese: Suitable for beginners, focusing on simple sentences, essential grammar, and basic vocabulary.
Q4 – Elementary: Builds foundational skills, emphasizing grammar, reading comprehension, and everyday communication.
Q3 – Pre-Advanced: Bridges the gap between elementary and advanced levels, testing complex reading, listening, and grammar.
Q2 – Advanced: Measures fluency in reading, conversation, and listening, ideal for academic or professional use.
Q1 – Super-Advanced: Near-native proficiency, assessing advanced grammar, nuanced vocabulary, and comprehension of complex texts.

These levels are aligned with JLPT standards (N5–N1 equivalent), making it easier to track progress and prepare effectively.

Complete Japanese NAT Test 2025 Guide

NAT Japanese Exam 2025 – Important Dates

The 2025 NAT-Test, also known as the Japanese NAT-Test, is scheduled to be held multiple times throughout the year, unlike the JLPT, which is conducted only twice annually. This frequent schedule provides greater flexibility for candidates to plan their exams, retake if necessary, and obtain certification faster.

Here is the complete list of NAT Japanese Exam dates for 2025:

January 18, 2025
February 15, 2025
March 8, 2025
April 12, 2025
May 10, 2025
June 21, 2025
July 12, 2025
August 23, 2025
September 13, 2025
October 25, 2025
November 15, 2025
December 13, 2025

Tips for Candidates:

Registration opens a few weeks before each exam; check the official NAT-TEST website for exact deadlines.
Plan your preparation and registration in advance to secure your preferred exam date.
Frequent NAT-Test scheduling allows you to retake the exam sooner if you wish to improve your score.

The NAT-Test evaluates proficiency in reading, listening, grammar, and vocabulary, making it an ideal option for anyone aiming for quick and recognized Japanese language certification.

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How to Register for the NAT Exam

Registering for the NAT Japanese Exam is a straightforward process, and with the multiple exam dates in 2025, you can choose the schedule that best fits your preparation. Follow these steps to secure your spot:

Visit the Official NAT Website: Start by accessing the authorized NAT-TEST portal.
Select Your Exam Level (N5–N1): Choose the level that matches your proficiency – from beginner to super-advanced.
Fill in Personal and Academic Details: Provide accurate information to ensure smooth registration and correspondence.
Pay the Exam Fee Online: Complete the payment securely using the available online options.
Receive Confirmation and Admit Card: After successful registration, you will get a confirmation email along with your admit card, which is required on exam day.

Why Early Registration Matters:

Guarantees your preferred exam date.
Provides time to plan preparation and study schedules.
Avoids last-minute registration stress.

Apply for NAT Exam October 2025

NAT Japanese Exam Pattern

Understanding the NAT Japanese Exam pattern is key to effective preparation and maximizing your score. The exam evaluates your proficiency across grammar, vocabulary, reading, and listening. Here’s a closer look:

Grammar and Vocabulary Section:
Test your ability to construct correct sentences and use appropriate vocabulary in context. Questions are mostly multiple-choice, helping you assess practical language skills.
Reading Section:
Focuses on comprehension of passages, understanding context, and interpreting written Japanese. This section gauges how well you can process and analyze written information.
Listening Section:
Involves audio clips followed by questions to evaluate your listening and comprehension skills in real-life situations. Active listening practice is essential to excel here.

Tips for Success:

Practice mock tests that simulate actual exam conditions.
Focus on frequently used vocabulary and grammar structures.
Listen to Japanese audio regularly to improve comprehension speed.

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NAT Exam Preparation Tips

Preparing for the NAT Japanese Exam requires strategy, consistency, and the right resources. Here are some practical tips to help you succeed:

Start Early: Begin your preparation at least 3–4 months before the exam. Early planning gives you enough time to cover all sections – grammar, vocabulary, reading, and listening.
Use Authentic Study Materials: Practice with JLPT and NAT-aligned books, sample papers, and previous years’ question papers. This helps you understand the exam format and commonly tested topics.
Regular Listening Practice: Enhance your listening skills by engaging with Japanese podcasts, videos, and audio exercises. Listening daily helps you catch nuances and improves comprehension.
Join a Structured Course: Enroll in a Japanese language course near you or online. Expert guidance ensures that you stay on track, clarify doubts, and get tips tailored to the NAT exam.
Take Mock Tests Frequently: Simulate exam conditions with mock tests to familiarize yourself with timing, question types, and pressure handling. Analyze your mistakes and improve steadily.

Pro Tip: Combine daily practice with structured revision schedules to reinforce learning and boost confidence before the exam.

