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International Schools in Tokyo Supported by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government

International Schools in Tokyo Supported by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government – Complete Guide to 14 Accredited Schools

Introduction

Tokyo has positioned itself as one of Asia’s leading global cities. With the steady growth of expatriate families and returnee students, the demand for high-quality international education has never been higher. To meet this need, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government has officially recognized and provides operational support to 14 international schools across the city.

These schools are accredited as “miscellaneous schools” (kakushu gakkō) under Japanese law, meaning they meet specific standards for curriculum, facilities, and governance. They also qualify for subsidies such as the Private Foreign School Operational Subsidy, which helps maintain educational quality while easing the financial burden on families.

This article provides a complete guide to the 14 officially supported international schools in Tokyo. We’ll explore their profiles, curriculum focus, tuition ranges, and what makes each school unique — so you can make an informed decision about your child’s education in Tokyo.

Tokyo’s Support for International Schools

Subsidies for operational expenses: The Tokyo government provides financial assistance to recognized schools to ensure sustainable management.
Accreditation as “miscellaneous schools”: This status guarantees compliance with certain educational and facility standards.
Promotion through Invest Tokyo: The city highlights accredited schools as part of its international business and living support strategy.
Future initiatives: Starting in late 2025, Tokyo is expected to roll out a more comprehensive support scheme covering staffing, facilities, and program development.

List of 14 International Schools Supported by Tokyo

(to be expanded into detailed profiles later in the article)

American School in Japan (ASIJ) – Chofu
The British School in Tokyo (BST) – Shibuya & Akishima
Nishimachi International School – Minato
St. Mary’s International School – Setagaya (Boys)
Seisen International School – Setagaya (Girls)
International School of the Sacred Heart – Shibuya (Girls)
Tokyo International School (TIS) – Minato
New International School of Japan – Toshima
K. International School Tokyo (KIST) – Koto
Montessori School of Tokyo – Minato
Christian Academy in Japan (CAJ) – Akishima
Lycée Français International de Tokyo – Kita
Deutsche Schule Tokyo Yokohama – Machida
Japanese International School (JIS) – Nerima

How to Choose the Right School in Tokyo

Choosing the best international school in Tokyo depends on your child’s learning style, future goals, and your family’s lifestyle. With so many options, it helps to evaluate schools across several key factors:

1. Curriculum and Academic Pathways

American System (AP): Broad-based curriculum with Advanced Placement courses. Strong fit for U.S. university admissions.
British System (IGCSE & A-levels): Subject specialization in the later years, widely recognized in the UK and Commonwealth countries.
International Baccalaureate (IB): Inquiry-driven, internationally portable, and valued by universities worldwide.
French & German Systems: Ideal for families from Europe who plan to return or maintain ties to their home countries.
Bilingual Programs: Schools like New International School of Japan emphasize dual-language (English & Japanese) education.

2. Tuition and Fees

International schools in Tokyo generally range between ¥1.5 to ¥3 million per year (USD 10,000–20,000), excluding additional costs such as registration fees, facilities, transportation, and extracurriculars. Budget realistically for the full cost, not just tuition.

3. Location and Accessibility

Tokyo is vast, and commuting time can significantly affect your child’s daily life.

Central Tokyo (Minato, Shibuya, Chiyoda): Convenient but often smaller campuses.
Suburban Areas (Chofu, Setagaya, Machida, Akishima): Larger campuses with more space for sports and facilities, but longer commutes.
Consider whether the school offers bus services and how that aligns with your family’s routine.

4. School Culture and Community

Each school has its own character.

Some emphasize tradition and faith-based values (e.g., St. Mary’s, Seisen, Sacred Heart, CAJ).
Others prioritize diversity and global citizenship (e.g., TIS, KIST).
Smaller schools may provide an intimate, family-like environment, while larger schools offer extensive extracurriculars and alumni networks.

5. University Pathways

Check the school’s track record in university placement.

U.S. and Canadian universities attract many graduates from ASIJ, BST, and KIST.
European systems (LFIT, DSTY) have clear pipelines to universities in France, Germany, and beyond.
Japanese universities (Keio, Waseda, Sophia, ICU) also welcome graduates through international admissions tracks.

