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The JFT-Basic test (Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese) is a computer-based Japanese test that many foreign workers take to meet the language requirement for Japan’s Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa. It has four sections, about 50 questions and runs for about 60 minutes. A score of 200 or more out of 250 counts as a pass at A2 level, which is treated as equal to JLPT N4 for SSW(i). The fee in Japan is ¥10,000. India is one of the countries where the test is held, but the rupee fee should be checked on the official JFT-Basic website before you book, because it was not confirmed for this guide.
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JFT-Basic matters more in 2026 than before. Japan’s Immigration Services Agency (ISA) has been encouraging people to use it because applications for the December 2026 JLPT filled up for every level before the deadline. For many SSW job seekers, JFT-Basic is now the quicker way to get a valid language result.
This guide covers the test format, what each section looks like, scoring, retakes, fees and practical tips for passing. It does not replace the official rules. Passing JFT-Basic is one step towards an SSW job, not a job offer or a visa approval.
JFT-Basic at a Glance
| Full name | Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese (JFT-Basic) |
| Test type | Computer-based test at a test centre |
| Sections | Script and vocabulary; conversation and expression; listening; reading |
| Questions | About 50 |
| Duration | About 60 minutes |
| Score range | 10 to 250 |
| Pass mark | 200 (A2 level) |
| Results | Around 5 business days after the test |
| Retake gap | About 45 days between attempts (per published guides; confirm on the official site) |
| Fee in Japan | ¥10,000 |
| Fee in India | Charged in local currency; check the official JFT-Basic site |
| Used for | SSW(i) language requirement (A2); Ikusei Shuro entry from April 2027 (A1) |
What JFT-Basic Is Used For
JFT-Basic was designed to check whether a person has enough Japanese for everyday life and basic work communication. In the visa system it is used in two ways:
- SSW(i): A score of 200+ (A2) meets the Japanese requirement, in the same way as JLPT N4. You still need to pass the skills test for your chosen field.
- Nursing care SSW: JFT-Basic (or N4) covers general Japanese, but care applicants also need the separate care Japanese test and the care skills test.
- Ikusei Shuro (育成就労), from 1 April 2027: This new system replaces the Technical Intern Training Program. Entry needs A1 level, which JFT-Basic can show. Moving on to SSW(i) later needs A2 plus a skills test.
People who completed Technical Intern Training (ii) in good standing do not need to take JFT-Basic for SSW(i) in the same field. The care Japanese test is still required for care work.
The Four Sections Explained
1. Script and Vocabulary (文字と語彙)
You read hiragana, katakana and basic kanji, and choose the right word for a situation. Expect everyday words linked to food, shopping, transport, health and work.
2. Conversation and Expression (会話と表現)
This section checks whether you can pick the natural phrase for a social situation, such as greeting a colleague, apologising for being late or asking for help. Grammar is tested through real use rather than as theory.
3. Listening (聴解)
You hear short announcements, conversations and instructions through headphones and answer questions about them. For many candidates this is the hardest part, because the audio plays at natural speed.
4. Reading (読解)
You read short practical texts such as notices, messages, timetables and signs, then answer questions. Speed matters because the whole test fits into about an hour.
Fees and Other Costs to Plan For
The JFT-Basic fee in Japan is ¥10,000. Outside Japan the fee is set in local currency and may differ by country. Because the fee in India could not be verified for this guide, we are not quoting a rupee amount. Check it on the official JFT-Basic website run by the Japan Foundation at the time of booking, and pay only through the official booking system.
When planning your budget, also think about:
- Travel to the test centre and possibly an overnight stay if the centre is in another city.
- Study materials. The Japan Foundation publishes free sample questions and learning resources.
- The cost of retaking the test if you score below 200, along with the waiting period before you can sit again.
- The separate fee for your SSW skills test, which is set by each field’s organiser.
Be careful with anyone who offers to “book a guaranteed pass” or charges a large amount just to register you. You can book the test yourself.
What a JFT-Basic Pass Can Lead To – Pay Examples
A JFT-Basic pass plus a skills test can make you eligible to apply for SSW(i) jobs. These figures are indicative monthly amounts from wage surveys and job listings, shown only to help you plan.
| Position | Indicative Monthly Salary |
| SSW Worker (all-field average) | ¥210,000 (survey average around ¥205,700) |
| Technical Intern (for comparison) | ¥180,000 (survey average around ¥177,800) |
| SSW Caregiver | ¥200,000 – ¥240,000 with allowances and night shifts |
| Bento Factory Worker | ¥200,000 (hourly about ¥1,196 – ¥1,500) |
| Hotel Housekeeping Staff | ¥220,000 (hourly about ¥1,300 – ¥1,800) |
These amounts vary by prefecture, shift pattern and employer, and include allowances where noted. Take-home pay is lower after pension, health insurance, employment insurance and taxes.
