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[ Home ](https://mdster.com) 2. [ Neurology ](https://mdster.com/speciality/neurology) 3. JSN JSN Exam Preparation ====================== Japanese Society of Neurology Specialist Examination Japanese Society of Neurology, under the Japan Medical Specialty Board certification framework Japan The Japanese Society of Neurology conducts the specialist examination in neurological medicine for eligible physicians completing the prescribed training pathway. Under the current new-system pathway, candidates complete written and oral/practical stages, with certification subject to the Japan Medical Specialty Board's review. First-Stage Written Examination Second-Stage Interview Examination — Oral and Practical 5,236+ Questions 5,745+ Flashcards About the JSN Exam -------------------- The Japanese Society of Neurology Specialist Examination is the benchmark certification assessment for neurologists practicing in Japan, administered by the Japanese Society of Neurology (JSN) under the Japan Medical Specialty Board certification framework. The examination validates comprehensive clinical competency, theoretical knowledge, and practical diagnostic skills across the entire spectrum of neurological disorders. Achieving board certification confers official specialist status in neurological medicine, recognizing independent clinical excellence in tertiary care, hospital medicine, and academic neurology. ### Eligibility Candidates must hold an active Japanese medical license and have completed the mandatory two-year initial clinical residency, followed by accredited subspecialty residency training in neurology (typically at least three years at accredited core and affiliated training facilities). Under the new medical specialist system, candidates must fulfill core internal medicine board requirements (such as board certification or passing the General Internal Medicine specialist examination) and submit an approved clinical portfolio of documented neurological inpatient and outpatient cases verified by certified training mentors. ### Exam Format The examination is divided into two sequential stages. The First-Stage Written Examination consists of 200 multiple-choice questions (100 compulsory questions and 100 general or extended clinical-case scenarios) using single-answer and specified multiple-answer formats. Candidates who pass the written stage advance to the Second-Stage Interview Examination, which comprises two 20-minute stations: one station evaluating practical bedside neurological examination skills and technique, and the second station evaluating clinical reasoning, pathology, and disease management based on documented case experiences. ### Duration The First-Stage Written Examination runs for approximately 4 hours of test time (typically scheduled across morning and afternoon sessions from 10:30 to 15:10). The Second-Stage Interview Examination lasts approximately 40 minutes in total, divided into two distinct 20-minute interview and practical stations. ### Passing Criteria A passing standard is established independently for both stages by the JSN Examination Committee. For the written examination, candidates must achieve a passing score across both compulsory questions and clinical case vignettes, with criteria often anchored to criterion-referenced and norm-referenced scoring benchmarks. The practical and oral stage requires satisfactory performance in physical diagnostic techniques and demonstrated case mastery evaluated by two independent examiner pairs. ### Exam Fees The First-Stage Written Examination fee is ¥30,000 JPY, and the Second-Stage Interview Examination fee is ¥20,000 JPY. Successful candidates are also subject to a specialist certification registration fee of ¥10,000 JPY. ### Exam Frequency The examination is held once annually, with the First-Stage Written Examination conducted in early autumn (typically October) and the Second-Stage Oral/Practical Examination conducted in November. ### Registration Process Eligible candidates must declare their intention to sit the exam via the official JSN member portal (MyWeb) during the designated spring announcement period (typically April to May). Formal application dossiers—including verified case log summaries, program director endorsements, and academic presentation credentials—must be submitted electronically and by post during the official filing window in June, followed by payment of the written examination fee. JSN Key Syllabus Topics ------------------------- Core topics and subject areas covered in the JSN examination ### Cerebrovascular Diseases and Stroke Acute ischemic stroke protocols, thrombolytic and endovascular indications, intracerebral and subarachnoid hemorrhage management, cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, and