How to Apply to Japanese Public Schools

A Step-by-Step Guide for Foreign Families Living in Japan

Japan’s public school system is one of the most respected in the world, known for its discipline, academic excellence, and nationwide consistency. While many expat families gravitate toward international schools, public education is increasingly popular among long-term residents and those wanting their children to integrate more deeply into Japanese society.

This guide offers a detailed roadmap to help foreign families understand the application process, requirements, and challenges of enrolling in Japanese elementary and junior high schools.

1. Understanding the Japanese Public School System

Structure of Compulsory Education

Japan’s education system is highly structured:

• Elementary School (Shōgakkō 小学校): Grades 1–6 (ages 6–12)

• Junior High School (Chūgakkō 中学校): Grades 7–9 (ages 12–15)

• High School (Kōkō 高校): Grades 10–12 (ages 15–18) – not compulsory but commonly attended

Elementary and junior high schools are tuition-free, though families may still need to cover school supplies, uniforms, lunch fees, and field trip expenses.

2. Can Foreigners Enroll in Japanese Public Schools?

Yes. All children residing in Japan, regardless of nationality, have the right to receive public education. Even undocumented children or those with irregular visa statuses may be allowed to attend.

Many Japanese public schools have experience with foreign students, especially in large cities like Tokyo, Yokohama, Osaka, and Nagoya.

3. Language Requirements and Support

Japanese is the primary language of instruction. That said, schools are increasingly making efforts to support non-native speakers through:

• Language Support Teachers (日本語指導教員)

• Pull-out or in-class Japanese lessons

• Peer tutoring and simplified materials

• Multilingual assistance during parent-teacher conferences

Still, families should be aware that Japanese proficiency is essential for the child to thrive academically and socially.

4. What Age Will My Child Be Placed In?

Children are placed in grades based on birth year, not skill level. The Japanese academic year begins on April 1st, so:

• A child turning 6 before April 1st enters Grade 1 in April.

• If your child’s birthday is April 2nd or later, they’ll start school the following April.

If your child is transferring from another country, some flexibility may apply. The school board might allow placement based on prior school records.

5. Choosing a School: Zoning and Location

Public school enrollment is based on zoning (Gakku-ku 学区):

• Each address is assigned to a local elementary and junior high school.

• You generally cannot choose a different public school unless there’s a specific reason (e.g., bullying, accessibility, language program).

To find out your designated schools:

1. Visit your local municipal office (市役所 / 区役所).

2. Inquire with the Education Affairs Division (教育委員会 or 学務課).

3. Provide your residence card and jūminhyō (resident registration) to confirm address.

6. Step-by-Step: How to Apply

Step 1: Register Your Address

You must register your address at the local city/ward office after moving to Japan. You’ll receive a residence certificate (住民票) which is essential for school enrollment.

Step 2: Visit the Education Board

Head to your municipal board of education (教育委員会) with:

• Your passport and residence card

• Your child’s passport

• Residence certificate (住民票)

• If available: school records, vaccination records, and proof of previous schooling (translated into Japanese)

Step 3: Receive School Assignment

The board will assign your child to a school based on your address. You’ll receive a nyūgaku tsūchi-sho (入学通知書) – an admission notice specifying the school name, start date, and orientation schedule.

Step 4: Attend Orientation & Submit Forms

Most schools hold orientation sessions in February or March for April enrollment. You’ll receive documents such as:

• Health check forms

• Emergency contact sheets

• School supply lists

• PTA registration

Some forms may only be available in Japanese, so consider asking for interpretation assistance or bringing a Japanese-speaking friend.

7. Transferring Mid-Year or From Abroad

If you’re enrolling outside the normal academic year:

• The process is similar, but the school board will determine your child’s starting date.

• Bring transcripts or report cards (translated into Japanese if possible).

• A placement interview or Japanese proficiency check may be conducted.

The school might assign language support based on your child’s background.

8. What About High School?

High school is not automatically assigned — you must apply and pass entrance exams.

Key points:

• Public high schools are not free, but tuition is low, and subsidies may apply.

• Exams are competitive and conducted in Japanese.

• Many foreigners choose private high schools, international schools, or correspondence schools (通信制高校) if language is a barrier.

9. What’s School Life Like?

Typical Day:

• 8:15 AM – 3:30 PM: Classes

• Morning assembly, subject classes, lunch (kyūshoku), cleaning time, and club activities

• Bento (lunchbox) or school lunch (healthy and affordable)

• Uniforms are usually required at junior high level

Subjects:

• Japanese

• Math

• Science

• Social Studies

• Music, Art, PE

• Moral Education

• English (taught from Grade 3)

10. School Supplies and Costs

While tuition is free, expect the following out-of-pocket expenses:

11. Cultural Expectations and Tips

Parent Involvement:

• Joining the PTA (Parent-Teacher Association) is common but not mandatory.

• You may be asked to participate in events or volunteer shifts.

• Schools expect open communication with parents through renrakuchō (notebooks) or apps like ClassDojo or LINE.

Student Behavior:

• Emphasis on group harmony and responsibility

• Cleanliness and punctuality are essential

• Students clean their classrooms and school grounds daily

Language Barrier Tips:

• Use translation apps or hire interpreters for key meetings

• Ask if the school provides multilingual support staff

• Prepare your child for immersion — initial difficulty is common but often improves within 6–12 months

12. Alternatives: International or Bilingual Public Schools?

Some cities, especially in Tokyo and Yokohama, offer “international-focused public schools”, such as:

• Meguro International School (Tokyo)

• Yokohama International Secondary School

• Katsushika International Secondary School

These schools may offer enhanced English instruction and a more globally-minded curriculum, though entrance is limited and often competitive.

13. What If My Child Struggles?

Japanese schools are generally supportive, but communication is key.

• You can request adjusted instruction or pull-out support.

• Some municipalities offer Japanese-language classes outside school hours.

• Consider hiring a private tutor or enrolling in weekend Japanese schools.

In extreme cases, switching to an international or alternative school may be considered.

14. Can I Homeschool or Enroll in Private Schools?

Homeschooling:

• Technically not illegal, but not formally recognized

• Students who don’t attend any school may be tracked by the education board

Private Schools:

• Offer smaller class sizes, bilingual instruction, or religious education

• Tuition ranges from ¥600,000–¥1,500,000 annually

• Application typically involves interviews and entrance exams

15. Useful Japanese Terms

16. Final Thoughts

Enrolling your child in a Japanese public school is more than an academic decision — it’s a cultural commitment. While challenges such as language and adaptation are real, many foreign families find that the experience builds resilience, cultural fluency, and local friendships that last a lifetime.

To maximize success:

• Prepare early

• Communicate openly with the school

• Support your child’s emotional transition

• Build relationships with other parents

With patience and community support, public school can be a deeply rewarding path for expat families in Japan.