As the entrance exam season approaches, many university students and their parents begin to worry about finding accommodation. To avoid rushing on exam day, it's important to book accommodation as early as possible.

However, many people may be worried about when they should make a reservation and when reservations are most popular.

This article will explain everything from the ideal time to book to things to be aware of during peak periods. Please refer to it if you want to prepare for the exam.

When should university entrance exam students book accommodation?

If you need accommodation for your university exams, it is important to make your reservation as early as possible.

As the exam date approaches, demand for accommodations increases dramatically, with the best locations and facilities filling up first. Especially in urban areas and around famous universities, options tend to become more limited as the exam date approaches.

Below we will explain the reservation period for university entrance exams.

Best to book between October and December

The ideal time to book accommodation for university entrance exams is between October and December, as there are still many vacancies during this period, allowing you to carefully compare the options before making a selection.

Below are three reasons why you should book a hotel between October and December.

Find a suitable and secure accommodation

Considering travel on the day of the exam, it is desirable to find accommodation that is close to the venue, has few transfers, and is in a quiet environment. If you stay between October and December, there is a good chance that accommodations that meet these criteria will still be available, making it easier to choose without compromising on location or facilities.

Just before the exam, it is not uncommon for the only accommodations available to be far from the venue or places that require a long travel time. In order to reduce the stress on the day of the exam, it is effective to secure accommodation early.

You can book cheaper than last minute

Accommodation prices tend to rise as demand increases, especially from January onwards as exam dates approach, when not only do prices rise but the options themselves become fewer.

Between October and December, you can often find the same accommodation at a relatively reasonable price, and you may even be able to choose a free cancellation plan. As a result, it becomes easier to manage your financial risk.

By making a reservation early, you won't have to worry about unnecessary things before the exam.

Just before the exams, both the students and those around them have a lot to worry about, such as studying and managing their health. Continuing to search for accommodation and check availability during this time can be a mental burden.

Therefore, by securing accommodation early, students will have the peace of mind of knowing they have a place to stay, making it easier for them to concentrate on preparing for the exam. This is a major benefit not only for the students themselves, but also for their parents.

Why reservations are slow for the mid-January Common Test

The Common Test will be held in mid-January, and it becomes especially difficult to make hotel reservations after this time. Factors other than the exam itself also play a major role in this situation, so we will explain them here.

It's difficult to get a hotel room because it overlaps with spring break.

The period following the Common Test often overlaps with university students' spring break, resulting in increased demand for accommodations due to student trips and trips back home. In addition, many cities host academic conferences and events, which can limit the number of accommodations available for test-takers.

Therefore, we recommend making reservations early, around October to December before the common test.

The number of inbound tourists is increasing

In recent years, the increase in foreign tourists visiting Japan has led to high hotel occupancy rates, especially in urban areas. Tourism demand occurs regardless of the season, so the current situation is that accommodation conditions are unlikely to ease, even during exam season.

Especially at universities located near major cities or tourist destinations, students and tourists will be searching for accommodation at the same time, making last-minute reservations extremely difficult.

Recommended accommodations for university entrance exam students

The main types of accommodation recommended for students taking exams are as follows:

・Business hotels ・Weekly and monthly apartments ・Hotels with kitchens and washing machines

The benefits and things to be aware of vary depending on the type of accommodation, so it's important to choose one that suits your exam-taking style and the length of your stay. Below, we'll introduce three types of accommodations recommended for test-takers.

Economy Hotels

Business hotels are recommended for students taking exams, as many are located near stations and rooms are equipped with desks and Wi-Fi, which are essential for studying. Hotels close to stations may cost more per night, so it's best to check in advance.

However, many hotels offer "exam support plans" that provide services specifically tailored to students taking exams, such as spacious desks and bright lamps perfect for studying, wake-up calls, and luggage storage before and after check-in.

Therefore, if you check in advance whether there are plans available for test takers and use them as necessary, you will be able to create an environment where you can take the exam with peace of mind.

Weekly/Monthly Apartments

Weekly or monthly apartments are recommended for those staying for more than a week to take entrance exams for multiple universities or departments, or for students looking to keep costs down.

