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.

EmotionsMAN WITH A MISSION

MAN WITH A MISSION “Emotions” [Theme song for the film “Hentai Kamen”]

A song by MAN WITH A MISSION that I highly recommend when you want to boost your study motivation all at once.

Released as a single in February 2013, it also drew attention as the theme song for the film “HK: Hentai Kamen.” The shift from the majestic strings in the intro to a full-throttle rock sound is powerful enough to blast away any drowsiness.

Its fiery message—urging you to charge forward with your emotions burning even in the darkness—will give a strong push to your back as you sit at your desk.

Especially when you feel like your heart is about to break before an exam, feel the wolves’ emotion and seize the glory of passing!

Step by Step ~Prayer for Success~Neontetra

Neontetra “Step by Step ~Prayer for Success~” Music Video

In the midst of studying for exams, when you want to ease your anxiety… that’s exactly when we hope you’ll listen to this warm, encouraging song by Neontetra.

Originally released on CD in April 2020, a remastered major-label version followed in October 2021.

While vividly portraying the inner conflict of feeling down when you compare yourself to others and the impatience that comes with it, the song teaches the importance of moving forward steadily, one step at a time.

If you’re troubled by mock exam results or feel like you’re being crushed by pressure at night, listening to this track will surely help you feel, “It’s okay,” and look ahead with positivity.

PRAYING RUNUVERworld

UVERworld 『PRAYING RUN』

A UVERworld track that stirs a fiery emotion from deep within when you want to keep running beyond your limits.

Its message—that no matter how tough it gets, continuing without stopping will open up the future—will surely resonate with anyone working hard for entrance exams or tests.

Although it’s a B-side to the single “I LOVE THE WORLD,” released in August 2015, this song has become a fan favorite that holds an important place in their live shows.

Especially when you’re anxious about whether your efforts will pay off, listen to this song and triumph in the battle against yourself!

festivalsumika

sumika / Festival [Music Video] - Morinaga Confectionery “In Jelly for Exams 2021” CM Song

Sumika is a rock band known for their bright, pop-infused, refreshing sound.

This track carries a powerful message that turns even anxiety and impatience into forward-driving energy, giving you the courage to take on challenges with the mindset that “nerves are proof you’re serious.” Included on the album AMUSIC released in March 2021, it was also featured in Morinaga’s “Juken ni in Jelly 2021” commercial.

The vibrant performance gives a strong push to anyone working hard.

It’s a song for exam-takers—one that inspires belief in your efforts and the power to step into a new landscape.

Revolutionary JourneyAina ji Endo

AiNA THE END / On the Road of Revolution – On The Way × TV Anime 'Dandadan' [Collaboration Music Video]

A song by Aina the End that weaves a strong will to fight and push forward to protect what’s important.

Released digitally in July 2025, it drew attention for being selected as the opening theme for the second season of the TV anime Dandadan.

Its exhilarating sound fused with a mysterious melody grips listeners’ hearts.

It’s perfect for moments when you want to bring out your best—like before an entrance exam or a big club tournament.

Burn!Fuji Kaze

Fujii Kaze – MO-EH-YO (Official Video)

Singer-songwriter Kaze Fujii, who continues to captivate many with his outstanding piano playing and vocals.

Released in 2021 as a Google Pixel commercial song and included on the album “LOVE ALL SERVE ALL,” this track is a fiery pep song that lights a spark in listeners’ hearts.

Many of you may remember his performance on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

Its message—embracing even failures and embarrassment and urging you to move forward—will surely resonate deeply with exam-takers battling anxiety.

When your studies hit a wall or you need one last push, listening to it will fill you with energy from within.

Blue Springback number

back number – Aoi Haru (full)

This rock number by back number is characterized by its strummed guitars and exhilarating, fast-paced sound.

While wrestling with one’s own shortcomings, the down-to-earth message of desperately trying to keep looking forward carries a heat that can ignite the listener’s heart.

Released in November 2012 as the band’s seventh single, it was chosen as the theme song for the drama “High School Entrance Exam” starring Masami Nagasawa, and also drew attention as the band’s first self-produced work.

For high school students feeling the pressure of daily studies and club activities, why not turn to this song when you hit a wall and use it as strength to push through? It’s sure to rouse a discouraged heart.