Ryugaku Journal, one of the largest study abroad agents in Japan, has reported strong growth in applications for young learner programmes for summer 2019. The trend was highlighted in the agent’s annual report on applications from junior high school (ages 12-15) and senior high school (ages 15-18) students.  Given the size of Ryugaku Journal’s customer base, this report provides a useful indication of the young learner market in Japan.

Key findings from the report* include:

• Applications for summer programmes were up 17% on the previous year and were the highest in the 11-year history of the report.
• Growth was highest among junior high school students (ages 12-15) and first-year high school students (age 15-16) with applications increasing 26% and 10% respectively against 2018.
• 87% of applications from junior high school students were for two-week programmes. The majority of senior high school students also applied for two-week programmes, though it’s worth noting that around 10% of third-year high school students (aged 17-18) applied for 8-week programmes – it’s likely that many of these third-year students are choosing longer courses in preparation for overseas undergraduate programmes commencing in 2020.
• By country, Canada followed by Australia, America and the UK were the most popular destinations.
• By city, Vancouver was top for the sixth successive year.  The top ten cities by applications were: 1) Vancouver, 2) Perth, 3) Los Angeles, 4) Toronto, 5) Auckland, 6) Brisbane/London (UK), 8) Bournemouth (UK), 9) Cambridge (UK), 10) Sydney/Pittsburgh/Noosa

The report provides further evidence for the strong growth in Japan’s young learner market.  The upturn in demand is being driven by various factors including English language education reforms (all junior high school English classes are to be delivered entirely in English from 2020), the introduction of four-skills English language test for Japanese university entrance from 2020, strong government/industry support for study abroad, and a growing awareness of the importance of gaining study abroad experience at a young age.

We anticipate growth to continue in the coming years and UK language schools are encouraged to capitalise on this upturn by working closely with partner agents (Japan is an agent-focussed market) to promote your programmes in Japan. Given that face-to-face engagement is crucial in Japan, we also recommend schools visit the country to meet students/their parents at recruitment events as well as to strengthen links with partners.

If your school is interested in boosting engagement with Japan or if you have any questions about the market and opportunities here, please contact Hal Parker (hal.parker@britishcouncil.or.jp) in our Japan office.

* The report is based on applications from junior and senior high school students for short-term (up to 8 weeks) summer programmes for 2019 as of 31^st May 2019.

http://www.ryugakujournal.com/news/press/2019-14.html