IT Passport / Applied IT Exam: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn about these nationally recognized IT certifications in Japan, including who can take them and what to expect from the exam process.
These are national certification exams designed to measure and prove your fundamental or advanced information technology skills to employers and industry professionals.
Who it's for
The exams are open to anyone. There are no specific educational requirements or age restrictions, meaning anyone interested in proving their technical proficiency can apply to take them.
What you get
By passing the exam, you receive a nationally recognized certification. This credential serves as official proof of your IT skills, helping you demonstrate your technical competency within the professional workforce. These certifications are categorized into different levels, such as the "Applied IT" (応用情報) and "Fundamental IT" (基本情報) standards, to reflect different depths of expertise.
What it costs you
To sit for these exams, you must pay an examination fee. While the exact amount can vary, the cost is approximately ¥7,500 per attempt.
The catch to know
There are two main challenges to keep in mind. First, the entire examination process is conducted exclusively in the Japanese language. Second, the exam content is highly theoretical, meaning you will need to master abstract concepts and technical frameworks rather than just practical, hands-on tasks.
How to apply
- Visit the official portal to review the specific examination details and availability.
- Select the specific level of exam you wish to take based on your current skill level.
- Register for a testing session through the official system.
- Complete the registration process and pay the required examination fee to secure your spot.