An increase in difficulty levels for the Unified University Entrance Examination (共通テスト) has been a matter of deep concern for applicants across Japan. Following the revision in question pattern and grading system, nervousness has prevailed among students aspiring for university admission. In light of this, some measures and supportive messages are being disseminated to help students cope up with this looming pressure.
Education is highly valued in Japanese society and university entrance exams are considered crucial for shaping an individual's future. The recent perceived increase in examination difficulty has caused widespread anxiety amongst students, teachers, and parents alike, initiating a national conversation on the pressure of academic achievement and the mental health of students.
In the US and EU, university admissions involve a holistic review of applicants, considering grade point averages, extracurricular activities, personal statements, and sometimes interviews. The over-reliance on a single exam for university admissions in Japan contrasts this, causing a unique set of challenges and stresses.