[2026 Academic Year Latest] A Thorough Explanation of the Kobe University Faculty of Economics Transfer Exam by a Top-Scoring Successful Applicant | Curious about the difficulty, competition ratio, preparation methods, recommended reference books, and study schedule...!? [Definitive Edition]

Hello! This is the University Transfer Information Bureau. In this article, based on [2026 Academic Year Latest Information], we will provide a thorough explanation of the Kobe University Faculty of Economics transfer exam. The Kobe University Faculty of Economics is highly popular every year, as it consistently offers around 20 transfer spots. In this article, we will introduce the difficulty, competition ratio, and preparation methods in detail. We will also provide specific information on the reference books and study schedules that examinees are most concerned about, incorporating the voices of actual successful applicants. Please read to the end and use this to help prepare for passing the transfer exam!

1. Basic Information on the Kobe University Faculty of Economics Transfer Exam

Exam Overview and Importance

The Kobe University Faculty of Economics transfer exam is an important test for transferring into the third year, and many examinees take on this challenge every year. It is expected that many applicants will challenge the 2026 academic year exam armed with knowledge of economics. The exam is structured around three pillars: Economics, Economic Mathematics, and TOEIC, and aiming for a high score in each subject is the key to passing.

[Exam Date] November 3, 2025
[Application Period] September 17, 2025 - September 24, 2025
[Exam Subjects] - Economics (100 points)
- Economic Mathematics (100 points)
- TOEIC (100 points)
[Exam Competition Ratio] Has fluctuated between 3.15x and 4.65x over the last 3 years

As for the exam content, it tests a deep understanding of economic theory and the ability to apply it, mathematical analytical skills, and English proficiency. In particular, economic mathematics is a high hurdle for many examinees, and how well you can score here significantly affects whether you pass or fail.

Details of Exam Subjects

• Economics: Focusing on microeconomics and macroeconomics, economic theory and its applications are tested. In the Kobe University exam, the difficulty level of the questions is high, and not only an understanding of basic knowledge but also the ability to apply it in practice is highly valued.

• Economic Mathematics: Mathematical knowledge necessary for solving economics problems, such as calculus, linear algebra, and probability/statistics, is tested. Questions range from theoretical ones to those analyzing actual economic data.

• TOEIC: English proficiency is an essential skill for studying economics. Having a high TOEIC score will likely allow you to proceed through the exam more advantageously than other examinees.

※ The latest past exams can be downloaded from below.

https://www.econ.kobe-u.ac.jp/admission-transfer-ug/

2. Author's Self-Introduction

Apologies for the delay, but my name is S, and I passed the third-year transfer exams for multiple former Imperial Universities, including Kobe University Faculty of Economics, Osaka University Faculty of Economics, and Nagoya University Faculty of Economics in the 2024 academic year. I am currently attending one of the former Imperial Universities while working as an exclusive coach at an online transfer academy. I applied with a TOEIC score of 925, and in the actual exam, I likely achieved a perfect score and passed at the top in the specialized subjects of Economics and Economic Mathematics. As an actual recent successful applicant, I will provide a more detailed analysis than anywhere else, so thank you for your support.

By the way, I also wrote the preparation article for the Nagoya University Faculty of Economics, so please check that out as well if you are considering applying to multiple schools.

3. Difficulty and Competition Ratio

Detailed Analysis of Competition Ratio

The Kobe University Faculty of Economics transfer exam always boasts a high competition ratio. Looking at the data for the past three years, the competition ratio has remained at approximately 4x to 5x every year. This means a fierce battle against excellent examinees gathering from all over the country.