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Benefits of Taking the NAT Exam

Taking the NAT Japanese Exam offers numerous advantages for learners at every level, whether you aim to advance your career, study abroad, or simply achieve language mastery. Here’s why it’s worth pursuing:

Globally Recognized Certification: Earning the NAT certificate enhances your employability and opens doors to opportunities in Japan and internationally. Many organizations and universities acknowledge this certification as proof of Japanese proficiency.
Improved Japanese Fluency: Preparing for the NAT exam strengthens all aspects of your language skills – reading, writing, listening, and speaking – helping you communicate effectively in real-life and professional situations.
Career Opportunities: From Japanese companies and translation jobs to teaching positions, the NAT certificate can significantly boost your career prospects and professional credibility.
Academic Recognition: The NAT exam is widely accepted by Japanese universities and colleges, giving you an edge when applying for scholarships, exchange programs, or higher studies in Japan.

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How TLS Can Help You Prepare for the NAT Exam

At TLS – The Japanese Language School, we offer comprehensive guidance for learners at every NAT exam level, ensuring you are fully prepared and confident on exam day. Our offerings include:

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Online and Offline Classes: Flexible options to suit your schedule, whether you prefer learning from home or attending in-person sessions.
Experienced Native Instructors: Learn from certified Japanese teachers with real-world language experience.
JLPT/NAT-Aligned Curriculum: Our courses are tailored to NAT exam requirements, ensuring targeted preparation for all levels (N5–N1).
Interactive Practice Sessions: Regular mock tests, quizzes, and assignments to track progress and identify areas for improvement.
Placement Assistance: Career guidance and support after certification to help you apply your Japanese skills in jobs, internships, or further studies.

Contact TLS:

Visit Us: 2/81-82, 2nd Floor, Lalita Park, Gali No - 2, Laxmi Nagar, New Delhi – 110092
Call Us: 8700956038
Email Us: tls@teamlanguages.com

FAQs About the NAT Exam

Q1. How many times is the NAT exam held in a year?
The NAT Japanese Exam is held six times a year in India, providing multiple opportunities to take or retake the test. Frequent scheduling offers flexibility compared to exams like JLPT, which are held only twice annually.

Q2. What levels does the NAT exam cover?
The exam covers five levels, from N5 (Beginner) to N1 (Super-Advanced). Each level tests reading, listening, grammar, and vocabulary, aligned with JLPT N5–N1 equivalents, making it suitable for beginners and advanced learners alike.

Q3. What is the NAT exam fee?
Exam fees vary depending on the level. You can check the official NAT registration portal for detailed fee structure and payment options. Some centers may also include convenience fees for online registration.

Q4. Can I take the NAT exam online?
While registration and application can be done online, the NAT exam itself is conducted at designated testing centers. TLS provides guidance on online registration and helps students locate nearby exam centers.

Q5. Is the NAT certificate recognized internationally?
Yes. The NAT certificate is aligned with international JLPT standards, making it recognized in Japan, India, and other countries. It’s valuable for career opportunities, study abroad, and higher education.

Q6. How long does it take to prepare for NAT N5?
With consistent study and proper guidance, beginners can prepare for NAT N5 in approximately 3–4 months. Higher levels, like N2 or N1, require 5–6 months of structured preparation due to the complexity of grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension.

Q7. Can TLS help me prepare for the NAT exam?
Absolutely. TLS offers structured coaching for all NAT levels, both online and offline. Our courses include mock tests, interactive practice sessions, JLPT/NAT-aligned curriculum, and guidance from native instructors to ensure success.

Q8. What is the difference between NAT and JLPT?
Both exams assess Japanese proficiency. The NAT exam is widely preferred in India due to local testing centers and frequent schedules, while JLPT is globally recognized but conducted only twice a year. NAT also offers more flexible retake options.

Q9. Are mock tests available for NAT?
Yes. TLS provides regular mock tests, practice papers, and quizzes to simulate exam conditions. These help students understand NAT Japanese test formats, timing, and question types while identifying areas for improvement.

Q10. Can I switch levels if I fail?
Yes. If you do not pass a level, you can retake the same level or attempt a higher level in the next NAT exam cycle. This flexibility allows continuous progress without losing momentum.

Q11. How should I prepare for listening and reading sections?
Regular listening practice using podcasts, Japanese videos, and audio exercises is recommended. For reading, focus on comprehension of passages, grammar, and vocabulary, along with past NAT exam papers.

Q12. Can working professionals prepare for NAT while employed?
Yes. TLS offers flexible online classes with recorded sessions and weekend batches, allowing professionals to learn without disrupting their work schedules.

Q13. How do I register for the NAT exam?
Visit the official NAT website, choose your level, fill in your details, pay the fee online, and download your admit card. TLS can guide you through the NAT Japanese exam online application process.

Q14. What are the key benefits of taking the NAT exam?
Taking NAT improves Japanese language skills, enhances employability in Japanese companies, opens doors for study abroad, and provides a globally recognized certification.

Q15. How can TLS support my career after NAT certification?
TLS offers placement guidance and career counseling, helping certified students find jobs, internships, or teaching opportunities where Japanese language skills are in demand.

Conclusion

Understanding how many times the NAT exam is held in a year helps you plan your preparation strategically. With TLS – The Japanese Language School, you get expert guidance, flexible classes, and exam-oriented training to ensure success. Enroll today and take the first step toward mastering Japanese and achieving globally recognized certification.

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