What Are Parents Most Worried About Before University Enrollment? — National Union of Students' Cooperatives to Host Free Online Seminar 'Introduction Seminar for Parents on University Life' Based on Preliminary Results of '2026 Parent Survey on New Students'

University enrollment is not only a major milestone in a child's life but also a period when parents face numerous preparations and decisions.

The National Union of Students' Cooperatives will host an online event titled 'Introduction Seminar for Parents on University Life' on Sunday, July 26, 2026, for parents of high school students preparing to enter university.

During the seminar, preliminary data from the '2026 Parent Survey on New Students'—scheduled for full release on July 31—will be partially unveiled. Based on the latest trends revealed through nationwide parental feedback on tuition costs, parental anxieties, and enrollment preparations, the seminar will explore how to prepare for university life, incorporating experiences from current university students and veteran parents.

Introduction Seminar for Parents on University Life

'University Enrollment' Involves More Than Just Exams

While university entrance exams often focus attention on exam preparation and admission systems, in reality, parents must make numerous decisions in a short period—from entrance and enrollment fees to housing searches, scholarships, and preparations for computers and textbooks.

Annual parent surveys conducted by the National Union of Students' Cooperatives have consistently revealed that university enrollment is not just about 'exams,' but about preparing for 'the entirety of university life.'

National Union of Students' Cooperatives '2026 Parent Survey on New Students' Preliminary Report — Summary to be released on 7/31

Concerns When Starting University Life (by housing type) — From the National Union of Students' Cooperatives '2026 Parent Survey on New Students' Preliminary Report

Insights on Parents from the Latest Survey

This year's survey revealed that parental concerns extend beyond financial aspects to include their child's physical health, mental well-being, choice of desired university, and post-enrollment lifestyle.

At the same time, the survey also revealed that many families have been preparing education funds for several years, indicating that university enrollment is being planned as a long-term life event.

National Union of Students' Cooperatives '2026 Parent Survey on New Students' Preliminary Report — Advice from 55,076 Parent Responses

The 'Reality of University Life' Only a Student Cooperative Can Share

The National Union of Students' Cooperatives has long supported student life across universities nationwide. In this seminar, insights from not only parent surveys but also a student life reality survey of approximately 20,000 students will be shared, covering topics such as 'University Life and Finances,' 'Scholarships,' 'Housing,' 'Diet,' 'Study Environment,' and 'Risks in Student Life.'

Additionally, the seminar will feature personal experiences from current university students and veteran parents, as well as an explanation of scholarship programs by the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO).

Event Title

Introduction Seminar for Parents on University Life

Date and Time

July 26, 2026 (Sunday), 10:00–12:00 — Online via Zoom

Participation Fee

Free

Introduction Seminar for Parents on University Life

[Event Details]

General Session

Talks on University Life and Finances (based on a survey of approximately 55,000 people), plus personal experiences from veteran parents and current students on the journey from exam preparation to enrollment

10:00–11:00

Booth Sessions

First Round — Choose and view from seven available themes

11:00–11:30

Booth Sessions

Second Round — Choose and view from seven available themes

11:30–12:00

Participants Choose Themed Booths Based on Interest

After the general session, participants can freely select from themed booths covering housing searches, university students' diets, study environments, career development, and risks in university life. Booths missed on the day can be viewed later via on-demand replay.

[Themed Booth Guide]

Booth ① How to Talk with Your Child!?

From selecting universities to preparing for enrollment—discover what topics parents and children should discuss, based on experiences from senior students.

Booth ② All About Scholarships

An overview of scholarships and application timelines. Essential information that high school freshmen and sophomores should know. Lecture by Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO)

Booth ③ Housing Search for Exam Candidates

When should you start looking for housing? How do you find the right place? Tips from student experiences and housing support staff at student cooperatives.

Booth ④ University Students' Meal Habits

Learn about current students' eating habits and get insights into your child's diet and campus dining options.

Booth ⑤ Essentials for Classes, Study, and Research

How is university different from high school? Discover how to use laptops and tablets in class, take notes, write reports, and more—straight from senior students.

Booth ⑥ Learning, Experiences, and Career Paths from Enrollment to Graduation

What does career development look like during university? Seniors will share their experiences, career and job placement stories, and messages for juniors.

Booth ⑦ Risks Facing University Students and How to Prepare

Learn about real cases of student illness and injury, and what to watch out for regarding the age of majority at 18 and predatory business practices.

Introduction Seminar for Parents on University Life

'Preparing After Knowing' Leads to Peace of Mind

Preparation for university life begins not after admission results are announced, but during the exam period. When parents gain a concrete understanding of university life early on, they can plan education expenses, housing searches, and scholarships more systematically. This seminar will specifically explain 'what to prepare and by when.'

95% Participant Satisfaction Rate

Last year's participants shared feedback such as 'I clearly understood the financial needs of university life,' 'I could visualize university life through current students' stories,' and 'I wish I had known this earlier.' The participant satisfaction rate reached 95%.

Event Overview

Date: July 26, 2026 (Sunday), 10:00–12:00 Format: Online (Zoom) Fee: Free Target Audience: Parents of high school students, examinees, and high school staff

Organizer: National Union of Students' Cooperatives Sponsors: Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology; Consumer Affairs Agency; Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO)