Latest trends in national university entrance exams for 2026
In this series, we will be sharing information about university entrance exams and universities. Let's learn together.
The theme this time is "Latest trends in national university entrance exams for 2026".
We have supported over 1,500 students so far. This year, we have received many happy reports of success from our students. Congratulations! This year's results included a 100% success rate in the comprehensive selection process for private universities and a 100% success rate in the designated school recommendation process. Let's all work together to win admission.
What has changed in the 2026 entrance exams for national and public universities?
When it comes to entrance exams for national and public universities, the overwhelming majority of applicants were "general selection," which was determined by the common test and second exam at the beginning of the year.
But,The situation is gradually changing for the 2026 (Reiwa 8) entrance examinations. Now let's sort out the changes together.
Trend 1: The number of general selection slots is decreasing
Many people have the impression that national universities are mainly based on general entrance exams.The number of students accepted through the general selection process (also known as general entrance examinations) at national universities has been declining since 2015.
Currently, the wholeAbout 78%You might be wondering, "Well, then what about the remaining slots?"
The two things that are increasing are:
- Comprehensive selection
- School recommended type selection
Trends in recruitment numbers (national universities)
-General selection: 2015 80,899 people → 2026 75,050 people (-5,849 people)
・Comprehensive selection ・School recommendation selection:2015 15,237 people → 2026 21,294 people (+6,057 people)
What kind of entrance exams are the comprehensive selection and school recommendation selection?
For those who have heard the names but don't really understand the difference, we'll summarize the key points.
Comprehensive Selection (formerly known as AO Entrance Examination)
The comprehensive selection process was an entrance examination method that was called the "AO entrance examination" until 2021.
Unlike general selection, admission is not determined solely by test scores.Comprehensive evaluation including personality, ability, and attitude towards workIt's an entrance exam.
School recommendation selection (formerly known as recommendation entrance examination)
School recommendation selection is an entrance examination method that was called "recommendation entrance examination" until 2021.
as its name suggests,Applying with a recommendation from a teacherThis also includes designated school recommendations for entrance examinations.
In the past, there was an image that "going to university through recommendation was a special route."
But now it's different. These things are no longer "special"Its importance is increasing as a "realistic option" to get closer to passing the examIt would be better to think of it this way.
Future Exam Strategy: Don't rely solely on general entrance exams
From the flow so far, we can say that future test takers A strategy that takes into account comprehensive and school recommendation-based selection, rather than just general entrance exams, is needed. That is to say.
The increase in entrance exam options means that, if you look at it from a different perspective,More opportunitiesThat's what it means.
The important thing is to gather information early and choose the exam method that suits you best.
Especially in the case of school recommendation selection,Grades are importantIn most cases, the grade is1st semester of 1st year of high school to 1st semester of 3rd year of high schoolThe focus is on the grades.
That is whyA great start right after entering high schoolrecommend.
Summary
Due to changes in entrance exams, "information" is becoming more important than ever when it comes to university entrance exams.
Even if students start gathering information hastily in their third year of high school, there are cases where they do not have enough time to fully consider their options.
Start choosing your child's preferred school at home, little by little, as early as possible.
If you don't know how to find out, firstGet a university brochureIt doesn't matter where you start.
I'm sure you'll have some unexpected "good encounters."
News
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Article Author
Satoshi Akagawa
Online University Entrance Exam Prep School JADE
Since graduating from university, he has worked in the education industry, teaching entrance exams for junior high school, high school, and university. He has experience as a school principal, a new business division manager, and an executive officer. His strength is his ability to teach to each student individually, based on his many years of teaching experience.
