Canadian International School Tokyo vs The British School in Tokyo - Showa Campus

	C Canadian International School Tokyo Tokyo, Japan	T The British School in Tokyo - Showa Campus Tokyo, Japan
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year ¥2,600,000 - 3,100,000	Fees / year ¥2,920,000 - 3,030,000
Age range	Age range 4 - 18 years	Age range 12 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Advanced Placement (AP), Canadian Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), British Curriculum, BTEC Qualification, Cambridge IGCSE
Pupils	Pupils 330	Pupils 1,300
Typical class size	Typical class size 15	Typical class size 22
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2000	Opened 2007
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 The British School in Tokyo Showa Campus is located at Showa Women's University, 5th Building, 1-7-57 Taishido, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 154-8533. It sits in Setagaya Ward and is two train stops from Shibuya, providing easy access to central Tokyo. The campus sits on a university campus with extensive facilities and resources for secondary students.
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 BST operates two central Tokyo campuses. The Showa Campus serves Year 7 to Year 13, while the Azabudai Hills Campus (the Primary campus) serves Nursery to Year 6, uniting BST's primary and secondary provision on separate sites.
School type	School type Co-educational. It operates as a day school with no boarding facilities.	School type BST is co-educational and operates as a day school with no boarding facilities. The two campuses accommodate different age ranges: Azabudai Hills for Nursery to Year 6 and Showa Campus for Year 7 to Year 13.
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 BST represents students from over 65 nationalities; the school describes itself as multicultural and international. The most common nationalities are not published; BST does not provide a fixed local-to-international ratio in public materials.
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 BST provides Learning Support Services, including Learning Support, English as an Additional Language (EAL), counselling and medical teams, to support students across year groups. ASDAN courses offer an alternative, practical pathway for some students, with in-class and targeted support available. The school also offers a dedicated counselling team to assist wellbeing and transitions.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada.	Country affiliation BST's curriculum is based on the National Curriculum for England, reflecting its United Kingdom alignment, while the school operates in Japan.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation CIS Tokyo has no direct affiliation with a church or religion.	Religious affiliation Religious affiliation is not designated; BST emphasizes a diverse, international community and does not promote a single faith as part of its core identity.
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 Azabudai Hills Campus, students may bring their own lunch or have meals delivered by Kiwi Kitchen, while Showa Campus offers a canteen option for Year 10–13 via Showa Women's University. BST follows a three-term calendar with term dates published annually; some days end with midday dismissal, such as certain term days. Lunch and welfare arrangements are described in BST's School Operation details.
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 A school bus service is available to BST families, connecting the two campuses; many students also use public transport given the central Tokyo locations. Public transport access and the presence of a campus-side bus option are noted in BST materials and independent guides.
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 and one‑time enrolment fees - Application Fee: ¥40,000. - Enrolment Fee (one‑time, non‑refundable): ¥500,000. - Educational Resources Fee (one‑time, non‑refundable): ¥680,000. - These one‑time fees for new students are non‑refundable and must be paid in full within two weeks of the invoice date for new admissions. Tuition fees by year group (per full academic year and per term) - Primary School (Nursery & Reception included): Annual tuition ¥2,820,000; Term 1 ¥980,000; Term 2 ¥940,000; Term 3 ¥900,000. - Secondary School Year 7–Year 9: Annual tuition ¥2,840,000; Term 1 ¥990,000; Term 2 ¥950,000; Term 3 ¥900,000. - Secondary School Year 10–Year 13: Annual tuition ¥2,930,000; Term 1 ¥1,030,000; Term 2 ¥980,000; Term 3 ¥920,000. - Capital Development Tuition Fee (payable for all students): Annual ¥100,000; Term 1 ¥40,000; Term 2 ¥30,000; Term 3 ¥30,000. This charge is applied in addition to the regular tuition amounts listed above. Billing schedule and payment terms - Invoices are normally issued 8–14 weeks before the end of the previous term. - Payment deadlines: - New students: all fees invoiced for new admissions must be paid in full within 2 weeks of the invoice date. - Existing students: tuition for continuing students must be paid in full within 4 weeks of the invoice date. - Accepted method for payment of school tuition and related fees: bank transfer only, from an account in the name of the registered parent or guardian, or from an account whose name has been notified to the school in writing in advance. The School does not accept cash for tuition payments. - Mid‑term enrolment: fees for students who join after the start of a term are charged by term; attendance for any portion of a term requires payment for the full term or half a term depending on the enrolment date. - Notice period on withdrawal: a minimum of one complete term's prior written notice is required; if proper notice is not given, one complete term's fees are payable in lieu of notice. - Late payments: failure to pay may lead to prohibition of attendance, withholding of school records/reports, and reallocation of the student's place (the school may seek to reallocate a place no later than four weeks before the term begins). Parents remain responsible for timely payment even when a third party (for example an employer) pays the fees. Boarding fees - There is no boarding provision at the Showa campus; boarding fees do not apply. The campus operates as a day school. Other costs