NAT Practice Questions | Japanese Language NAT (National Aptitude Test) - 2024

Practice free online Japanese Language NAT-TEST questions with answers.

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National Aptitude Test (NAT) Practice Test Questions

Here are 10 practice questions with answers for the National Aptitude Test (NAT) in Japan. These practice questions are designed to help you improve your language proficiency and familiarity with the NAT exam format. Remember to review your answers and seek additional study materials for a comprehensive preparation.

1. Question: Which of the following is the correct reading for the kanji character 日本?

a) Nihon
b) Nippon
c) Honyaku
d) Nichi
Answer: a) Nihon

2. Question: Choose the correct particle to complete the sentence: 私は___学生です。

a) が
b) は
c) を
d) に
Answer: b) は

3. Question: Fill in the blank with the appropriate verb form: 昨日、友達とカフェでコーヒーを___。

a) 食べます
b) 飲みます
c) 見ます
d) 行きます
Answer: b) 飲みます

4. Question: Identify the correct translation for the phrase "How are you?" in Japanese.

a) おはようございます
b) ありがとうございます
c) お元気ですか
d) ごめんなさい
Answer: c) お元気ですか

5. Question: Which of the following sentence structures is correct for expressing possession in Japanese?

a) Noun1のNoun2
b) Noun1はNoun2です
c) Noun1がNoun2です
d) Noun1をNoun2します
Answer: a) Noun1のNoun2

6. Question: Choose the appropriate vocabulary word to complete the sentence: 私は___を見るのが好きです。

a) 映画
b) 料理
c) 音楽
d) 買い物
Answer: a) 映画

7. Question: Fill in the blank with the correct counter word: 三___のりんごを買いました。

a) つ
b) 本
c) 枚
d) 個
Answer: d) 個

8. Question: Select the correct honorific expression for "teacher" in Japanese.

a) 先生
b) さん
c) ちゃん
d) くん
Answer: a) 先生

9. Question: Identify the correct verb form for the sentence: 私は毎日日本語を___。

a) 勉強
b) 食べる
c) 見る
d) 使う
Answer: a) 勉強

10. Question: Choose the correct reading for the hiragana character さ.

a) sa
b) chi
c) tsu
d) ko
Answer: a) sa

Overview of the NAT Exam in Japan

The National Aptitude Test (NAT) in Japan is a standardized examination designed to evaluate the language proficiency of non-native speakers of Japanese. Administered by the Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES), the NAT exam assesses individuals' abilities in listening, reading, writing, and speaking.

The NAT exam is widely recognized and accepted by universities, employers, and government institutions in Japan as a measure of Japanese language proficiency. It is especially important for international students seeking admission to Japanese universities or individuals aiming to work in Japan.

The exam consists of four sections, each focusing on different language skills. The listening section tests candidates' comprehension of spoken Japanese, while the reading section evaluates their understanding of written texts. The writing section measures their ability to express ideas in writing, and the speaking section assesses their oral communication skills.

To ensure fairness and accuracy, the NAT exam follows strict guidelines and undergoes rigorous validation processes. It aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of an individual's language proficiency, taking into account both their understanding of the Japanese language and their ability to use it effectively in real-life situations.

Preparing for the NAT exam requires dedicated study and practice. Familiarizing oneself with the exam format, understanding the assessment criteria, and focusing on areas of weakness are essential steps to succeed. By investing time and effort in preparation, candidates can improve their chances of achieving a high score on the NAT exam and open doors to exciting opportunities in Japan.

Structure and Format of the NAT Exam

The NAT exam follows a well-structured format that assesses various language skills in a comprehensive manner. Understanding the exam's structure is crucial for effective preparation and maximizing your performance on test day.

The NAT exam consists of four main sections: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Let's delve into each section's format:

  1. Listening Section: This section evaluates your ability to comprehend spoken Japanese. You will listen to a series of audio recordings, such as conversations, lectures, or announcements, and answer multiple-choice questions based on the content. Paying close attention to the details, understanding the context, and being able to extract key information are key skills for success in this section.
  2. Reading Section: In this section, your reading comprehension skills will be assessed. You will encounter a variety of written texts, including articles, essays, advertisements, and dialogues. The questions may involve completing sentences, selecting the correct answer from multiple choices, or identifying the main idea of a passage. Developing a good reading strategy, expanding your vocabulary, and practicing different types of reading materials are crucial for performing well in this section.
  3. Writing Section: This section evaluates your ability to express ideas in writing. You will be given prompts or questions and asked to write short essays or paragraphs. It is important to organize your thoughts coherently, use appropriate grammar and vocabulary, and convey your message effectively within the given time limit. Practice writing regularly, paying attention to sentence structure, and familiarize yourself with common writing topics to enhance your performance.
  4. Speaking Section: This section assesses your oral communication skills in Japanese. You will engage in conversations with an examiner, respond to questions, and express your opinions on various topics. Fluency, pronunciation, vocabulary usage, and the ability to convey ideas clearly are crucial for success in this section. Practice speaking Japanese regularly, engage in conversations with native speakers if possible, and develop confidence in expressing yourself orally.

By understanding the structure and format of the NAT exam, you can tailor your study plan accordingly and focus on improving specific skills in each section. Practice mock exams, seek feedback from teachers or language exchange partners, and make use of available resources to enhance your performance and increase your chances of achieving a desirable score.

Essential Study Tips for the NAT Exam

Preparing for the NAT exam requires a well-planned study strategy to maximize your chances of success. Here are some essential tips to help you effectively prepare for the exam:

  1. Understand the Exam Format: Familiarize yourself with the structure and format of the NAT exam. Understanding what each section entails, the types of questions asked, and the time limits will help you allocate your study time and resources effectively.
  2. Assess Your Strengths and Weaknesses: Identify your areas of strength and weakness in Japanese language skills. By recognizing your weaknesses, you can allocate more time for improvement and tailor your study plan accordingly.
  3. Create a Study Schedule: Develop a study schedule that fits your daily routine. Set specific study goals for each session, focusing on different sections or language skills. A consistent study schedule will help you stay organized and maintain discipline throughout your preparation.
  4. Practice Regularly: Practice is essential for improving your language proficiency. Dedicate regular time to practice listening, reading, writing, and speaking in Japanese. Utilize a variety of study materials, such as textbooks, online resources, and language exchange platforms, to expose yourself to different contexts and vocabulary.
  5. Seek Guidance: Consider enrolling in a Japanese language course or working with a language tutor to receive expert guidance and personalized feedback. They can provide valuable insights, correct your mistakes, and offer strategies to improve your performance in specific sections.
  6. Review Grammar and Vocabulary: Brush up on your knowledge of Japanese grammar and expand your vocabulary. Understanding grammatical structures and having a wide range of vocabulary will enhance your performance in all sections of the exam.
  7. Practice Time Management: During your preparation, simulate exam-like conditions by practicing time management. Set timers for each section and aim to complete the tasks within the given time limits. This will help you develop a sense of timing and improve your efficiency during the actual exam.
  8. Take Mock Exams: Practice with sample or past NAT exams to familiarize yourself with the question patterns and experience the time pressure. Analyze your performance, identify areas for improvement, and adapt your study plan accordingly.
  9. Stay Motivated: Maintaining motivation throughout your preparation is essential. Set realistic goals, celebrate small victories, and remind yourself of the benefits of achieving a high score on the NAT exam. Surround yourself with supportive peers or join study groups to stay motivated and share study resources.
  10. Take Care of Yourself: Remember to take breaks, rest, and maintain a balanced lifestyle. Taking care of your physical and mental well-being will improve your focus and concentration during study sessions.

By following these study tips, you can approach your NAT exam preparation with confidence and increase your chances of achieving a desirable score. Remember, consistent effort, perseverance, and a positive mindset are key to success in any language proficiency exam.