• 2019 Academic Year (Heisei 31): 94 applicants, 20 successful candidates, competition ratio approx. 4.70x

• 2020 Academic Year (Reiwa 2): 95 applicants, 20 successful candidates, competition ratio approx. 4.75x

• 2021 Academic Year (Reiwa 3): 132 applicants, 21 successful candidates, competition ratio approx. 6.28x

• 2022 Academic Year (Reiwa 4): 93 applicants, 20 successful candidates, competition ratio approx. 4.65x

• 2023 Academic Year (Reiwa 5): 63 applicants, 20 successful candidates, competition ratio approx. 3.15x

• 2024 Academic Year (Reiwa 6): 97 applicants, 21 successful candidates, competition ratio approx. 4.60x

As shown, the competition ratio is consistently high, and while the 2021 academic year was an outlier, you can consider around 4x to be the standard. In the most recent 2024 academic year, 97 people took the exam, and 21 of them passed. To pass amidst such high competition, thorough preparation from an early stage is required.

Details on Difficulty

Regarding the difficulty of the exam, the economics portion itself covers more fundamental content compared to Kyoto University (though Kyoto University uses an oral exam), Osaka University (which introduced the ERE exam starting in the 2025 academic year), Tohoku University, and Yokohama National University. However, economic mathematics is a point where many examinees struggle. Kobe University has high-quality questions, and you cannot compete by simply memorizing formulas and theorems. Solid theoretical understanding and the ability to apply it in practice are required. As an aside, because this economic mathematics is present, Tohoku University, which also requires economic mathematics, is recommended as a school to apply to concurrently.

Also, since the TOEIC score significantly influences the overall evaluation of the exam, strengthening English proficiency is essential. To aim for a high score, you need to study specifically for TOEIC and develop your listening and reading skills in a balanced manner. According to official successful candidate survey data from the Online Transfer Academy, where I was also enrolled, the average score for successful candidates is usually around 850 points.

4. Effective Study Schedule

Importance of a Study Schedule

To pass the transfer exam, a planned study schedule is indispensable. In particular, by starting preparation about a year before the exam, you can thoroughly master everything from basics to applications, and above all, since the transfer exam is an information war, grasping the correct study schedule is more important than anything else. Here, since I don't know when you are reading this article, I will introduce schedule examples divided into three parts:

(1) If starting preparation from the spring of the first year of university (2) If starting from the winter of the first year of university (3) If starting from the spring of the second year of university

However, in conclusion, the essential content you need to work on does not change regardless of whether you condense it or not. Therefore, I will show more detailed study methods, especially in the part for "(1) If starting preparation from the spring of the first year".

(1) If starting preparation from the spring of the first year of university

By starting from the spring of the first year, you can proceed with your studies carefully over about one year. This schedule is characterized by being able to proceed with studies without strain from a long-term perspective. In conclusion, the steps are as follows.

(1) Finish TOEIC at high speed = obtain 850 points or more by the end of summer vacation (2) Ensure the basics of economics are firmly ingrained within the year (3) From early spring, also start working on applied economics problems and economic mathematics (4) In the summer just before the exam (summer of the second year), cover all past exam questions including those from other former Imperial Universities

It is very simple. I think the passing line will definitely come into view with the above. Now, I will explain more concretely from here.

Recommended study methods for April to June of the first year

The basics of TOEIC study start with "knowing your enemy". A common pattern is thinking, "I'll just use the vocabulary books I used for entrance exams." This is complete nonsense. Starting your studies without knowing how the TOEIC is structured (4 listening parts, 3 reading parts) or what themes and scenarios tend to appear is overwhelmingly inefficient.

So, first and foremost, test your strength. Using official workbooks is fine, or you can actually sign up and take the TOEIC. Take the full 2-hour exam to grasp the overall framework of the test.

After that, to better understand the TOEIC format, I recommend the book "Complete TOEIC Part Mastery". First, use this book to thoroughly input the TOEIC exam structure.

In addition, since the vocabulary that appears in TOEIC is quite different from that in university entrance exams, it's a classic, but use "Gold Phrase", or if you feel uncomfortable with English, use the preceding level, "Silver Phrase", to proceed with your TOEIC vocabulary study.

