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Self-Study Japanese — JLPT N5 to N2
Your JLPT Self-Study Roadmap —
Structured, Proven, Expert-Guided
Not sure how to start JLPT self-study? Follow iTokyo's structured roadmap — the same curriculum used in our classroom, adapted for self-pacers. JLPT N5 certification in 3 months. Fully online.
Which Level Should You Start?
Pick your entry point honestly — starting too low wastes time, too high causes burnout.
Zero to JLPT N5
Hiragana, Katakana, 100 Kanji, N5 grammar. No prior Japanese required.
N5 Holder to N4
300 Kanji, N4 grammar, keigo basics. You can read kana and know elementary grammar.
N4 Holder to N3
650 Kanji, newspaper reading, business basics. Comfortable with daily conversation.
N3 Holder to N2
1,000 Kanji, complex grammar, full JLPT N2 prep. Ready for business Japanese.
What's in the iTokyo LMS?
Expert-designed content — the same syllabus our classroom students follow, optimised for self-paced learners.
Structured Lessons
Chapter-by-chapter progression with grammar notes, example sentences, and cultural context. Every lesson scaffolds onto the last — no gaps, no jumps.
Practice Drills
Vocabulary flashcards, listening exercises, and reading passages at the right difficulty. Built-in spaced repetition so you retain what you learn.
Mock Tests
Full JLPT-format mock exams, timed, with detailed answer explanations. Know exactly where you stand before the real exam day.
Your Study Schedule Guide
Consistency beats intensity. Pick a pace you can sustain for months — not just weeks.
How Many Hours Per Week?
| Hours/Week | N5 Timeline | Pace |
|---|---|---|
| 5 hrs/week | ~6 months | Casual |
| 10 hrs/week | ~3 months | Recommended |
| 15 hrs/week | ~2 months | Intensive |
N5 Week-by-Week Plan
Hiragana + Katakana mastery — read both scripts fluently before moving on.
Basic vocabulary + N5 grammar (target 150 new words). Start Kanji (10/week).
Intermediate grammar patterns + Kanji up to 100 characters. Listening drills daily.
Mock tests + targeted weak-point revision. JLPT-ready by end of Week 12.
JLPT Exam Quick Facts
Exam Dates
JLPT is held twice a year — in July and December. Plan your study timeline backwards from your target session.
Registration
Registration opens approximately 2 months before the exam date. Register via the official JLPT India portal (jlptic.in).
Pass Mark (N5)
Total pass score is 111/180. Each section (Language/Reading/Listening) has a minimum threshold — you must clear all three.
LMS vs Classroom — Which is Right for You?
Both paths lead to the same JLPT result. The difference is in how you get there.
| Feature | LMS (Self-Study) | Classroom |
|---|---|---|
| Schedule | Study at your own pace, anytime | Fixed batch schedule |
| Content Access | 6-month access from activation | Duration of batch |
| Best For | Working professionals, remote learners | Students needing live accountability |
| Teacher Interaction | Support via chat/email | Live interaction every class |
| Curriculum | Same expert-designed syllabus | Same expert-designed syllabus |
| Progress Speed | Self-paced | Faster due to peer accountability |
Not sure which to pick? Talk to a counsellor — we'll recommend what fits your schedule and goal.
How to Register — 3 Simple Steps
From zero to studying in under 5 minutes.
Create Your Free Account
Sign up at /itokyo/signup. No payment required at signup — explore the platform first.
Select Your Level
Choose N5, N4, N3, or N2 based on your current Japanese ability. Not sure? Take the free placement quiz inside the LMS.
Start Studying
Access lessons immediately after purchase. All content unlocks on Day 1. Study on any device — desktop, tablet, or phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Start Your
JLPT Journey?
Join 5,600+ students who've trained with iTokyo. Create your free account and access the LMS today.
No credit card required at signup · 6-month LMS access · JLPT-aligned curriculum