Practice Test Questions for NAT Exam Listening Section

To excel in the NAT exam's listening section, it is crucial to practice with various audio materials and become comfortable with the question formats. Here are some practice test questions to sharpen your listening skills:

Question 1:

Listen to the following conversation between two people and choose the best answer to complete the sentence.

  1. 雨が降っています
  2. 日が照っています
  3. 風が吹いています
  4. 雪が降っています
Question 2:

Listen to the following announcement and answer the question.

り換えください。
  1. 京都行き
  2. 大阪行き
  3. 名古屋行き
  4. 東京行き
Question 3:

Listen to the dialogue and select the appropriate response to the question.

  1. いいえ、行く予定です
  2. はい、行く予定です
  3. もう行きました
  4. 行くつもりはありません
Question 4:

Listen to the short conversation and determine the main topic of discussion.

  1. 試験の範囲が広いですね
  2. 試験は午後からです
  3. 試験会場は図書館です
  4. 試験の合格点は高いですよ

Remember to listen attentively, take notes if necessary, and choose the best answer based on the information provided in the audio. Practicing with a variety of listening materials, including conversations, announcements, and lectures, will improve your ability to comprehend spoken Japanese and successfully answer questions in the NAT exam's listening section.

Strategies for Success in the NAT Exam Reading Section

The reading section of the NAT exam evaluates your comprehension and interpretation of written Japanese. Employing effective strategies will help you navigate through the reading passages and answer the questions accurately. Here are some strategies for success:

  • Skim the Passage: Before diving into the questions, take a quick glance at the passage to get a general idea of its topic, structure, and key points. Skimming helps you anticipate the content and better comprehend the details as you read.
  • Highlight Keywords: While reading the passage, underline or highlight keywords and phrases that provide important information or indicate the main ideas. This will help you focus on relevant details when answering the questions.
  • Understand Question Types: Familiarize yourself with different question types in the reading section, such as multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blanks, or true/false. Understanding the question requirements will allow you to approach each question strategically and save time.
  • Read Carefully: Read each question carefully to grasp what it is asking for. Pay attention to specific instructions, such as selecting the best answer, choosing multiple correct options, or completing a sentence. Analyzing the questions thoroughly will guide you to the relevant parts of the passage.
  • Use Contextual Clues: When encountering unfamiliar words or phrases, rely on contextual clues within the passage to infer their meanings. Understanding the context will enable you to choose the most appropriate answer and avoid confusion.
  • Scan for Specific Information: For questions that require finding specific information within the passage, utilize scanning techniques. Scan the passage quickly, focusing on headings, keywords, and numbers that match the question requirements. This technique saves time and helps you locate the relevant information efficiently.
  • Pace Yourself: The reading section often has time constraints, so manage your time wisely. Allocate sufficient time for each passage and avoid getting stuck on difficult questions. If a question seems too challenging, move on and come back to it later if time permits.
  • Practice Active Reading: Engage actively with the passage by making mental connections, summarizing paragraphs, and predicting possible answers before reading the options. Active reading enhances comprehension and helps you retain information.
  • Review Your Answers: After answering each question, take a moment to review your choice. Double-check if the selected answer aligns with the question requirements and the information in the passage. Be cautious of negative phrasing or distractors that may mislead you.
  • Build Vocabulary and Reading Skills: Enhance your reading abilities by regularly exposing yourself to Japanese texts, such as news articles, novels, or online blogs. Expand your vocabulary and practice reading comprehension to develop a solid foundation for the NAT exam's reading section.

    • By employing these strategies, you can approach the NAT exam's reading section with confidence and effectively demonstrate your understanding of written Japanese. Regular practice, exposure to different reading materials, and attention to detail will significantly improve your performance in this section.

