EIKEN Grade 2 exam-day guide
EIKEN Grade 2 · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Admission slip / test voucher
EIKEN sends a 受験票 (admission slip) before the test. Print or bring the original and check that your name, grade, and venue are correct. If it has not arrived or details are wrong, contact the provider (EIKEN Foundation of Japan / your local administrator) immediately rather than waiting until test day.
Photo ID
Bring the identification document accepted by the administering body for your location. Accepted documents and photo requirements can differ between Japan and overseas venues, so confirm the exact list with the provider before test day.
Pencils and eraser
The written section is answered on a machine-scored answer sheet, so bring several sharpened pencils (HB or similar) and a clean eraser. Check the provider's instructions for whether any specific writing instrument is required.
Watch (non-smart)
A simple wristwatch helps you pace the reading and listening sections. Smartwatches and phones are normally not allowed at your desk, and some venues may not have a clearly visible clock - confirm the venue's rules with the provider.
Confirm venue and arrival time
Look up the exact building, room, and reporting time on your admission slip. Arrive with margin for delays; late entry rules vary by venue, so check with the provider what happens if you arrive after the start.
Know the section order and timings
Grade 2 is a one-day test: written section (reading, listening, writing) followed by the speaking test, usually on the same day at many venues. Exact timings and whether speaking is same-day can vary, so confirm the schedule with the provider.
Plan the writing task format
The Grade 2 writing task asks for a short English composition on a given topic with a specified word count. Practise producing a clear structure (opinion, two reasons, conclusion) within the time limit; check the current task instructions and word count on the official site.
Prepare for the speaking test
The speaking test typically involves reading a short passage aloud, answering questions about it, and describing a picture. Practise speaking at a steady pace and answering in full sentences; confirm the current format with the provider.
No food, drink, or notes at the desk
Keep only permitted items on the desk. Bags, notes, and electronic devices are usually stored away; confirm the venue's rules on what may be kept with you.
Transport and backup plan
Check train/bus routes and have a backup route in case of delays. Know how to reach the venue entrance and allow time to find the correct room.
Rest and logistics the night before
Sleep adequately, prepare clothes and items the night before, and avoid last-minute cramming that disrupts sleep. Listening sections reward a rested, focused mind.
Review the official test-day instructions
Read the current 受験案内 / test guide on the official EIKEN site for your grade and venue, as procedures and permitted items can change. needs_review
Plan the day
Shift from learning new material to consolidating. Do one full timed written-section practice run (reading, listening, writing) under exam conditions, then review errors. Re-read the writing task instructions and practise one composition within the time limit. Skim your vocabulary and grammar notes rather than starting new topics. Confirm your admission slip details, venue route, and reporting time, and check the provider's list of permitted items.
Do light review only: listen to short English audio to keep your ear tuned, review your writing structure and common grammar slips, and check the speaking-test format. Prepare pencils, eraser, watch, ID, admission slip, and transport plan. Confirm the reporting time and how long the day may last (written plus possible same-day speaking). Eat normally, avoid heavy cramming, and sleep at a reasonable hour.
Eat breakfast, dress comfortably, and leave with margin for delays. Re-check that you have the admission slip, ID, pencils, eraser, and watch. Arrive at the venue early, find the room, and follow staff instructions for seating and device storage. Use the waiting time for calm breathing and a brief glance at your writing structure - not for intensive new study.
Follow the invigilator's instructions exactly. For reading, manage time per passage and do not get stuck on one item. For listening, read the questions before each audio starts where permitted, and keep answering even if you miss a point. For writing, spend a minute planning, write to the required word count with clear reasons, and leave time to check grammar and spelling. Transfer answers carefully to the answer sheet as instructed.
Speak clearly at a steady pace. For the reading-aloud task, read the passage silently first if time allows, then read aloud with attention to pronunciation and rhythm. Answer questions in complete sentences where natural, and for the picture description cover who, what, where, and what is happening. If you do not understand, ask for repetition politely rather than staying silent.
Note which sections felt weak while the memory is fresh, and record any format details you want to confirm. Results and score reports are issued by the provider on a published schedule; check the official site for the announcement date and how to view or receive your results.
Rules to check
Bring the admission slip and the identification accepted by the administering body; if either is missing or incorrect, staff may not admit you, so confirm the policy with the provider in advance.
Electronic devices such as phones and smartwatches must normally be switched off and stored away, not kept at your desk; confirm the venue's exact device rules with the provider.
Follow all invigilator instructions on seating, timing, and answer-sheet handling. Do not talk, share materials, or look at others' papers during the test; misconduct can lead to invalidation of results.
Breaks and leaving the room are usually restricted during sections. If you need to leave for health reasons, raise your hand and follow staff directions; confirm the venue's break policy with the provider.
Scoring is based on the written section (reading, listening, writing) and the speaking test, combined per the provider's published criteria. Check the official site for how each section is weighted and what counts as a pass for Grade 2.
Results and certificates are issued on the provider's schedule. Keep your admission slip and any candidate number, as you may need them to check results.
If you are ill on test day, follow the provider's guidance on absence and any provision for a refund or alternative date; do not attend if local health rules advise against it, and confirm the procedure with the provider.