Hello!

Starting today, this “University Guide” will deliver a wealth of information about university entrance exams and choosing a university in a way that is as easy to understand and gentle as possible. In our very first article, we’ll cover the absolute basics for those preparing for the upcoming exam season: “Where do I even start with university entrance exams?”

“I want to go to university, but I have no idea how to proceed…”

“I’ve just entered high school, and I’m a bit anxious about the exams.”

If you feel this way, we hope you can take your time to read through this without rushing.

1. When Should I Start Preparing for University Exams?

First, the question on many people’s minds is, “When should I start studying for exams?” The simple answer is, “The earlier, the better.” However, it is also true that “it is never too late to start.”

Generally, preparation for university entrance exams kicks into high gear during the summer of your third year of high school. But if possible, starting to prepare little by little during your first and second years will give you plenty of breathing room.

What’s particularly important is solidifying your “foundational skills” during your first and second years. For subjects that require cumulative learning, such as English and math, consistent study is the shortest path to passing.

2. What Does the Exam Process Look Like?

The general flow of university entrance exams involves the following steps:

(1) Choose Your Target University and Department

The first step is to think about “what kind of university you want to attend” and “what you want to study.” Research universities that fit you well, taking into account fields of study that interest you, future career goals, location, and campus atmosphere.

(2) Check the Exam Methods

Currently, Japanese university entrance exams primarily consist of three methods:

• Integrated Selection (formerly AO Admission): Focuses on your high school achievements, activities, and motivation.
• Recommendation-based Selection (Recommendation Admission): You apply with a recommendation from your high school.
• General Selection (General Admission): Your acceptance is determined by the “Common Test” (which replaced the Center Test) and individual exams held by each university.

Depending on your target university, the most advantageous method for you will vary. Checking these early will make planning much easier.

(3) Full-Scale Exam Study

Once you reach your third year of high school, most students enter “exam mode.” This is the time to take practice exams (mock tests) to assess your current abilities, overcome weak areas, and challenge past exam papers of your target universities.

3. How Should I Choose My Target University?

Not everyone has a “dream university” in mind right away, and that’s perfectly fine. Start by looking at your interests, personality, and vision for the future.

For example:

• If you like English → Faculty of Foreign Languages or International Studies
• If you want to help people → Faculties of Nursing, Education, or Social Welfare
• If you’re interested in making things → Faculty of Engineering or Design

Additionally, universities come in many shapes and sizes, ranging from “comprehensive universities” to “specialized colleges,” each with its own size and campus culture. We highly recommend visiting open campuses or checking out university brochures to see them with your own eyes.

4. How Do I Use Practice Exams and Regular School Tests?

Practice exams (mock tests) are a great chance to objectively assess your academic level. They show your probability of passing your target universities, providing valuable reference material for making decisions about your path.

Regular school tests are also crucial indicators, as they affect your GPA (internal evaluation points) and recommendation-based admissions. Doing well on your everyday school tests builds your foundational academic strength.

Please don’t think, “I did poorly on the practice exam, so it’s all over…” Practice exams are merely a tool to understand “where you stand right now.” Their true value lies in revealing what you need to do next.

5. Finally: Don’t Panic. Taking It Step-by-Step is Just Fine

Hearing the words “university entrance exams” might give you a stressful or harsh impression. But you don’t have to tackle everything all at once.

The key is to “consistently build on what you can do right now, step by step.” Just doing that will steadily move you forward.

It is completely fine to search for your own path at a pace that suits you. If you do that, the university entrance exam experience will undoubtedly become a massive opportunity in your life.

Thank you so much for reading to the end!

From here on, “University Guide” will continue to deliver plenty of helpful, friendly, and detailed information for choosing a university and preparing for exams. Please look forward to the next article!