Regarding which one you should start with, if you are scoring 70% or higher on the Common Test, I think you can start with Gold Phrase. Only those who are insecure about basic vocabulary should reach for Silver Phrase.

For busy transfer students, the correct way to use "Gold Phrase" and efficient study methods are summarized in the video below, so please watch it when you study.

Also, for this foundational period, the conclusion is simply "Vocabulary & Grammar". I will say it again,

Vocabulary & Grammar!!!!! Start with this!!!!!! Don't run away!!!!!

Vocabulary and grammar are like muscle training in sports. Since they are the foundation for everything, they will raise the floor for your scores in both listening and reading. If you are worried because your listening isn't improving, 90% of the time it's because you haven't mastered this. It's fine to start training like shadowing, but first, without complaining, please perfect your vocabulary and grammar.

For grammar preparation, "Grammar Express" is recommended. There are only 153 questions in total, but because of that, you will be able to fully internalize the thought process that English experts who score 990 or perfect scores use to handle Part 5 grammar questions.

By thoroughly doing this "muscle training" for TOEIC, you should be able to see a score of over 600 by around June.

Recommended study methods for July to September of the first year

During this period, we will finally focus on "score acquisition." In other words, "Score Potential Analysis" and "Weakness Strengthening". Score potential analysis means identifying which part has the largest gap between your current score and your goal. Also, to add, even within the TOEIC as a whole, there are parts that easily affect your score and parts that do not. For example, Part 1 of the listening section only has 6 questions. On the other hand, Part 4 has 30 questions. It is clear which one you should prioritize: Part 1, which accounts for 6% of the total listening score, or Part 4, which accounts for 30%.

Now, introducing specific materials, for Part 1 & 2 preparation, "Part 1 & 2 Difficulty Increase Drill", and for Part 5 & 6, "Deru 1000 Questions" are recommended.

I am often asked which is better, Deru 1000 or Grammar Express. Deru 1000 is for [Quantity], and Grammar Express is for [Quality]. They are not used the same way. In other words, it is ideal in terms of strengthening weaknesses to understand the essence of Part 5 with Grammar Express, and then tackle Deru 1000 to handle the volume.

Regarding the comparison between Grammar Express and Deru 1000, it is well summarized in the video below, so please check it if you are interested.

Next, for Part 7, "The Book to Earn Scores by Reading All of Part 7" or the Express series "Reading Comprehension Express 2: Speed Enhancement Edition" are recommended. Especially with Reading Comprehension Express, you can proceed with your studies while tracking your reading speed using the concept of wpm (words per minute), so you will no longer have the problem of "Why can't I finish in time!"

Finally, regarding the listening part, you can think of it as "low priority for now".

This is because your score is likely to improve along with your reading skills. That said, if you struggle with the long script questions in Parts 3 and 4, try focusing exclusively on shadowing material from the official workbook that you have already worked on once." The key is that you have already worked on it. The human brain simply processes English sentences it has never heard or understood as mere sound information, letting it pass from one ear to the other. Therefore, shadowing sentences you have heard before and whose meaning you have reviewed is effective for improving your score, as it helps you internalize the connections between words (linking) and the intonation unique to native speakers. Be especially wary of instructors who mindlessly tell you to just keep shadowing. English training like shadowing only becomes effective once you understand the reason for doing it.

If you want to focus on something other than the official workbook, the Tokkyu series is another good option, and TOEIC L&R TEST Part 3 & 4 Tokkyu: Practical Training Drill has many good problems. However, as I have said repeatedly, only use this for targeted weakness training once you have reached the 600 (or 700 for some) point phase.

Once you can do this, I think your score will likely be in the 700s to low 800s. Many people struggle in the process of going from here to over 850–900. While there probably isn't that much difference in the amount of vocabulary and grammar input, what is missing is not only advanced practice but also the input of techniques to avoid losing points (to ensure you pick them up). For that, I recommend the following two things. One is the Seisen Moshi series. Although the difficulty is slightly higher than the official workbooks, this serves as excellent high-altitude training.

