Canadian International School Tokyo vs The American School in Japan

	C Canadian International School Tokyo Tokyo, Japan	T The American School in Japan Tokyo, Japan
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year ¥2,600,000 - 3,100,000	Fees / year ¥2,987,000 - 3,783,000
Age range	Age range 4 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Advanced Placement (AP), Canadian Curriculum	Curriculum Advanced Placement (AP), American Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 330	Pupils 1,731
Typical class size	Typical class size 15	Typical class size 20
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2000	Opened 1902
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location CIS Tokyo operates across three campuses in Tokyo: Osaki Main Office & Kindergarten at 5-8-20 Kitashinagawa, Shinagawa-ku, and the Senior/Junior High Campus at 5-7-13 Kitashinagawa, Shinagawa-ku; Nakameguro Elementary School Campus at 1-6-1 Nakameguro, Meguro-ku. The Osaki campuses are in Shinagawa ward, while the Nakameguro campus is in Meguro ward. The campuses are well connected by Tokyo's rail network, with the Osaki campus a short walk from JR Osaki Station and the Nakameguro campus a short walk from Nakameguro Station.	Location ASIJ operates on two Tokyo campuses: the Chofu Campus at 1-1-1 Nomizu, Chofu-shi, Tokyo 182-0031, and the Early Learning Center at 6-16-5 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0032. The Chofu Campus hosts the main school divisions, while the Early Learning Center serves nursery through kindergarten in central Tokyo. The bus system serves neighborhoods across downtown Tokyo and ASIJ provides transport as part of campus life.
Stages	Stages CIS Tokyo provides four levels: Kindergarten, Elementary School, Junior High School, and High School. The school blends a Canadian curriculum with International Baccalaureate elements in the younger years (PYP) and offers Advanced Placement options in the upper grades.	Stages ASIJ is organized into four divisions: the Early Learning Center (Nursery–Kinder), Elementary School (Kinder–5th), Middle School (6th–8th), and High School (9th–12th).
School type	School type Co-educational. It operates as a day school with no boarding facilities.	School type ASIJ is a non-profit, co-educational international day school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix CIS Tokyo represents more than 30 nationalities. Japanese students comprise just under 35% of the student body, about 30% come from Korea, and the remaining students come from Canada, the United States, and other countries.	Pupil nationality mix The school represents students from over 50 nationalities. American families make up about half of the student body, and roughly half of the families are bi-cultural with parents from the United States and Japan.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support The school offers an English Language Support Program for students needing English language development, including a program for April intake and small-group support for Grades 1-2. Counseling and student support are available, with educational assessments and liaison with external providers as needed.	Additional learning support ASIJ offers a K–12 learning support program for students with mild learning needs. Each applicant is reviewed individually to determine whether the school can support their learning needs within the curriculum.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada.	Country affiliation No formal country affiliation.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation CIS Tokyo has no direct affiliation with a church or religion.	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation.
School day structure	School day structure The school day typically starts around 8:45 am. School hours are 8:45 am–3:05 pm for Kindergarten–Grade 6 and until about 3:35 pm for Grades 7–12, with five instructional blocks for K–6 and six blocks for 7–12.	School day structure At the Chofu campus, classes begin at 8:00 a.m. and end at 3:00 p.m. The Early Learning Center schedule runs from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Bus service details	Bus service details There is no school bus service. CIS is within walking distance of Osaki Station and Nakameguro Station, and students commonly use public transit or walk to campus.	Bus service details ASIJ operates a transportation system with 33 buses serving about 276 bus stops across downtown Tokyo. About 1,300 riders use the buses daily. The fleet includes GPS tracking, two-way radios, iPhones, seat belts, and 170 bus monitors. Parents may ride the bus to school for events at no charge.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details One-time enrollment fees (non-refundable) - Registration Fee (Kindergarten & EIC): JPY 300,000. - Registration Fee (Grade 1–Grade 12): JPY 300,000. - Building Development Fee (applies for Grade 1–Grade 12 at enrolment): JPY 600,000. Annual tuition and building maintenance (2025–2026 school year) - Kindergarten (K4 & K5) - Tuition: JPY 2,350,000 per year. - Building Maintenance Fee: JPY 250,000 per year. - Annual total (tuition + building maintenance): JPY 2,600,000. - Grade 1–Grade 5 - Tuition: JPY 2,650,000 per year. - Building Maintenance Fee: JPY 250,000 per year. - Annual total (tuition + building maintenance): JPY 2,900,000. - Grade 6–Grade 8 - Tuition: JPY 2,750,000 per year. - Building Maintenance Fee: JPY 250,000 per year. - Annual total (tuition + building maintenance): JPY 3,000,000. - Grade 9–Grade 12 - Tuition: JPY 2,850,000 per year. - Building Maintenance Fee: JPY 250,000 per year. - Annual total (tuition + building maintenance): JPY 3,100,000. - EIC (K5 and Grade 1): Tuition amount shown as "Inquiry" (no published number on the fee schedule). Per-term / installment information (billing cadence) - Tuition and fees are billed on an annual basis for the September 2025 to June 2026 school year; families are required to pay tuition and fees prior to or at the beginning of each school year. An installment plan is available in some cases. - The school offers payment in two installments with a handling charge of JPY 35,000. Assuming an equal two-part split of the published annual total and allocation