secondary stroke prevention guidelines. ~15-20% ### Neurodegenerative and Movement Disorders Parkinson's disease, atypical parkinsonian syndromes (PSP, MSA, CBD), Huntington's disease, tremor disorders, dystonia, and chorea diagnostic criteria and modern pharmacotherapies. ~12-15% ### Dementia and Cognitive Impairment Alzheimer's disease biomarkers and disease-modifying therapies, dementia with Lewy bodies, frontotemporal lobar degeneration, vascular dementia, and reversible cognitive decline etiologies. ~10-12% ### Neuroimmunological and Demyelinating Disorders Multiple sclerosis phenotypes, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), MOGAD, autoimmune encephalitis, paraneoplastic syndromes, and targeted immunomodulatory treatments. ~10-12% ### Peripheral Neuropathy and Autonomic Disorders Guillain-Barré syndrome, CIDP, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, diabetic and toxic polyneuropathies, amyloid neuropathy, and dysautonomia evaluation. ~8-10% ### Neuromuscular Junction and Muscle Disorders Myasthenia gravis, Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome, muscular dystrophies, inflammatory myopathies (dermatomyositis, polymyositis, inclusion body myositis), and mitochondrial cytopathies. ~8-10% ### Epilepsy and Paroxysmal Neurological Conditions ILAE seizure classification, status epilepticus protocols, electroencephalography (EEG) wave pattern interpretation, pharmacology of antiseizure medications, and sleep-related neurology. ~8-10% ### Neuroinfectious and Inflammatory Diseases Bacterial and viral meningitis, herpes simplex encephalitis, neurotuberculosis, prion diseases (Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease), and fungal or opportunistic central nervous system infections. ~5-8% ### Headache and Craniofacial Pain Disorders ICHD-3 classifications, migraine pathophysiology and CGRP-targeted therapeutics, cluster headache, trigeminal neuralgia, and secondary headache red flags. ~5-8% ### Neuro-oncology and Spinal Cord Pathology Primary central nervous system tumors, metastatic spinal cord compression, cervical spondylotic myelopathy, non-compressive myelopathies, and neurofibromatosis. ~5-7% ### Clinical Neurophysiology and Diagnostic Neuroimaging Electromyography (EMG), nerve conduction studies (NCS), visual and somatosensory evoked potentials, brain and spinal MRI/MRA interpretation, and SPECT/PET neuroimaging. ~8-10% **11** key topics covered Start Your JSN Preparation Today ---------------------------------- Comprehensive study materials designed to help you pass the JSN with confidence [ Get Started Free ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) No credit card required • 5-day free trial Everything You Need to Pass the JSN ------------------------------------- A complete preparation platform with tools designed for Neurology professionals ### Practice Questions 5,236+ questions across MCQ, SAQ, SOE formats with detailed explanations and references ### Flashcards 5,745+ flashcards for active recall — mark known and unknown cards to focus on weak areas ### Timed Mock Exams Simulate real exam conditions with timed sessions, customisable question counts, and topic filters ### AI-Powered Q&A Ask follow-up questions on any topic and get instant, contextual answers with references ### Performance Analytics Track your progress, identify weak areas, and monitor your exam readiness with detailed analytics JSN Exam Structure -------------------- Our materials cover all parts of the JSN examination ### First-Stage Written Examination The First-Stage Written Examination of the Japanese Society of Neurology (JSN) Specialist Examination assesses a candidate's comprehensive medical knowledge across the breadth of adult and pediatric clinical neurology. It evaluates foundational neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, neuropathology, neurogenetics, pharmacology, diagnostic imaging, and disease mechanisms alongside practical clinical decision-making. Successful completion qualifies candidates to advance to the second-stage oral and clinical bedside examination. Multiple-choice written examination consisting of 200 questions (100 compulsory core questions and 100 general and extended clinical-case questions) utilizing single-answer (best-of-five) and specified multiple-selection formats. Approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes total administration time (typically scheduled from 10:30 to 15:10, split into two testing sessions with an intervening lunch break). Pass: Criterion-referenced scoring set annually by the JSN Examination Committee; examinees are typically expected to achieve approximately 70% or higher on compulsory questions and an overall passing mark generally around 60–65%, with minimum