Also, for techniques, I recommend getting input through videos rather than reference books. Among those sharing information on YouTube, Haru English is recommended. In particular, try watching the videos on techniques for the parts you find difficult.

Recommended study methods for October to December of the first year

Now, once you have secured your TOEIC score with the training and measures mentioned above, it is time for the main event. You will dive into economics input with all your might. (Securing your TOEIC score early is important so that you can focus fully on this.)

School will start and you will likely be quite busy, but one year before the exam, this is where the real battle begins. From this period on, use "Easy Microeconomics," "Easy Macroeconomics," and "Easy Micro/Macro Calculation Problems" to grasp the big picture of economics. If you feel the "Easy" series is a bit shallow, or if you want to input the basics along with videos, "Rapid Learning Microeconomics" and "Rapid Learning Macroeconomics" are also fine. You only need one of either the "Easy" series or the "Rapid Learning" series.

As is the case with all academic disciplines,

Big to Small
Grasp the big picture of the discipline, then master the specific details

is the mindset you should have when studying. Those who say, "I'm studying so much but it's not sinking in at all!!" are usually the ones who started from the specific details. In that sense, this "Easy" series is perfect for grasping the big picture of economics. Again, since the goal is to grasp the outline of the discipline, this "Easy" series should be focused on speed. You can skip parts you don't understand for now, so try to go through each book about three times. In doing so, you should naturally get a feel for what kind of discipline economics is.

Next, for the intermediate level, it would be ideal if you could deepen your understanding of economic theory using books like
"Microeconomics (Ashiya Micro)" and "Introductory Macroeconomics (Nakatani Macro)". If you do just this, you can say that a perfect foundation has been completed within your first year.

Recommended study methods for January to March of the second year

During this period, you should also start working on economic mathematics. (It is perfectly fine to start this in parallel with economics from an even earlier stage.)

Regarding economic mathematics, if you work through books like "Economic Mathematics for Economics" or "Introductory Course in Economic Mathematics," that should be sufficient, especially if you are good at math.

For those who are making good progress and want to master economic mathematics a bit more, "Sapientia Economic Mathematics" is also recommended.

By now, you probably understand. If you have managed to get this far by early spring, when many transfer students start their studies, you have no reason to lose in terms of both mentality and ability. (Those who encountered this article early are truly lucky!) I really want you to aim for this.

By the way, regarding the details of each reference book, this video explained by Mr. Obara, an associate professor at Chuo University's Faculty of Commerce and an instructor at the Online Transfer Academy is easy to understand and recommended. I personally was able to achieve significant efficiency gains with the online video lectures supervised by Mr. Obara.

Recommended study methods for April of the second year and beyond

From this period on, it becomes more important than anything else to work on past exam questions and get used to the actual exam format. Past exam questions for the Kobe University Faculty of Economics can be obtained for the last three years, along with answers, on the university's website.

You can download them from the link below, so be sure to check it out.

https://www.econ.kobe-u.ac.jp/admission-transfer-ug/

That said, if possible, I would like you to go back as far as 10 years to practice. Regarding how to obtain past exam questions, please try consulting Mercari or, if you are looking for answers as well, the Online Transfer Academy.

Don't just work on Kobe University's past questions because you are only applying to Kobe University; it would be good if you could also try your hand at past questions from other major former Imperial Universities, and once you have exhausted those, even past questions from graduate schools of economics! However, this is something for quite advanced students, so please judge for yourselves.

Once your TOEIC score reaches a certain level, focus on economic mathematics. Use the "Introductory Course to Economic Mathematics" to solidify the basics of calculus and linear algebra. To overcome any aversion to mathematics, it is important to study particularly carefully during this period.

(2) If starting from the winter of your first year of university (around October)

If you start in the winter of your first year, you need to study more efficiently because the period is shorter than before, but the basic strategy is the same as before.

