Practical English Proficiency Test (Eiken(R))

foreign language

Known as the "Eiken(R)", it is a major English proficiency test for daily life. The EIKEN(R) is a major English proficiency test for daily life, known as the "Eiken(R)!

The easiest level, Level 5, is at the beginning junior high school level.

The Practical English Proficiency Test (Eiken(R)), which began in 1963, is the most famous English proficiency test in Japan, comprehensively testing the four skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
The easiest level of the test is Level 5, which is the beginning level for junior high school students. It is recommended that first-year junior high school students and even elementary school students who have improved their English skills through studies such as the Eiken Jr.(R) test try it. The most difficult level is Level 1, which is the advanced level for university students. Although this is a very high hurdle, if you have the ability to pass this level, you will be recognized as an expert in English even in adult society.
There are seven Eiken(R) levels between Kyo 5 and Kyo 1, including Kyo 2 and Kyo 1. All of them have a listening test in addition to the written test. Most of the questions are about everyday matters. As the level increases, topics related to domestic and international news are also frequently asked.

Level 3 and above also have an interview in English.

The number of English words to be memorized for each level is shown below: approximately 600 words for Level 5, approximately 1,300 words for Level 4 (middle school level), and approximately 2,100 words for Level 3 (junior high school graduation level), with each level requiring more memorization.
From the third level, the ability to "speak" is also required. This is because an interview is conducted as the second stage of the examination. After reading a "question card" with English sentences and illustrations, the applicant answers five questions from the interviewer in English.
The pass/fail notification will show the scores (graphs) for each area, such as listening, reading, and writing, which can be used as a reference for further study. Recently, an increasing number of high schools are giving students an advantage in entrance examinations if they have passed the Eiken(R) test. Let's do our best to pass the Level 3 test by the time you graduate from junior high school.

Examination Information

What are the eligibility requirements?	No age limit. As a rule of thumb, junior high school students and older are eligible.
What is the test date?	Three times a year. Held at 400 venues in about 230 cities nationwide. Some venues are overseas, including London and New York.
What is the examination fee?	Varies depending on the grade, from 2500 yen for 5th grade to 8400 yen for 1st grade.
Can I take the group exam?	It is possible for a group of 10 or more people to register an application.