Blog: How Long Does It Take to Learn Japanese? (Useful Tips)

Q1: How long does it take to learn Japanese before being able to converse?
A1: With about 120 hours of study, you can manage basic self-introductions, greetings, shopping, asking for directions, and other simple conversations.

Q2: What JLPT level is generally required when applying for jobs at Japanese companies?
A2: Most Japanese companies set JLPT N2 as the minimum requirement.

Q3: Which JLPT level is equivalent to DSE?
A3: DSE is approximately equivalent to JLPT N3.

Q4: Starting from zero, how long does it take to reach JLPT N3, N2, and N1?
A4: If you attend classes 2.5 hours per week, it will take about three years (360 hours) to prepare for the JLPT N3. With one more year of study (an additional 120 hours), you can be ready for the JLPT N2. With two more years of study (an additional 240 hours), you can be ready for the JLPT N1.
If you want to speed up the process and attend classes 12 hours per week, it will take about nine months (360 hours) to prepare for the JLPT N3. With three more months of study (an additional 120 hours), you can be ready for the JLPT N2. With six more months of study (an additional 240 hours), you can be ready for the JLPT N1.

Q5: How much are the tuition fees for courses up to JLPT N5?
A5: Taking Pasona Education as an example, the tuition fee for the General Japanese Course Grade 1 is HK$2,580. Completing up to Grade 4 will help you ready for the JLPT N5. Since each grade costs HK$2,580, the total tuition fee for all four grades is HK$10,320.

Q6: Before enrolling, which schools offer free trial lessons?
A6: Pasona Education frequently offers a one-hour free Japanese trial lesson. Please check their official website, Facebook, or Instagram for details.