The BJT (Business Japanese Proficiency Test) is a test to objectively measure and evaluate the ability to communicate in Japanese in a business environment. The BJT was launched in 1986 and is currently administered in Japan and other Asian countries such as China, Hong Kong, Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia.
The BJT (Business Japanese Proficiency Test) is attracting attention from many companies because it is said that a daily conversational level of Japanese is not good enough for business.
How is the JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) different from the BJT?
The JLPT and the BJT each have different characteristics.
Unlike the JLPT, the BJT uses a uniform score system with no pass/fail, which means that there is no need to repeat each level of the test, allowing you to take the entire assessment in one sitting.
What is the level of the BJT, is it higher than the JLPT?
In the BJT (Business Japanese Proficiency Test), everyone takes the same test and is rated on a scale of 6, from J5 to J1+, according to their results. The lower the number, the higher the level. Let’s take a closer look at the approximate Business Japanese Proficiency for each level.
J1+ (600-800 points)
Able to communicate adequately in any business environment. Has both accurate knowledge of the Japanese language and appropriate choice of words. Able to carry out work duties smoothly. They have top-class skills in all aspects of Japanese, including speaking at meetings and negotiations, answering the phone, writing internal documents, and understanding business customs.
J1 (530-599 points)
Able to communicate appropriately in business based on extensive knowledge of Japanese. However, compared to J1+, there are problems with some knowledge and word choice. However, they can conduct meetings, business negotiations, and answer the phone without problems. They can also choose appropriate words in interpersonal situations.
J2 (420-529 points)
Able to communicate appropriately in business based on extensive knowledge of Japanese. Vocabulary is not to the same standard as J1, but they can still conduct regular business conversations with colleagues, and draft appropriate correspondence.
J3 (320-419 points)
Able to communicate in Japanese in a limited number of business situations. However, communication may be difficult in some situations due to problems with Japanese knowledge and language usage. Can understand simple business conversations and can perform tasks such as answering the phone and low-density communication without problems. Also has some understanding of business practices.
J4 (200-319 points)
Able to communicate minimally in a limited number of business situations. Limited knowledge of Japanese and difficulty in using the language well. Communication is difficult, so support is essential. Can understand some business conversation if spoken slowly. Limited understanding of business customs.
J5 (0-199 points)
Difficulty communicating in Japanese business situations. Little knowledge of Japanese business customs.
Test Details
Here is an introduction of the contents of the BJT (Business Japanese Proficiency Test).
Part 1: Listening comprehension test
The first item on the BJT Business Japanese Proficiency Test is the listening comprehension test, which is divided into three sections: comprehension questions, reading comprehension questions, and general listening comprehension questions.
Part 2: Listening and Reading Comprehension Test
The second part, the Listening and Reading Comprehension Test, is divided into three sections: “Understanding the Situation”, “Listening to the Material” and “General Introduction”.
In addition to pictures of the scene, audio of the discussion will be played.
Part 3: Reading
The third section is the Reading Test, which is divided into three sections: Vocabulary and Grammar, Expressions, and General Reading Comprehension. Since the test includes a variety of texts such as conversations and business documents, it is important to understand the meaning of the sentences before and after as well.
TAKE A PRACTICE LESSON TO PREPARE FOR THE BUSINESS JAPANESE PROFICIENCY TEST
Toranomon Language School offers a special curriculum that can be used in all kinds of business situations. From basic Japanese language skills, to how to work in a Japanese company, to communication skills for building relationships with other companies, students can acquire the skills necessary for doing business in Japan.
In addition to improving Japanese language skills, we offer an interactive educational system to enhance basic working skills and make highly skilled foreign personnel more capable.
Contact us if you are studying for the BJT and we can tailor your lessons to ensure we include relevant content from the exams.