Clearly, factors determining the success of an ESP course must include affective and not only academic variables. Learner motivation is arguably as important as high test scores in an ESP course. This can be achieved through a variety of activities and approaches. The one suggested here is a focus on timed group work for reading, grammar and vocabulary practice, and also a variety of activity types, not for the sake of high scores, but for truly learner centred goals. Instructors need to state clear and achievable goals on their syllabuses. Extensive use of group work may not lead to increased English proficiency. However, given limited formal instruction, it is more realistic to familiarize learners with format of tests and develop skills to attempt these. If this were achieved, instructors could confidently demonstrate hoe ESP course descriptions provided by Fukuoka University are being met