of half the handling charge to each installment (this is an inferred arithmetic split for illustration only), the approximate two-installment amounts would be: - Kindergarten (K4 & K5): ~JPY 1,317,500 per installment (JPY 1,300,000 + JPY 17,500). (inferred) - Grade 1–5: ~JPY 1,467,500 per installment (JPY 1,450,000 + JPY 17,500). (inferred) - Grade 6–8: ~JPY 1,517,500 per installment (JPY 1,500,000 + JPY 17,500). (inferred) - Grade 9–12: ~JPY 1,567,500 per installment (JPY 1,550,000 + JPY 17,500). (inferred) Note: the JPY 35,000 handling charge is published; the exact installment schedule and how the handling charge is applied are not itemized on the public fee list and are shown above as an assumed equal split for clarity. Billing schedule and payment terms - Fees published are fixed for the September 2025 to June 2026 school year. - For returning students the annual school fee must be paid in full by June 10, 2025. Families must settle tuition and fees prior to, or at the beginning of, each school year unless an approved installment arrangement is in place. - Parents must submit a written withdrawal form at least one month before the intended withdrawal date; failure to submit proper notice may result in a late withdrawal fee. All outstanding tuition and fees must be paid before records are released. Boarding / residence - Canadian International School Tokyo operates as a day school with campuses in Nakameguro and Osaki; no boarding provision or boarding fees are published and boarding is not listed as part of the school's services. Other costs and typical additional fees - Uniforms: Official school uniform is required and must be purchased from the vendor of record. Specific uniform items and dress-code requirements are set out in the Student and Family Handbook; uniform prices are not published in the public fee schedule. Replacement or additional uniform items are an additional family cost. - Additional fees that may apply during the year include charges for extracurricular activities, school trips and excursions, special programmes, yearbooks, team jerseys, textbooks or device fees, library replacement or damage charges, school bus service (if available for a grade), school lunches, and accident/medical insurance. These items are treated as additional fees separate from published tuition and building maintenance. - Sibling discount: A sibling discount applies to annual tuition (details and eligibility are administered by the school office). Refunds and non-refundable items - One-time enrollment fees listed as "non-refundable" (Registration Fee and Building Development Fee where applicable). Annual tuition and other charges are governed by the school's enrolment and withdrawal policies; outstanding fees remain payable on withdrawal. The school's published materials identify application and registration fees as non-refundable. Withdrawal notice requirements and possible late withdrawal fees are also published. Fee payment options - Bank transfer: Payments can be made by bank transfer; the school's handbook and fee information reference bank transfer as a method for settling tuition and fees. - Credit card or other electronic payment methods are not itemized on the public fee schedule or in the Student and Family Handbook, and are not listed among the published payment instructions. Notes and important points - The amounts above are the published JPY figures for the 2025–2026 academic year and include the separate building maintenance fee where shown. - EIC tuition for K5 and Grade 1 is listed as "Inquiry" on the public fee page (no numeric figure published); families should treat that item as not published in the public schedule.	Fee details Application & one-time fees - Application fee: ¥50,000 (non-refundable). - Registration fee (seat deposit): ¥300,000 (non-refundable). - Building Maintenance Fee (one-time): ¥1,525,000 (non-refundable). - Re‑enrollment fee: described as a non‑refundable tuition deposit that secures a seat and is applied to the first tuition installment (amount not listed on the tuition summary page). Annual fees and capital assessment - Capital Assessment (annual): ¥250,000 (non-refundable). Annual tuition — amounts by year group (2025–26) - Nursery–Pre‑K: ¥2,987,000 per year. - Kinder–Grade 5: ¥3,269,000 per year. - Grade 6–8: ¥3,425,000 per year. - Grade 9–12: ¥3,533,000 per year. (These tuition amounts are refundable as noted by the school's published schedule.) Per‑term / billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition and fees (except the application fee) are due in full upon receipt of the school's invoice. Individuals paying from personal funds may request an installment plan through the Accounting Office; corporations/organizations are not eligible for the installment option. A carrying charge applies to installment arrangements. - Tuition and other fees are payable by bank transfer only. Application fees may be paid by credit card or bank transfer. All payments are accepted in Japanese yen. The billing office email provided for payment enquiries and invoice requests is billing@asij.ac.jp. - For students enrolled after the school year starts, tuition and bus fees are calculated based on academic quarters; attendance for any portion of a quarter requires payment for the entire quarter. Delinquent accounts can result in prohibition from class attendance and/or withholding of grades, transcripts, or other records. Per‑term amounts / instalments (note on availability of detailed schedule) - The publicly posted tuition page lists the annual totals above and explains billing, instalment eligibility and quarter‑based proration for late enrollment. A detailed Schedule of Tuition & Fees is provided by the school and itemises invoice and instalment amounts; the tuition page links to that schedule for the full, itemised per‑term breakdown. The tuition page itself does not display every per‑term numeric split directly in the summary text. Transportation (bus) fees - Annual regular bus service fee: ¥390,000 per student. The bus fee may be prorated on a quarter basis if necessary. ASIJ is not obligated to provide bus service if a family's housing location is outside existing routes. Boarding - Boarding is not applicable. ASIJ operates two campuses (Early Learning Center and the Chofu campus) as a day school for nursery through high school students. Other costs and typical additional charges - Travel programs and curricular/co‑curricular trips: most trip costs are the responsibility of families; costs vary by trip and will be published with payment deadlines. Certain exceptions (e.g., Grade 5 trip, Middle School Extended Campus Program and some High School Exploration Program trips) are noted as school exceptions. - Food services: on‑campus hot meal program and other food services at the Chofu Campus are charged separately; an optional lunch delivery service is available at the Early Learning Center. Menu pricing is published with the food program information. - Technology requirements: students in Grades 3–5 are required to have an iPad; students in Grades 6–12 are required to have a MacBook (specifications and purchase details are provided by the school). - Uniforms are not listed as a mandatory school charge on the tuition/fees summary; no compulsory uniform fee is published on the tuition page. Refund information - To be eligible for a refund of tuition and bus fees for any full academic quarter during which the student will not attend, parents must notify the school in writing of the student's last expected day of attendance. That written notification must be received by the first day of classes in August (if withdrawing during the first semester) or by the first day of the second semester (if withdrawing during the second semester). Tuition and bus fee refunds are calculated on the quarter basis described above. Fee payment options - Currency accepted: Japanese yen. - Application fee: acceptable by credit card or bank transfer. - Tuition and other recurring fees: bank transfer only. - Invoice and detailed payment instructions are issued by the school's billing office; families may request information about the installment program from the Accounting/Billing Office (a carrying charge applies).
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements The school is a day school and does not offer boarding or homestay options; students live with their parent/guardian in Tokyo during enrollment; instruction is in English.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniforms must be worn at all times during school hours and activities, unaltered and properly fitting, and purchased from the vendor of record. CIS Tokyo provides three uniform sets: Formal Uniform (navy blazer, grey slacks or green skirt, white dress shirt, necktie, optional green/blue sweater vest, black loafers); Everyday Uniform (navy blazer, grey slacks/shorts or green skirt, white dress shirt or white polo in warm months, necktie in cooler months, optional sweater vest, black loafers); and a PE Uniform (PE t‑shirt, track pants or shorts, running shoes). Extra dress guidelines cover prohibitions on hats and color qualifications.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options Food and Snack Guidelines are described in the CIS Tokyo Student and Family Handbook. The guidelines state CIS aims to be peanut-free but cannot guarantee a completely allergen-free environment; all parents and families are responsible for managing allergies, and students should refrain from sharing snacks to minimize allergen exposure. The document does not specify a menu or on-site canteen offerings.	Food options The cafeteria offers hot meals with a vegetarian option and a salad bar every day; the kiosk provides ready-made salads, sandwiches, soup of the day, fruit, freshly baked items, snacks and beverages including coffee.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership CIS Tokyo was founded in 1999 by two of its present directors, indicating governance by a small board. The integrated CIS system describes a Canadian curriculum blended with IB and AP programs across the campuses, and CIS Tokyo holds accreditation from PEI, WASC, and IB PYP. It is described as an independent private school and is not presented as part of a larger school group.	Governance and ownership The school is formed as a gakko hojin (incorporated educational institution) under Japan's Private School Law and is a non-profit, tax-exempt entity. The governance structure includes a Board of Directors, a Board of Trustees, and two independent Statutory Auditors; Directors oversee the school's mission and finances, Trustees approve fundamental matters and budgets, and the Auditors oversee governance and finances.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Canadian International School Tokyo (CIS Tokyo) delivers a Prince Edward Island (PEI)–based Canadian curriculum for Kindergarten through Grade 12 and is PEI-accredited and WASC-accredited; the Primary Years Programme (PYP) is offered for Kindergarten to Grade 5. In the Primary Years, CIS Tokyo uses the IB PYP framework with six transdisciplinary units per year (Pre-K has four Units of Inquiry) and a Grade 5 Exhibition, with instruction aligned to PEI curriculum guides. In Junior High and High School, the program includes a Canadian secondary program plus Advanced Placement (AP); current AP courses include Calculus AB, English, World History, Chemistry and Physics B, with additional AP options and AP Diploma pathways. English is the language of instruction for all Canadian-curriculum courses; Japanese language study begins in Grade 1 with two hours per week and increases to four hours per week for Grades 10–12; there is no language support for students in Grades 9–12. The school operates across three campuses—Osaki Campus (Headquarters and Kindergarten), Osaki Campus (Junior High and High School), and Nakameguro Campus (Elementary School)—with a September–June school year.	