threshold requirements across both sections. Key Topics Cerebrovascular Disease & Stroke Movement Disorders & Neurodegenerative Diseases Neuromuscular Disorders & Motor Neuron Diseases Dementia & Cognitive Disorders Neuroimmunological & Demyelinating Disorders Epilepsy, Seizures & Sleep Disorders +3 more ### Second-Stage Interview Examination — Oral and Practical The Second-Stage Interview Examination is the final practical assessment for certification by the Japanese Society of Neurology under the Japan Medical Specialty Board framework. It rigorously evaluates a candidate's real-time neurological examination technique, anatomical localization ability, and clinical diagnostic reasoning through structured interactions with senior examiners. The exam also scrutinizes the candidate's documented clinical experience and portfolio of submitted cases to verify competency in independent neurological care. Structured two-station oral and practical examination (Station 1: Hands-on practical neurological examination technique; Station 2: Oral viva voce based on documented clinical experience and submitted case portfolios) 40 minutes total (two consecutive 20-minute stations) Pass: Criterion-referenced scoring based on standardized rubrics across both stations; candidates must achieve a satisfactory consensus rating from pairs of examiners in clinical competence, examination fluency, and medical knowledge. Key Topics Neurological Physical Examination Technique Clinical Neuroanatomy and Lesion Localization Submitted Case Portfolio and Diagnostic Rationale Acute and Emergency Neurological Management Interpretation of Diagnostic Modalities Medical Ethics, Communication, and Professionalism How to Prepare for the JSN ---------------------------- A practical guide to help you plan your JSN preparation effectively ### Recommended Timeline 10-12 months of structured clinical and didactic review, aligning daily clinical practice with textbook systematic revision and case report compilation. ### Study Tips - Review the clinical guidelines published by the Japanese Society of Neurology, especially recent updates on stroke, epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis. - Systematically practice neuroimaging (MRI/CT/SPECT) and electrophysiological reading (EEG, EMG, and NCS waveforms) under timed conditions. - Thoroughly analyze and master your submitted 10-20 case summaries, ensuring you can explain diagnosis, pathophysiology, and management alternatives down to primary literature evidence. - Form dedicated peer-review mock interview groups to rehearse standard neurological physical examination techniques smoothly and confidently within 20 minutes. - Solve all published past questions (kako-mon) from previous JSN examinations to understand question phrasing, compulsory question traps, and recurring disease scenarios. - Stay abreast of novel molecularly targeted medications (e.g., anti-amyloid antibodies, CGRP inhibitors, complement and FcRn inhibitors) approved in Japan in recent years. ### High-Yield Topics - Acute stroke protocols including tPA and thrombectomy criteria, infarct localization, and secondary prophylaxis - Differential diagnosis of parkinsonism based on clinical criteria and DaTscan / MIBG myocardial scintigraphy - Biomarker interpretation for Alzheimer's disease, NMOSD, and anti-neuronal surface antibodies - Nerve conduction study patterns differentiating demyelinating versus axonal polyneuropathies - Emergency management and algorithm-driven escalation for generalized convulsive status epilepticus - Differential diagnostic approaches to subacute weakness, ptosis, and respiratory insufficiency in neuromuscular disease ### Common Pitfalls - Neglecting compulsory questions (Hisshu) in the written paper, which require a baseline pass standard regardless of general question performance - Failing to rehearse hands-on neurological examination steps, leading to awkward or incomplete cranial nerve and reflex demonstration during the oral practical - Superficial familiarity with one's own submitted portfolio cases, leaving candidates vulnerable during rigorous examiner questioning on pathophysiology and treatment rationale - Over-focusing on rare genetic diseases while under-preparing common emergency neurology scenarios such as stroke and status epilepticus - Underestimating the complexity of specified multiple-choice questions requiring exact selection of multiple correct answers ### Recommended Resources - Japanese Society of Neurology Official Guidelines (Stroke, Parkinson's Disease, Epilepsy, Dementia, Headache, etc.) - Clinical Neurology (Rinsho Shinkeigaku) — Official Journal of the Japanese Society of Neurology - Merritt's Neurology or Adams and Victor's Principles of Neurology (Standard Reference Textbooks) - Neurological