Recommended cheer-up songs for high school students: tracks that will motivate you to do your best on entrance exams and club activities when you listen to them.
Between club activities, daily classes, and studying for entrance exams, high school students have more than ever to work hard on, don’t they? Sometimes you might hit a wall and feel troubled.
In times like that, I recommend listening to your favorite motivational songs to lift your spirits! Upbeat tracks or lyrics filled with encouragement can give you the strength to try again.
In this article, we’ll introduce motivational songs recommended for high school students.
There are plenty of perfect songs to cheer you on for clubs and exams, so be sure to find the one that’s just right for you.
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Recommended cheer songs for high school students: tracks that will motivate you for exams and club activities (21–30)
Sense of Wondersumika

When it comes to rousing anthems that set young hearts ablaze, this is the song.
Chosen as the theme for a Shinken Zemi commercial, sumika’s track deeply resonates with younger generations.
Its lyrics, which celebrate finding what you want to do and taking on challenges without fear of failure, are especially compelling.
The song is included on the EP Harmonize e.p, released in March 2020.
Sumika is a four-member band formed in 2013, performing with the aim of becoming a “dwelling place” for many people.
It’s the perfect track for high school students taking on club activities or entrance exams.
Give it a listen as a pep song that will give you the courage to believe in yourself and keep moving forward.
Stand Out Fit InONE OK ROCK

Have you ever read the room and ended up suppressing your true self? In the new social world of high school, you might find more situations where you’re expected to be “normal.” That’s exactly when I want you to listen to this classic track from ONE OK ROCK’s album Eye of the Storm.
It’s been on air as a Honda commercial song since 2018, so many of you probably have it stuck in your heads.
The message “hamidashite najime”—“stand out and still belong”—carries the hope that you’ll blend in without losing who you are.
This piece also mirrors the band’s own journey of continual challenges across different cultures.
On the morning you slip into your new uniform, if you play this song, it will surely give you the courage to take that first step as your authentic self.
Daphne (winter daphne)DISH//

A heartwarming medium-tempo rock number selected as the theme song for the drama “The Winner in February: A Classroom for Guaranteed Success.” Known for their hit song “Neko,” the band DISH// released this track as their 14th single in November 2021.
It also drew attention for being co-written by vocalist Takumi Kitamura and Hattori from Macaroni Enpitsu.
Set to a march-like rhythm that propels you forward, the lyrics express gratitude to family and the preciousness of having a place to return to.
As you fight through each day, you may sometimes feel frustrated with your own inability to be honest.
Listening to this song at such times can help you realize the importance of those who stay by your side and give you the courage to take another step forward.
ichibanKing&Prince

If you’re a high school student gearing up to hit the desk with determination, you’ve got to listen to this number by King & Prince.
Written and composed by KREVA, the track made waves for blending heavy hip-hop with traditional Japanese flavors.
The lyrics, which declare a resolve to charge straight toward the top, are sure to ignite a fighting spirit—“I can’t afford to lose either!” It’s the lead track from the album Made in, released in June 2022, and it drew major attention when it was performed on that year’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
What We Got ~A Miracle Is You~King&Prince

When you’re running straight toward your dreams, do you ever suddenly feel lonely or like you’re about to lose confidence? For moments like that, King & Prince’s “What We Got ~Kiseki wa Kimi to~” will give you courage.
Their uniquely clear vocals and warm sound remind you how important it is to pursue your dreams in your own way.
Listening to this song will wrap you in a sense of reassurance, as if a close friend were right beside you, cheering you on.
StaRtMrs. GREEN APPLE

High school life is full of challenges.
For everyone facing them, Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s “StaRt” is the perfect source of energy.
Packed with the courage to take a new step forward and driven by an upbeat rhythm featuring playful sound effects, it’s sure to ignite the listener’s heart.
Chosen as the commercial song for Kao’s “Merit,” this track helps refresh a tired mind after studying or club activities.
Listen to it before class, exams, or practice, and it will reset your mood and inspire you to take a step toward your dreams.
With its bright, powerful melody, it’s a highly recommended song that’s sure to bring a smile to your face.
heartbeat soundMiura Daichi

This song, which was also selected as the official cheering anthem for TEAM JAPAN at the Paris 2024 Olympics, was released digitally in July 2024.
Its heartbeat-like beat turns tension into a positive force.
The lyrics capture the feelings at the moment you take a step forward, giving a push to anyone facing a challenge.
If you listen to it before an exam or a club tournament, when you’re anxious and thinking “What if I fail?”, it should help you focus.