Curriculum details The American School in Japan (ASIJ) offers an English-language, American-style curriculum from the Early Learning Center through Grade 12, operating on two Tokyo campuses. The Elementary School (ages five to 11) emphasizes foundational literacy and numeracy with social-emotional development and inquiry-based learning aligned to the school's Portrait of a Learner competencies. The Middle School (grades 6–8) provides a broad, hands-on program with daily Advisory and an Approaches to Learning framework, plus exposure to language, humanities, science, math, arts, and electives and regular extended-campus experiences. The High School (grades 9–12) leads to an ASIJ diploma requiring four years and 22 credits, and offers a wide range of Advanced Placement courses (including the AP Capstone Diploma), with opportunities for concurrent enrollment via Syracuse University Project Advance (SUPA) and a personalized pathway through the IMPACT program. For the Class of 2026 and beyond, graduation requirements increase to 24 credits, with Wellness: Physical Education & Health and new elements such as Design and Innovation and digital-literacy components replacing or augmenting prior offerings.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning The Guidance Counselor provides confidential counseling to students, parents/guardians, and teachers, and liaises with external qualified mental health professionals when required. The Guidance and Student Support program includes university guidance for high school and educational support, including assessment of learning challenges and coordination with external providers for targeted interventions. Social-emotional wellbeing is addressed through Health and Wellness Programs, with a social-emotional counsellor available on campus. Counseling is described as short-term and solution-focused, with additional or ongoing supports arranged through external providers when needed. The school's counseling services are accessible to students and involve families as appropriate.	Social & emotional learning ASIJ identifies social emotional learning (SEL) as a strategic priority and has engaged external expertise to support its implementation, notably with the Institute for Social and Emotional Learning (IFSEL). The school notes SEL as a priority within its Strategic Design Framework and has integrated SEL into professional learning and family engagement, including parent workshops. Vision of Learning presents SEL as a core component, with a dedicated SEL crest and a focus on interpersonal, intercultural, and collaboration skills. These elements show that SEL is embedded in ASIJ's approach to learning and wellbeing.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The CIS Tokyo Student Handbook states that the school offers a limited range of support services, including counselling and language support in early elementary grades, but services for students with special educational needs are not provided on site. External assessments and diagnostic evaluations may be required to identify and address SEN needs. Social and emotional counselling is provided in a short-term, solution-focused manner, with additional or ongoing supports potentially arranged by the family through external providers. Therefore, CIS Tokyo is not a specialist SEN institution and does not provide in-house SEN services. Families may need to pursue external assessment and support as needed.	Special educational needs (SEN) ASIJ states a learning support program for mild learning needs from kindergarten through 12th grade (K–12). Each applicant is reviewed individually to assess whether ASIJ can support their learning needs within the school curriculum. Public materials do not specify a broader range of Special Educational Needs or indicate that ASIJ operates as a dedicated SEN specialist institution.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language CIS Tokyo offers an English Language Support Program (ELSP) to support students with English as an Additional Language. For new students, the April intake may require extensive language support, which is embedded in age-appropriate grade-level classes (K–6 participate in IB PYP units; 7–12 attend regular classes with language support). Language support is delivered through a variety of models depending on student needs. The program runs September–June, with specific language support for Grades 1–2 in small groups (one to two class periods per week) and progress reporting each semester. Summer sessions focus on English reading, listening, writing, and viewing for CIS students and some April intake participants.	English as an additional language ASIJ offers a language support program in grades 1–8 to support multiple language learners, alongside English as the medium of instruction. English language instruction remains the primary medium for communication at the school.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through Mental Health Support, with the school providing access to counselling services for students who need emotional support. The Guidance Counselor offers confidential counseling to students, parents/guardians, and teachers, and can refer to external mental health professionals when required. Social-emotional counselling is part of Health and Wellness Programs and is described as a short-term, solution-focused service, with external supports arranged as needed. A social-emotional counsellor is available on campus to assist students with wellbeing concerns.	Mental wellbeing ASIJ places emphasis on student wellbeing, supported by safeguarding structures and a dedicated safeguarding coordinator who acts as a school counselor. Safeguarding procedures include annual training for staff and background checks for all employees, along with a safeguarding policy and handbook. The Vision of Learning also ties wellbeing to Global Citizenship, underscoring the school's commitment to well-being as part of its learning framework.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding The CIS Tokyo Student Handbook includes a Child Protection Policy that outlines procedures for identifying and reporting suspected abuse or neglect, reflecting the school's safeguarding duty of care. Staff comply with safeguarding requirements, and cases may be disclosed to appropriate authorities as required by law. Students and families are advised to speak with a trusted adult or the social-emotional counsellor if they have concerns about safety. All CIS campuses are closed to general access during school hours, except for predesignated events, to ensure student safety and security. The handbook also notes that CIS's safeguarding measures are part of its commitment to a safe school community.	