Complete Guide to Tokyo International School (TIS)

Tokyo International School (TIS) is one of the most dynamic and progressive international schools in Japan, located in the heart of Tokyo’s Minato Ward. Since its founding in 1997, TIS has grown into a highly regarded institution offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum from the Primary Years Programme (PYP) through the Middle Years Programme (MYP). Known for its commitment to inquiry-based learning, diversity, and community engagement, TIS provides a global education that equips students to thrive in both local and international contexts.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the history, curriculum, admissions, facilities, extracurricular programs, and the unique strengths that make TIS a top choice for international families living in Tokyo.

History and Philosophy

TIS was originally founded by a group of visionary educators and parents who wanted to create a school that emphasized critical thinking, creativity, and cross-cultural understanding. Over time, the school expanded to offer the full IB continuum and developed a strong reputation for academic excellence coupled with a nurturing community spirit.

The school’s philosophy centers on developing well-rounded global citizens who are not only academically strong but also empathetic, responsible, and reflective. This is reflected in the school motto: “Inspire, Empower, and Impact.”

Curriculum

International Baccalaureate Programs

TIS offers two IB programs:

• Primary Years Programme (PYP): For students from Early Years to Grade 5. The PYP focuses on inquiry-based learning, encouraging children to ask questions, explore ideas, and build knowledge across subject areas.

• Middle Years Programme (MYP): For students in Grades 6–10. The MYP bridges the gap between elementary and high school learning, emphasizing independent research, critical thinking, and real-world application of knowledge.

Although TIS does not currently offer the IB Diploma Programme (DP) in-house, many graduates transition smoothly to international schools in Tokyo that offer the DP or return abroad to complete their education with a strong foundation.

Language Instruction

English is the primary language of instruction at TIS. However, Japanese language is also taught as a second language, and students are encouraged to develop multilingual skills. This dual-language approach helps children integrate into Japanese society while maintaining a strong global outlook.

Holistic Approach

Beyond academics, the curriculum emphasizes social-emotional learning, digital literacy, arts, and physical education. Students are guided to balance intellectual pursuits with creativity, wellness, and ethical awareness.

Student Body and Community

One of TIS’s strengths lies in its diverse community. With students representing more than 50 nationalities, classrooms reflect a multicultural environment that mirrors global society. This diversity encourages open-mindedness, respect, and cultural exchange on a daily basis.

The school places strong emphasis on parental involvement and community engagement. Parents are welcomed as partners in the educational journey, and events such as international fairs, cultural celebrations, and workshops reinforce the sense of belonging.

Facilities

TIS’s campus in Minami-Azabu, Minato-ku, is designed to support modern, inquiry-based learning. Facilities include:

• Spacious classrooms equipped with interactive technology

• A well-stocked library and media center

• Science and innovation labs for hands-on experimentation

• A multipurpose gymnasium for sports and assemblies

• Dedicated art, drama, and music rooms

• Outdoor play areas and rooftop spaces designed for younger learners

The school continues to invest in upgrading facilities to meet the needs of 21st-century education.

Extracurricular Activities

TIS offers a wide range of extracurricular programs that support the holistic development of students. These include:

• Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, track and field, and swimming programs

• Performing Arts: Drama productions, choir, band, and dance

• Clubs: Robotics, debate, coding, Model United Nations (MUN), and environmental awareness clubs

• Community Service: Opportunities for students to engage with local and international charitable projects

Through these activities, students build teamwork, leadership, and resilience.

Admissions

The admissions process at TIS is competitive due to the school’s reputation and limited class sizes. Key points include:

• Application Requirements: Families must submit an application form, previous school records, teacher recommendations, and a personal statement.

• Assessment: Students may be asked to complete an academic assessment and participate in an interview.

• Priority: Preference is often given to international families and students who can thrive in an English-based learning environment.

Admissions are open year-round, depending on space availability, but families are encouraged to apply early.

Tuition and Fees

As with many international schools in Tokyo, tuition fees at TIS are significant. For the 2025 school year, estimated costs are:

• Tuition: Around ¥2.5–3 million per year depending on grade level

• Additional Fees: Application fee, registration fee, building development fee, and other miscellaneous charges

While tuition is a major investment, families consider it worthwhile due to the quality of education and the supportive, international community.

Strengths of TIS

1. Strong IB Foundation: Prepares students for globally recognized educational pathways.

2. Diversity: A genuinely multicultural environment with over 50 nationalities.

3. Inquiry-Based Learning: Encourages independent thinking and curiosity.

4. Community-Oriented: Strong parent-teacher collaboration and inclusive school culture.

5. Central Tokyo Location: Convenient for international families living in Minato, Shibuya, and central wards.

Challenges and Considerations

• No IB Diploma Programme: Families seeking the full IB continuum may need to transfer after Grade 10.

• Limited Space: High demand and small class sizes mean it can be difficult to secure admission.

• Tuition Costs: Fees may be prohibitive for some families without corporate sponsorship.

