Why We Don't Offer JLPT N4 and N5 Courses (and What We Recommend Instead)
2025/07/31
As we shared in our previous update, our online JLPT preparation courses at Nihongo Picnic will start this September!
Pass the JLPT with confidence this December!
📢 New Class Added!
Due to high demand, we’ve opened an additional N3 class on Thursdays at 9:00 AM (JST). Seats are limited! 👉 Reserve your seat here!
We'll be offering courses at three levels: N1, N2, and N3. But we often get asked: "Do you have courses for N4 or N5?"
Here's our answer and the thinking behind it.
We Don't Offer N4/N5 Courses, But There's a Good Reason
We don't currently offer JLPT prep courses for N4 or N5. But first, let us be clear. At Nihongo Picnic, we absolutely support and cheer on everyone who decides to take the JLPT, no matter the level.
So why don't we offer N4 or N5 courses? Simply put, we believe that learners at the N4/N5 level benefit more from communication-focused lessons than from intensive test preparation.
Why We Focus on N3 and Above for JLPT Prep
Even in our N3+ JLPT classes, communication remains central to what we do. But once you reach N3 or higher, JLPT preparation starts aligning with real-world goals like job applications, visa requirements, or developing reading skills through authentic materials.
Many reading passages on the JLPT actually come from real books and articles, so you're engaging with genuine Japanese content. Plus, for many students, taking the test becomes a powerful way to stay motivated and track progress.
What We Recommend for N4 and N5 Learners Instead
Our JLPT courses go beyond practice questions. We teach time management strategies, question techniques, and test-day planning. These skills work best when you already have a solid foundation.
But if you're at the N4 or N5 level, we believe your study time is better spent learning to actually use Japanese. To speak, listen, and connect with others.
There are excellent resources available for beginners today: trusted textbooks, YouTube channels, and apps. At Nihongo Picnic, we help you choose materials that fit your learning style and discuss how much English (if any) works best in your lessons.
Together, we create lessons that help you express what you want to say in Japanese, in your own voice.
Many of our beginner students do decide to take N4 or N5 later, and we absolutely support that! When they do, we offer personalized one-on-one guidance tailored to their specific needs.
But spending three full months in a group class focused solely on test prep at this level? We think that time could be better invested in actually speaking more Japanese.
Ready for N3 or Higher? Join Us!
While we don't offer group JLPT courses for N4 or N5, if you're aiming for N3, N2, or N1, we'd love to have you in our upcoming courses with experienced, supportive teachers.
Have questions? Contact us anytime. We're happy to help! No matter your level, we're here to support your Japanese journey in the way that works best for you.
