English Learning Column
Expert insights and tips from ELT's 40 years of English education experience
Find by Purpose
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.
PILLAR ARTICLES
Popular Articles
Our most-read and highly-rated articles

A Deep Dive into the World's Top 3 Curricula | IB, A-Level, AP: Which One is Right for You?
![International School Tuition in Japan [2026 Edition]: A Complete Guide to Costs, Tuition Support, and Scholarships](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstorage.googleapis.com%2Felt-microcms-ai-automator-og-images%2Fcolumns%2Finternational-school-cost%2Fen.png%3Fv%3D1771985956709&w=3840&q=75)
International School Tuition in Japan [2026 Edition]: A Complete Guide to Costs, Tuition Support, and Scholarships

International Elementary School in Japan: A Comprehensive Guide to Making the Right Choice

Eiken Grade Pre-2 Level: A Complete Guide for Students to Pass Quickly with Past Paper Strategies

A Complete Guide to the Eiken Interview Test | From Entering to Exiting the Room & How to Maximize Your 'Attitude' Score

What is CLIL? The Shift from 'Learning English' to 'Learning in English'

Is the IB (International Baccalaureate) Too Difficult? Understanding the PYP/MYP/DP System and How to Avoid Dropping Out

How to Choose an International School in Tokyo: A Complete Guide to Major Prestigious Schools for Beginners

What is an International School? A Complete Guide to Tuition, Benefits, and Future Paths
Latest Articles

English Skills for IT Engineers at GAFAM & Global Tech Firms | Technical Interviews, Documentation, and Stand-ups

Legal English for International and Corporate Lawyers: Overcoming the Hurdles of Cross-Border M&A Negotiations and LL.M. Studies Abroad

Essential English for Pharma R&D: Mastering Global Clinical Trials and Scientific Papers

What is the Singaporean Curriculum? Strengths in Math and Chinese, and Benefits for University Admissions

St. Andrews Bangkok Review: A Top Choice for Expat Families in the Heart of Sukhumvit

Ruamrudee International School (RIS) Review: A Prestigious and Historic School in Bangkok

KIS International School: Reputation, Fees & A Guide to its Two Campuses

ISB (International School Bangkok) Review: A Premier American School's Unparalleled Facilities and Tuition

NIST International School Review: Admissions and Fees at Bangkok's Premier Full IB School

King's College Bangkok Review: Why It's So Popular and Its World-Class Academic Standards

Rugby School Thailand: Reputation and Fees | A British Boarding School in a Vast Natural Setting

Harrow Bangkok: Admissions, Fees & A Deep Dive into Thailand's Premier British School
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.