6. Support Services

Ask about:

EAL/ESL programs (English as an Additional Language) for non-native speakers.
Learning support services for students with special needs.
College counseling and career guidance resources.

1. American School in Japan (ASIJ)

Profile

Location: Chofu, western Tokyo
Founded: 1902
Grades: Kindergarten to Grade 12
Curriculum: American system with Advanced Placement (AP) offerings
School Type: Co-educational

Tuition (approx.)

Registration/entrance fees: ¥300,000+
Annual tuition: ¥2.5–3.0 million (USD 17,000–20,000)
Additional costs: facilities, bus service, extracurricular fees

Key Features

One of the largest and most established international schools in Japan, with around 1,600 students from over 50 nationalities.
Strong emphasis on academics, arts, and athletics — with excellent facilities including science labs, a performing arts center, and sports fields.
Offers AP courses and prepares students for U.S. university admissions.
Community-driven with extensive alumni support and parental involvement.

University Destinations

U.S. universities (e.g., UCLA, NYU, Stanford)
Canadian universities (e.g., University of Toronto, McGill)
UK universities (e.g., King’s College London, Edinburgh)
Japanese universities (Keio, Waseda, ICU) through international admissions

Complete Guide to American School in Japan (ASIJ)

2. The British School in Tokyo (BST)

Profile

Location: Two campuses – Shibuya (central Tokyo) and Akishima (suburban Tokyo)
Founded: 1989
Grades: Nursery to Year 13 (ages 3–18)
Curriculum: British National Curriculum, IGCSE, and A-levels
School Type: Co-educational

Tuition (approx.)

Registration/entrance fees: ¥300,000+
Annual tuition: ¥2.3–2.8 million (USD 15,000–19,000)
Additional fees: facilities, bus transport, uniforms, extracurriculars

Key Features

Tokyo’s leading British curriculum school, following the UK system from Early Years through A-levels.
The new Shibuya campus (opened 2023) features state-of-the-art facilities, while the spacious Akishima campus houses sports fields and outdoor areas.
Strong British cultural identity with events such as sports days, music festivals, and house competitions.
Highly diverse student body, with children from more than 60 nationalities.

University Destinations

UK universities: Oxford, Cambridge, LSE, Imperial College London
Other destinations: U.S., Canada, Australia, and Asia
Japanese universities such as Keio and Waseda also accept BST graduates through international entry programs

Complete Guide to The British School in Tokyo (BST)

3. Nishimachi International School

Profile

Location: Azabu, Minato-ku, central Tokyo
Founded: 1949
Grades: Kindergarten to Grade 9
Curriculum: U.S.-style with elements of the International Baccalaureate (IB)
School Type: Co-educational

Tuition (approx.)

Registration/entrance fees: around ¥300,000
Annual tuition: ¥2.2–2.5 million (USD 15,000–17,000)
Additional fees: facilities, materials, extracurriculars

Key Features

Situated in the heart of Tokyo, easily accessible for international families.
Offers a bilingual environment with structured Japanese language instruction across all grades.
Emphasizes a close-knit community with small class sizes and individualized attention.
Known for a family-friendly atmosphere and strong parent-school cooperation.
Students graduate at Grade 9, after which most transfer to other international high schools or boarding schools.

University/High School Pathways

Students typically transfer to ASIJ, BST, St. Mary’s, Seisen, or other international schools in Tokyo.
Some move abroad to boarding schools in the U.S. or U.K.
Japanese private and international high schools (such as ICUHS or Hiroo Gakuen) are also common options.

Complete Guide to Nishimachi International School

4. St. Mary’s International School

Profile

Location: Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
Founded: 1954
Grades: Kindergarten to Grade 12
Curriculum: American system with International Baccalaureate (IB Diploma) available
School Type: Boys’ school

Tuition (approx.)

