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How old do you have to be to be a third year in Japan?

Published in Japanese Education Ages 2 mins read

To be a third year in Japan, your age will depend on whether you are referring to junior high school or high school. Specifically, a student in the third year of junior high school (JHS 3) is typically 14-15 years old, while a student in the third year of high school (HS 3) is generally 17-18 years old.

Understanding the Japanese School System

The Japanese education system is structured into several stages, including elementary school (6 years), junior high school (3 years), and high school (3 years). When discussing a "third year" student, it most commonly refers to either the final year of junior high or the final year of high school, as these are the two main 3-year cycles in the compulsory and upper-secondary education system.

Age and Grade Levels for Third Years

The age ranges for students in the third year of their respective school levels in Japan are as follows:

School Level Year Age Range
Junior High School 3rd 14-15
High School 3rd 17-18
  • Junior High School 3rd Year (JHS 3):
    Students in their third year of junior high school are typically between the ages of 14 and 15. This year marks the completion of compulsory education in Japan, and students often prepare for high school entrance examinations during this period.

  • High School 3rd Year (HS 3):
    Students in their third and final year of high school are generally 17 to 18 years old. This is a crucial year for many, as they are often preparing for university entrance examinations or planning their transition into the workforce.

It is important to remember that these ages are typical ranges. A student's exact age for their grade level is determined by their age as of April 1st, the start of the academic year in Japan.

For more detailed information on school grades and age structures in Japan, you can refer to resources like PLAZA HOMES' guide to School Grade and Age Structures in Japan.