Business Japanese Proficiency Test for SMEs

Boost Your Japanese Business Knowledge

Business Japanese Proficiency Test

Entering the Japanese market is as hard as being able to communicate well in the business setting. It can be challenging for foreign SMEs due to the nature of the language and the cultural differences involved. However, learning and mastering business Japanese will open up a variety of opportunities for SMEs to expand their business operations in Japan. And BJT will be able to help you with that.

The Business Japanese Proficiency Test (BJT) is a great opportunity for international SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises) to prove their level of Japanese. Passing the test is a great way to show potential employers and customers that you can do business in Japan.

The Business Japanese Proficiency Test (BJT) measures the level of proficiency in the Japanese language used in a business context.

Unlike JLPT, BJT is not as widespread in Japan or abroad. By taking the BJT, you will be able to demonstrate your language proficiency and gain the trust of potential employers and customers. It is an essential skill for any SME seeking to do business in Japan.

Understanding Business Japanese Proficiency Test

The Business Japanese Test (BJT), is a 135-minute multiple-choice exam designed to evaluate your proficiency in business Japanese. According to its slogan, “passing it will equip you to work and grow in Japanese work environments.”
This is not a test of your general knowledge or grammar skills but your ability to use Keigo in real-world contexts. As such, it assesses more than just your ability to understand Japanese; it also evaluates how well you can absorb and respond to the information supplied.

JPT vs BJT

BJT and JLPT might need some clarification, so here’s the comparison for a better understanding.

The Business Japanese Proficiency Test (BJT) measures the level of proficiency in the Japanese language used in a business context. It is created to assess the language ability of non-native speakers who use Japanese in their professional work. The test covers grammar, vocabulary, listening, and reading comprehension.

The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is a standardized examination to evaluate the Japanese language proficiency of non-native speakers. It is designed to measure the overall knowledge of the Japanese language, including grammar, vocabulary, listening, and reading comprehension. The JLPT is aimed at non-native speakers of all levels, from beginner to advanced.

The main difference between the BJT and the JLPT is the focus of the test. The BJT focuses on the language you will use in a professional setting, while the JLPT aims to assess the Japanese language’s overall knowledge. Additionally, the BJT includes questions related to the business context, while the JLPT does not.

Should I take JPT or BJT?

My advice to anyone still studying Japanese is to focus on the JLPT until they have attained N1 or N2 proficiency and then switch to the BJT.
Results from test takers show that N1 holders performed significantly better than N2 holders, whose scores fall anywhere from 300 to 700. That being said, many only have some or acceptable communication skills for a select group of business circumstances, despite their near-native level of Japanese.

Look for trusted partners that can communicate well in Japanese and other languages like SME Japan. With this, it will be easier to transact and prepare the requirements you’ll need in your Japanese venture! Inquire now for more info!

"Otsumami" - a bite size snack:

Taking the Business Japanese Proficiency Test can help foreign SMEs in their business venture in Japan

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