Examination Reform & Core Evaluation Policy
Starting with the entrance examination conducted in AY2026 (for AY2027 admission), Meiji Gakuen Elementary School has completely eliminated paper-based written testing. Instead, we observe children through group activities and behavioral observations to evaluate whether they can adapt smoothly and confidently to school life.
We place great importance on everyday habits, greeting manners, listening posture, and peer interaction. This examination assesses skills and qualities naturally formed in a child’s daily life through playing and learning how to express themselves. On exam day, children spend their time just as they would in kindergarten or nursery school.
Examination Structure by Course
Mirai Course (MC)
- Step 1: Prior parent-child interview
- Step 2: Group activities & free play on exam day
International Course (IC)
- Step 1: Prior parent-child interview (includes a daily English conversation interview for the child)
- Step 2: Group activities & free play on exam day (same as Mirai course)
- Step 3: English only games and activities.
Examples of Examination Activities
Group Activities (Understanding Instructions & Social Interaction)
Picture book storytelling, karuta, origami, crafts, coloring, mazes, physical movement games, and mini-games such as group-making games, rock-paper-scissors, etc.
Free Play (Cooperation & Initiative)
Ball play, ring toss, jump rope, creative building (cardboard, paper cups, Lego, etc.).
English Expression Activities (IC Applicants Only)
Warm-up exercises, English picture book reading, group activities in English.
Educational Intent Behind Activity Examples
- Coloring & Drawing
- Coloring helps children get accustomed to holding pencils properly and coloring within borders, laying the foundation for elementary school writing activities. Enjoying the process is prioritized over technical perfection.
- Karuta & Sugoroku
- Rule-based games teach turn-taking, coping with winning and losing, and socializing while developing vocabulary and numerical awareness.
- Clocks & Calendars
- No direct clock-reading questions (e.g., 'What time is it?'). Rather, a general awareness of time fosters smooth transition to school routines.
- Story Reading
- Engaging with stories broadens vocabulary and sparks imagination ('What happens next?', 'How does this character feel?').
- Physical & Outdoor Play
- Experiencing varied physical movements builds posture, body control, and emotional regulation.
- Free Play Assessment
- Selecting play independently, obeying rules, turn-taking, sharing, taking care of equipment, and switching emotional gears after winning or losing reveal self-direction and social adaptability.
English Activities in the Entrance Examination
We seek applicants with the English proficiency required to actively participate in classes conducted in English and to engage fully in school life following enrollment. The entrance examination comprehensively assesses applicants' listening comprehension, interactive communication skills in English, and pronunciation.
Key Evaluation Criteria
- Ability to listen to, understand, and act upon instructions given in English.
- Ability to communicate effectively in English during group activities.
Parent-Child Interview & English Interview
The interview is conducted with parent(s) and child together. Questions are addressed to both applicant and parent(s).
For International Course applicants, an English Interview for the child is conducted subsequently by native English teachers:
- Self-Introduction: A simple self-introduction prepared by the applicant.
- Daily Life Questions: Questions regarding daily life and kindergarten/nursery school.
- Native Teacher Exchange: Opportunity for the applicant to ask questions to the native teacher, engaging in simple conversational dialogue.
Examination Dates & Expectations
- November Entrance Exam: Sunday, November 15, 2026
- January Entrance Exam: Saturday, January 23, 2027 (Limited availability)
* Both courses follow the same schedule. Dual application (applying to both courses) is permitted.
Interview Schedule
| Applicant Category | Interview Dates |
|---|---|
| Applicants for the Mirai Course only | October 28, 29, 30, 31 November 1, 2, 4, 5, 8 |
| Applicants for both the Mirai Course and the International Course Applicants for the International Course only |
November 3, 7 (Interviews conducted in English) |
- Important Notes
- Please select your preferred date and time slot on the online application portal.
- Dual Applicants or International Course only applicants. Please select your preferred date and time for the English interview. (November 3 or 7).
Expectations for Applicants
- A willingness to take on challenges ('Let's try!')
- A cooperative attitude toward friends and peers
- A heart that respects both oneself and others
- English communication skills (specifically for International Course)
Background of Exam Revision & Post-Admission Promise
We want children to discover many things they love and are passionate about. Encountering experiences that spark curiosity ('I want to try that!', 'This looks fun!') promotes self-development. By replacing paper tests with activity-based evaluations, we focus on the child’s enthusiasm for learning and their independence.
- Note
- After enrollment in elementary school, we will continue to place strong emphasis on establishing solid foundational academic knowledge and nurturing each student's academic potential as always.
