Changes to the JLPT

I've written about it before, but the Japanese Language Profiency Test (or JLPT) is a very structured, level-specific Japanese langauge-ability test. Level 4 is the lowest, level 1 is the highest and you generally need Level 2 proficiency in order to work in Japan. Level 1 might be considered complete fluency - including knowing the almost 2,000 official chinese characters - but most Japanese people can't even pass this level.

Anyways, I just found out that they will be changing the dates that the JLPT is offered. It is traditionally held just once a year, in December, but it is rumored that it will be moving to a July test date next year. That means those of you living in Japan have TWO chances to take it this next year, once in December and once in July, until it is offered annually during the summer date only.

I only heard this info through a friend and couldn't confirm it online, but the JLPT is a popular topic among expats in Japan so I thought it would be good to pass on.

I also know this blog is turning into a bit of a newsletter as of late, but more posts about the weekends and such coming soon. I wrote a huge post about the weekend and about going home (NEXT WEEK!) that just - **poof** - disappeared and was too frusterated to write everything again. Working on it, though :)