The KIKOKUSHIJO Academy (KA), a revered institution focusing on nurturing leaders in English-speaking environments, recently conducted a survey through its alumni network established in 2026. The survey targeted graduates and revealed noteworthy data about their university admissions. A total of 122 alumni participated, providing insights that reflect the academy's long-term commitment to fostering education and global opportunities.
Approximately 50% of respondents gained admission to prestigious Japanese universities such as The University of Tokyo, Keio University, and Waseda University. Including additional esteemed institutions like Hitotsubashi University, Sophia University, and International Christian University (ICU), the total proportion of graduates moving to these six prominent universities rises to around 60%. The trend highlights KA’s success in preparing students not just linguistically, but holistically, ready for challenging academia.
Moreover, 25% of the graduates have opted for international study. Their choices span across 47 universities worldwide, showcasing an extensive range of institutions beyond just familiar names. The United States, the UK, Australia, France, Canada, and Italy feature prominently in their selections, demonstrating the various global avenues available for further study.
Notable Admissions
Prominent universities in the U.S., such as Harvard University, Princeton University, UCLA, and UC Berkeley, represent just a fragment of the destinations chosen by KA graduates. Additionally, several liberal arts colleges, including Amherst College and Middlebury College, highlight the diversifying interests and academic pursuits of alumni. In the UK, institutions like University College London and King’s College London have received similar recognition.
Growing Domestic Opportunities
While many graduates head abroad, the prospect of pursuing degrees in English within Japan is also flourishing. Institutions such as Tohoku University’s “Gateway College,” expected to launch in April 2027, and Tokyo University’s “UTokyo College of Design” scheduled for September of the same year, stand as testaments to this expanding landscape.
Programs at Waseda University’s School of International Program (SILS), Keio’s PEARL and GIGA programs, and Sophia’s FLA showcase local English-language education possibilities, allowing students to engage deeply in their academic endeavors without leaving Japan. For the latest details on these programs, prospective students are encouraged to visit the universities' official websites.
University Prep Program Launch
To align with these educational advancements, KIKOKUSHIJO Academy has introduced the “University Prep” program designed to enhance students' readiness for university-level study, targeting students from junior high to senior high school. Launched in 2026, this program builds upon existing offerings, ensuring students are thoroughly equipped for their future academic paths. Participants engage in comprehensive English skills development, focusing on reading, critical thinking, discourse, and effective self-expression, along with test preparation and application essays.
Future Insights
Looking ahead, KA plans to release a follow-up focused on graduates’ career trajectories and how their university experiences have translated into professional advancements in diverse fields such as autonomous driving, international cooperation, healthcare, and advanced research in quantum technologies and semiconductors. This new narrative will explore how English proficiency supports and enhances career potentials across academic disciplines.
Global KA Holdings Overview
KA operates under the umbrella of Global KA Holdings, with its headquarters in Shibuya, Tokyo, helmed by President Charles Canoose. The organization includes several prestigious brands, such as the KIKOKUSHIJO Academy, KA International School, Global Step Academy, and Kokusaba Tutoring, among others.
Those interested in further details are invited to contact the Global KA Holdings media team via email at
[email protected]. For reference, the full press release is available for download through the provided link.