① Finish TOEIC at lightning speed = get 850 points or more by the end of the year
② Firmly hammer in the basics of economics by early spring (March)
③ From early spring (April onwards), start working on applied economics problems and economic mathematics
④ In the summer just before the exam (summer of your second year), cover all past questions including those from other former Imperial Universities

By studying both TOEIC and specialized subjects in parallel, let's build up your strength in a balanced way.

• October - December: You need to proceed with TOEIC and specialized subjects at the same time. To raise your TOEIC score in a short period, utilize "Kin no Phrase," "Grammar Express," and "Complete Strategy for All TOEIC Parts" to intensively train your English skills. You definitely want to get 850 points or more on the TOEIC here. Learn the basics of economics in parallel, and efficiently input knowledge with "Easy Micro/Macro" and "Easy Calculation Edition."

• December - Next March: Deepen the basics of economics further. Efficiently input knowledge with "Easy Micro/Macro," "Easy Calculation Edition," "Ashiya Micro," and "Nakatani Macro."

• April - June: Focus on economic mathematics and applied economic theory. For economic mathematics, utilize "Economics Math," "Introductory Course to Economic Mathematics," and "Sapientia Economic Mathematics," and also work on applied problems. Also, prepare for the actual exam by solving past questions.

• July - Just before the exam (November): During this period, proceed with your studies focusing on past questions. Thoroughly re-solve past questions, grasp the question trends, and thoroughly review the problems you couldn't solve.

(3) If starting from the spring of your second year of university (around March)

If you start from the spring of your second year, you have to finish it at a very fast pace. To proceed with economics and economic mathematics in parallel with measures to obtain a high TOEIC score, you need to proceed with more strategic learning.

March - May: Strengthening TOEIC and finishing the basics of economics

In the spring, the top priority is to finalize your TOEIC score. Utilize "Kin no Phrase," "Grammar Express," and "Complete Strategy for All TOEIC Parts" to further strengthen your English skills in a short, intensive period. The goal is to achieve a TOEIC score of 850 or higher early on.

At the same time, it is important to firmly solidify the basics of economics. Use "Easy Micro/Macro" and "Easy Calculation Edition" to review basic knowledge once more and ensure there are no gaps. The goal here is to firmly understand basic theory and prepare to move on to applications.

June - September: Transition to applications of economics and economic mathematics

After solidifying your foundation, start working on applied problems in economics and economic mathematics. From this period, challenge yourself with more advanced problems using resources like "Economics Math," "Introductory Course in Economic Mathematics," and "Sapientia Economic Mathematics."

Economic mathematics, in particular, is a major hurdle for many examinees, so prioritize your studies in this area. For economics, deepen your understanding by solving applied problems using reference books such as "Ashiya Micro" and "Nakatani Macro."

September–October: Past exam practice and overcoming weaknesses until the very end

Summer vacation is the time to focus on practicing with past exam papers. Ideally, at least during the latter half of the summer, you should work through a large volume of past papers to grasp the exam's question trends and identify your weak points. During this period, ensure thorough preparation by covering a wide range of past papers, including those from other former Imperial Universities, not just Kobe University.

Also, thoroughly review the problems you couldn't solve to ensure you overcome your weaknesses. By building your strength during this period, your studies from autumn onwards should proceed very smoothly.

October–Just before the exam (November): Final polish and mock exams

In the period just before the exam, focus on re-solving past papers and practicing with mock exam formats. Carry out practical preparation for the actual exam, such as time management and selecting which problems to prioritize.

Also, promptly review and deepen your understanding of any new weaknesses discovered during this time. The goal here is to reach a state where you can answer with confidence on the day of the exam.

5. How to Utilize Past Exam Papers: 3 Important Steps

Utilizing past exam papers is the shortest route to passing. To succeed in the Kobe University Faculty of Economics transfer exam, the key is how effectively you can use these past papers. Here, I will introduce effective ways to use them.

