IT Passport Exam Trends Over the Past 5 Years (2021–2025): What's Increased and What's Decreased

Data Scope

This analysis covers a total of 500 questions released by the IPA from fiscal year 2021 (Reiwa 3) through fiscal year 2025 (Reiwa 7). By spanning five years of data, we can identify stable trends.

We tallied the number of questions for each field and keyword using our site's question database. This database includes all past exam questions, ensuring accurate aggregation.

Use these results to build your exam strategy based on current trends. It's especially important to create a study plan that reflects recent patterns.

Question Distribution by Field (Past 5 Years)

The distribution is nearly fixed year over year. The golden ratio for study allocation is 45% Technology, 35% Strategy, and 20% Management. Keeping this ratio in mind helps you secure points efficiently.

Question Count by Keyword (Past 5 Years Total)

Notable Changes

1. AI Surge: A Symbol of the Generative AI Era

AI-related questions averaged 4 per year from 2021 to 2024, but jumped to 7 questions in 2025. This increase is a clear trend.

This reflects the broader social shift toward using generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude in the workplace. The exam appears to be following suit.

For study prep, we recommend reviewing the "AI and Machine Learning Basics" article to cover the three learning methods and risks of generative AI. Expect further increases in this area.

2. IoT: A Consistently Frequent Topic

IoT-related questions totaled 23 over the past five years, making it a core topic within the Technology field. Consistent coverage makes it a must-study area.

Key themes include LPWA, edge computing, and IoT security. Make sure you understand these terms and their characteristics.

For study prep, the "What is IoT" article is effective for organizing components and communication standards. Mastering the basics will help you tackle application questions.

3. Security: Still the Most Frequent Topic

Security appeared 43 times over the past five years, averaging 8–9 questions per year—the highest of any area. It remains a top priority for exam prep.

The three main pillars are types of cyberattacks, encryption methods, and authentication methods. Be sure to master these.

For study prep, use the articles "Types of Cyber Attacks Summary", "Encryption Basics", and "Authentication vs. Authorization". Follow the links for details.

4. Chart-Based Questions Plummet

The number of chart-based questions was 2 in 2021, 6 in 2022, 2 in 2023, and 3 in 2024, dropping to 0 questions in 2025. This decline is striking.

Since CBT became year-round in 2024, the exam has shifted toward text-based questions rather than charts. This means strong reading comprehension is now essential.

With the increased emphasis on reading long passages, practice quickly understanding question text. Build your reading skills through past exam drills.

5. Telework and BCP: Waning Interest

Questions related to telework and BCP, which gained attention during the COVID-19 era, are on the decline. This likely reflects the changing social landscape.

As seen here, transient topics tend to lose momentum within a few years. It's important to keep an eye on the latest developments.

Study Priority Based on 5-Year Trends

1. Technology: Security (8–9 questions per year)
2. Technology: AI/IoT (5–10 questions per year, increasing)
3. Strategy: Business Strategy and Accounting Frameworks (5–8 questions per year)
4. Management: Project Management and Service Management (5–7 questions per year)

Summary

The distribution is fixed at 35:20:45. AI and IoT are on the rise, chart-based questions are declining, and security remains the steady top topic.

For a detailed analysis of fiscal year 2025 alone, see the article "Reiwa 7 (2025) Past Exam Trends and Frequent Topics". Follow the link for more.

You can access all past exam questions on the Past Exams List page, and practice in a real-exam format on the Practice Exam page. Use them to support your studies.