Alumni and Pathways

Graduates of TIS often continue their education at other international schools in Tokyo (such as the American School in Japan, St. Mary’s, or Seisen) or abroad. Many students pursue higher education in North America, Europe, and Asia, benefiting from the strong IB-based foundation acquired at TIS.

Location and Access

Tokyo International School is located in Minami-Azabu, Minato-ku, a prestigious and convenient neighborhood in central Tokyo. The campus is easily accessible from Hiroo and Azabu-Juban stations, making commuting straightforward for families living in central Tokyo.

Conclusion

Tokyo International School (TIS) has carved out a unique place in Japan’s international education landscape. With its inquiry-based IB curriculum, strong sense of community, diverse student body, and central Tokyo location, TIS offers an engaging and supportive environment for young learners. While the absence of the IB Diploma Programme may be a consideration for some families, the school’s focus on foundational learning and global citizenship makes it a strong choice for families seeking an enriching education in Tokyo.

FAQs

What curriculum does Tokyo International School (TIS) offer?

TIS delivers the International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum for younger and middle years learners: the Primary Years Programme (PYP) from Early Years through Grade 5 and the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for Grades 6–10. Both emphasize inquiry, conceptual understanding, and real-world application. Graduates of Grade 10 typically transition to IB Diploma Programme (DP) schools or other suitable pathways in Tokyo or abroad, leveraging the academic and learner profile foundations built at TIS.

Does TIS offer the IB Diploma Programme (DP)?

TIS focuses on PYP and MYP. Families seeking the DP (Grades 11–12) usually transfer to an international school in Tokyo that offers the DP. TIS supports transitions through counseling, documentation, and close coordination with receiving schools so students continue seamlessly into upper secondary education with a strong MYP record and personal project experience.

What are the main entry points for admission?

Most applications arrive for Early Years, Kindergarten, Grade 1, and Grades 6–8. Mid-year spaces may open due to relocations. Because class sizes are limited, applying as early as possible—ideally 6–12 months before the desired start—is recommended. The admissions team may suggest a wait pool for suitable candidates when places are not immediately available.

What is the admissions process like?

Families submit an online application, report cards or progress reports, confidential teacher recommendations, and language background information. Depending on grade, the school may request a short assessment, writing sample, and/or interview. TIS evaluates holistic fit: academic readiness, language profile, capacity to thrive in an inquiry-driven IB environment, and alignment with the school’s values of respect, responsibility, and international mindedness.

Is English proficiency required?

English is the language of instruction. The school welcomes multilingual learners and provides support as needed. For younger learners, emerging English is expected; for older grades, greater proficiency is required to access MYP coursework. Admissions considers prior schooling language, current proficiency, and the family’s plan to support English development at home.

How does TIS support students who are new to English?

TIS typically offers tiered language support integrated into the classroom and/or through targeted interventions. In the PYP, classroom teachers and specialists scaffold language within inquiry units. In the MYP, strategies include sheltered instruction, academic vocabulary development, and structured feedback on writing. The goal is rapid, sustainable language growth without segregating students from core learning.

What world languages are available?

Japanese is commonly studied as either an additional language or, where appropriate, as language and literature. Placement reflects each student’s background and proficiency. The school encourages families to maintain home languages, recognizing additive bilingualism as a cognitive and cultural asset that strengthens overall academic achievement and identity.

How large are classes?

Class sizes are intentionally moderate to preserve relationships and personalized learning. Exact numbers vary by grade and staffing. Homeroom teachers collaborate with specialists (e.g., learning support, language, arts, PE) so students experience both small-group interactions and broader collaborative learning moments across the timetable.

What does learning look like in the PYP?

The PYP organizes learning around transdisciplinary themes (e.g., “How the world works”). Students co-construct lines of inquiry, build conceptual understanding, and demonstrate learning through authentic tasks—presentations, experiments, design challenges, and action projects. Assessment is continuous and varied, emphasizing feedback, reflection, and growth over time rather than one-off tests.

What defines the MYP at TIS?

The MYP develops disciplinary depth in language and literature, individuals and societies, sciences, mathematics, arts, design, and physical and health education. Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills—research, critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and self-management—are explicitly taught. The Grade 10 Personal Project is a capstone where students design, execute, and reflect on a significant self-directed endeavor.

How are students assessed?

Assessment combines formative feedback with summative tasks aligned to IB criteria. Rubrics clarify expectations, and students use reflection to set goals. Reports typically include criterion-related achievement levels, narratives, and guidance for next steps. The philosophy prioritizes progress and mastery of skills and concepts over percentage grades or simple averages.

What student support services are available?

TIS generally provides learning support, language support, and counseling. Teams collaborate with teachers and families to design accommodations, interventions, and enrichment as appropriate. The aim is to ensure access to the IB curriculum while nurturing wellbeing, executive functioning, and positive learning habits.

What extracurricular activities can students join?

