What is the STEP EIKEN?
The STEP EIKEN or EIKEN test is an assessment of English language proficiency.
Who is it for?
The EIKEN test is designed for Japanese learners of English. EIKEN is offered at all levels of ability. Grade 1 is for admission to graduate and undergraduate degree programs, Grade Pre-1, for admission to undergraduate degree programs and Grade 2, for admission to ESL programs.
How is the test structured?
EIKEN is a group of tests administered on a pass/fail basis in seven bands called Grades.
Each Grade is a separate test with a unique set of test items and tasks designed for that ability level.
|
Grade |
Ability Level |
Japanese Academic Level |
Speaking Test Included? |
|
Grade 1 |
Advanced
Intermediate
Beginner |
College/University |
Yes |
|
Grade Pre-1 |
Yes |
||
|
Grade 2 |
High School Graduate |
Yes |
|
|
Grade Pre-2 |
Yes |
||
|
Grade 3 |
Junior High School Graduate |
Yes |
|
|
Grade 4 |
No |
||
|
Grade 5 |
No |
Grades 1 and Pre-1 include a handwritten composition task.
All Grades are taken in two stages. You can only continue to Stage 2 if you have passed Stage 1. You must pass BOTH stages to receive qualification.
Stage 1
A paper-based test with four main testing areas:
- Vocabulary
- Reading comprehension
- Listening comprehension
- Writing
Stage 2
A speaking test which is:
- Required for all examinees who pass the First Stage
- A personal interview conducted on-site by qualified examiners
- Administered for Grades 1, Pre-1, 2, Pre-2, and 3.
Stage 2 is conducted approximately one month after Stage1
Who administers the test?
The Society for Testing English Proficiency (STEP) in Japan administers the EIKEN tests. STEP is backed by the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT).
When can I take the test?
The EIKEN Grades are administered three times a year.
Stage 1 - January, June October
Stage 2 - February, July, November
Where can I take the test?
The EIKEN test is administered at 15,000 test sites in 250 cities across Japan. Internationally, the EIKEN test is offered in 45 countries, with public sites in London, Los Angeles, and New York.
Where is this test recognised?
Approximately 1,000 Japanese high schools and universities recognise EIKEN results for admission.
In Canada and the US - 275 colleges and universities recognise Eiken Grades 2, Pre-1 and or Grade 1 for incoming students.
In Australia, the States of New South Wales and Tasmania recognise Eiken at all Technical and Further Education (TAFE) institutes.






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