Registration/entrance fees: around ¥300,000
Annual tuition: ¥2.2–2.8 million (USD 15,000–19,000)
Other fees: facilities, uniforms, extracurricular activities

Key Features

One of Tokyo’s premier boys-only international schools, with a strong Catholic tradition.
Famous for its athletics program — especially rugby, basketball, and swimming — producing championship-level teams.
Equally well-known for music and performing arts, with choirs and bands recognized internationally.
Offers a rigorous academic program blending American and IB curricula.
Long-standing alumni network that provides strong support for graduates worldwide.

University Destinations

U.S. and Canadian universities (UCLA, University of Toronto, McGill)
European universities in the UK and the Netherlands
Japanese universities such as Keio, Waseda, and ICU through international admissions

Complete Guide to St. Mary’s International School (Boys’ School)

5. Seisen International School

Profile

Location: Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
Founded: 1962
Grades: Kindergarten to Grade 12
Curriculum: American system integrated with the full International Baccalaureate (PYP, MYP, DP)
School Type: Girls’ school (Kindergarten is co-ed)

Tuition (approx.)

Registration/entrance fees: about ¥300,000
Annual tuition: ¥2.2–2.8 million (USD 15,000–19,000)
Additional fees: facilities, uniforms, extracurricular programs

Key Features

One of Tokyo’s leading girls-only international schools, rooted in Catholic educational traditions.
Focus on leadership, service, and global citizenship, with strong community involvement.
Provides a nurturing, safe environment that emphasizes character building alongside academics.
Arts and music are integral, with regular performances and exhibitions.
Sister school relationship with St. Mary’s International School, providing opportunities for joint events.

University Destinations

U.S. universities (Boston University, Georgetown, UCLA)
UK universities (King’s College London, University of Edinburgh)
Japanese universities such as Sophia, Waseda, and ICU

Complete Guide to Seisen International School (Girls’ School)

6. International School of the Sacred Heart

Profile

Location: Hiroo, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Founded: 1908
Grades: Kindergarten to Grade 12
Curriculum: U.S.-style with International Baccalaureate (IB Diploma) option
School Type: Girls’ school (Kindergarten is co-ed)

Tuition (approx.)

Registration/entrance fees: about ¥300,000
Annual tuition: ¥2.2–2.8 million (USD 15,000–19,000)
Other costs: facilities, uniforms, extracurricular activities

Key Features

A historic girls’ international school with over a century of tradition in Tokyo.
Catholic-based philosophy emphasizing moral education, leadership, and community service.
Strong programs in the arts, drama, and music, with frequent cultural events.
Part of the global Sacred Heart network, connecting students to schools worldwide.
Small class sizes ensure personal attention and a supportive environment.

University Destinations

U.S. universities: NYU, UCLA, Georgetown
UK universities: King’s College London, University of Warwick
Japanese universities: Sophia, ICU, Waseda

Complete Guide to International School of the Sacred Heart (Girls’ School)

7. Tokyo International School (TIS)

Profile

Location: Minato-ku, Tokyo (Shinagawa area)
Founded: 1997
Grades: Kindergarten to Grade 12
Curriculum: Full International Baccalaureate (IB: PYP, MYP, DP)
School Type: Co-educational

Tuition (approx.)

Registration/entrance fees: about ¥300,000
Annual tuition: ¥2.3–2.8 million (USD 16,000–19,000)
Other fees: facilities, bus, extracurriculars

Key Features

A rapidly growing IB World School in central Tokyo.
Offers all three IB programmes, allowing for a continuous pathway from early years to high school.
Multinational student body with 60+ nationalities represented.
Emphasis on inquiry-based and project-based learning, encouraging independence and creativity.
Convenient central location with easy access for expatriate families.

University Destinations

U.S. universities: NYU, University of Michigan, UCLA
UK universities: UCL, King’s College London, University of Edinburgh
Japanese universities: Keio, Waseda, Sophia, ICU

Complete Guide to Tokyo International School (TIS)

8. New International School of Japan (NewIS)

Profile

Location: Toshima-ku, Tokyo (Ikebukuro area)
Founded: 2001
Grades: Preschool to Grade 12
Curriculum: U.S.-style with a dual-language (English & Japanese) bilingual program
School Type: Co-educational

Tuition (approx.)