Safeguarding ASIJ's safeguarding framework centers on a full-time Safeguarding Coordinator, Level 2 Keeping Children Safe certification, a safeguarding policy and handbook, and annual safeguarding training. There are background checks for all employees and a Code of Conduct for faculty and staff. The safeguarding coordinator is Emily Hopwood, and the school articulates formal safeguarding procedures aligned with accrediting bodies such as WASC, CIS and Keeping Children Safe.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview CIS Tokyo operates on a three-building campus serving students from kindergarten through high school. The facilities include 27 classrooms, two technology labs, music and art areas, a science laboratory, and two resource/library centres, along with indoor and outdoor activity and play spaces. The K–5 wing has an indoor gymnasium, while a larger rented gymnasium and exercise centre support broader PE and after-school activities. Specialist arts instruction is provided in dedicated music and art spaces, and the libraries host age-appropriate collections and regular book events. Library programs include Sakura Medal and the Forest of Reading, with access to additional reading resources and book clubs.	Facilities overview ASIJ operates on two campuses: the Chofu campus for elementary through high school, and the Early Learning Center in Roppongi Hills for nursery through kindergarten. Learning spaces are flexible and technology-enabled, with specialist spaces for art, music, design, robotics, and science. Each division has an age-appropriate library with print and digital resources, and the elementary library includes a maker space. Athletic facilities include a main field, a middle school field, gyms, and a 25-meter indoor pool. Creative and performing spaces include dedicated music rooms, a video studio, art rooms, the Japan Center for authentic cultural experiences, and expansive outdoor learning spaces around a central courtyard.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities On-site sports facilities include an indoor gymnasium for kindergarten to grade 5 and a larger rented gymnasium and exercise centre for broader PE and sports activities. PE and athletic programs are delivered by specialist teachers and supported by school teams that compete in basketball, volleyball and soccer. An intramural program offers activities such as floor hockey and ping pong. Outdoor play spaces are available as part of the campus facilities.	Sports facilities ASIJ's athletic spaces include a main field with artificial turf and a middle school field for day use and after-school activities. The campuses house gyms for PE and activities, six rooftop tennis courts with lighting, and a 25-meter indoor pool used year-round. A fitness center and a wrestling/gymnastics room support strength training and a wide range of physical education programs.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Academic facilities include two technology labs and a science laboratory. The school operates two libraries: a K4–K5 library in Building A and a middle/high school library in Building C, each with age-appropriate materials. Arts facilities provide dedicated spaces for music and visual arts, supported by specialist instructors. Library resources include access to EBSCO and ongoing reading programs and events.	Academic facilities ASIJ maintains libraries in each division with print and digital resources to support literacy and inquiry, including a maker space in the elementary library. The school provides design, robotics, and science laboratories equipped for hands-on learning. Middle and high school students have access to a digital composition space, a video studio, and dedicated music rooms for performance and production.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Extracurricular offerings include music clubs, choral and instrumental groups, science and chess clubs, community service activities, karate, reading groups, running teams, and a student newspaper. Sports and athletics are complemented by intramural programs and inter-school competition through the CIS Tokyo athletic framework. Regular reading and literary events accompany library programs such as Sakura Medal and Forest of Reading. The school emphasizes a broad range of activities across arts, academics, and physical education to support a well-rounded student experience.	Extra curricular facilities ASIJ offers more than 170 co-curricular activities across divisions. The Japan Center provides authentic Japanese cultural experiences and partnerships with local institutions. Outdoor spaces, courtyards, and the campus facilities support outdoor learning and community events.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Canadian International School Tokyo (CIS Tokyo) was founded in 1999 by two of its present directors. Contact with the Prince Edward Island Department of Education established the PEI curriculum at CIS, and CIS is accredited to deliver a pre-kindergarten to grade twelve Canadian program with annual onsite inspections by PEI officials. In 2009, CIS received final authorization for the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (IB PYP). In Japan, CIS is recognized by the Japanese Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Education, so CIS high school graduation is recognized for those applying to enroll in Japanese universities. CIS is a member of the Japan Council of International Schools and the Tokyo Association of International Preschools.	History ASIJ's history begins in 1902 with the Tokyo School for Foreign Children, which started in rented rooms at the Kanda YMCA and later moved to other sites as the school expanded. It moved to the Tsukiji area, then to the Shibaura site by 1921, and in 1927 opened the Nakameguro campus with Antonin Raymond assisting in the redesign. The Chofu campus opened in 1963, introducing the iconic elementary building and subsequent expansions for the high school, gym, and theater. The Community Nursery School in Roppongi merged with ASIJ in 1968 and relocated to Nakameguro in 1973, enlarging ASIJ's early childhood offerings. ASIJ celebrated its Centennial in 2002 with a series of events in Tokyo and an alumni reception in San Francisco.
