MicroNity Takes Over IBT Comprehensive Research Institute, A Major Player in Online Exam Platforms

MicroNity's Strategic Acquisition of IBT Comprehensive Research Institute

In an exciting move for the education technology sector, MicroNity, an AI-driven software business succession platform based in Shibuya, Tokyo, has successfully acquired all shares of IBT Comprehensive Research Institute, which operates the online exam platform Excert. This acquisition marks an important milestone for MicroNity, enabling them to further enhance their portfolio, as they have now completed the succession of seven companies.

Pioneering Digital Transformation in Japan's Examination Landscape

Japan has been notably lagging in adopting the digital transformation trends seen in international examination systems. A case in point is the SAT, which will transition to a completely digital format by spring 2024, eliminating paper exams. In stark contrast, Japan's largest examination, the National Center Test for University Admissions, will still use paper for all approximately 500,000 examinees through 2026.

Despite this slow adoption, advancements are being made with the introduction of Computer Based Testing (CBT) formats in some Japanese exams. The judicial examination in July 2026 will witness its first use of CBT. However, these implementations are largely restricted to venue-based CBT systems, which require candidates to gather at specific locations and use provided computers. This venue requirement continues to pose geographical and temporal limitations on access to examinations.

Consequently, there is a pressing need for the more widespread adoption of Internet Based Testing (IBT), which allows candidates to take exams from their own environments via the internet. Excert, managed by IBT Comprehensive Research Institute, serves as an exemplary model of this approach. By leveraging real-time remote monitoring of candidates through AI and human oversight of both the exam screen and the participant’s camera, Excert has effectively deterred cheating and ensured exam integrity.

Currently, about 500,000 users, primarily from major examination organizations, utilize Excert annually, making it an essential infrastructure supporting the online transformation of qualification and certification exams.

The Vision for Enhanced Digital Exam Solutions

MicroNity has a solid track record in providing growth opportunities for niche software in highly specialized fields through the succession of multiple software companies. With this acquisition, MicroNity aims to capitalize on the established trust and technological foundation built by IBT Comprehensive Research Institute. By integrating their development resources and expertise in AI, they plan to enhance product offerings, implement stronger AI monitoring capabilities, and broaden their market reach to further contribute to the digitalization of certification and qualification areas.

As part of their vision, MicroNity acknowledges the dedicated efforts behind the success of Excert, stating, “The growth of Excert, which is utilized by around 500,000 candidates annually, is anchored upon the earnest commitment of IBT Comprehensive Research Institute to pursue both the rigor and convenience of online examinations. We are determined to continue this journey, utilizing our group’s development resources and AI expertise to evolve the product further into a more reliable and convenient service for all stakeholders involved in test administration.”

About IBT Comprehensive Research Institute

Established in September 2024 under Smart Capital, IBT Comprehensive Research Institute operates the IBT-based online exam platform Excert. This newly formed company aims to redefine online testing standards in Japan.

About MicroNity

MicroNity operates as an AI-driven software business succession platform, perpetuating legacy systems while fostering innovation among group companies to achieve sustainable growth. In an era where AI is evolving software capabilities, MicroNity continues to champion high-value, specialized software through business successions and proprietary development, thereby contributing to the evolution of the software industry.