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What are the benefits of introducing CBT into university entrance exams? Introducing case studies
- CBT
CBT（Computer Based Testing）, which uses computers to perform exams, has become increasingly popular, primarily for qualification and certification exams, but in recent years it has also been widely adopted for university entrance exams. Many universities are taking notice of CBT because it can simultaneously improve convenience for Candidate and streamline operations for universities.
In this article, we will explain the benefits of CBT in university entrance exams and examples of its implementation.
CBT is also being introduced into university entrance exams
CBT（Computer Based Testing）is a method of administering exams using computers at dedicated Test Center centers. Everything from displaying exam questions, recording answers, and scoring is done on a computer, making for efficient exam administration.
With CBT, exams are taken at test centers (Test Center) where proctors are always present, on computers that have been specially prepared for the test, ensuring fairness. Each Candidate takes the test in a separate booth, allowing them to concentrate without worrying about those around them. Prometric has standardized Test Center environment, including standardizing display sizes and installing lockers with locks.
Furthermore, unlike traditional paper-based testing (PBT), CBT allows for a wide range of options for test dates and Test Center, allowing Candidate to take the test flexibly according to their own convenience, and enabling Candidate live far from the university to take the test without difficulty.
The benefits of CBT are also being recognized in university entrance exams, and an increasing number of universities are introducing it.
The benefits of introducing CBT into university entrance exams
Introducing CBT into university entrance exams has benefits for both Candidate and universities. Let's take a look at the specific benefits.
Advantages for Candidate
For Candidate, the benefits are an increased choice of test dates and Test Center, expanding test opportunities. Tests can be taken at test centers throughout the country, eliminating the need to travel long distances and saving time and travel costs. With traditional PBT, Test Center were often only available in a limited number of cities. Introducing CBT allows test takers to take the test at the nearest test center, significantly reducing the burden on Candidate.
Benefits for universities
The first benefit for universities is a reduction in exam administration costs. There is no need to arrange Test Center, coordinate exam supervisors, or print, deliver, and store exam questions. This significantly reduces physical costs and operational burden, and is expected to result in significant cost savings in the long term.
In addition, with general CBT, there are no fixed operational costs, and the fee structure is based on a pay-as-you-go system according to the number of Candidate. Therefore, there are no costs at locations where there are no Candidate.
Furthermore, automating the grading process will prevent human error, improve grading efficiency, and make it easier to manage Candidate data and Test Result, which will be useful for improving the entrance examination system and understanding Candidate trends.
Furthermore, the number of cities and days in which the exam is held can be expanded, leading to an increase in the number Candidate. Another benefit is that it will be possible to attract Candidate from areas where it was previously not possible to set up Test Center, which will likely lead to an expansion of the applicant base.
In addition, CBT is expected to improve fairness and security, which are important in university entrance exams. The advantage of CBT is that it reduces the risk of cheating by providing different sets of questions to each Candidate and randomizing the order of questions, while ensuring the quality and difficulty of the exam questions.
A case study of university entrance exams using Prometric CBT: Soka University
Soka University has decided to partially switch from the conventional PBT format to a CBT format in order to improve convenience for test takers and meet their diverse needs. The university has applicants from all over the country, and is also introducing regional testing centers to reduce the burden on Candidate living in rural areas. Soka University is the first private university nationwide to use the CBT format for general entrance exams (as of March 2025).
Soka University's CBT method is conducted at Prometric test centers, ensuring security On the test day without disrupting the entrance exam format to the maximum extent. Although there were initial implementation costs, not only were costs lower than with PBT, but the number of personnel required to operate Test Center was also reduced.
For more information about Soka University's introduction of CBT, please see the article below.
Examples of introducing CBT into university entrance exams
In recent years, the introduction of CBT has been increasing in university entrance exams. Below are the universities that have introduced CBT and its effects.
■ Universities in Japan that have introduced CBT (examples of implementation within universities)
| University name | Effects of introducing CBT |
|---|---|
| Kanda University of Foreign Studies | By switching to online admissions even during the state of emergency, admission selection could continue, and students living abroad could take the exam without coming to Japan. |
| Saga University | It is now possible to create exam questions that take advantage of the characteristics of CBT, such as dynamic questions (when an incorrect answer is made, an explanation is displayed and the student can answer the question again), questions that use videos, and tests of the four English skills. |
| University of Electro-Communications | It is now possible to split the test into multiple days and multiple times. |
Reference: "CBT Problem-solving Case Studies" (National Center for University Entrance Examinations, Examination Planning Division, Examination Planning Department)
Additionally, overseas, CBT is being introduced not only for university entrance exams, but also for academic ability tests for graduate school entrance exams and English tests for students hoping to study abroad. The exams listed below have been using CBT for over 10 years, and some of them are administered at Prometric test centers.
■ Exams where CBT has been introduced overseas
| Exam Name | Exam Overview |
|---|---|
| GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) | A global test run by the American ETS. Applicants to graduate schools and business schools around the world take the test. |
| TOEFL iBT® (Test of English as a Foreign Language) | A global test hosted by the American ETS. Used by over 11,500 universities, graduate schools, and other institutions in over 160 countries. |
| DSST (DANTES Subject Standardized Tests) | An exam for the purpose of accrediting American universities |
| College Board AP (Advanced Placement®) |
Operated by the US College Board, this program is widely used worldwide as a way for high school students to take college-level courses and receive entrance exam credits based on their test scores. |
The introduction of CBT in university entrance exams will lead to an increase in the number Candidate by providing opportunities to take the exam both domestically and internationally.
Introducing CBT to university entrance exams will achieve benefits for both Candidate and universities, ensuring fairness and increasing the number of Candidate. Another benefit is that the test can now be taken at test centers across the country, reaching people who previously gave up on taking the exam due to geographical restrictions.
Prometric 's strengths in CBT include the number and quality of Test Center Test Center, security, and an overseas network. If you are considering CBT for university entrance exams, please contact Prometric, which provides an environment where Candidate can take the test with peace of mind.
Questions about introducing CBT, consultation on operation, fees, etc.
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