If you are planning to appear for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) this year, the most important thing you need right now is the official JLPT Exam 2026 Dates. Whether you are a beginner targeting JLPT N5 or an advanced learner aiming for JLPT N1, knowing the exact exam dates, registration windows, and city-wise deadlines will help you plan your preparation with confidence.
The JLPT 2026 exam dates have been officially confirmed by the Japan Foundation. In this updated guide, we cover everything Indian candidates need to know — from the JLPT Exam Calendar 2026 and JLPT 2026 Application Deadline Dates to city-wise test centres in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata, plus expert preparation tips from TLS – The Japanese Language School, Laxmi Nagar, New Delhi.
The JLPT Exam 2026 will be conducted on two dates globally, consistent across all official test centres, including India:
| Session | Official JLPT Exam Date 2026 |
| First Session (July) | Sunday, 5 July 2026 |
| Second Session (December) | Sunday, 6 December 2026 |
Important: All levels — JLPT N1, N2, N3, N4, and N5 — are conducted simultaneously on the same date. There is no separate date per level. Always cross-check with the official JLPT website for any last-minute updates.
These are the only two exam sessions in 2026. Candidates should plan their preparation timeline accordingly — missing a session means waiting for the next one.
The JLPT N5 Exam Date 2026, JLPT N4 Exam Date 2026, JLPT N3 Exam Date 2026, JLPT N2 Exam Date 2026, and JLPT N1 Exam Date 2026 are all the same:
| Level | July 2026 Exam Date | December 2026 Exam Date |
| JLPT N1 Exam Date 2026 | 5 July 2026 | 6 December 2026 |
| JLPT N2 Exam Date 2026 | 5 July 2026 | 6 December 2026 |
| JLPT N3 Exam Date 2026 | 5 July 2026 | 6 December 2026 |
| JLPT N4 Exam Date 2026 | 5 July 2026 | 6 December 2026 |
| JLPT N5 Exam Date 2026 | 5 July 2026 | 6 December 2026 |
Looking for guidance on which level is right for you? Check out our guide on What Is the Difference Between JLPT N5 and N4 to make an informed decision.
One of the most frequently searched questions by Indian candidates is: "When does JLPT 2026 registration open?" Registration for the JLPT is managed locally by host institutions in each city, and seats are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Do not wait for the last date.
| Session | Registration Opens | Registration Last Date (Expected) |
| JLPT July 2026 | March 2026 | Late March – April 2026 |
| JLPT December 2026 | August–September 2026 | September–October 2026 |
⚠️ Note: Registration for JLPT July 2026 (Delhi/MOSAI) closed on 25 March 2026, and Chennai (ABK-AOTS) closed on 31 March 2026. If you missed the July session, the next opportunity is 6 December 2026, with registration expected to open in August–September 2026.
For a detailed walk-through of the application process, read our guide: How to Fill JLPT Admission Form.
Here is the complete JLPT Exam Calendar 2026 for Indian candidates at a glance:
| Event | July 2026 Session | December 2026 Session |
| JLPT Exam Date 2026 | 5 July 2026 | 6 December 2026 |
| JLPT Online Registration Opens | March 2026 | August 2026 |
| JLPT Registration Last Date | Late March – April 2026 | September – October 2026 |
| JLPT 2026 Admit Card Release Date | June 2026 (2–3 weeks before exam) | November 2026 |
| JLPT 2026 Result Announcement | August–September 2026 | January–February 2027 |
Always verify dates directly with your city's host institution or the official JLPT website, as deadlines vary by centre and seats fill quickly.
Want to know more about the admit card process? Read: Introduction to JLPT Admit Card.
India has 8 official JLPT test centres, each managed independently by a local host institution authorised by the Japan Foundation. Here is the complete city-wise breakdown:
Host Institution: MOSAI (Mombusho Scholars Association of India)
Address: 104, 1st Floor, New Delhi House, 27 Barakhamba Road, New Delhi – 110001
Registration Portal: jlpt.mosai.org.in
JLPT Exam Date 2026 Delhi: 5 July 2026 & 6 December 2026
Note: Delhi is one of the busiest JLPT centres in India. Seats fill up within hours of registration opening — register immediately when the portal goes live.
If you are in Delhi NCR and looking for JLPT coaching, visit TLS – The Japanese Language School at Laxmi Nagar (details below).