The accommodation is fully equipped with furniture, appliances, a kitchen, a washing machine, etc., and by cooking your own meals, you can reduce the total cost, including living expenses, compared to staying in a hotel for several nights. You can relax as if you were at home, which will make it easier to manage your health and create an environment where you can concentrate on your studies.

On the other hand, unlike hotels, there is no front desk service or daily cleaning, so you will need to clean and take out the trash yourself. Also, it is important to note that in many cases you will have to pay the fee in advance and pay a cleaning fee when you move out.

For long-term stays, accommodation is often cheaper than staying in a hotel, so it is recommended for those planning to stay for a long period of time.

Hotels with kitchens and washing machines

For students who are staying for an extended period of time, such as taking exams at multiple universities, we recommend accommodations with kitchens and washing machines. You can keep food costs down by cooking your own meals and do your laundry in the room, so you can take exams while maintaining your normal lifestyle.

There is no need to search for restaurants or laundromats in an unfamiliar place, so it is recommended for students taking entrance exams as they can concentrate on studying without any unnecessary worries.

3 Recommended Accommodations for University Entrance Exam Students [Tokyo Edition]

Among the many accommodation options, it is important to choose one that provides an environment suitable for test takers. Below, we will introduce recommended accommodations in Tokyo that combine convenience and comfort so that test takers can spend their time before and after the exam with peace of mind.

1.GIVE Meidaimae

Located within walking distance of Meiji University's Izumi Campus, GIVE Meidaimae is an apartment hotel recommended for students preparing for exams on a long-term stay. All rooms are fully equipped with kitchens, furniture, appliances, and free Wi-Fi, allowing you to concentrate on your studies in a relaxing home-like environment.

In addition to Meiji University, the area is easily accessible via the Keio Line and Inokashira Line to the University of Tokyo (Komaba Campus), Waseda University and Rikkyo University in the Shinjuku/Shibuya area, and other universities.

Address	〒156-0043 1-45-10 Matsubara, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
access	5 minutes walk from the central exit of Meidaimae Station

2.GIVE Higashi Nakano

GIVE Higashi Nakano is an apartment hotel with all rooms equipped with a kitchen, washing machine, and study desk, and is recommended for students preparing for exams over several weeks. You can concentrate on your studies without disrupting your daily routine in a relaxing environment that feels like home.

The area is conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from Higashi-Nakano Station on the JR and Toei Oedo lines, offering easy access to Tokyo Polytechnic University, Sophia University, Mejiro University, etc. Furthermore, it is only about a 5-minute train ride from Shinjuku Station, making it an ideal base for taking entrance exams for universities in the Shinjuku area.

Address	〒164-0003 GIVE Higashinakano, 4-19-8 Higashinakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo
access	3-minute walk from Higashi-Nakano Station East Exit 3-minute walk from Ochiai Station 2B

3.GIVE Shibuya Honmachi

Located in a quiet residential area, GIVE Shibuya Honmachi is an apartment hotel recommended for students who want to concentrate on studying for exams. All rooms are equipped with a kitchen, furniture, appliances, free Wi-Fi, and a work desk, so you can cook your own meals and relax like you're at home.

The hotel is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from Nishi-Shinjuku-Go-Chome Station on the Toei Oedo Line, and is close to Bunka Gakuen University, Tokai University, Tokyo Woman's Christian University, etc. It's also easy to get to Shinjuku and Shibuya, making it a recommended hotel for those taking entrance exams for universities in central Tokyo or for those taking entrance exams for multiple universities.

Address	〒151-0071 5-11-18 Honmachi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
access	10 minutes walk from Nishi-Shinjuku-Gochome Station A2

5 ways to choose the best accommodation for university entrance exam students

When test takers choose accommodation, not just any accommodation will do. It is important to choose carefully, as travel time, environment, facilities, etc. on the day of the test will affect your condition.

Please refer to the following to choose the best accommodation.

1.Is the test center easily accessible?

