JAPEC Children's English Proficiency Test
It's a test for children to test their "listening and speaking skills." Don't worry about small mistakes! Don't be shy, let's try speaking in English first!
Level 6 can be taken from age 4!
The JAPEC Children's English Proficiency Test, which began in 1979, focuses on the development of listening and speaking skills in English. 37,000 students in total took the test in fiscal 2004. The test is designed for children of all ages. The easiest level, Level 6, can be taken by children as young as 4 years old, and the most difficult, Level 1, is for upper elementary school students, although some junior high school students have also taken the test.
The test differs from the Jido-Eiken in that all levels include a speaking test in which students answer interviewer's questions in English. First, they are asked their first name and other information in English, and then they introduce themselves in English. Next, they are asked to look at a picture and answer questions in English. In order to avoid being too nervous and not being able to demonstrate your ability, it is advisable to practice repeatedly as if you were in the real test.
How to familiarize yourself with English is important.
The standard for passing the test is a score of 60 or higher on a 100-point scale for Level 6, and a score of 70 or higher for Levels 5 to 1, plus 15 or higher on the 30-point speaking test. The basic purpose of the test is to familiarize students with English as much as possible before they enter junior high school and begin full-fledged English classes. The test is ideal for elementary school students, so please feel free to give it a try.
The test is available at English classes for children throughout Japan. Even if there is no such English class in your neighborhood, you can take the "Kodomo - e-ken" test via the Internet. Sample questions for each grade are also posted on the official website, so you can check what kind of questions you will be asked before taking the test.
Examination Information
| What are the eligibility requirements? | No age limit. As a rule of thumb, children 4 years old and up are eligible. |
|---|---|
| What is the test date? | Once a year. At public venues in Tokyo and Osaka and at group venues nationwide. |
| What is the examination fee? | Levels 6 and 5: 2,300 yen, Levels 4 and 3: 2,600 yen, Levels 2 and 1: 2,900 yen |
| Can I take the group exam? | Can be implemented in any classroom where English is taught to infants and children. |
contact information (for inquiries) (e.g. corporate phone number)
日本児童英語振興協会
〒564-0063 大阪府吹田市江坂町1-17-14
江坂吉川ビル5F
TEL 06-6339-1262