Community	Community Student leadership at CIS Tokyo includes a Student Council for secondary students and an Interact Club, with additional roles such as Peer Mentoring and a Debate Club for younger students. The school hosts events and traditions such as Halloween activities, a Winter Concert, and Sports Day, and student service initiatives like the Interact Club's Yamathon. Guidance and support services are available, including a Guidance Counselor who coordinates university guidance, learning support, and social-emotional well-being, with regular family communication.	Community ASIJ has a highly engaged community of families, faculty, and students, supported by hundreds of active PTA members. The PTA contributes thousands of volunteer hours each year to create a welcoming, connected environment and to coordinate community events. Parents volunteer as mystery readers, chaperones for trips, and library helpers, and participate in campus celebrations such as the elementary Halloween Parade and the Senior Walk. Spirit Day is a signature ASIJ event that showcases the breadth of the school's life, with over 170 co-curricular activities and extensive student and parent participation coordinated through the PTA.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association Canadian International School Tokyo supports a Parent Support Group (PSG) that strengthens the school community through volunteerism and shared celebration. The PSG is led by a volunteer leadership team composed of parents and a staff representative and organizes activities across campuses. It coordinates community celebrations such as Halloween and the International Fair, and also contributes to other student and school events. All CIS families are encouraged to volunteer for PSG-supported events, providing opportunities to engage with the school community. The PSG also supports accreditation efforts by participating in focus groups and generating reports and presentations, and its meetings are open to CIS families in good standing, as well as faculty and staff.	Parent teacher association ASIJ's Parent Teacher Association is a central, active organization with hundreds of members who contribute thousands of volunteer hours annually. PTA volunteers support day-to-day life by serving as mystery readers, trip chaperones, library helpers, and by organizing events such as the elementary Halloween Parade and the Senior Walk. Spirit Day is a flagship PTA-driven event, with a Booster Committee coordinating food booths, vendor logistics, and special visits such as performing guests; the event illustrates the scale of PTA-led community activities. The PTA also helps coordinate hundreds of co-curricular opportunities and connects families, faculty, and students across campuses. Parents participate in ASIJ governance, with opportunities to serve on the Board of Directors, Board of Trustees, and various committees, and they are encouraged to share their professions, expertise, and hobbies with classrooms.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual CIS Tokyo offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses in Calculus AB, English, World History, Chemistry, and Physics B, with additional AP subjects available. The school also delivers the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) for Kindergarten through Grade 5, supporting inquiry-based learning and international-mindedness in the early years. English-language support is available for students who need additional assistance to reach grade-level expectations. The libraries support academic enrichment through programs like Sakura Medal and Forest of Reading, and they host a Baker Books book club and book fairs to promote reading across the community.	Academic & intellectual ASIJ offers extensive co-curriculars beyond class. STEM is active with VEX Robotics, iGEM, and NEA math and International Academic Competitions. A Space Conference with NASA and JAXA broadens exposure, and the Computer Science Club develops coding and problem solving skills.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative In the senior high program, Visual Arts (Visual Arts 10-12), Music (Music 10-12), and a Dramatic Arts course (DRA701A) are part of the curriculum, indicating a structured pathway for arts education. The high school program's course offerings reflect a formal focus on performing and visual arts within the Canadian curriculum framework. The libraries also support creative engagement through access to arts-related reading and resources.	Arts & creative Arts range from ELC hula to traditional Japanese theater in upper grades. Divisions stage annual musicals, and students can join Kanto Plain honor band, choir, orchestra, and AMIS programs.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language The Primary Years Programme (PYP) emphasizes international-mindedness and global awareness for Kindergarten through Grade 5, aligning with CIS Tokyo's Canadian-international educational approach. Library programs such as the Sakura Medal and Forest of Reading promote cross-cultural reading and Canadian literature exposure. The library's book clubs and book fairs further support cultural and language exposure through literature.	Cultural & language Model UN and Amnesty International are offered as part of cultural and global awareness. Service activities include the elementary rice project and Habitat for Humanity trips.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies —	Social & hobbies ASIJ has over 170 co-curriculars. High school offers 15 sports; middle school offers 20. The arts include musicals, ASIJ TV, and VEX robotics.
Community & service	Community & service Within the PYP framework, CIS Tokyo encourages students to take responsible action in their communities.	Community & service Service includes Model UN, Amnesty, and 25 projects. There are over 600 service group members and activities such as rice projects and Habitat trips.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional The senior high curriculum includes a Leadership course (LED621A), indicating formal opportunities for leadership development within the high school program.	Leadership & professional Leadership develops through debate and public speaking opportunities in high school. The program encourages exploration beyond predefined tracks and involvement in clubs, service groups, and athletics.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing The high school program includes Physical Education (Wellness) as PED401A and Physical Education (Physical Literacy) as PED801A, reflecting an emphasis on wellness and physical development. These wellness-focused courses are part of the broader wellbeing framework in the upper grades.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellbeing is promoted through athletics and the Positive Coaching Alliance partnership. Karate and kendo are offered across divisions; musicals and ASIJ TV provide creative outlets.