Lviv will host the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) for the first time. Nearly 50 people have already registered within the first three days since registration opened. The exam will take place in December, while registration, which opened on 18 August, will remain available until 8 September.
Previously, the Japanese-language proficiency test in Ukraine was available only in Kyiv. This year, at the initiative of Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, the Japan Foundation and Japan Desk Lviv, a platform operated by the Investment and Projects Office of Lviv City Council, the exam will be held in Lviv for the first time. This was announced by Nazar Bilyk, Project Coordinator at Japan Desk Lviv of the Investment and Projects Office of Lviv City Council.
“Nearly 50 people have registered within the first three days. This year, at the initiative of Ivan Franko National University and Japan Desk Lviv, the exam will be held in Lviv for the first time. Our university has the Professor Yaroslav Dashkevych Department of Oriental Studies, which is responsible for administering the exam,” said Nazar Bilyk.
Japan Desk Lviv is a municipal Japanese-language business support service established in Lviv last year.
According to the Japan Desk Lviv Project Coordinator, the exam will be administered by university staff.
“On the day of the test, once participants have completed their papers, the materials are sealed in envelopes and sent to Japan. The Japanese side is responsible for checking the documents and evaluating the examination papers. The lecturers here in Lviv serve as examiners and handle all the technical arrangements, including registration and payment processing,” explained Nazar Bilyk.
He will also take the Japanese-language proficiency test in Lviv this year.
“I remember that last year and the year before, on the very first day of registration in Kyiv, all the available places were taken almost immediately. People were sitting up at night trying to complete the required forms. Some levels were already fully booked on the first day. Those who did not make it had to wait another full year for the next exam. Some of my acquaintances even travelled abroad to take it. So having the opportunity to take the exam in Lviv is a very positive development,” said Nazar Bilyk.
Following the examination, the Japanese side issues a certificate with all the necessary stamps and certifications. This document serves as the main official proof of Japanese-language proficiency for applicants to Japanese companies and universities.
The organisers intend to continue holding the Japanese-language proficiency test in Lviv in the future.
Registration for the exam is open until 8 September and must be completed in person at the Professor Yaroslav Dashkevych Department of Oriental Studies of Ivan Franko National University of Lviv (1 Universytetska Street, Room 239), on weekdays from 10:00 to 13:00.
The participation fee is UAH 3,500, regardless of the level selected. Due to security requirements and the need to hold the examination in a shelter, the number of places is limited. This year, approximately 80 participants will be able to take the exam in Lviv.
Detailed information is available here.
Background
Japan Desk Lviv was launched in Lviv in July 2025 as a service aimed at strengthening cooperation between Lviv and Japan. During its first year of operation, the team has developed partnerships in education, culture, tourism and business, while also supporting connections between Japanese companies and Lviv-based businesses. Another area of focus has been cooperation with Japanese partners in innovation and defence technologies.
The next stage in developing Ukrainian-Japanese economic cooperation will be the Lviv Japan Business Forum, which will take place in Lviv this autumn. The forum will bring together representatives of businesses, public institutions and international organisations from Ukraine and Japan. Further details about the programme and the application form will be announced separately.
Illustrative photo.