Offerings evolve each year and may include team sports (e.g., soccer, basketball, volleyball), performing arts (choir, band, drama), STEM (robotics, coding, design), Model United Nations, service clubs, and creative pursuits. Activities extend classroom learning, build leadership, and connect students across grade levels. Seasonal schedules help learners balance commitments.

How does TIS promote wellbeing and belonging?

A robust advisory and homeroom system, social-emotional learning (SEL), and child-safeguarding practices underpin daily life. Assemblies, cultural celebrations, and community events foster connection. The school emphasizes respect, empathy, and responsible digital citizenship, with age-appropriate guidance for healthy technology use and peer relationships.

What facilities support learning?

Contemporary classrooms, a library/media center, science and design spaces, arts studios, a gym/multipurpose hall, and outdoor areas enable hands-on, inquiry-rich experiences. Learning environments are designed for flexibility—whole-class mini-lessons, small-group workshops, and independent work—so teachers can differentiate and students can choose effective learning modes.

Where is the campus located and how do families commute?

TIS is situated in central Tokyo, convenient to major neighborhoods and public transport. Many families walk, cycle, or take trains and buses. The school typically communicates clear arrival and dismissal procedures to support safety and efficiency for walkers, public transit users, and school-authorized vehicles.

How much are tuition and fees?

Tuition aligns with international school norms in central Tokyo and varies by grade. Families should plan for application and registration charges, annual tuition, and occasional program-specific fees (e.g., activities, materials). Corporate allowances, relocation packages, or education benefits may help offset costs. The admissions office provides the most current fee schedule on request.

Does the school offer financial aid or scholarships?

Availability may be limited and subject to annual review. Some international schools in Tokyo operate with constrained aid budgets due to facility and staffing costs. Families are encouraged to inquire early about any assistance options, payment plans, or employer partnerships that can support affordability.

How involved are parents at TIS?

Parent engagement is a hallmark of the community. Families participate through orientation sessions, learning workshops, classroom volunteering (where appropriate), cultural events, and advisory groups. Communication channels—newsletters, portals, conferences—keep parents informed and empowered to support learning at home.

How does TIS handle transitions into Grade 11–12?

From Grade 9 onward, students receive counseling on pathways and prerequisites for schools that offer the IB DP or alternative upper-secondary qualifications. Counselors help with course selection advice, timelines, recommendations, and documentation so that Grade 10 graduates enter the next school with clarity and confidence.

What university outcomes do TIS students typically achieve?

Because TIS finishes at Grade 10, university matriculation depends on the receiving Grade 11–12 school. However, students who complete PYP and MYP at TIS tend to thrive in academically rigorous DP or equivalent programs and later enroll at selective universities worldwide. The MYP’s ATL skills and personal project experience translate well to pre-university demands.

How does the school integrate technology and digital citizenship?

Technology is used purposefully for research, creation, computation, and collaboration. Students learn to evaluate sources, protect privacy, cite ethically, and communicate responsibly. Teachers balance screen time with hands-on and outdoor learning so devices remain tools—not the focus—of inquiry and expression.

What makes TIS distinct among Tokyo international schools?

A tight-knit, diverse community; deep IB experience in PYP and MYP; and a student-centered, inquiry-driven approach set TIS apart. The school’s scale supports personalized attention, while its location enables partnerships, fieldwork, and service in one of the world’s most vibrant cities. Families often highlight strong relationships and visible student agency in learning.

How can families prepare a strong application?

Start early, submit complete and candid documentation, and articulate your child’s learning profile—strengths, needs, and interests. Explain your family’s commitment to inquiry-based, internationally minded education. If English is developing, outline your home support plan. For older applicants, include recent writing samples and evidence of self-management and collaboration.

What should new families expect in the first weeks?

Orientation sessions, buddy systems, and teacher-family check-ins help students settle. Teachers assess prior learning to calibrate challenge and support. Parents receive information on routines, platforms, homework expectations, and who to contact. Most learners adapt quickly as they experience the school’s welcoming culture and consistent structures.

How does homework work at TIS?

Homework is purposeful and age-appropriate—reading, skill practice, reflection, or project steps. In the MYP, tasks may include research, planning, drafting, and criterion-referenced performance assessments. The school encourages balanced routines with time for family, rest, and extracurriculars, emphasizing quality over quantity.

How are behavior and academic integrity addressed?

Expectations are clear and proactive, linked to the IB Learner Profile and school values. Students learn restorative practices, reflection, and responsible decision-making. Academic integrity is taught explicitly—original work, proper citation, and collaboration norms—so students understand the “why” behind ethical scholarship.

How do we contact TIS or schedule a visit?

Prospective families typically begin via the school’s admissions page or inquiry form to request current admissions timelines, fee schedules, and tour options (virtual or on campus). Open houses and information sessions are offered periodically. When in doubt, email admissions for tailored guidance based on your child’s grade and language profile.

Tokyo International School Guide