When choosing accommodation for university entrance exams, it is important to consider the accessibility to the exam venue. To minimize the mental and physical strain of traveling on the day and the risk of traffic problems, choose a location that is within walking distance of the venue or can be reached by public transportation without having to transfer.

The closer you are to the test center, the shorter your travel time will be, and the more time you will have in the morning to take the test. Another advantage is that it is easier to avoid unforeseen circumstances such as train delays and traffic jams.

Once you have decided on your accommodation, be sure to check out the route to the venue in advance, checking the travel time and station exits, etc.

2. Is it a quiet environment where I can concentrate on my studies?

When choosing accommodation for an exam, it is important to ensure a quiet environment where you can concentrate on studying. To do this, refer to reviews on booking sites, avoid busy areas or main roads, and choose a hotel in a quiet location.

It is also important to make sure that the room has a large enough desk and bright lighting so that you can study comfortably. When making a reservation, it will be easier to secure a better environment if you clearly state that you would like a quiet room as you will be using it for an exam.

3. Are there suitable facilities for studying?

When choosing accommodation for university entrance exams, it is important to make sure that the accommodation has the appropriate facilities for studying.

First, make sure the desk is large enough to spread out your reference books and notebooks. It's also important that the lighting in the room is bright enough for studying; some hotels even lend out desk lamps, so it's a good idea to inquire about this when you make your reservation. Also, be sure to check whether the hotel has reliable free Wi-Fi, which is essential for research and other tasks.

By choosing accommodation that has all the necessary facilities for test takers, you can ensure a study environment that suits you and make the most of your precious study time right before the exam.

4. Can I stay within my budget?

To reduce accommodation costs for university entrance exams, it is a good idea to actively take advantage of discounts offered by travel agencies and hotels. These often offer travel and accommodation packages at a discount from the general public.

Also, you can avoid price hikes by booking as soon as possible once the exam date has been decided.Another tip for keeping costs down is to choose a business hotel that is a little further away and easily accessible by public transportation, rather than being too close to the exam venue.

5.Are there sufficient facilities around the accommodation?

When choosing accommodation for an exam, it's important to consider not only the proximity to the exam venue, but also the availability of surrounding facilities. Having a convenience store or ATM near the hotel will help you get food and handle unexpected expenses, giving you peace of mind.

However, be aware that hotels near busy areas may be noisy at night and interfere with your studies. We recommend checking the surrounding area through reviews on booking sites or requesting a quiet room directly from the hotel.

Think of the surrounding facilities as insurance just in case, and make sure to prepare anything you need in advance.

How to book accommodation for university entrance exam students

Accommodation for test takers is generally booked in the following ways:

・Accommodation booking site ・University information ・Hotel official website

Each reservation method has different features and costs, so it's important to understand the differences beforehand. Below, we'll explain each reservation method in detail.

Accommodation booking site

You can easily find accommodations for university entrance exams on many accommodation booking sites, including Agoda. Accommodation booking sites have special pages such as "recommended accommodations for exam takers," and you can easily search and book hotels in the area by selecting the university name, nearest station, and exam date.

Depending on the plan, you may also get perks such as a spacious desk suitable for studying, the rental of a desk lamp, and early check-in. Check the access to the exam venue and necessary facilities to find accommodation efficiently.

University Guide

Accommodation for university entrance exams can also be booked through the methods provided by the university.

Many universities have their co-ops partner with travel agencies to offer accommodation plans for prospective students. Accommodation reservations can generally be made through the university's official website, the information sent with the application form, or the co-op's website.

If you make a reservation through your university, you may be able to receive generous support in collaboration with the university, such as a shuttle bus to the exam venue, boxed lunches for test takers, and social events with senior students. However, as the university may not directly arrange these arrangements, we recommend that you first check the information on the official website and application guidelines of the school of your choice.

Hotel official website

When searching for accommodation for students taking exams, you can also book directly through the hotel's official website. Official websites often offer unique discounts not available on travel booking sites, and may even offer cheaper rates.