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The language of instruction is English for CIS Tokyo's Canadian/IB curriculum. Japanese is taught as a subject at all levels, from Kindergarten through High School. English language support is available for non-native speakers, with programs for April intake and ongoing support for Grades 1–3; there is no separate ESL stream.	Language provision ASIJ's language provision centers on English as the language of instruction. Japanese is taught as a foreign language beginning in first grade (Chofu campus), with formal Japanese as a Foreign Language instruction documented for Grades 1–2 and Grades 3–5. In addition, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish are offered as foreign‑language options, with high school students able to pursue Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, and Spanish as part of their language track. The school provides an English Language Learners (ELL) support program for non‑native English speakers in grades 1–8. In the Early Learning Center, language and cultural experiences, including Japanese language exposure, are integrated into daily learning.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching The language of instruction is English across the CIS Tokyo curriculum from Kindergarten through High School. Japanese is taught as a subject in the curriculum at multiple grade levels, including elementary, junior high, and high school. There is no formal bilingual program described; English remains the primary language of instruction, with Japanese offered as a language subject. English language support is available for non-native speakers, including an April intake language support program and ongoing support for Grades 1–3.	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs CIS Tokyo offers an English Immersion Class (EIC) for new students at the Osaki campus, running for three months from March 30 to June 19. The EIC is designed to strengthen language and literacy and to prepare students for the Primary Years Program and the PEI curriculum used in regular classes. Successful completion may lead to acceptance into the regular curriculum in September. In addition, CIS Tokyo provides an English Language Support Program for Grades 1–3, with small-group instruction and progress reporting, including an April intake and a summer session.	Immersion programs ASIJ does not publish a year‑round language‑immersion program. Immersion opportunities exist in summer through the ASIJ Summer Passport program, a three‑week session in which most classes are taught in English, while native Japanese classes are offered to heritage speakers in grades 2, 3, 4 and 5–9. The Summer Passport program includes language arts, mathematics, technology, the arts, and sports, with native Japanese language study included as part of the curriculum. It serves as ASIJ's primary immersion‑style offering for language development during the summer.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations 1) Prince Edward Island (PEI) accreditation: CIS Tokyo is accredited by the Province of Prince Edward Island. The Kindergarten to Grade 12 curriculum is presently used by the provincial ministries of public education in each of the four Atlantic Provinces and is fully accredited across Canada. Significance: it ties CIS Tokyo to a Canadian provincial education system, providing Canadian curricular legitimacy and consistency across provinces. [ Significance: external validation of school-wide standards and quality from a recognized accrediting body. [ Significance: authorization to offer the IB Primary Years Programme, aligning the early years with international IB standards. CIS Tokyo received final authorization for the IB PYP in 2009. [Sources: Accreditation page; History page]	Accreditations The American School in Japan (ASIJ) holds two primary accreditations publicized by the school: - Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accreditation. WASC is a regional accrediting body that evaluates schools to ensure they meet established standards for quality and continuous improvement, supporting ASIJ's American-style college-preparatory program. - Council of International Schools (CIS) accreditation. CIS is a global organization that provides international school accreditation against international standards, reflecting ASIJ's compliance with high-quality international-school practices.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Determine eligibility and grade placement. CIS Tokyo uses age-based placements with a December 31 cutoff; the Age Appropriation for 2026–2027 shows the exact age bands and birth date ranges for Kindergarten through Grade 12. All applicants must apply for the grade that matches their age, and exceptions may be made at the Head of School's discretion, including offering a start in a lower grade if the screening indicates it is necessary. At least one parent must be a functional English speaker to communicate with CIS staff. 2. Prepare the grade-specific application package. For Kindergarten (K4 and K5), required documents include the Application for Admissions, a Confidential Teacher Recommendation, a Student Health Record, proof of birth, one photo, and 2 years of school transcripts if available; you must also provide proof of payment of the 35,000 yen application fee. The Kindergarten admission procedure also lists an assessment format and confirms these documents are part of the assessment package. For other grades, the process hinges on screening and testing (MAP Test for English and Math, plus a short English essay) and a family interview. 3. Download and submit the application package. The Admissions page provides links to the grade-specific forms and directs submission to the Admissions Office. Applications are accepted year-round, subject to seat availability. 4. Pay the application fee and attach payment proof. The standard application fee is 35,000 yen and must be paid by bank transfer; include the payment slip with the application submission. The 35,000-yen fee is non-refundable and is referenced on the Application Fee document. 5. Undergo grade-appropriate assessments. For KG, assessments include home-based worksheets (Part I) and a family interview with an English-speaking parent (Part II). For Elementary through High School, admission depends on performing the MAP Test (English and Mathematics) and completing a short essay in English, followed by a family interview with a CIS administrator. These assessments determine readiness for CIS's Canadian curriculum and language expectations. 6. Receive admission decisions. Admission decisions are communicated in writing by email and postal mail; accepted applicants receive an acceptance letter, registration information, and an invoice. The seat is guaranteed once the registration fee is paid, after which families receive further registration details. 7. Submit registration and secure the seat. After acceptance, the school issues an invoice for the registration fee and related enrollment charges; payment confirms the seat. The 2025–2026 fee structure shows the Registration Fee (300,000 yen) and Building Development Fee (600,000 yen) as one-time charges, with tuition and other annual fees payable on schedule. 