The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test or JLPT “is conducted both in Japan and outside Japan to evaluate and certify the language proficiency of primarily non-native speakers of Japanese.”
They have traditionally had 4 levels, each made up of three sections: Writing-Vocabulary; Listening; Reading-Grammar. ** Note: Ironically, NO actual speaking skills are tested!
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Well this year (2010), they are adding a new level, and a revised level numbering scheme to go with it.
So instead of levels 1, 2, 3, and 4. There will now be level N1, N2, N3, N4, and N5.
The new level, N3, was added because for some wacky reason folks thought that the jump from the old level 3 (expected vocab of 1500 words) to level 2 (expected vocab of 6000 words) was too great a gap - go figure. 
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The tests were given twice a year (although not in all countries), basically July and December, with levels 1 and 2 being available at both testings and levels 3 and 4 only being available at the end of the year test period.
Well the new N3 level well also be made available mid year - This works out well for me. I believe that come July time-frame, I could have a reasonable shot at this new level. And it’s also nice not to have wait to the end of the year to try a test that I’ll have a chance at.
So my basic plan is to shoot for the N3 exam at the mid-year mark and, if I pass or even get close, aim for the N2 exam at year’s end.
This is all be done via self-study as, due to my chaotic job schedule, I could have to pickup and travel somewhere at any given time AND my experience with traditional class methods lend my to feel that they don’t work that well anyhow.
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So… some folks might be thinking, “What’s the point?”, “The JPLT sounds lame, it doesn’t even make sure you aren’t mute!”, etc. If you’re really sly, you might also be thinking, “But wait a minute… how good is your Japanese now?!”.
All great and valid points!
For starters, I basically agree that the JLPT is probably not remotely the best judge of skill level. But I’m taking a page from the world of IT certifications. Namely:
- You get out of it what you put into it
- Some people really care about pieces of paper and might require them for future employment opportunities
- It gives my a related goal (with a set time-line) to aim for.
- It is an external sign to others (again read *my job, co-workers, etc.*) that I have made definable progress
After over dozen years in the IT/Telecom/Networking/Data Sales industry, 4 (full-time) start-ups, 2 IPOs, 1 crash, 1 acquisition, a couple of big companies, working with global fortune 2000 companies and covering 4 continents to various degrees… there are some universal truth I’ve learned.
- “You’re only as good as your last quarter”
- “Others” have a hard time judging the progress of abstract things
- Setting goals helps - even if you don’t quite hit them.
- Being right can hurt you - Oh wait, that’s a different topic.