1. Analyze them one year before the exam to understand the format

First, by analyzing past papers, make sure you fully grasp what kind of opponent you are facing. You wouldn't challenge a Gym Leader without knowing which Pokémon they have, right? You would raise the most effective team to challenge them. You cannot expect to pass a transfer exam without knowing your enemy. If you find it difficult to analyze them as a beginner, I repeat, consult with the free counseling at the Online Transfer Academy. Time is limited, so make good use of preparatory schools.

2. Practice from early spring to late summer according to your progress

By solving past papers during this period, you can gauge your current standing and the distance to your goal by seeing how well you can handle them after studying with the recommended reference books. You can check your study progress and make necessary adjustments.

3. Solve them again while timing yourself just before the exam

Just before the exam, solve past papers to build confidence and thoroughly review the problems you couldn't solve. The point here is to increase your problem-solving speed and fully grasp the question trends.

When using past papers, it is important not just to solve them, but to read the explanations and deepen your understanding. Also, by repeatedly solving the problems you couldn't get right, you will steadily build your strength.

6. Mindset for Passing and Common Traits of Successful Candidates

Exam preparation is not just about accumulating knowledge; mental preparation is also important. For students taking transfer exams, maintaining motivation is a major challenge. Here, I will also touch upon the mindset for passing and the common traits of successful candidates.

Conversely, I also found a video summarizing the characteristics of people who don't pass, so I've included it here. First, read the rest of the article to understand the "common traits of successful candidates" before watching the video.

① Habits Common to Successful Candidates [Consistency and Planning]

What many successful candidates have in common is "consistency" and "planning." Exam preparation is a long-term battle that cannot be overcome by temporary motivation alone. Successful candidates turned daily study into a habit and proceeded according to a plan. Specifically, it is important to set a detailed daily schedule and accumulate learning little by little within a reasonable range.

Also, they never rushed, and by proceeding according to plan while maintaining their pace, they were always aware of their progress. For example, they set weekly goals and maintained their motivation by achieving them. Such habits lead to great results in the end.

② Positive Thinking [The Power to Overcome Adversity]

While studying for the transfer exam, there will inevitably be moments when you hit a wall. You may face situations where you cannot solve problems or keep up with the material. However, many successful transfer exam candidates are able to face such adversity positively.

When facing difficulties, view them as "an opportunity for personal growth" and overcome them by learning more deeply. It is important to take breaks occasionally, refresh your mind, and then take on the challenge again. Positive thinking is a great weapon even on the day of the exam.

③ Early Acquisition of External Scores [Giving Yourself Room to Focus on Specialized Subjects]

This is where the battle is won. Do not run away.Many successful candidates succeed in obtaining their TOEIC scores early. (This is just a trend. Of course, there are people who get them at the last minute and still pass.) By starting TOEIC study in the spring or summer of their first year and clearing their target score early, they can concentrate on their specialized subjects afterward.

By getting a high TOEIC score early, you can devote all your energy to preparing for economics and economic mathematics from your second year onwards. This is a huge advantage, isn't it? In particular, since the score in economic mathematics greatly influences the pass/fail result of the Kobe University Faculty of Economics transfer exam, being able to devote sufficient time to this is a very significant advantage.

④ Thorough Mastery of Fundamentals and Application [The Foundation is Everything]

Successful candidates all start by thoroughly solidifying the basics. For example, they focus on firmly understanding basic theories using reference books such as the "Rakuraku Series," "Ashiya Micro," and "Nakatani Macro," and then challenge themselves with applied problems to gain a deeper understanding, thereby acquiring the practical skills required for the actual exam.

It is difficult to achieve sufficient results if you tackle applied problems while neglecting the basics. Rather, by solidifying the basics and then expanding into applications, it becomes possible to aim for higher scores.

⑤ Efficient Study Methods [The Importance of Review]

Adopting efficient study methods is another characteristic common to successful candidates. They did not just solve problems, but thoroughly reviewed them to deepen their understanding. In particular, they utilized past exam questions to grasp the exam trends and repeatedly solved problems they could not solve, steadily building their strength.

