📌 What Is the EJU?

The EJU, or 日本留学試験 (Nihon Ryugaku Shiken), is an entrance exam designed for non-Japanese students who wish to enroll in Japanese universities. Administered by the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO), the test is conducted twice a year, in June and November, at various locations across Japan and other countries. This allows students from different regions to take the exam without needing to travel to Japan beforehand.

Unlike general standardized tests, the EJU is tailored to measure the specific skills and knowledge needed for academic success in Japan. It is designed to evaluate whether international students can keep up with university-level coursework, especially in subjects like mathematics, science, and social studies. For students aiming to enter engineering, medical, or business programs, achieving a competitive score is often a key admission requirement.

🌍 Who Needs to Take the EJU?

Not all universities in Japan require the EJU, but many public and private institutions use it as a major component of their admissions process. Some of the country’s most prestigious universities, such as the University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, Osaka University, and Tohoku University, require applicants to submit EJU scores alongside other academic records. Private universities, including Waseda University and Keio University, also use the test for specific programs.

Each university and department has its own requirements regarding which sections of the EJU are necessary for admission. Some programs may require only the Japanese language section, while others mandate additional subjects such as science or mathematics. It is essential for prospective students to check the admission guidelines of their target universities well in advance to ensure they are preparing for the correct exam components.

📝 What specific test subjects are included in the EJU?

The EJU is divided into four sections: Japanese as a Foreign Language, Science, Japan and the World, and Mathematics. Students select the subjects relevant to their intended field of study.

The Japanese as a Foreign Language section assesses academic Japanese skills required for university coursework. It includes reading, listening, and writing components, with a total score of 400 points. Reading and listening sections contribute 200 points, while the writing section accounts for 50 points. There is no speaking component in this section.

The Science section is required for students applying to engineering, medical, and other science-related programs. Test-takers choose two out of three subjects: physics, chemistry, or biology. The total score for this section is 200 points, and the level of difficulty is equivalent to that of a Japanese high school curriculum.

The Japan and the World section focuses on social sciences, covering topics related to Japanese history, politics, economics, and global affairs. This section is typically required for humanities and social science programs, with a maximum score of 200 points.

The Mathematics section is divided into two levels: Math Course 1 and Math Course 2. Course 1 is designed for humanities students and includes topics such as basic algebra, geometry, and statistics. Course 2 is for students applying to science and engineering programs and covers advanced topics like calculus, trigonometry, and probability. Both courses have a maximum score of 200 points.

Since each university sets its own minimum score requirements, students should research their chosen institutions' admission criteria to determine the score they need to achieve.

📆 EJU Registration and Exam Dates

Source: Elite Japanese Language School

The EJU is held twice a year, in June and November, and registration typically opens three months before the test date. Students can take the exam in Japan or at designated test centers in countries such as South Korea, China, Indonesia, and Thailand. Results are announced approximately one to two months after the exam. Since some universities only accept the most recent EJU scores, applicants should verify whether their target institution requires a specific test session for admission.

💡 Top Study Strategies for a High EJU Score

Preparing for the EJU requires a well-structured study plan. Mastering Japanese language skills is essential, as the exam demands strong reading and listening comprehension abilities. Using textbooks such as "Reading Training for the EJU" and "Listening Training for the EJU" can be highly beneficial. Practicing with past papers is also recommended, as it familiarizes students with the exam’s format and difficulty level.

For the science section, studying from Japanese high school textbooks is one of the best ways to match the level of the exam. Since EJU questions often require a solid understanding of concepts rather than simple memorization, solving past exam questions can help improve problem-solving skills.

Excelling in the Japan and the World section requires a good grasp of Japanese history, politics, and global issues. Reading Japanese newspapers and magazines can help build a strong foundation in this area.

Mathematics preparation depends on whether students need Math Course 1 or Math Course 2. Understanding which course is required for a particular program is crucial. Using EJU-specific math books and online practice resources can help improve accuracy and speed.

The Japanese writing section requires students to compose a short essay (200-300 characters). To succeed, students should practice structuring their essays with a clear introduction, supporting points, and a conclusion. Reading sample essays and seeking feedback from Japanese language instructors can enhance writing skills.

🎯 Best Resources for EJU Preparation

Several textbooks and online courses are available to aid EJU preparation. For students looking for expert guidance, LALALA Nihon partners with top language schools in Japan to provide specialized EJU prep courses and one-on-one tutoring tailored to each student’s needs. Whether you need help with Japanese language skills, mathematics, or science subjects, our partner schools offer structured programs designed to boost your score and improve your chances of university admission.

To find the best EJU preparation course for you, click here to learn more about our partnerships and how we can help you succeed!

Practicing past EJU exams is one of the most effective ways to prepare, as it allows students to simulate real test conditions. The official JASSO website provides sample questions and exam guidelines that can help students develop a deeper understanding of the exam’s expectations.

🛠 Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Many students struggle with time management during the exam. To address this, using a timer when practicing mock tests can help develop a strategy for allocating time efficiently. Since certain questions carry more weight, prioritizing them can maximize scores.

Japanese reading and writing can also be challenging for non-native speakers. Daily reading of Japanese newspapers and academic articles can improve comprehension, while writing short essays and getting feedback from native speakers can enhance writing skills.

For students who find math and science concepts difficult, joining EJU study groups or using visual learning techniques such as charts and diagrams can make complex topics more manageable.

📌 Final Thoughts

The EJU is a crucial step for international students aspiring to study at Japanese universities. By understanding the exam structure, preparing strategically, and using the right resources, students can maximize their scores and improve their chances of admission. Consistency and perseverance are key to achieving success.

For those who need expert guidance, LALALA Nihon offers personalized counseling to help international students navigate the EJU process, choose the right universities, and create a study plan tailored to their goals. Start preparing today, and take a step closer to fulfilling your dream of studying in Japan!