Registration/entrance fees: about ¥300,000
Annual tuition: ¥2.1–2.6 million (USD 14,000–18,000)
Additional costs: facilities, materials, meals, extracurriculars

Key Features

One of Tokyo’s few fully bilingual international schools, offering all classes in both English and Japanese.
Uses multi-age classrooms, where students of different ages learn together to encourage peer learning.
Especially popular among Japanese families seeking a balanced bilingual education.
Convenient location in central Tokyo, with good access to public transport.
Focus on nurturing global citizens while ensuring strong Japanese literacy.

University Destinations

U.S. universities: University of California system, NYU, Boston University
UK universities: University of Edinburgh, University of Manchester
Japanese universities: Sophia, Waseda, ICU, Keio
Students also pursue pathways in Canada and Australia

Complete Guide to New International School of Japan (NewIS – Bilingual)

9. K. International School Tokyo (KIST)

Profile

Location: Koto-ku, Tokyo (Kiyosumi-Shirakawa area)
Founded: 1997
Grades: Kindergarten (K1) to Grade 12
Curriculum: Full International Baccalaureate (IB: PYP, MYP, DP)
School Type: Co-educational

Tuition (approx.)

Registration/entrance fees: around ¥300,000
Annual tuition: ¥1.8–2.3 million (USD 12,000–16,000) — among the more affordable options in Tokyo
Other costs: facilities, bus transport, materials

Key Features

Known for being highly affordable compared to many Tokyo international schools, while maintaining rigorous academic standards.
Offers the full IB continuum, with consistently top-ranking IB Diploma results in Japan.
Reputation for academic discipline and strong results in mathematics and sciences.
Convenient location in a residential neighborhood, creating a close-knit community atmosphere.
Emphasis on preparing students for global university admissions through a structured and supportive environment.

University Destinations

High IB scores allow graduates to access top universities worldwide.
U.S.: UC Berkeley, NYU, University of Michigan
UK: Oxford, Cambridge, LSE, Imperial
Japan: University of Tokyo, Keio, Waseda, Sophia

Complete Guide to K. International School Tokyo (KIST)

10. Montessori School of Tokyo (MST)

Profile

Location: Minato-ku, Tokyo (Minami-Azabu)
Founded: 2003
Grades: 18 months old through Grade 9
Curriculum: Montessori education (AMI-accredited)
School Type: Co-educational

Tuition (approx.)

Registration/entrance fees: around ¥300,000
Annual tuition: ¥1.8–2.3 million (USD 12,000–16,000)
Other costs: materials, facilities, extracurriculars

Key Features

Tokyo’s only AMI-accredited Montessori school, following the authentic Montessori method.
Emphasizes independent, student-led learning, tailored to each child’s pace.
Small class sizes and mixed-age classrooms foster collaboration and responsibility.
Especially strong in early childhood and elementary education.
Since the school only goes up to Grade 9, students typically transfer elsewhere for high school.

University/High School Pathways

Graduates move to other international high schools in Tokyo (ASIJ, BST, KIST, etc.).
Many pursue boarding schools in the U.S. or U.K. for their final years.
Some also transition into Japanese international high schools (Hiroo Gakuen, ICUHS).

Complete Guide to Montessori School of Tokyo (MST)

11. Christian Academy in Japan (CAJ)

Profile

Location: Akishima, western Tokyo
Founded: 1950
Grades: Kindergarten to Grade 12
Curriculum: American-style with a Christian (Protestant) foundation
School Type: Co-educational

Tuition (approx.)

Registration/entrance fees: around ¥300,000
Annual tuition: ¥2.0–2.5 million (USD 14,000–17,000)
Additional fees: facilities, uniforms, extracurriculars

Key Features

A long-established Christian international school serving both expatriate and Japanese families.
Integrates Bible studies and faith-based values into the curriculum while maintaining strong academics.
Offers a well-rounded program with emphasis on music, fine arts, and athletics.
Large campus with sports fields, gymnasiums, and natural surroundings — a more suburban environment compared to central Tokyo schools.
Attracts families seeking both high-quality international education and Christian values.

