JLPT N2 Scoring Guide
How scores are calculated, what they mean, and how to reach your goal score.
Scoring Overview
JLPT N2: 180 total points. Passing: overall 90+ AND above the section minimum in each area (approximately 19/60 per section). Scores are valid for life. No partial credit between sections.
Score Scale
| Section | Duration | Max Score |
|---|---|---|
| 言語知識 Vocabulary & Grammar | 60 min | 60 |
| 読解 Reading | 45 min | 60 |
| 聴解 Listening | 50 min | 60 |
Section Breakdown
language knowledge
Language Knowledge (vocab + grammar) — 105 points total.
Kanji reading and meaningVocabulary fill-in-the-blankGrammar pattern selectionSentence construction orderingPassage grammar fill-in
reading
Reading — multiple passage types.
Short informational passagesMedium opinion passagesLong integrated passagesInformation retrieval (flyers, schedules)
listening
Listening — real-life conversations and monologues.
Task-based listening (making decisions)Key-point listeningIntegrated listening (combining info)Quick responseIntegrated comprehension
Key Facts
- Levels
- N5 (beginner) to N1 (advanced)
- N2 sections
- Language Knowledge, Reading, Listening
- N2 duration
- 155 minutes
- Passing score
- 90/180 (50%) + section minimums
- Cost
- ~$60–$80 USD
- Offered
- July and December worldwide
Study Tips
- 1.N2 requires ~1,000 kanji and ~6,000 vocabulary words — use Anki with N2 decks.
- 2.Study grammar systematically with Kanzen Master N2 Grammar — the most respected N2 resource.
- 3.Listening section: consume native content daily (NHK News, anime, podcasts) at natural speed.
- 4.For sentence reordering: identify the verb first, then attach the object using を, then the subject.
- 5.Take official past JLPT exams (available at jlpt.jp/e/samples/) for authentic practice.
- 6.Kanji recognition: use the WaniKani platform or Remembering the Kanji (Heisig method).