National public university entrance exams began across Japan on January 25, signaling the start of one of the most competitive times of the academic year. A staggering 235,719 students applied for places across 172 universities and 613 faculties, maintaining application levels from the previous year.
The atmosphere at examination venues was marked by palpable tension as students gathered early, clutching reference books and notes. At Kobe University, located in Hyogo Prefecture, 6,178 students competed for 1,915 available spots across 11 faculties, including the newly established Faculty of Systems Information Science. This year, the average competition ratio was approximately 3.2 times.
Students at the venue wore expressions of determination as they prepared for the challenges ahead. Many were spotted interacting with accompanying family members, waving them off as they entered the test locations. According to reports by Kyodo News, examination supervisors provided reminders and distributed question booklets as candidates waited for the start of their exams.
Meanwhile, the entrance exams at Ryukyu University on the island of Okinawa showcased similar patterns. There, 2,577 students aimed for 993 positions, resulting in a competition ratio of 2.6 times. Students engaged with last-minute reviews of their materials, attempting to calm pre-exam jitters.
Notably, the entrance exam season at Kyoto University featured the iconic statue of Professor Hikoichi Orida, which has become a tradition to motivate students. This year, the statue donned the likeness of 'Hanakappa,' a character from children's literature, complete with guidance for students passing by. The sign accompanying the statue stated, “Professor Orida contributed significantly to establishing the academic atmosphere at Kyoto University, fostering spring, summer, autumn, and winter academic vigor.”
Details of national admission statistics highlight the competitiveness of the second-stage entrance exams. Other universities within Hyogo Prefecture, for example, received applications such as 1,760 for Hyogo Prefectural University, 212 for Hyogo University of Education, and 828 for Kobe City University of Foreign Studies. Each institution demonstrated similar competitive numbers, with average ratios across applications summarizing between 2.2 and 3.1.
The announcement dates for successful candidates vary across institutions, with results from the Prefectural University of Arts set to be released on March 5; the Prefectural Nursing University will follow on March 6; and the University of Nakamura on March 7. The overall acceptance process is expected to conclude on March 8 at Ryukyu University.
These entrance exams mark not just another academic hurdle but the embodiment of aspirations for many students. While the results may create pressure, they also open doors to higher education and career opportunities. The intense preparation, from multiple-choice assessments to the anticipation of results, reflects the desire for advancement within Japan's educational system.
Indeed, completing these entrance exams signifies more than passing tests; it is asserting one's ambition and readiness for future challenges. With results looming, students continue to wait, holding their breaths and hoping for favorable outcomes as the 2025 academic year begins.