JFT-Basic: 200 out of 250 is the A2 that Specified Skilled Worker visas ask for
The Japan Foundation Test for Basic Japanese (JFT-Basic) measures the Japanese of people coming to Japan mainly to work. Its best-known use is the Specified Skilled Worker (i) visa, for which a score of 200 or more (A2) is the proof.
It is a computer test of about 50 questions in 60 minutes, held monthly at test centres, mainly in Asia. Everything below was read on 20 October 2026 on the Japan Foundation's JFT-Basic pages ("About the test" and the FAQ).
Four sections, 60 minutes
There are four sections of about 12 questions each: Script and Vocabulary, Conversation and Expression, Listening Comprehension, Reading Comprehension. There is no time limit per section, only the 60 minutes overall.
You can review answers within a section, but you cannot go back to an earlier section. In listening you cannot move between questions, and each recording plays at most twice. The first section is called Script and Vocabulary, so reading the scripts comes before anything else.
The score: 10 to 250, and what 200 means
The total runs from 10 to 250, a scaled score calculated by equating, not the number of correct answers. 200 to 250 is A2 (A2.2). 175 to 199 is A2.1, and 145 to 174 is A1. Below 145 shows an asterisk.
A1 and A2.1 have only been reported since August 2026. A test taken by July 2026 with 200 or more proves A2 only; an earlier score below 200 proves nothing on paper. The Japan Foundation says A2 can be used for Specified Skilled Worker (i), that some industries may ask for more, and that A1 can be used for the Student status for enrolment at a Japanese language school.
Results, retakes, and how it differs from the JLPT
Your score and level appear on screen at the end of the test, and the official notification is on the Prometric site within five business days. Results do not expire, but the data is kept for five years, so print the notification while you can.
You can retake only if you scored 199 or lower, and 45 days must pass between test dates. The fee and the eligible countries vary by country and are not listed on the Japan Foundation's pages. The JLPT is a separate test with its own N5 to N1 levels; check which of the two your employer or programme names.
Mistakes worth avoiding
Counting correct answers to predict your score.
Treating 200 as a scaled target and practising until you clear it with room to spare.
The Japan Foundation says the total is calculated by equating, not as a simple count.
Rushing through listening so you can go back to it.
Answering each listening question when it plays.
You cannot move between listening questions, or return to an earlier section.
Booking again two weeks after a 190.
Leaving 45 days between test dates.
The FAQ sets a 45-day interval for retakes, and allows them only for 199 or lower.
Questions
What JFT-Basic score do you need for the Specified Skilled Worker visa?
200 or more out of 250, which the Japan Foundation assesses as A2 (A2.2). Some industries may require a higher level.
How long is the JFT-Basic test?
60 minutes, about 50 questions in four sections: script and vocabulary, conversation and expression, listening, and reading. It is taken on a computer.
How soon can you retake JFT-Basic?
Only if you scored 199 or lower, and at least 45 days after your previous test date.
Does the JFT-Basic certificate expire?
No. The Japan Foundation says results do not expire, but the notification can be viewed online for five years only.
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