How to Book JFT-Basic Step by Step
- Check that your target field accepts JFT-Basic. For SSW(i), it does. For care work, plan for the extra care Japanese test.
- Visit the official JFT-Basic website run by the Japan Foundation and confirm the countries, cities and dates available.
- Create an account using your name exactly as it appears in your passport.
- Choose a test centre and date. Book early if you have a deadline from an employer.
- Pay the fee through the official system only, and keep the receipt.
- Bring valid ID on test day. Arrive early and follow the centre’s rules on phones and personal items.
- Check your result after about 5 business days and download or save your score report for your application.
Passing Tips That Actually Help
- Do the official sample test first. It shows you the screen layout and question styles, so test day holds fewer surprises.
- Train your ears every day. Listen to slow Japanese audio, then natural-speed audio. Repeat short sentences aloud (shadowing).
- Learn katakana thoroughly. Many signs, menus and workplace words use katakana, and weak katakana costs easy marks.
- Study situations, not just word lists. Practise phrases for asking directions, calling in sick, reporting a problem and buying things.
- Read real notices. Practise with timetables, store flyers and simple instruction sheets.
- Manage your time. Do not spend too long on one question, and give the listening audio your full attention while it plays.
- Aim above 200. Scores close to the pass line can go either way. Practising until you score comfortably above A2 on mock tests gives you a safety margin.
- Plan for a retake. If you fail, use the waiting period to work on your weakest section before booking again.
A Simple 8-Week Study Plan
If you already know hiragana and basic greetings, this rough plan can help you prepare. Adjust it to your level and the time you have.
- Weeks 1–2: Revise katakana and the most common kanji for numbers, days, places and directions. Take the official sample test once to find your weak section.
- Weeks 3–4: Focus on conversation and expression. Learn set phrases for work and daily life, and practise choosing the polite form.
- Weeks 5–6: Do listening practice every day for at least 30 minutes, starting slow and moving to natural speed.
- Week 7: Read short real-life texts such as notices, schedules and simple emails, and time yourself.
- Week 8: Take full timed mock tests, review every mistake and rest well before test day.
JFT-Basic vs JLPT N4
| Point | JFT-Basic | JLPT N4 |
| Format | Computer-based | Paper-based |
| Test dates | Many sessions; several a month at 11 locations in Japan | Fixed dates, limited each year |
| Results | About 5 business days | Takes much longer |
| Focus | Practical communication for life and work | Grammar, vocabulary, reading and listening |
| SSW(i) use | Accepted at A2 (200+) | Accepted at N4 |
| Wider recognition | Mainly used for visa purposes | Widely known by employers on CVs |
Many candidates take JFT-Basic for speed and still study for the JLPT later, so they have a certificate that employers recognise for career growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What score do I need to pass JFT-Basic?
You need 200 or more on a scale of 10 to 250. That is A2 level, which meets the SSW(i) Japanese requirement.
How much does JFT-Basic cost in India?
The fee is charged in local currency and was not verified for this guide. Check the official JFT-Basic website when booking. In Japan the fee is ¥10,000.
How soon can I retake JFT-Basic if I fail?
Published guides mention a waiting period of about 45 days between attempts. Confirm the current rule on the official site before you plan your dates.
Is JFT-Basic enough for a caregiver job in Japan?
It covers general Japanese only. Nursing care SSW also requires the care Japanese test and the care skills test.
Does passing JFT-Basic mean I will get a job?
No. You still need a field skills test, an employer’s offer and immigration approval. Never pay an unlicensed agent who promises a job or visa for a fee, and treat job ads as information, not a visa guarantee.
Can I take JFT-Basic while already living in Japan?
Yes. It is held at 11 locations in Japan, several times a month, which helps people changing status or fields inside the country.
Final Words
JFT-Basic is a short, practical, computer-based test that can meet the Japanese requirement for SSW(i) with a score of 200 or more. It offers more dates and faster results than the JLPT, which is why ISA is promoting it now. Prepare with official sample questions, focus on listening and katakana, check the local fee on the official website, and book only through the official system.
Disclaimer: All salary figures mentioned in this article are indicative estimates based on published job listings and industry data and may vary by employer, location, experience, and contract terms. They do not represent a guaranteed salary, job offer, or visa approval.