Examination Made Easy / Practical Neurological Assessment Manuals - JSN Specialist Exam Past Question Compilations and Examination Handbooks issued via MyWeb Study Pathways ---------------- Choose the pathway that matches your JSN preparation stage ### Neurology Core Pathway Core pathway for Neurology covering foundational exams and initial certification steps. #### What's Included 1,487 MCQ Questions 793 SAQ Questions 2,952 Flashcards 5,232 total study resources #### Exam Coverage JSN First-Stage Written Examination [ Start Learning ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) ### Neurology Advanced Pathway Advanced pathway for Neurology covering final exams, oral assessments, and advanced clinical evaluations. #### What's Included 1,690 MCQ Questions 1,166 SAQ Questions 100 SOE Questions 2,793 Flashcards 5,749 total study resources #### Exam Coverage JSN Second-Stage Interview Examination — Oral and Practical [ Start Learning ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) Last refreshed: October 2026 Flexible Pricing Plans ------------------------ Choose the plan that fits your JSN study schedule ### Try Risk-Free for 5 Days Start your free trial today and get full access to all JSN features\*. **No credit card required**. Cancel anytime. No Commitment! Full platform access All study materials Analytics & tracking Cancel anytime \* AI SOE Examiner is limited to 10 cases monthly for Advanced & Bundle subscribers. ### Neurology Core Pathway Core pathway for Neurology covering foundational exams and initial certification steps. #### Monthly Flexible month-to-month $12.00 /month Cancel anytime Immediate access Save 8% #### 3 Months Popular Great for exam cycles $11.00 /month Billed $33.00 every 3 months Save 8% vs monthly Perfect for exam cycles Save 17% #### 6 Months Maximum savings $10.00 /month Billed $60.00 every 6 months Save 17% vs monthly Best value for serious learners ### Neurology Advanced Pathway Advanced pathway for Neurology covering final exams, oral assessments, and advanced clinical evaluations. #### Monthly Flexible month-to-month $15.00 /month Cancel anytime Immediate access Save 13% #### 3 Months Popular Great for exam cycles $13.00 /month Billed $39.00 every 3 months Save 13% vs monthly Perfect for exam cycles Save 20% #### 6 Months Maximum savings $12.00 /month Billed $72.00 every 6 months Save 20% vs monthly Best value for serious learners ### Neurology Bundle (Core + Advanced) Bundle subscription for Neurology: Core + Advanced pathways with all features included. #### Monthly Flexible month-to-month $20.00 /month Cancel anytime Immediate access Save 15% #### 3 Months Popular Great for exam cycles $17.00 /month Billed $51.00 every 3 months Save 15% vs monthly Perfect for exam cycles Save 25% #### 6 Months Maximum savings $15.00 /month Billed $90.00 every 6 months Save 25% vs monthly Best value for serious learners Latest JSN Updates -------------------- Recent changes and developments for the JSN examination 2024 ### Transition Regulations for General Medical Specialist Board Certification The JSN updated its specialist eligibility rules to harmonize transitional criteria with the Japan Medical Specialty Board framework, formalizing distinct portfolio requirements for cohorts that started under old versus new residency systems. Candidates should verify specific transitional status via the official JSN secretariat. 2025 ### Standardized Integration of Novel Neuroimmunological and Amyloid Therapies Examination question banks have incorporated modern therapeutic algorithms, including monoclonal antibodies for Alzheimer's disease and targeted biologics for generalized myasthenia gravis and NMOSD, reflecting contemporary clinical practice guidelines in Japan. 2026 ### Digital Application and MyWeb Portfolio Synchronization Examination notifications and application workflows have been fully digitized within the JSN MyWeb system, mandating electronic qualification confirmation and score notifications across both stages. Candidates should verify all current administrative directives on neurology-jp.org. Updates are based on publicly available information and may not reflect the very latest changes. Always verify with the official Japanese Society of Neurology, under the Japan Medical Specialty Board certification framework website. Related Neurology Exams ------------------------- Other examinations in Neurology you may be interested in [ ### ABHS Arab Board of Health Specializations Arab countries ](https://mdster.com/speciality/neurology/abhs-neurology) [ ### ABN Título de Especialista em Neurologia Brazil ](https://mdster.com/speciality/neurology/abn) [ ### ABPN American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology USA ](https://mdster.com/speciality/neurology/abpn-neurology) [ ### AOBNP