University Destinations

U.S. and Canadian universities (Wheaton College, Calvin University, University of Toronto)
U.K. and Australian universities
Japanese universities such as ICU, Sophia, and Waseda

Complete Guide to Christian Academy in Japan (CAJ)

12. Lycée Français International de Tokyo (LFIT)

Profile

Location: Kita-ku, northern Tokyo
Founded: 1967 (officially recognized by the French Ministry of Education)
Grades: Preschool (Maternelle) to Grade 12 (Terminale)
Curriculum: French National Curriculum, leading to the French Baccalauréat
School Type: Co-educational

Tuition (approx.)

Registration/entrance fees: around ¥200,000–¥300,000
Annual tuition: ¥1.0–2.0 million (USD 7,000–14,000), depending on grade
French government support allows lower tuition compared to many other international schools

Key Features

The largest French school in Japan, serving about 1,500 students.
Instruction primarily in French, with strong programs in English and Japanese as additional languages.
Hosts a diverse community, though the majority of students are French or francophone.
Offers extensive cultural activities, from theater and music to sports, promoting French culture abroad.
Modern campus with large classrooms, labs, arts facilities, and sports grounds.

University Destinations

French universities such as Sorbonne, Sciences Po, and engineering grandes écoles.
Other European universities (Belgium, Switzerland, U.K., Germany).
North American universities (Canada, U.S.) and international programs in Japan (Waseda, Sophia, Keio).

Complete Guide to Lycée Français International de Tokyo (LFIT – French System)

13. Deutsche Schule Tokyo Yokohama (DSTY)

Profile

Location: Machida, on the western edge of Tokyo
Founded: 1904 (originally in Yokohama, later relocated to Tokyo)
Grades: Kindergarten to Grade 12
Curriculum: German National Curriculum, leading to the Abitur
School Type: Co-educational

Tuition (approx.)

Registration/entrance fees: about ¥200,000–¥300,000
Annual tuition: ¥1.5–2.0 million (USD 10,000–14,000), depending on grade
Additional fees: facilities, bus service, extracurricular activities

Key Features

Japan’s only officially recognized German international school, accredited by the German government.
Classes are taught mainly in German, with English and Japanese offered as additional languages.
Large green campus with sports fields, gymnasium, and modern science/arts facilities.
Strong emphasis on STEM subjects and classical education, reflecting German academic traditions.
Cultural programs (choirs, orchestras, theater) play a major role in school life.

University Destinations

German universities: LMU Munich, Heidelberg, Berlin Free University
Other European universities (ETH Zurich, universities in the Netherlands, Austria, and the U.K.)
North American universities (Canada, U.S.)
Japanese universities including the University of Tokyo, Keio, Waseda (via international entry)

Complete Guide to Deutsche Schule Tokyo Yokohama (DSTY – German System)

14. Japanese International School (JIS)

Profile

Location: Nerima-ku, Tokyo
Founded: 1999
Grades: Elementary to Middle School (Grade 1–9)
Curriculum: British-style international curriculum (IPC and Cambridge frameworks)
School Type: Co-educational

Tuition (approx.)

Registration/entrance fees: about ¥200,000
Annual tuition: ¥1.5–2.0 million (USD 10,000–14,000)
Additional fees: facilities, textbooks, activities

Key Features

A small, community-focused school in western Tokyo.
Offers the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) and British-style education with a global outlook.
Known for its family-like atmosphere and small class sizes (10–15 students on average).
Attracts both expatriate families and Japanese families seeking international education at a more affordable cost.
Since it only goes up to middle school, students must transfer elsewhere for high school.

University/High School Pathways

Transfers to larger Tokyo international schools (ASIJ, BST, KIST, etc.) for high school.
Boarding schools overseas in the U.S. or U.K. are also common.
Japanese international high schools (Hiroo Gakuen, ICUHS) as alternative pathways.

