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English Learning Column

Expert insights and tips from ELT's 40 years of English education experience

About ELT Column

ELT's column provides practical knowledge from experts with 40 years of teaching experience, covering topics from Eiken Grade 1 and Pre-1 preparation, IELTS and TOEFL test prep, preschool selection, overseas university and boarding school admissions, to business English. We offer free, valuable information to help you overcome English learning challenges and achieve your goals.

Latest Articles

International School of the Sacred Heart (ISSH) Review: Education, University Placements, and Interview Prep at a Prestigious Girls' School
International School

International School of the Sacred Heart (ISSH) Review: Education, University Placements, and Interview Prep at a Prestigious Girls' School

Nishimachi International School Review: Strengths in Japanese Language and Post-Grade 9 Pathways
International School

Nishimachi International School Review: Strengths in Japanese Language and Post-Grade 9 Pathways

Canadian International School Tokyo (CIS) Review: The Reality of its Canadian Curriculum and University Placements
International School

Canadian International School Tokyo (CIS) Review: The Reality of its Canadian Curriculum and University Placements

Tokyo International School (TIS) Review: The Reality of Post-Grade 8 Pathways and Interview Prep
International School

Tokyo International School (TIS) Review: The Reality of Post-Grade 8 Pathways and Interview Prep

Aoba-Japan International School Review: The Value of GLD and Admissions Interview Prep
International SchoolInternational Baccalaureate (IB)

Aoba-Japan International School Review: The Value of GLD and Admissions Interview Prep

Salesian International School: English Entrance Exam, Fees, and International Class Review & Prep Guide

Salesian International School: English Entrance Exam, Fees, and International Class Review & Prep Guide

Mita International School (IC & DDP): 2026 Fees, WACE Program Benefits, and Admissions Guide
Higher Education

Mita International School (IC & DDP): 2026 Fees, WACE Program Benefits, and Admissions Guide

Hiroo Gakuen International Course (2026): Admission Difficulty, Tuition, AG vs. SG, and Prep Strategies
Japanese Universities (Admissions for Returnee Students)Higher Education

Hiroo Gakuen International Course (2026): Admission Difficulty, Tuition, AG vs. SG, and Prep Strategies

What are "Almost-International Schools"? A Guide to Japan's Article 1 International Courses for University Abroad at a Quarter of the Cost
International SchoolHigher Education

What are "Almost-International Schools"? A Guide to Japan's Article 1 International Courses for University Abroad at a Quarter of the Cost

UWC ISAK Japan: Admissions, Fees, and its Global Leadership Program in Karuizawa
Boarding School

UWC ISAK Japan: Admissions, Fees, and its Global Leadership Program in Karuizawa

OOPT (Oxford Online Placement Test) Prep and Score Guide | English Test for International School Admissions
Boarding SchoolStudy in the UK

OOPT (Oxford Online Placement Test) Prep and Score Guide | English Test for International School Admissions

Rugby School Japan (RSJ): Tuition, Academic Standards, and Reputation | An Admissions Strategy Based on University Placements
The British CurriculumBoarding School

Rugby School Japan (RSJ): Tuition, Academic Standards, and Reputation | An Admissions Strategy Based on University Placements

Frequently Asked Questions

If using for university admissions, checking your target school's requirements is most important. Generally, Eiken is widely accepted and has high social recognition. TEAP measures academic English proficiency and is highly valued by certain universities like Sophia University. Our column provides detailed comparison articles on both tests.

The most important factor is whether the educational philosophy matches your child. Beyond English education quality, consider Japanese language development support, class sizes, and extended care availability. We recommend visiting in person to observe teacher interactions and your child's response.

Generally, children can start from ages 3-4, though individual readiness varies. At ELT, we incorporate songs and games to make screen-based learning enjoyable. We recommend trying a trial lesson to see how your child responds.

This varies greatly depending on current English proficiency. Starting from IELTS 5.5, with about 10 hours of study per week, expect 6-12 months. Speaking and Writing are difficult to self-study, so professional guidance can significantly accelerate your progress.