Pass Exam Prayer: Recommended for Test Takers! A Collection of Western Pop/Rock Pep Songs [2026]

What Makes You BeautifulOne Direction

One Direction – What Makes You Beautiful (Official Video)

Western music Japanese translation: One Direction – What Makes You Beautiful

This nostalgic debut single from 1D has a fresh, bright sound, and the members’ good looks make it totally uplifting.

If you listen to it during study breaks or when you need a boost, it might lift your mood and help your exam prep progress more smoothly.

I BelieveKillswitch Engage

Killswitch Engage – I Believe

Since their formation in 1999, the American band Killswitch Engage has led the metalcore scene.

This work of theirs is an anthemic masterpiece where ferocious sound fuses with beautiful melody.

The lyrics, which depict the importance of holding on to “endless hope” even in difficult times, instill a strong will to move forward despite anxiety.

Released as a single in January 2025, it’s included on the album “This Consequence” and reached No.

4 on Billboard’s rock chart.

It’s a powerful push for new students stepping into an unknown world! When you want to believe in yourself and press on, this is the track that will fill you with courage from deep within.

ChangeTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift – Change

This is a cheer song by the hugely popular songstress Taylor Swift, who is also loved in Japan.

With the message, “The time will come when we win in the end, so let’s sing hallelujah,” it gives listeners the courage to stand up and face challenges.

Students with entrance exams just around the corner may also find courage in Taylor’s music.

Shape of YouEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Shape of You (Official Music Video)

Shape of You – Ed Sheeran [English & Japanese] lyrics

Ed Sheeran’s hit song “Shape of You.” I think many people got to know Ed Sheeran through this track.

Released in 2017, the song is a pop tune that incorporates the genre known as tropical house, gained huge popularity, and won the Grammy Award for Best Pop Solo Performance.

It’s also well-known for the plagiarism lawsuit in which Ed Sheeran lost (lol).

If you’re a student preparing for exams and want a change of pace, definitely give it a listen.

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Ryo

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Fight SongRachel Platten

Rachel Platten – Fight Song (Japanese Subtitles)

Japanese translation: Fight Song / Rachel Platten (Faito Songu / Reicheru Puratten)

Singer-songwriter Rachel Platten, known for her catchy melodies and lyrics, has won widespread popularity.

Her signature track “Fight Song” is one of the world’s most famous anthems.

The lyrics portray the feelings of someone determined to push straight ahead on their own path, overcoming struggles and difficult times.

For students facing the many challenges of entrance exams, there’s a lot to relate to—so be sure to check it out.

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Ryo

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The GreatestSia

Sia – The Greatest (Official Video)

Western music Japanese translation: Sia – The Greatest

The message of this song is that humans are wonderful just as they are, but the repeated lines urging you not to give up also make it relatable as a cheer song for exam-takers.

The determination to face entrance exams should resonate with the lyrics.

New RulesDua Lipa

Dua Lipa – New Rules (Official Music Video)

Dua Lipa – New rules

It’s a song released in 2017 by the British singer Dua Lipa.

I’m getting addicted to Dua’s beauty and her cool, low voice.

The tempo is great, and the numbers that appear in the chorus are very rhythmic, so I recommend it when you want to study hard from the morning.