Complete Guide to Japanese International School (JIS)

Conclusion

Tokyo offers one of the most diverse landscapes of international education in Asia. The 14 international schools officially recognized and supported by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government represent a wide spectrum of curricula, philosophies, and communities — from American, British, and IB programs to French, German, bilingual, and Montessori options.

For families relocating to Tokyo, this recognition provides an important measure of reassurance: these schools meet strict standards for facilities, governance, and curriculum, and they benefit from financial subsidies that help sustain quality education.

When choosing the right school, parents should carefully weigh factors such as curriculum pathways, tuition costs, location, cultural fit, and university destinations. The good news is that Tokyo’s accredited international schools offer something for nearly every need — whether your child is aiming for the Ivy League, Oxbridge, a European grande école, or leading universities in Japan.

As Tokyo expands its support for international education in the coming years, opportunities will only grow. For global families, the city is not only a dynamic place to live and work but also a world-class hub for raising the next generation of internationally minded learners.

FAQ:International Schools in Tokyo Supported by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government

Which schools are included in Tokyo’s “14 supported international schools” list?

The guide covers: American School in Japan (ASIJ), The British School in Tokyo (BST), Nishimachi International School, St. Mary’s International School, Seisen International School, International School of the Sacred Heart, Tokyo International School (TIS), New International School of Japan (NewIS), K. International School Tokyo (KIST), Montessori School of Tokyo (MST), Christian Academy in Japan (CAJ), Lycée Français International de Tokyo (LFIT), Deutsche Schule Tokyo Yokohama (DSTY), and Japanese International School (JIS).

What does “supported by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government” actually mean?

These schools are officially recognized as “miscellaneous schools” (kakushu gakkō) under Tokyo’s regulations and may be eligible for operational subsidies. Recognition indicates compliance with standards related to curriculum oversight, facilities, governance, and student welfare. It is not the same as being a public school; they remain independent and tuition-based but benefit from an ecosystem designed to ensure quality and stability.

How much should families budget for tuition and fees?

Typical annual tuition ranges from roughly ¥1.5–3.0 million, depending on school and grade. Plan for additional costs such as registration fees, facilities charges, transportation (bus), uniforms, technology, materials, examinations (e.g., IB, AP, IGCSE), and extracurriculars. If you are relocating with multiple children, ask schools about sibling discounts, payment schedules, or limited need-based assistance.

How do the major curricula differ (IB vs. British vs. American vs. French/German)?

IB emphasizes inquiry, reflection, and research skills, culminating in the Diploma Programme (DP) recognized worldwide. British pathways move from IGCSEs to A-levels, allowing subject specialization valued by UK and Commonwealth universities. American programs are broader and often include Advanced Placement (AP) courses for college credit. French (LFIT) and German (DSTY) systems align closely with their national standards, ideal for families who plan to return to Europe or pursue those university systems.

Will graduating from an international school in Tokyo limit university options in Japan?

No. Many graduates enter selective Japanese universities (e.g., Keio, Waseda, Sophia, ICU) via international or English-medium admissions. A number of universities in Japan now run full English-taught programs. Schools also support applications to the U.S., U.K., Canada, Europe, and Australia, so students can keep both domestic and overseas options open.

What level of English (or other language) is required for admission?

Requirements vary by school and grade. Early years place more emphasis on potential and fit; upper grades require stronger academic evidence and language readiness. Many schools provide EAL/ESL support for non-native English speakers. For LFIT and DSTY, expect instruction primarily in French or German, with additional language pathways in English and Japanese.

How do we evaluate school culture and “fit” beyond academics?

Visit campuses, attend open days, and observe classes if possible. Ask about student conduct expectations, mentoring, advisory systems, and how the school addresses well-being, bullying prevention, and digital citizenship. Speak with current parents to understand communication style, community involvement, and the balance between academics, arts, sports, and service.

What should we know about location, commute, and daily logistics?

Central campuses (Minato, Shibuya) offer convenience but may have smaller grounds; suburban campuses (Chofu, Akishima, Machida, Setagaya) often feature expansive facilities but longer commutes. Verify train and bus options, school-run transportation, and pick-up/drop-off rules. A sustainable commute greatly impacts sleep, after-school activities, and family time.