American Osteopathic Board of Neurology and Psychiatry USA ](https://mdster.com/speciality/neurology/aobnp-neurology) [ ### DrNB Doctorate National Board in Neurology India ](https://mdster.com/speciality/neurology/drnb) [ ### EBN European Board of Neurology Europe; international candidates accepted ](https://mdster.com/speciality/neurology/ebn) Frequently Asked Questions ---------------------------- Everything you need to know about JSN preparation ### What is the general eligibility requirement to sit the JSN Specialist Examination? Candidates must possess a valid Japanese medical license, have completed the two-year initial clinical residency, and have fulfilled at least three years of accredited senior neurology specialist residency under the Japan Medical Specialty Board system. In addition, candidates must have qualified in the core internal medicine specialty examination and submitted verified clinical case experience portfolios. ### What is the format and question breakdown of the First-Stage Written Examination? The written examination consists of 200 questions administered over a single day. It includes 100 compulsory (Hisshu) questions assessing fundamental neurological knowledge and 100 general and extended clinical-case problem questions testing clinical reasoning and disease management. ### What occurs during the Second-Stage Interview Examination? The second stage features two consecutive 20-minute stations conducted by panels of two senior specialist examiners. One station assesses bedside practical neurological examination technique and maneuver precision, while the other evaluates diagnostic depth, clinical judgment, and case knowledge centered on the candidate's submitted case logs. ### What is the historical pass rate for the Japanese Society of Neurology Specialist Examination? The overall pass rate typically ranges between 75% and 85% for first-time applicants who have completed accredited training pathways. High success rates reflect rigorous pre-examination screening of clinical caseloads and intensive structured residency training, though candidates must clear both written and oral thresholds. ### What happens if a candidate passes the written stage but fails the interview stage? Under JSN specialist examination regulations, candidates who pass the First-Stage Written Examination are granted an exemption from retaking the written exam for up to five years. During this eligibility window, they may attempt the Second-Stage Interview Examination up to three times without having to resit the 200-question written paper. ### What are the total costs associated with sitting the JSN Specialist Examination? The examination fees include ¥30,000 JPY for the First-Stage Written Examination and ¥20,000 JPY for the Second-Stage Interview Examination. Following successful passage of both stages, a specialist registration fee of ¥10,000 JPY is required for formal credential issuance. ### How long should candidates prepare for this examination? Most candidates dedicate between 6 and 12 months to structured exam preparation alongside their clinical duties. Intensive study generally ramps up 4 to 6 months prior to the October written exam, focusing on guideline reviews, past exam papers, and practical oral simulation. ### Are neuroimaging and electrophysiological tests tested extensively in the exam? Yes, neuroimaging and neurophysiology are high-yield components across both stages. Candidates are expected to accurately interpret brain and spine MRI/CT scans, SPECT/DaTscan functional imaging, standard EEG montages, and nerve conduction study / electromyography waveforms. ### Can doctors from specialties other than internal medicine sit the neurology specialist exam? Under the Japan Medical Specialty Board double-board framework, internal medicine is the standard primary core specialty prerequisite. Special pathway candidates should consult the JSN credentialing board directly, as specific dual-training and grandfathering transitional provisions exist for select related disciplines. ### Where are the examination stages conducted? The examinations are conventionally held in designated testing and conference venues in central Tokyo, such as Toshi Center Hotel. Exact venue allocations and arrival time slots are dispatched to candidates individually via the official MyWeb portal after application screening. Ready to Pass the JSN? ------------------------ Join medical professionals who are preparing for the Japanese Society of Neurology Specialist Examination with MDster [ Get Started Free ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) No credit card required • Cancel anytime [ MDster home ](/ "MDster home") Master your medical exams with evidence-based learning. 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