Japan's 2026 Secondary Exams Underway Nationwide
As of February 25, 2026, Japan's national and public universities have commenced their highly anticipated secondary entrance examinations, known formally as the individual academic ability tests or niji shiken (二次試験). These exams mark the crucial second stage following the Common Test for University Admissions held earlier in January. Across the country, over 235,000 students are participating in the first round (前期日程, zenki nitchō), vying for spots in prestigious institutions.
In Niigata Prefecture, six key public and national universities are hosting these exams, drawing local and regional talent amid chilly winter conditions. Students bundled in coats and scarves arrived early at venues, their faces etched with determination and nerves. One examinee at Niigata University shared, "I want to deliver good results to my family and teachers who supported me."
The process tests not just knowledge but resilience, with exams spanning multiple days and subjects tailored to each faculty. Results for the first round at Niigata University, for instance, will be announced on March 8 via the university's website.
Recap of the Common Test Foundation
Before delving into secondary exams, it's essential to understand the pathway. The University Entrance Common Test (大学入学共通テスト, Daigaku Nyūgaku Kyōtsū Tesuto), conducted January 17-18, served as the preliminary hurdle. A total of 496,237 students applied, with 464,090 actually sitting the exams—a participation rate of 93.52%, up slightly from last year.
Average scores varied widely: Information I dropped to 56.59 points (out of 100), while physics hit a historic low of 45.55. Overall, the test's difficulty led to a "safety-oriented" approach among students, stabilizing applicant numbers for top schools but causing declines in later rounds.
| Subject | 2026 Avg (100pt scale) | 2025 Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Physics | 45.55 | Higher |
| Information I | 56.59 | Higher |
| Overall Trend | Decline in many | - |
This rigor filtered applicants, setting a competitive stage for secondary tests where universities assess deeper analytical skills through essays, math proofs, and interviews.
National Landscape: Stable Yet Selective
Nationwide, secondary exam applicants totaled 419,258 for all rounds—the lowest since 2001—with an overall ratio of 4.3 times capacity. For the kickoff first round, 235,315 students applied to 172 universities and 616 faculties: national universities at 2.8x ratio, public at 3.3x.
- National universities (81 unis, 407 faculties): 294,666 applicants, 3.9x ratio
- Public universities (94 unis, 218 faculties): 124,592 applicants, 5.6x ratio
- Humanities/Social sciences: Highest at 4.5x
Prep schools like Kawai Juku note stable top-university applications (98% capacity) but drops in mid-tier due to common test challenges. Tokyo University saw tense scenes with students focusing amid urban bustle.
Check detailed schedules and results at the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) site.
Spotlight on Niigata's Six Universities
Niigata Prefecture exemplifies regional dynamism, with six institutions hosting exams excluding Niigata Prefectural University:
- Niigata University: Flagship national uni, 2.5x ratio, exams Feb 25-27 across Ikarashi Campus faculties like humanities, science, engineering.
- Nagaoka University of Technology: Engineering focus, known for practical innovation.
- Joetsu University of Education: Teacher training hub.
- Niigata Prefectural Nursing University: Healthcare specialists.
- Nagaoka Institute of Design: Creative arts and design.
- Sanjo City University: Local economic development emphasis.
Niigata University prepared venues meticulously on Feb 24, urging early arrivals amid potential snow. For international students eyeing Japan, explore opportunities via scholarships and Japan higher ed jobs.
Student Experiences Amid High Tensions
"Super nervous, but I'll do my best as usual," echoed a Niigata examinee. High stakes amplify tensions: Japan's exam system correlates with youth stress, 20% of high schoolers reporting severe anxiety pre-common test. Cold snaps, flu precautions, and past disruptions like election noise (pre-Feb 8) add pressure.
Yet, motivation shines: Many credit family and cram school support. Hokkaido and Tohoku unis implemented flu measures, reflecting nationwide vigilance.
Career advice for post-exam paths includes professor ratings at Rate My Professor.Exam Formats and Preparation Insights
Secondary exams differ by uni: Typically 2-3 days, 3-5 subjects including essays (小論文), specialized math/physics, English speaking. Niigata Univ requires full attendance Feb 25-26 initially.
- Review common test synergies—descriptive strengths boost docking scores.
- Practice time management for long essays.
- Mock interviews for comprehensive selection.
AI like ChatGPT scored full marks in 9 common test subjects, signaling evolving prep tools—but bans on SNS sharing exam content apply from 2026.
Declining birthrates strain unis; private sector sees surges as alternatives.
Challenges: Weather, Stress, and Declines
Snow delayed some Tokyo exams earlier; Niigata urged traffic checks. Mental health: Post-pandemic, Japanese students face heightened pressure, with universities pushing support.
Applicant stability masks trends: Top publics/nationals full, but overall secondary down due to safety bids post-hard common test.
Implications for Higher Education Landscape
These exams shape Japan's future talent pool amid MEXT pushes for internationalization (400k+ intl students target met early). Niigata unis contribute to regional STEM, health needs.
Post-results, explore higher ed jobs or university jobs in Japan. Successful admits join vibrant campuses; others pivot to privates or vocational paths.
Future Outlook and Actionable Advice
Expect March announcements, then enrollment by late March. With AI integration and reforms, Japan's system evolves. Students: Debrief results, seek counseling. Parents: Celebrate efforts.
For careers, craft a winning academic CV. Niigata grads thrive in local industries—check professor salaries.
In summary, 2026 secondary exams highlight perseverance amid tensions, paving paths to Japan's esteemed public universities. Stay informed via official channels and resources like AcademicJobs.com.
Photo by Pourya Gohari on Unsplash
