What is BJT? Japan’s Business Japanese Proficiency Test Explained
The Japanese government began enforcing new language requirements for foreigners applying for the Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services Visa and the Business Manager Visa – specifically, a minimum of JLPT N2 to work in Japan. You likely know of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), but did you know that there is another test that is also recognized by the Japanese government? This one focuses on the business environment: the Business Japanese Proficiency Test (BJT). Another perk: Tests happen monthly. If you need certification to prove your language proficiency ASAP, this test might be the one for you.
Table of Contents
- What is the Business Japanese Test?
- Test Format and Structure
- BJT vs JLPT
- Conclusion: Should you take the BJT?
- FAQ
What is the Business Japanese Test?
Launched in 1996 by the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), the Business Japanese Proficiency Test (BJT) was designed for professionals who aim to work in Japan or to communicate in Japan’s business environment. Now administered by the Japan Kanji Aptitude Testing Foundation, it covers business language such as keigo (respectful language) and simulates situations commonly encountered in the workplace.
Test format and structure
The test contains 80 questions that can take two hours to complete. It is divided into three parts:
- Part I: Listening comprehension (45 minutes) – this part covers Japanese business conversations and ability to understand business situations through audio.
- Part II: Listening and reading comprehension (30 minutes) – this part tests the comprehensive ability to combine audio and visual materials such as graphs, charts and reading materials.
- Part III: Reading comprehension (30 minutes) – this part covers vocabulary, grammar and expressions from a variety of text conversations and business documents.
The BJT is a computer-based exam that can be taken in several designated venues in Japan and worldwide. Additionally, the results are given as a score from 0 to 800 points, placing you into one of six levels: J5 to J1+, with no pass or fail threshold. This means that one test would evaluate your overall score, rather than testing for a specific level. There is also no need to wait for months to know the results, since the scores are calculated immediately after the examination.
BJT vs JLPT in a nutshell
| Detail | BJT | JLPT |
| Purpose | Practical business Japanese proficiency | General Japanese language proficiency |
| Skills tested | Listening and reading in business context, keigo, interpreting charts and emails | General vocabulary, grammar, reading and listening |
| Speaking | Not tested | Not tested |
| Scoring | One test scored from 0-800 points into 6 levels (J5-J1+) | Pass/Fail, 5 different test levels (N5-N1) |
| Format | Computer-based in a Pearson VUE testing center | Paper-based at designated venues |
| Frequency | Monthly | Twice a year, usually in July and December |
| Fee | 8,000 yen | 7,500 yen |
| Results | Same day | After 2-3 months |
| Expiration | Does not expire | Does not expire |
Note: Fee is as of April 2026.
Conclusion: Should you take the BJT?
While the JLPT measures general Japanese language ability, the BJT focuses exclusively on business communication. The choice between them depends on your situation, company and visa requirements.
Although the JLPT is more widely recognized and popular, the BJT can be a more flexible alternative. It can be taken monthly in recognized test centers, making it an option for those who missed the JLPT registration deadline or when slots have already been filled. It may also be more relevant for professionals, as its contents reflect the kind of Japanese used in the workplace. The general requirement to work in Japanese companies is at least JLPT N2 or a BJT score of 400 points or higher. Both tests are officially recognized by the Japanese government, so neither is “better” than the other. If you fail the JLPT N2, you can take the test again in the next JLPT examination. However, if you fail to reach the 400 points for BJT, you can take the exam again after three months.
Ultimately, the choice is up to you. If your goal is to gauge your general Japanese proficiency, the JLPT might be your choice. If you want to demonstrate your ability in a formal business context, the BJT may be better.
FAQ
Do I need to pass the JLPT before taking the BJT?
No. These are independent tests that measure your Japanese language proficiency and visa regulations require having only either one of them.
How do I register for the BJT?
As mentioned above, the BJT is a computer-based exam in designated testing centers. The registration process consists of creating a Pearson Professional Assessments (formerly Pearson VUE) account and selecting your preferred test days and testing centers. Details are subject to change, so it is best to go directly to the official sites for the latest information:
How should I prepare for the BJT exam?
At first glance, the BJT may look easier than the JLPT. However, some would argue that it is harder to reach the 400 points needed for most companies because the language used in the Japanese business environment is vastly different. With that said, the basic preparation is to focus on mastering keigo, expanding professional vocabulary and understanding business manners. It is also helpful to conduct practice tests and time them. There are many review materials online and review questions available on the BJT website.