Even if a hotel shows as fully booked online, you can often still make a reservation by calling the hotel directly. It's also easy to check the details of the room's facilities, and it's easy to receive individual considerations, such as requesting a quiet room, so if you've already decided on the hotel you want, we recommend checking the official website.

Three things to do if you can't book a hotel

If you are unable to book a hotel, you may feel anxious and be unable to concentrate on studying for the exam. If you are unable to book a hotel, try the following solutions.

・Try to get on the waiting list ・Expand your search area ・Consult with a travel agency or specialized booking site

If you understand how to deal with the situation in advance, you will be able to respond calmly even if your reservation is not accepted. Below, we will explain each method in detail.

Aim to get on the waiting list for cancellations

Even if your desired hotel is fully booked during university entrance exams, you may be able to make a reservation on the waiting list. This is especially true from after the Common Test through late January, when students are likely to cancel reservations as they narrow down the schools they are applying to.

Also, one to two weeks before the exam date, the results of your alternate school applications will be announced, and hotel cancellation fees will be incurred just before that, so there is a good chance that rooms will be available.

Many booking sites do not have a cancellation waiting function, so we recommend that you frequently check multiple booking sites during times when cancellations are more likely to occur, or call the hotel directly to inquire.

Expand your search

If your desired hotel is fully booked for university entrance exams, try broadening your search. It is effective to look not only for hotels near the nearest station to the exam venue, but also for hotels near easily accessible stations a few train stops away.

In particular, locations near terminal stations where multiple lines are available are convenient as they make it easier to deal with any traffic issues that may arise.

Also, hotels that are a little more expensive than your initial budget may have vacancies because other test-takers tend to avoid them. A good strategy is to first secure a place to stay, and then wait for a hotel with better conditions to cancel.

Frequently asked questions about accommodation for students taking entrance exams

When it comes to your child taking an exam, it's a new experience for parents and they can feel anxious.

Below are some frequently asked questions for students taking entrance exams when booking accommodation. Please read through to the end to help ease any anxiety you may have.

Should I go to the venue to check it out?

When taking university entrance exams, it is advisable to check out the venue beforehand if possible. Many universities have large campuses, and there are often multiple routes from the nearest station to the venue.

In fact, people who visit a university for the first time often make the following mistakes:

・I took the wrong exit from the station. ・I went to the wrong entrance instead of the main gate. ・I misread the walking time.

By checking the route beforehand, you can accurately grasp the travel time and route on the day, which will give you peace of mind. Even if you cannot visit the location the day before, you can still check to some extent by using the access guide on the university's official website or the Street View map app.

Should parents accompany their children to stay overnight?

Although parental accompaniment is not mandatory, many families consider bringing a parent or guardian if the exam is taking in a distant location or for the first time and involves an overnight stay. The benefits of having a parent or guardian include making it easier to deal with transportation issues or illnesses, and reducing anxiety about check-in and travel.

On the other hand, depending on the student's level of independence and the number of exams they have taken, it is common for students to choose to stay overnight on their own. It is best to make a decision based on the situation and personality.

If a high school student is staying alone, are there any necessary documents for them to stay overnight?

If a minor, such as a high school student, is staying alone at a hotel, they may be asked to submit a parental consent form.

However, the required documents and procedures vary depending on the hotel, so it is best to check directly with the accommodation before or after making a reservation.

Should I check the cancellation policy?

When booking accommodations for exams, it is essential to check the cancellation policy. When taking university entrance exams, plans may change due to cancellations based on the results of other applications or changes to the exam date.

Therefore, be sure to check the details, such as until when free cancellation is possible and under what conditions cancellation fees will be charged.

Students should start booking accommodations six months to three months in advance.

When choosing accommodation for university entrance exams, it is important to start making arrangements as soon as possible once you have decided on the school you want to attend.

Reservations are particularly popular from late January to February, and hotels near the venue fill up quickly, so it's best to make reservations between six months and three months in advance. Also, the features and services vary depending on the type of accommodation, so it's important to choose one that suits your exam style and length of stay.

Please use the methods and solutions introduced in this article to ensure you have a safe place to stay and be in top condition on the day of the exam.