Do these schools provide robust support for diverse learning needs?

Most schools offer some form of Learning Support, ranging from in-class accommodations to individualized plans and specialist referrals. Capacity is finite and varies by school, so disclose needs early. Ask about assessment processes, staff qualifications, intervention models, collaboration with external therapists, and any additional fees associated with support services.

How strong are extracurricular opportunities (sports, music, STEM, service)?

Larger schools typically field extensive athletics and performing arts programs with competitive leagues and professional-level facilities. Others prioritize niche strengths such as orchestras, choirs, debate, robotics, Model United Nations, or community service. Request a clubs/activities list, competition results, rehearsal schedules, and travel expectations to gauge the real commitment required.

When should families start the application process?

Begin research 9–12 months in advance. Popular grades (especially Kindergarten entry and key transition years) can fill early, and waiting lists are common. If you anticipate a mid-year move, contact admissions well ahead to understand rolling admissions, testing windows, and document requirements (transcripts, recommendations, immunization records).

How do schools support college and career planning?

Look for a structured counseling program that starts by Grade 9 or earlier: course planning, standardized testing guidance (SAT/ACT where applicable), essay coaching, teacher recommendation coordination, and financial aid/scholarship advice. Review past matriculation lists, but also ask how counselors help students build a balanced target list aligned to interests, finances, and visa realities.

Are there meaningful differences in class size and teacher-student ratios?

Yes. International schools often maintain smaller classes than typical public systems, but the exact numbers differ. Ask for average class sizes by division (early years, elementary, middle, high school) and how specialists (EAL, learning support, counselors) are staffed. Teacher retention, professional development, and accreditation cycles are valuable indicators of instructional quality.

What about bilingual options and Japanese language development?

Families prioritizing bilingualism should consider programs with explicit Japanese literacy goals (e.g., NewIS). Many schools offer Japanese as a foreign or heritage language, but intensity and outcomes vary. Request curriculum maps, hours per week, and placement criteria to ensure your child’s Japanese can progress alongside English or the main instructional language.

How transparent are schools about costs, policies, and grievances?

Reputable schools publish fee schedules, refund policies, codes of conduct, safeguarding policies, and complaints procedures. During tours, ask how the school tracks academic progress, reports to parents, and handles concerns. Clear, timely communication (newsletters, portals, conferences) signals a healthy culture of accountability and partnership.

What’s the best way to compare multiple schools efficiently?

Create a comparison grid covering: curriculum pathway, total annual cost, location/commute, language support, learning support capacity, class size, facilities, extracurricular breadth, counseling strength, exam results (IB/AP/A-levels), and recent university destinations. Rank must-haves vs. nice-to-haves, then revisit campuses with your shortlist to confirm “fit.”

Can students switch curricula later (e.g., from American/AP to IB or A-levels)?

It’s possible but requires careful planning. Differences in assessment styles, prerequisite subjects, and credit structures can create gaps. Consult academic and college counselors before switching, map backward from your target graduation requirements, and consider bridging courses or summer programs to smooth the transition.

How do faith-based schools operate within diverse communities?

Schools with Catholic or Protestant traditions welcome students of all faiths or none, while embedding values through assemblies, ethics classes, and service learning. Expect respectful participation in community rituals; curriculum remains academically rigorous and internationally oriented. Ask about flexibility and how belief-based content is presented in inclusive ways.

What should relocating families prepare before arrival in Tokyo?

Gather transcripts (with translations if needed), immunization records, recommendation letters, learning support documentation, standardized test results, and passport/visa details. Book campus visits early, arrange temporary housing near your top-choice schools for the first weeks, and confirm health insurance and emergency contacts. Prepare your child for schedule changes, uniforms, and bus routines.

Final tip: what makes a “right” choice for our family?

The right school aligns three things: your child’s needs and aspirations, your family’s values and logistics, and a school’s proven ability to deliver the pathway you want (academics, languages, extracurriculars, and university outcomes). Use data and campus impressions together—tour widely, ask specific questions, and trust the evidence of day-to-day practice over glossy brochures.