Validity of the certificate

[tanuki]

Hello!

I have this question and I haven't found an answer yet, I hope you can answer it for me.

How long are the JLPT certificates valid?

I mean, if I take the 4th level (or, say, 2nd level, I'm speaking hypothetically) JLPT next year, how long will it be valid? Is it the same for all the levels?

Thanks in advance for your replies!

[Harisenbon]

There is no time limit on the validity of JLPT certificates.

[tanuki]

Thank you for the reply!

I'm glad it doesn't lose its validity! It's a relief!

[Kates]

Of course... keeping your Japanese at that level will be the challenge. ^^;

[james_scoltock]

Question is how do you maintain your level?
I took JLPT 3 in 2003, (failed, but only because of my lacklustre attempt at learning kanji), but even speaking with my girlfriend everyday I've lost so much, (I'm realising that now I'm due to take the test again in a matter of weeks!!!).

[Kates]

Well, you maintain it any way you can. Read, speak, write, listen. Those are the four 'magic keys' to success. If you want your Japanese to grow along the 'JLPT scale' (let's call it) then I suggest you get test books for the JLPT, or textbooks which the JLPT sort of bases itself off of. Popular ones that teach grammar in a bit of a patterned manner (instead of just teaching yourself whatever you come across) are:
* Japanese For Busy People
* Genki
* Youkoso
* Nakama

No one can really tell you HOW to maintain your Japanese... you have to find your own path, grasshopper. (: