Why can’t Japanese kids get into Harvard?

Co-authored by Yuki Allyson Honjo and Robert Dujarric, this commentary examines the scarcity of Japanese students at elite Western universities, using Harvard as the prime example. In 2009, almost no Japanese undergraduates were at Harvard. The authors attribute this to several factors in Japan’s education system and culture. Firstly, Japan’s exam-centric schooling emphasizes memorization and test scores over the broad extracurricular and leadership profiles U.S. Ivy League schools look for. Japanese high schoolers have little time or encouragement to engage in the kind of activities (debate, volunteer work, creative projects) that impress holistic admissions committees. Secondly, English proficiency is a major hurdle – even academically brilliant Japanese students often lack the advanced English writing and speaking skills to compete in applications or to consider studying in an English-speaking environment.

Honjo and Dujarric also point out a cultural hesitation: applying to foreign universities is not the norm, and many talented students simply don’t try, focusing instead on Japan’s top colleges. There’s a fear of the unknown and limited support or information about overseas admissions. The article suggests Japan needs to adjust – by improving English education, valuing diverse talents, and actively guiding students who might thrive abroad – in order for more “Japan kids” to make it to places like Harvard. Without these changes, the authors imply, Japan’s representation at global educational pinnacles will remain far below its potential, which in turn could have long-term effects on its international competitiveness.