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Registration for the 2025 Management Certification Exam

The Japan Management Association (JMA), headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, has officially opened registration for the first half of the 2025 Management Certification Examination as of May 8. This examination is designed to validate individuals' foundational and expert knowledge in management alongside their capability to resolve business challenges.

What is the Management Certification Examination?

The Management Certification Examination is a nationwide evaluation that certifies candidates based on their understanding of fundamental management knowledge and their ability to tackle management issues. The exam is divided into three grades: Level 3, Level 2, and Level 1. Participants can choose their preferred exam date from over 360 venues across the country using a computer-based testing (CBT) format.

Examination Schedule for 2025

The exams for 2025 are scheduled as follows:

• - Level 3 and Level 2: Exam period runs from June 1 to July 31, with registration open from May 8 to July 28. A second examination opportunity is anticipated between October and December.
• - Level 1: Exam introduction is scheduled from July 1 to July 31, again with registration through May 8 to July 28. The second examination session will likely take place in November or December.

Overview of Each Level

Level 3

Evaluates understanding of basic management concepts.

• - Format: 50 multiple-choice questions.
• - Duration: 60 minutes.
• - Eligibility: No prerequisites.
• - Passing Score: 60% or higher (minimum 60 points).
• - Exam Fee: ¥6,600 (tax included).

Level 2

Assesses knowledge of management and business practices.

• - Format: 100 multiple-choice questions.
• - Duration: 120 minutes.
• - Eligibility: No prerequisites.
• - Passing Score: 60% or higher in total and at least 40% in each subject.
• - Exam Fee: ¥11,000 (tax included).

Level 1

Tests the ability to propose effective solutions to business problems.

• - Format: Written responses including 3-5 short questions and 1 long format question.
• - Duration: 60 minutes.
• - Eligibility: No prerequisites.
• - Passing Score: 70% or higher (minimum 70 points).
• - Exam Fee: ¥22,000 (tax included).

Interested candidates can find application details on the CBT site.

Study Materials

To aid those preparing for the examination, affordable study packages have been implemented. These packages include academic videos that thoroughly explain the exam subject matter, accompanied by practice tests.

Level 3 and Level 2 Preparation Package

• - Comprises learning videos and mock tests.
• - Options available with or without the official textbook.
• - Learning Hours: Level 3 requires 9 hours of video plus a mock test; Level 2 requires 16 hours of video plus a mock test.
• - Fees: Level 3 costs ¥24,200, and Level 2 prices at ¥39,400 (tax included).
• - Registration Links: Level 3, Level 2.

Level 1 Preparation Course

• - Combines video learning and exam training sessions.
• - Learning Time: 120 minutes divided between video learning (60 mins) and training (60 mins).
• - Duration: 90 days from the start date.
• - Fee: ¥8,800 (tax included).
• - Registration Link: Level 1.

Academic Version for Educational Institutions

The Level 3 Examination has gained traction within educational institutions across the nation. In response to these needs, the JMA is offering an Academic Version Preparation Package at a special price for accredited educational institutions, following a complete revision in 2023. For further details, consult the academic PDF link here.

Management Certification Examination Success Rates

In 2024, the pass rate for Level 3 was 51.6% with 594 successful candidates from 1,151 total applicants. For Level 2 in 2024, the pass rate was 41.0% with 330 passers out of 804 candidates. This data shows a encouraging trend in the performance of applicants.

About the Japan Management Association

Founded in 1949 as the Japan Office Efficiency Association, the JMA has worked continuously to promote the modernization and efficiency of management practices across Japan. Their mission embraces the balance of management, humanity, and science to contribute to a sustainable society.

To learn more, visit the Japan Management Association site.

Contact Information

For inquiries, please reach out to the management certification examination office:
m-ken@noma.or.jp