Educational Resilience During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Descriptive Evaluation of Medical School and Licensing Examination Policies in Japan

Japanese medical schools demonstrated flexibility in adapting examination policies during the pandemic, in contrast to the rigid approach of national licensing examinations. This disparity raises important concerns regarding educational equity and public health preparedness and may also lead to significant financial hardship and career delays for affected examinees. These findings underscore the need for unified, crisis-responsive policies to support students during future health emergencies.