Host Institution: TAJ (Teachers Association of Japanese) / Japan Foundation Mumbai
JLPT Exam Date 2026 Mumbai: 5 July 2026 & 6 December 2026
Note: Candidates in Mumbai should monitor the Japan Foundation Mumbai portal for registration announcements. Mumbai registration is handled through JALTAP.
Host Institution: ABK-AOTS DOSOKAI, Tamil Nadu Centre
Address: 3rd Floor, Chateau D'Ampa, New No. 37, Old No. 110, Nelson Manickam Road, Amjikarai, Chennai – 600029
Registration for July 2026: 1 March 2026 to 31 March 2026 (10:00 AM; closes once seats are filled)
JLPT Exam Date 2026 Chennai: 5 July 2026 & 6 December 2026
Host Institution: BNK (Bangalore Nihongo Kyooshi-kai)
Registration Portal: bnkindia.in
JLPT Exam Date 2026 Bengaluru: 5 July 2026 & 6 December 2026
Host Institution: IJWCA (Indo-Japan Welfare and Cultural Association)
Address: 2B Asraf Mistri Lane, Kolkata – 700019
JLPT Exam Date 2026 Kolkata: 5 July 2026 & 6 December 2026
| City | Host Institution |
| Pune | JALTAP (Japanese Language Teachers' Association, Pune) |
| Santiniketan | Local institution (July session only) |
| Hyderabad | Check local announcements |
For the complete and updated list, refer to our article: JLPT Exam Centres in India.
Registration fees for the JLPT in India vary by city and level. Here is the approximate fee structure:
| Level | Approximate Fee (INR) |
| JLPT N5 | ₹1,200 – ₹1,913 |
| JLPT N4 | ₹1,400 – ₹2,000 |
| JLPT N3 | ₹1,500 – ₹2,100 |
| JLPT N2 | ₹1,800 – ₹2,300 |
| JLPT N1 | ₹2,000 – ₹2,497 |
Note: Chennai fees include 18% GST plus payment gateway charges. Delhi (MOSAI) fees are managed directly by MOSAI — visit jlpt.mosai.org.in or email mosai.jlpt@gmail.com for the exact fee. All fees are non-refundable after payment.
For a detailed breakdown, read: JLPT Exam Fees Structure.
The JLPT 2026 Online Registration process is entirely online through your city's host institution. There is no offline registration. Here is how to apply:
For a detailed step-by-step walkthrough: JLPT Registration Process.
Understanding the JLPT Exam Format 2026 is essential for effective preparation. The test is divided into three sections for all levels:
| Section | What It Tests |
| Language Knowledge | Vocabulary, Grammar |
| Reading | Reading comprehension passages |
| Listening | Audio-based comprehension |
Scoring is scaled, and candidates must meet the minimum pass score per section as well as the overall passing threshold. There is no negative marking.
| Level | Total Score | Pass Score | Who Should Attempt |
| N5 | 180 | 80 | Absolute beginners |
| N4 | 180 | 90 | Elementary learners (1 year study) |
| N3 | 180 | 95 | Intermediate learners |
| N2 | 180 | 90 | Upper-intermediate learners |
| N1 | 180 | 100 | Advanced/near-native learners |
Understand the full exam structure here: JLPT Exam Format 2026 and JLPT Syllabus.
Results for the JLPT are released approximately two months after the test date:
| Session | Expected Result Date |
| JLPT July 2026 Result | August – September 2026 |
| JLPT December 2026 Result | January – February 2027 |
Candidates can check results online through their host institution's portal or the official JLPT website using their registration number. Want to know what to do after your result comes out? Read: What to Do After JLPT Result.
Now that you have the JLPT 2026 Exam Preparation Timeline, here is how to make the most of the time available:
Start by honestly assessing your current Japanese ability. If you are a beginner, target JLPT N5 or JLPT N4. If you have studied Japanese for 1–2 years, aim for N3. Advanced learners should work toward N2 or N1.
Explore our level-specific course pages:
With the JLPT 2026 Test Schedule in hand, build a month-by-month study plan. Dedicate time daily to vocabulary, grammar, reading, and listening. For guidance, read: How to Create an Effective Study Plan for JLPT.
Before diving into grammar and vocabulary, ensure you are comfortable with Hiragana, Katakana, and the required Kanji for your level. Read: Hiragana vs Katakana vs Kanji.
Invest in level-appropriate resources:
Regular mock tests are essential. They build exam stamina, help you manage time, and identify weak areas early: JLPT Practice Tests.