8. Complete enrollment and begin at CIS. Enrollment completes once fees are settled and the student is registered; the annual tuition varies by grade (Kindergarten 2,350,000 yen; Grade 1–5 2,650,000 yen; Grade 6–8 2,750,000 yen; Grade 9–12 2,850,000 yen) with an annual Building Maintenance Fee of 250,000 yen. Returning students may pay in two installments with a 35,000 yen handling charge, and a sibling discount may apply. Fees for the 2025–2026 year are fixed for the period, and withdrawal policies require notice in advance. 9. Note about grade placement options. A student may be offered to start one grade lower than the expected level based on screening results and at the Principal's discretion; age eligibility and the official age appropriation table guide final placement. This reinforces that placement decisions can reflect both academic readiness and language proficiency.	Admissions Step 1: Inquiry and open houses. The process starts with submitting the ASIJ INQUIRY FORM to share your family's needs and educational goals. Completing the inquiry gives you access to register for Open House sessions at ASIJ's campuses. Open House dates for the 2025–26 school year include October 2 and 16, November 6 and 13, and December 4 in 2025, with additional sessions in January and February 2026; pre-registration is required and space is limited. Step 2: Create an admission portal account and begin the online application. After submitting the inquiry, you will receive guidance to open an application account (Veracross) to start the online application. Within the portal you will see a checklist and can begin the Online Application Form, then submit the required items on the Admission Portal. Applications for the 2026–27 school year open in November 2025, and the portal supports multiple applicants for a family, though you should sign up for only ONE child to avoid duplicates. Step 3: Submit required documents on the Admission Portal. The required items vary by grade but typically include school reports or transcripts when available, and confidential teacher recommendations. Recommendations in languages other than English are acceptable, though English is preferred, and translations may be requested at your expense. You may also need mid-year report cards for certain grades; the admissions portal guides you on exactly what to upload for Nursery–Kindergarten through Grade 1. Step 4: Initial review and possible screening. There is no general entrance examination. The Admissions team reviews school reports, test scores, and recommendations, and may request academic, English, or other screening prior to a decision. The process focuses on alignment with ASIJ's philosophy, diversity balance, resource availability, and the school's English-medium education requirement. Local and overseas applicants are both considered during this review. Step 5: Admissions decision timeline. Admissions decisions typically begin in late February or early March and continue through the summer. Decisions consider how well the family's educational goals align with ASIJ's approach, as well as current seat availability and the school's ability to support the applicant. Both local and overseas applicants are evaluated within this timeline. Step 6: Offer, acceptance, and enrollment. If admitted, families receive an admissions decision and must respond to secure a seat. To finalize enrollment, the non-refundable Registration Fee of ¥300,000 is due, and the seat is reserved for the first day of school; additional annual fees and tuition apply as outlined below. Annual fees include Capital Assessment of ¥250,000 (non-refundable) and Building Maintenance Fee of ¥1,525,000 (non-refundable). 2025–26 tuition is ¥2,987,000 for Nursery–Pre-K, ¥3,269,000 for Kindergarten–Grade 5, ¥3,425,000 for Grades 6–8, and ¥3,533,000 for Grades 9–12. Bus service is available for ¥390,000 per year, with pricing for trips, meals, and technology requirements published in advance. Tuition and fees are due upon receipt of the invoice in Japanese yen; personal installment plans may be available. Corporate Contribution Program offers a way for participating organizations to sponsor educational benefits, potentially reducing the net cost to families through corporate funding and scholarships funded by the program. Step 7: Language and campus logistics. One or both parents must be fluent in English to ensure effective communication and support for the child's education; English is the medium for all ASIJ communications. If language support is needed, ASIJ provides programs for language learners in Grades 1–8. Kindergarten is offered at two campuses—ELC in Roppongi and K–12 in Chofu—and applicants should indicate their campus preference during the application. ASIJ also notes mid-year transfer considerations, with the school year running August to June and certain transfer rules for families already in Tokyo.
Scholarships	Scholarships Scholarships: CIS Tokyo does not publish a scholarships program on its admissions or fees pages. The fees page lists tuition and other charges and notes a sibling discount and payment options, but there is no mention of scholarship or financial-aid offerings. For families seeking financial assistance, scholarships do not appear to be publicly offered.	Scholarships ASIJ does not offer scholarships or need-based financial aid for new applicants. The admissions page states clearly that new applicants are not eligible for scholarships or financial aid. The school does offer a Corporate Contribution Program, which allows participating corporations to donate to ASIJ to fund corporate scholarships for dependents of employees; this program can influence admissions decisions as part of consideration of overall enrollment. ASIJ also maintains a Financial Aid Endowment fund with various named funds that support financial aid in general, though specific award processes and eligibility are not detailed publicly. Families should consider corporate sponsorship options if applicable and note that donor-funded financial support exists as part of the school's long-term financial structure.
Waitlist	Waitlist Waitlist/Pool: CIS Tokyo does not publish a formal waitlist or pool system in its admissions materials. Admissions are year-round and depend on current seat availability at each grade level. Applicants are notified of admission after screening, and seats are allocated based on space rather than a numbered waiting list. There is no publicly posted waitlist policy.	Waitlist ASIJ does not publish a formal waitlist or pool system on its admissions materials. Admissions decisions are driven by seat availability and the school's stated criteria, including alignment with ASIJ's philosophy, diversity goals, and resource capacity. Mid-year transfers are subject to seat availability and campus policies, and local applicants may face timing constraints due to the August–June school year. In practice, families may need to plan around the annual admissions cycle (with decisions typically issued from late February through the summer) rather than a published waitlist.
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