Growing Grey Waiting for Chocolates and Scores…

I would like to tell you about one habit of mine. Since coming to Japan, I have taken the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) every time it has been held. That might sound a little crazy to you, and you might be right. But actually, unlike some tests which are held often, like TOEIC, this one was offered only once a year when I first came, and recently just twice a year. On December 4th of this year, I took the JLPT for the seventh time!

How did I do? Well, thank you for asking but I’m not sure. The results for the JLPT do not come quickly like those of TOEIC or IELTS; I will have to wait until the middle of February before I know my score. I am certain that I failed though. At least I can still look forward to Valentine’s Day chocolate…

The JLPT is like the STEP Eiken in that there are different tests for different levels, and certification is on a pass or fail basis. Unfortunately, unlike the STEP Eiken, there are no “Pre” levels, so the gap between each is very wide and it can take many years to “level-up”. Although I have passed the level 2, I will probably have a lot more grey in my hair before I pass level 1!

Even though the levels and scoring resemble the STEP Eiken, and some of the questions are suited to university students (like the TOEFL), the type of questions and overall style of the JLPT are probably closest to TOEIC. There is no writing and no interview, things that make STEP Eiken, IELTS and TOEFL very difficult. Okay, to be fair, a Writing and Interview TOIEC has been offered since 2007, but I’m talking about the traditional TOEIC. And just like the original TOEIC, all you have to do is fill out multiple choice questions.

Anyway, this is something I do every year, now twice a year! I do not recommend that you torture yourself by taking TOEIC, TOEFL, STEP Eiken or the IELTS every time you can, but I do think it is good to create your own studying customs. These customs help us remember our goals and keep us motivated to move ever forward. So let’s keep studying together ? good luck!