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Eiken (英検): grades, FY2026 dates and fees

For parents in Japan choosing an Eiken grade. Eight grades from 5級 (beginner) to 1級, three test rounds a year. Facts below are from the Eiken Foundation of Japan, with the date we checked.

Checked on Mon 19 Oct 2026 against the official pages below. Dates and fees can change, so confirm on the official site before applying.

Grades and fees

GradeOfficial levelFee (main venue, FY2026)
1級advanced university¥12,400
準1級intermediate university¥10,400
2級high-school graduate¥9,000
準2級プラスupper high school¥8,600
準2級mid high school¥8,400
3級junior-high graduate¥6,800
4級mid junior high¥4,600
5級early junior high¥4,000

Fees for individual applicants at main venues (本会場), FY2026, tax included. FY2026 fees are ¥100 lower than FY2025. Grades 4 and 5 have the first stage only.

FY2026 test dates (individual applicants, paper test)

RoundApplicationsFirst stageSecond stage (A / B day)
Round 1Mon 23 Mar 2026 – Thu 7 May 2026Sun 31 May 2026Sun 5 Jul 2026 / Sun 12 Jul 2026
Round 2Tue 30 Jun 2026 – Mon 7 Sep 2026Sun 4 Oct 2026Sun 8 Nov 2026 / Sun 15 Nov 2026
Round 3Fri 30 Oct 2026 – Mon 14 Dec 2026Sun 24 Jan 2027Sun 28 Feb 2027 / Sun 7 Mar 2027

Second-stage day A or B is assigned by the Eiken Foundation (for individual applicants, by age).

Practise with Pencilhop

Build an Eiken word list with ChatGPT and practise it with sound and spaced review, or test spelling with dictation.

Official sources

Pencilhop is an independent practice site and is not connected with the Eiken Foundation of Japan.