JAPANESE LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY TEST (JLPT) – DECEMBER 2026 GUIDELINES (KENYA)

Greetings from the JLPT 2026 Team,
 
The Japanese Language Teachers Association of Kenya (JALTAK) wishes to announce the call for JLPT 2026 applications.
 
The JLPT will be held on SUNDAY, 6TH DECEMBER 2026 at Kenya Utalii College.
 
If you wish to apply for the test, make sure you first READ THE GUIDELINES BELOW carefully to ensure a successful application.
 
GUIDELINES
You may apply using any of the following paths:

1. Through your language teacher
2. Directly using physical forms
3. Directly through online system

 
A) For Applicants Through Language Teachers (This path is strongly recommended)

1. Obtain a physical application form from your teacher.
2. Also obtain the application test guide.  This has clear instructions on how to fill through an example given on pages 2-3.
3. Be sure to read carefully and understand the example before filling in the application form. Additionally, you can ask your teacher to guide you when filling in the form. 
4. Use black ink (either a ball point pen or a fountain pen) and ensure that the writings are clearly legible even on the copies.
5. Pay the applicable test fees through your teacher (see section D below for the applicable fees).
6. Attach two passport-sized photographs (3x3cm). These photos must have been taken within the past 6 months.
7. Your teacher will issue you with an exam voucher on or before the day of the examination.
8. The application deadline for those taking this path is 16^th September 2026 at 4:00 pm.

 
B) For applicants applying directly using physical application forms (recommended for those without language teachers)

1. You may come to the office of the Japan Information and Cultural Center (JICC) at Embassy of Japan (Upper Hill), Nairobi from 10:00 am – 3:30 pm on the following dates: 27^th, August; 2^nd 9^th and 16^th September 2026.
2. On these days, there will be a staff to offer you any necessary assistance.  You will be issued with the forms and you will be assisted in filling them in.
3. Remember to bring all necessary documents, including your National identity card or valid passport.
4. You are advised to pay the applicable fee via M-pesa paybill before going to the Embassy.
5. The details of the account are in section D below:
6. Once you have paid, send the confirmation text message to 0722650470 and include your full name, test level (e.g., N2), and MPESA confirmation code.

 
C) Direct application through online system (recommended only for those who are unable to access a physical application form, for one reason or another)

1. If you are unable to visit the help desk at the JICC and you do not have a language teacher, you can apply using a writable online PDF Form. The application forms for the respective levels can be accessed through this link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1liPz_Fy_I1rWUKwKS_XL9phxsR1v9SNn/view?usp=sharing

A sample filled-in form is available on pages 2–3 of the test guide, accessible through this link  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vmBxuxPC4GpyUkGn-pJ0Inkv_kjQ4WnF/view?usp=drive_link

1. Submit your PDF application form via Google Forms.
2. Insert a recent digital photo (taken within the past 6 months) on your application form.
3. You only need to type in your details on page 1 of the PDF. The details will automatically be replicated on the other pages. However, you will also need to paste your digital photograph on pages 4 and 5.
4. The “Examinee Registration Number” section on pages 1 to 5 must be left blank. Do not fill in this section.
5. When inserting your photo on pages 4 and 5 (upper left corner), ensure the photo fits within the box. Resize the photograph from the corners, not from the sides, as this may distort the image.
6. If you’re unable to paste your photo on the PDF (digitally), you may upload it separately via the Google Form.
7. After filling in the form, print it out to ensure it is clearly legible. Although you will submit the application in PDF format, printing it will help you confirm that the form you submit can be processed smoothly.
8. Read the instructions in the Google Form submission platform carefully before submitting your application.
9. Pay the test fees via M-pesa before submitting the form.
10. The details of the account are given in section D below.
11. Once you have paid, send the confirmation text message to 0722650470 and include your full name, test level, and MPESA confirmation code.
12. After completing the Google Form, remember to click “Submit.” If you do not click “Submit,” your application will not be received. Upon successful submission, you will receive a confirmation email with a copy of your response.
13. Note: The Deadline for online application is 10^th September 2026. Applications can be submitted any day of the week. Note: ONLINE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THIS DATE. 
14.  You will receive your test voucher on the day of the examination.
15. Google Form submission link: 

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/19LutaYYqGKEVuh0Gu9JItyiXLrxgKDdH2TYqiTr0I00/edit
 
 
FURTHER INFORMATION FOR ALL APPLICANTS

1. On the top right corner of the application form (both PDF and hard copy), there is a section labelled “Request Special Testing Accommodations.” This box should only be checked by persons with disabilities (PWDs). All other applicants must leave it unchecked.
2. Persons with disabilities (PWDs) who wish to apply for the test must notify JALTAK of their condition before 29th August 2026 to facilitate necessary arrangements.
3. The applicable examination fees are as follows:

Test level	Amount (Kshs)
N1	2,500.00
N2	2,500.00
N3	2,500.00
N4	2,000.00
N5	2,000.00

 
4. The deadline for online application is 10^th September 2026
5. The deadline for physical applications through teachers is 16^th September 2026
 
We wish you all the best as you prepare for the examination!