Past exam questions are not just for solving, but are also very effective as material for review. By re-learning mainly the parts you got wrong, you can overcome your weaknesses and increase your scoring ability on the actual exam.

⑥ The Power to Believe in Yourself [Maintaining Self-Esteem]

Finally, what is important is the power to believe in yourself. Exam preparation is a lonely battle, and at times you may be overcome by anxiety or impatience. However, successful candidates believed in their own efforts and saw it through to the end without giving up.

By maintaining self-esteem, you can remain calm and demonstrate your true ability on the day of the exam. In particular, looking back on your efforts the day before the exam and approaching the exam with confidence is a big step toward passing.

["Imitating" successful candidates is the shortest path!!] Valuable interviews with successful candidates

Below, we have posted an interview video with a successful candidate. Please check it out to see what they went through, what they struggled with, and how they managed to pass the Kobe University transfer exam!

Moyuri-san's note mentioned above is also highly recommended as it is packed with very raw episodes of a transfer student's struggles and successes. I will link it here as well.

Also, I think the voices of successful applicants from Kobe University's neighboring Faculty of Business Administration will be helpful, so I have included them below. The following article covers preparation methods for the Faculty of Business Administration comprehensively, so it is overwhelmingly more recommended than buying strange paid articles.

Below is an interview video with a successful applicant to the Faculty of Business Administration.

By being conscious of the points common to successful applicants and preparing thoroughly in this way, let's aim to pass the Kobe University Faculty of Economics transfer exam. Incorporating both the right mindset and study methods in a balanced way, and proceeding with a method that suits you, is the key to success. Don't give up until the end, believe in yourself, and take on the challenge!

7. Four Points for Passing

To secure a pass in the 3rd-year transfer exam for the Kobe University Faculty of Economics, strategic study and tactics on the day of the exam are crucial. Here, I will introduce three points you should keep in mind to win your pass.

① Economic Mathematics is the Key to Victory [Become a Math Powerhouse]

Economic mathematics is a subject where score differences are particularly likely to occur among the exam subjects. Since many examinees struggle here, thorough preparation is necessary. Even if you get a high score on the TOEIC, if you lose points in economic mathematics, passing can become difficult. Therefore, it is important to prepare for economic mathematics more carefully than other subjects.

First, solidify the basic theory with materials such as the "Introduction to Economic Mathematics Course" to ensure you can solve basic problems reliably. Next, utilize "Sapientia Economic Mathematics" and past exam questions to get used to applied problems and the exam's question trends. Furthermore, in preparation for the day of the exam, speed practice to solve all questions within the time limit is indispensable.

On the day of the exam, it is important to work calmly without panicking. If you spend too much time on problems you don't understand, you will lose the chance to earn points on other problems, so be conscious of solving with a sense of rhythm.

② Balance Between Thorough Basics and Applied Skills [Reach Greater Heights with Strong Foundations]

In economics exams, while understanding of basics is tested, applied skills are also put to the test. In the Kobe University Faculty of Economics transfer exam, if your basics are solid, you can score 60-70%. However, it is a fact that the ability to handle applied problems is also required.

First, thoroughly solidify your basics with standard books like "Ashiya Micro" and "Nakatani Macro." These materials have detailed explanations and are optimal for deepening your understanding. If your basics are solid, you will have the leeway to handle applied problems.

To improve your applied skills, it is effective to repeatedly solve actual past exam questions and practice problems. In particular, it is important to grasp the exam's question trends and proceed with your studies accordingly. For example, by focusing your learning on themes that are frequently asked at Kobe University, you can improve your scoring ability.

