Preparation Description

The JFT-Basic is a language proficiency test designed for foreigners applying for the SSW (Specified Skilled Worker) visa to work in Japan. It assesses whether the test-taker has basic Japanese communication skills necessary for daily life and work.

Key Details

• Full Name: Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese (JFT-Basic)
• Level Target: Equivalent to A2 on the CEFR (just below JLPT N4)
• Used For: SSW Visa application (SSW (i))
• Test Mode: Computer-based
• Duration: About 60 minutes
• Score Range: 0–250 points (120+ = pass)
• Result: Instant (displayed on screen after test)
• Available In: Multiple countries (including Nepal, India, Philippines, Vietnam, etc.)

Test Sections & Content

• Script & Vocabulary: Hiragana, Katakana, basic kanji, word meanings 
• Conversation & Expression: Sentence usage, greetings, functional language
• Listening Comprehension: Daily dialogues, identifying intent or response
• Reading Comprehension: Signs, messages, schedules, short texts

Passing Criteria

• You must score 120 or above out of 250
• You can retake the test multiple times if needed
• No certificate is given; instead, an electronic result notice is used for visa applications

How to Prepare

Recommended Study Materials

• Official JFT-Basic Sample Test: [Japan Foundation Website](https://www.jpf.go.jp/jft-basic/e/)
• Minna no Nihongo I (Chapters 1–25)
• Try! A1 / A2 Textbook
• Marugoto A2 Workbook
• Apps: JLPT N5/N4 apps, JLPT Sensei, Anki for vocabulary

Tips

• Focus on daily vocabulary: shopping, transport, work, time
• Master Hiragana, Katakana, and \~100 common Kanji
• Practice listening to short daily conversations
• Study sentence patterns and common expressions