    Frequently Asked Questions on National Aptitude Test (NAT) in Japan

    Question 1. What does the NAT measure?
    Answer: The NAT measures a candidate's academic abilities and skills in areas such as language, mathematics, and logical reasoning.
    Question 2. How many sections are there in the NAT exam?
    Answer: The NAT exam consists of five sections: Language Knowledge, Reading Comprehension, Mathematics, Logical Reasoning, and English.
    Question 3. What is the time duration for the NAT exam?
    Answer: The NAT exam is typically conducted within a time frame of two to three hours, depending on the specific version of the test.
    Question 4. Are calculators allowed in the Mathematics section of the NAT exam?
    Answer: No, calculators are not allowed in the Mathematics section. Candidates are expected to perform calculations manually.
    Question 5. What is the passing score for the NAT exam?
    Answer: The passing score for the NAT exam may vary depending on the specific institution or organization that administers the test. It is recommended to check the requirements of the intended institution.
    Question 6. How often is the NAT exam conducted?
    Answer: The NAT exam is usually conducted multiple times a year, with specific dates and registration periods announced in advance.
    Question 7. Can I retake the NAT exam if I am not satisfied with my score?
    Answer: Yes, candidates are generally allowed to retake the NAT exam if they wish to improve their score. However, specific rules and limitations may apply, so it is advisable to check with the relevant testing authority.
    Question 8. Are there any age restrictions to take the NAT exam?
    Answer: There are usually no age restrictions for taking the NAT exam. It is open to individuals of all ages who meet the eligibility criteria.
    Question 9. What study materials are available for NAT exam preparation?
    Answer: Various study materials such as textbooks, practice books, online resources, and sample tests are available to help candidates prepare for the NAT exam.
    Question 10. How can I register for the NAT exam?
    Answer: Registration procedures for the NAT exam may vary depending on the testing authority. Typically, candidates need to visit the official website or contact the designated registration center for instructions on how to register.
    Question 11. What is the format of the Language Knowledge section in the NAT exam?
    Answer: The Language Knowledge section usually tests candidates' understanding of grammar, vocabulary, and usage through multiple-choice or fill-in-the-blank questions.
    Question 12. What skills does the Reading Comprehension section of the NAT exam assess?
    Answer: The Reading Comprehension section assesses candidates' ability to understand and analyze written passages, draw conclusions, and answer questions based on the given text.
    Question 13. How can I improve my logical reasoning skills for the NAT exam?
    Answer: Improving logical reasoning skills can be achieved through practice and exposure to logical puzzles, critical thinking exercises, and problem-solving activities.
    Question 14. Does the NAT exam include essay writing?
    Answer: The NAT exam may include a writing section where candidates are required to write short essays or paragraphs on given topics within a specified time limit.
    Question 15. Are there any sample tests available for the NAT exam?
    Answer: Yes, sample tests are often available online or in preparation books specifically designed for the NAT exam. These can be valuable resources for familiarizing yourself with the exam format and types of questions.
    Question 16. Can I bring a dictionary to the NAT exam?
    Answer: The use of dictionaries or any other external reference materials is generally not permitted during the NAT exam. Candidates are expected to rely solely on their own knowledge and understanding.
    Question 17. How is the NAT exam scored?
    Answer: The NAT exam is typically scored based on a predetermined scale. Each section may have a different weightage, and the final score is calculated by considering the performance in all sections.
    Question 18. What is the significance of the NAT exam for university admissions?
    Answer: The NAT exam is often used by universities in Japan as part of their admission criteria to evaluate the academic potential and aptitude of prospective students.
    Question 19. Can I request special accommodations for the NAT exam if I have a disability?
    Answer: Yes, candidates with disabilities or special needs can often request accommodations such as extra time, a separate testing room, or accessibility aids. It is important to contact the testing authority in advance to make the necessary arrangements.
    Question 20. How long are NAT exam scores valid?
    Answer: The validity of NAT exam scores may vary depending on the institution or organization that requires them. It is advisable to check the specific validity period with the relevant authorities or institutions where you plan to submit your scores.