Hokkaido Public High School Entrance Exams 2026: The Truth and New Trends in the Education Business

On March 3rd, results were released simultaneously at public high schools across Hokkaido. On this day, as the cold weather finally began to ease, the notice boards at each school were scenes of mixed emotions—cheers of joy from successful students and the bitter taste of disappointment for others. It marked the end of a long exam war. But for someone like me, who has watched the education industry for over 30 years, this day is merely a milestone. More importantly, it's a time to look for hints about future educational trends emerging from here, and how families and businesses should navigate them.

English Becomes "Tougher" and Preferred Schools "Polarise"

If I were to sum up this year's Hokkaido public high school entrance exams in one phrase, it would be "imbalance between subjects" and "polarisation of school choice." The first thing that caught my attention was the results of the academic achievement tests. In particular, while the average score for English rose significantly compared to the previous year, mathematics was clearly more difficult. This aligns with internal information I gathered from several cram schools and direct feedback from students on the ground. As a result, the score distribution among top-tier students shifted, and for highly competitive schools like Sapporo Minami and Kita, it's highly likely that maths scores determined success or failure more than ever before.

Furthermore, the movement in application ratios is noteworthy. Despite the declining birthrate, popularity remains strong for traditional schools and those affiliated with combined middle and high schools, with some seeing application ratios exceed the previous year. Conversely, public schools ranked below the top tier are noticeably struggling to fill their quotas, clearly creating a divide between the "winning schools" and "the others." This polarisation will likely accelerate. The image parents might have had of "any public school will do" is a thing of the past.

The "Real Challenge" Begins After the Results Announcement

After the results are out, many families breathe a sigh of relief. But I'd like them to pause and think here. The exams are over, but a child's learning continues. In fact, how they grow during their high school years will significantly influence their university entrance exams and life beyond. That's why I strongly encourage families to conduct a "Hokkaido public high school entrance exam review" together at this time.

• Analyse scores in each subject: Just because they passed, are they neglecting their weak areas?
• Reflect on study methods: Was their cram school or home study style truly optimal?
• Re-check high school information: Have they looked again into the curriculum and university placement records of the school they'll attend?

This "reflection" is precisely the best preparation for the next stage. In my experience, students who show significant growth after graduation almost invariably go through this process.

Is the "Hokkaido Public High School Entrance Exam Guide" Changing? The Front Line of the Education Business

Now, let's talk from the business perspective, which is my main field. This year's exam results will trigger major shifts in the education industry. Firstly, the fluctuation in English difficulty will be a tailwind for cram schools focusing on the four English skills. On the other hand, the trend towards more descriptive questions will likely increase demand for individual tutoring and marking services. In fact, leading cram schools in Sapporo have already started advertising their "New Exam Preparation Courses." They are prominently featuring themes like "how to use the Hokkaido public high school entrance exams," promoting ways to utilise past papers and strategies for improving internal assessment scores.

Another key trend is the use of IT in learning services. Tablet-based learning materials and online tutors are becoming powerful tools for students in regional areas. A student in eastern or northern Hokkaido can now take lessons in real-time from top instructors in Sapporo. This was unimaginable just ten years ago. From an investor's standpoint, these "educational services that bridge regional gaps" hold significant potential.

How to Use the Data! Exam Strategies for the Coming Years

So, how should families with students sitting exams next year or beyond make use of these results? My advice is simple. First, make sure to check the "average scores for academic achievement tests" and "application ratios by high school" published by the Hokkaido Board of Education. These aren't just numbers; they are the most critical data for predicting next year's question trends and application patterns. For example, you need to determine whether this year's rise in average English scores was a one-off event or the impact of the new Course of Study guidelines. If it's the latter, students sitting exams next year will likely need more advanced English skills.

Also, if aiming for top-tier schools, strong problem-solving skills in maths are essential. Instead of just memorising formulas, students should systematically plan from Year 9 onwards to tackle questions that test critical thinking. This is a common trait I've observed over many years among successful candidates.

Ultimately, What Do the Hokkaido Public High School Entrance Exams Really Ask?

Finally, I'd like to pose a fundamental question. What are the Hokkaido public high school entrance exams trying to measure? I believe it's an "attitude of sustainable learning." The more difficult maths, the easier English—both point not to one-dimensional knowledge, but to the ability to think on the spot. In today's rapidly changing world, high school entrance exams are just a rite of passage. What matters is how one continues to learn beyond them. As someone involved in the education business, I sincerely hope these exams become more than just a selection tool—that they become a catalyst for expanding children's potential. Now, while the excitement of the results announcements is still fresh, is the time to start thinking about the true meaning of "making the most of the exams."