③ The Benchmark for Passing is a Score Rate of 70% or Higher [However, Aim Even Higher]

The minimum passing score in typical years is about 70% to 80%. Since the Osaka University Faculty of Economics changed to using TOEIC scores starting in the 2025 academic year, there is a strong possibility that the average TOEIC score of successful applicants will rise. Therefore, to ensure a pass, you should not be satisfied with a score of 70% or more and need to aim for even greater heights. What is important here is to reliably earn points in your areas of strength.

In the exam, it is important to first tackle problems you can solve with confidence and reliably accumulate points. If you have time to spare, it is good to tackle more difficult problems. A strategy of considering time allocation and solving the problems you can solve first is effective for increasing your overall exam score rate.

Also, to avoid panicking during the exam, practice solving problems while being conscious of time on a regular basis. It is good to get used to time allocation by solving mock exams and past questions while timing yourself.

④ Final Confirmation and Preparation Before the Exam [Preparation is Everything]

Just before the exam, re-solving past questions and re-checking problems you got wrong is important. In particular, by intensively reviewing the fields you are weak in, you can boost your scoring ability on the actual exam. Also, by reviewing the entire scope once just before the exam, you will be able to handle any problem that appears.

Furthermore, it is important not to overexert yourself the day before the exam and to get plenty of sleep. By approaching the exam with a clear head, you will be able to perform at your best.

8. Conclusion (Editor's Postscript)

The transfer exam for the Kobe University Faculty of Economics is a highly challenging test that requires planned study and solid preparation. However, by utilizing a well-structured schedule and excellent reference books, the path to success will surely open up. Find the method that works for you, study efficiently, and win your acceptance!

The University Transfer Information Bureau sincerely supports your success. Finally, to those taking the exam: studying for the exam is certainly difficult, but a wonderful future awaits you once you overcome it. Do not rush; move forward steadily, one step at a time. I wish you all the best!

Final Note | To those of you who thought, 'Maybe I want to try the transfer exam'

Transfer exams have little information available, and there is a lot of anxiety.

However, there is a common thread among those who pass.

1. Thoroughly research the trends of the transfer exam for your target university

2. Create a preparation schedule by working backward from the exam date

3. Do not give in to temptation and diligently follow the correct preparation methods

If you master these three points, passing is well within your reach.

If you are hesitating, now is the time to act.

In fact, transferring is a chance to re-choose your career path that is surprisingly not well known.

• You can challenge the university you wanted to go to again

• You can change your current environment

• You can re-learn what you want to study

However, because there is so little information, most people stop at the questions: 'Can I do it too?' or 'Where should I start?'

・Do I meet the eligibility requirements for my target school?
・Is there enough time for me to prepare for the exam now?
・How should I structure my applications to multiple schools?
・Which subject should I start with?

Many people get lost in the information even if they gather it enthusiastically.This is because the timing for starting transfer exam preparation and the academic situation at the start are completely different for everyone.

General theories about transfer preparation alone will not provide the answers you need.

That is why the Online Transfer Academy offers "Free Individual Consultations (Online)."

《What you can do in a free individual consultation》
✅ Understand the admission strategy tailored to your target university
✅ See specifically "what you need to do now"
✅ Resolve anxieties and questions on the spot

"I haven't decided whether to take the exam yet." That stage is perfectly fine.
Just by talking, you can organize your thoughts and see "your own" policy for transfer exam preparation.

First, register as a LINE friend, receive benefits to gain an advantage in transfer exam preparation, and feel free to participate in a free consultation 😄

🎁 Receive [6 Major Benefits] for free just by registering
100 selected success stories / 30 schools' past exam question revisions / Interview preparation course ...etc.

🎁 Furthermore, those who participate in a free consultation will also receive [4 Additional Major Benefits]!

Everything was originally created by a preparatory school specializing in transfers, taking over 100 hours.

After registering, you will receive information about the <Free Individual Consultation> on LINE. You can choose a schedule that suits your convenience 👍️

Time spent hesitating = time where you fall behind.
Now, when you want to change, is the time to start.

↓ Tap the banner to register on LINE & apply for a free consultation ↓