Overview
The IT Passport Examination is a national information-technology exam run by the Information-technology Promotion Agency, Japan (IPA). It tests the basic IT knowledge that anyone needs to work with IT or to use it in their own job. It is the entry-level exam in IPA's series and is aimed at working people and students in any field, not only IT engineers.
The exam is computer-based and held throughout the year, so there is no single annual exam date.
Who can apply
IPA describes the exam as being for people who need basic IT knowledge to work in IT-related roles or to apply IT in their own work. The pages reviewed state no age, education or experience requirement.
Exam pattern
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Format | Computer-based testing (CBT) at a test venue |
| Questions | 100, multiple choice with four options |
| Time | 120 minutes |
| Schedule | Taken on a rolling basis through the year; the candidate picks the date and venue when applying |
Syllabus
The syllabus covers computer systems, databases, networks, information security, office tools, business knowledge, data use, systems thinking, legal compliance, and newer technologies such as AI, IoT and big data. As of the January 2026 update, IPA lists syllabus version 6.5; this update replaced the Subcontracting Act with the SME Transaction Appropriateness Act in the legal topics.
Important dates
The exam runs year-round by CBT.
Fees
The fee is 7,500 yen, including consumption tax, as listed on the IPA site in 2026. IPA also runs a voucher system for basic-level exams; check IPA's current voucher page for how it works.
How to apply
Applications are made on IPA's online exam website for CBT exams. During registration you choose your test date and venue.
After the exam
Pass announcements and certificate application are handled through IPA's pass-announcement and certificate pages. Confirm current procedures on IPA's site.
Preparation tips
Download the current syllabus and exam outline from IPA and study to that version.
Work through IPA's published past questions on the exam website.
How many questions are in the IT Passport exam?
100 multiple-choice questions in 120 minutes.
How much does it cost?
7,500 yen including tax, per IPA's fee page.
When can I take it?
Throughout the year by CBT, with the date and venue chosen at registration.