Is AO-style admission a good option for students with strong interests but average grades?
It may be a suitable option, but average grades do not automatically make a student competitive. Some holistic-selection routes assess how applicants explain their interests and activities in relation to their intended field and future goals, and demonstrate this in application materials and interviews. However, eligibility requirements, grade standards, and checks of basic academic ability differ by university, faculty, and route, so review official information and compare this option with routes such as general admission.
Key points
- Interests and activities are most persuasive when connected to the intended field of study and what the student learned from those experiences.
- Some routes may accept students with average grades, but may still set requirements for grade averages or basic academic ability.
- Preparation may involve application documents and interviews, as well as academic study where required.
Things to check
- Evaluation methods and application requirements vary by university, faculty, route, and academic year; check the official admissions guidelines for each program.
Admissions route guidance
Applying through a Japanese domestic admissions route
In comprehensive selection, applicants’ motivation and aptitude for their intended field are assessed through interviews and other methods, in addition to documents such as activity reports, statements of purpose, and study plans. Therefore, whether applicants can demonstrate specific connections between their activities, reasons for applying, and study plans after enrollment is a factor in the assessment. However, because at least one assessment is also conducted to evaluate the knowledge and skills needed for university education, as well as abilities such as thinking, judgment, and expression, applicants should not rely solely on their activities and must also prepare for the assessment methods used in each selection process.
Official sources
- 令和9年度大学入学者選抜実施要項 (2027)
Admissions information can change. Check the current official guidance before applying.