A structured course at a reputable institute dramatically improves your chances. Read: JLPT Preparation Courses and JLPT Coaching in Delhi.
For level-specific tips, check out:
If you are unsure whether to take the JLPT or the NAT (Nihongo Ability Test), understanding the differences between them is important. The JLPT is the globally recognised standard, while the NAT is held more frequently (monthly) in India. Read our detailed comparison: JLPT or NAT — Which is Better? and NAT Test vs JLPT Comparison Guide.
Passing the JLPT opens significant career doors. JLPT N2 and N1 are highly valued by Japanese companies operating in India and abroad. Explore:
If you are in Delhi NCR and looking for the best JLPT exam-oriented coaching, TLS – The Japanese Language School is the premier destination for serious Japanese language learners. TLS offers structured, result-oriented courses aligned with the official JLPT 2026 Exam Preparation Timeline, from N5 beginners all the way to N1.
Why choose TLS?
Visit Us:
2/81-82, 2nd Floor, Lalita Park, Gali No. 2, Laxmi Nagar, New Delhi – 110092
(Near Laxmi Nagar Metro Station, Gate No. 5)
Call Us: +91 8700956038
Email Us: tls@teamlanguages.com
Explore our courses: Japanese Language Courses in Delhi | JLPT Coaching in Laxmi Nagar | Japanese Language Institute in Laxmi Nagar
Book a Free Demo Class | View All Courses
Q1. What are the official JLPT Exam 2026 dates in India?
The JLPT Exam Date 2026 in India is Sunday, 5 July 2026 (first session) and Sunday, 6 December 2026 (second session). These dates apply to all levels (N1–N5) and all test centres including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata.
Q2. When will JLPT 2026 registration open?
For the July 2026 session, registration is expected to open in March 2026 (most centres have now closed for July). For the December 2026 session, registration is expected to open in August–September 2026. Always monitor your city centre's official portal.
Q3. What is the JLPT N5 Registration Date 2026?
The JLPT N5 Registration Date 2026 follows the same schedule as all other levels. For the July session, registration was open from approximately March to late March 2026. For December 2026, registration opens around August–September 2026.
Q4. Is the JLPT exam date 2026 the same for N1, N2, N3, N4, and N5?
Yes. All levels are held on the same day: 5 July 2026 and 6 December 2026. There is no separate exam day per level.
Q5. Where can I find the JLPT 2026 Test Schedule PDF?
The official schedule and notifications are available at https://www.jlpt.jp/ and through your city's host institution portal. You can also check the JLPT Exam Dates and Registration page on our website.
Q6. When will the JLPT 2026 admit card be released?
The JLPT 2026 Admit Card Release Date is typically 2–3 weeks before the exam. For the July 2026 session, admit cards are expected in June 2026. Download it from your registration portal.
Q7. How do I apply for the JLPT 2026 exam online?
Visit the official portal of your city's host institution (e.g., jlpt.mosai.org.in for Delhi), create an account, fill in your details, upload your photo and ID, and pay the fee online. Read our guide: JLPT 2026 Online Registration.
Q8. What is the JLPT exam 2026 fee in India?
Fees range from approximately ₹1,200 to ₹2,500 depending on the level and city. Fees are non-refundable. Visit the JLPT Exam Fees Structure page for more details.
Q9. When will JLPT 2026 results be announced?
JLPT results are announced approximately two months after the test. July 2026 results are expected in August–September 2026, and December 2026 results in January–February 2027.
Q10. Can I prepare for JLPT 2026 in Delhi?
Absolutely. TLS – The Japanese Language School in Laxmi Nagar, New Delhi, offers expert JLPT preparation for all levels. Contact us or call +91 8700956038 to enroll.
The Upcoming JLPT Exam Dates 2026 are clear: 5 July 2026 and 6 December 2026. With the JLPT 2026 Registration for the December session expected to open in August–September 2026, now is the ideal time to start your preparation — whether you are aiming for the JLPT N5 Exam Date 2026 as a beginner or pushing toward JLPT N1 Exam Date 2026 as an advanced learner.
Plan your study schedule, register with your city centre as soon as the portal opens, and seek expert guidance if needed. The competition for seats is intense — especially in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru — so act early.
For all official updates, always refer to https://www.jlpt.jp/ — the Japan Foundation JLPT 2026 official website.
Ready to start your JLPT journey? Explore our Japanese courses or contact TLS today.