Japan Opens Online-Only Applications for 2026 Common Test With Oct. 3 Cutoff
The move to an online system sets firm October deadlines for registration, payment, then corrections.
Overview
- Applications opened on Sept. 16 for the national exam scheduled on Jan. 17–18, 2026.
- Applicants must create a My Page, enter personal details, upload a face photo, and select exam subjects before paying the fee online.
- Registration must be completed by Oct. 3 at 5:00 p.m., with exam fees due by 11:59 p.m. the same day to finalize the application.
- A confirmation and correction window will be available from Oct. 10 at 10:00 a.m. to Oct. 17 at 5:00 p.m.
- Applicants without internet access needed to request an alternative application route by Sept. 12, and the January 2025 test drew about 495,000 applicants—the first increase in seven years.