required the candidate to take another, institution-specific exam, which was often more difficult than the National Center Test. The function of the Center Test depended on the institution, but most could be categorized into the following three types: Center Test only: Universities that require only the Center Test results and use only them for admissions decisions. Mostly used by private universities alongside normal (using institution-specific exams) admission. Center Test and secondary exam: Universities using the Center Test and a secondary exam (their own test, or an essay or interview) for their decisions. Used by most national universities. Center Test as primary decision: Universities using the Center Test as a primary decision, after which the successful candidates are placed on an even plane and are given a secondary, institution-specific exam that decides admission. Used by the most prestigious universities such as the University of Tokyo and Kyoto University, but not seen much elsewhere. Checking scores Because candidates did not know their Center Test scores before applying to universities, most wrote their answers on the question sheets (which can be taken home) and checked their answers using rubrics published by cram schools. A number of cram schools and other companies have services to which candidates can send their scores and learn their overall position relative to other users of the service, called . Candidates can use this information to see how they fared as compared with other test-takers and make their final application decisions. (In Japan, candidates may be unable to apply to all their desired universities, as in countries such as the United States, mainly because the secondary exams are scheduled on or near the same day.) Tests There are separate tests for each subject, and each is multiple choice. The tests follow the curriculum guidelines published by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology. There are a total of 30 tests in six subjects. Candidates take the subjects specified by their university. As an exception, however, candidates for the English (written) exam must take the English (listening). First day In 2020, the first day of exams was held on Saturday, January 18. Geography, History and Civics: Candidates select 2 or 1 tests, not including the same name. 100 points each, 60 minutes each World History A (世界史A) World History B (世界史B) Japanese History A (日本史A) Japanese History B (日本史B) Geography A (地理A) Geography B (地理B) Contemporary Social Studies