and optional charges - Costs explicitly included in tuition: routine textbooks required by all students, curriculum residential and day trips and events that are part of the curriculum. - Costs not included in tuition (examples parents should expect): school lunches; non‑curriculum residential and day trips; specialist SEN support where applicable; some external examination fees; certain sports events and tournaments; instrumental (private) music lessons; and some optional clubs or activities. These items are charged separately when applicable. - Uniform: school uniform is purchased through the official uniform suppliers. Orders for standard uniform for the campus can be placed online; the primary supplier accepts payment by bank transfer, PayPal or credit card. Secondary PE uniform is supplied by a different vendor with its own ordering channel. Expect to pay separately for uniform items. - Extra / voluntary programmes: activities run by third parties (for example external sports academies or clubs) may carry separate membership or tuition charges. Parents should budget for optional extracurricular and incidental costs beyond the tuition and mandatory one‑time fees. Refund information - The School's refund position: fees are not refunded except where the required prior notice of withdrawal has been given as described in the notice period and a term has been wholly unattended. In other words, refunds are only considered where appropriate notice has been received and a full term is not attended. Discounts, hardship and special arrangements - Sibling discounts: the school does not offer standard sibling discounts. Payments for elder siblings are taken into account when assessing means for bursary decisions. - Special postponement of fees: the Bursar may consider a special postponement of payment for existing students where verifiable and significant hardship is demonstrated. Any postponed arrangement is assessed case‑by‑case, subject to reassessment each term, and may be varied. - Corporate Contribution Programme: an option exists for organisations to participate in a corporate contribution scheme under which companies make agreed donations to fund corporate scholarships; different billing/donation arrangements apply for participating organisations. Accepted payment channels summary - Tuition and mandatory school fees: bank transfer only (no cash). The transfer should be from an account in the name of the registered parent/guardian or another account previously notified in writing. - Uniform and supplier charges: payable to the uniform vendor; accepted methods include bank transfer, PayPal and credit card (supplier site). Separate suppliers may have different payment methods for PE kit. If further discrete line‑item detail is required (for example a full invoice breakdown for a particular year group or the cost of specific optional activities), those items are charged separately from the tuition and one‑time enrolment/educational resources fees listed above.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements BST does not provide boarding facilities. Students must reside in Japan with at least one parent. The school does not sponsor or support student visas; students are expected to be dependents under their parents' visa and must have the appropriate visa in place before starting school.
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 BST uniform can be purchased online through the official uniform supplier. A Uniform Guide and Uniform Policy govern requirements; orders can be delivered next business day and sent to either the Shibuya or Showa campus, with Friday collection available. The secondary school PE uniform is supplied by a separate company.
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 Most students bring their own lunch. At the Azabudai Hills Campus, lunchtime meals can be delivered from Luca Deli for Nursery–Year 6 or Kiwi Kitchen for Year 3–Year 6. At the Showa Campus, Years 7 and above can order Kiwi Kitchen delivery, and there is a canteen for Year 10–13 run by Showa Women's University.
House system	House system —	House system BST uses a four-House system: Amaterasu, Bishamon, Izanami and Tsukiyomi. Inter-House competitions take place throughout the year in sports and arts, including Sports Day and the House Singing competition.
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 BST is governed by a Board of Trustees. The Trustees set strategic aims and the budget, appoint the senior leadership, and oversee policies and performance. The Board comprises a mix of parent and international members, and meetings are held regularly with governance structures described on the Trustees page.
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 BST operates two campuses: Azabudai Hills Campus (Nursery to Year 6) and Showa Campus (Year 7 to Year 13), with the curriculum based on the English National Curriculum and taught in English. The Primary programme at Azabudai Hills delivers a broad, balanced, skill-based English National Curriculum with strong literacy and numeracy foundations and extensive extracurricular opportunities. In Secondary Showa (Year 7–11), core subjects include English Language and Literature, Mathematics, Science, and a Modern Foreign Language (French, Japanese, Mandarin or Spanish), plus Core PE and Learning for Life and Work, with three additional subjects drawn from Art, Business, Computer Science, Drama, Economics, Geography, History, Music and Spanish. From August 2025 BST delivers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) for Years 12–13, with the last A Level cohort completing in 2026. BST previously introduced BTEC Level 3 in Enterprise and Sport from August 2024 to broaden the senior curriculum, and ASDAN remains available as an alternative pathway. Enquiry-based learning and the BST Learner Profile underpin teaching, with the English National Curriculum enhanced by concept-based enquiry and a focus on international-mindedness.
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 The British School in Tokyo (BST) integrates Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) into its approach to student wellbeing, treating wellbeing as both an ongoing, individual support need and a discrete area of focus. A multidisciplinary Student Support Services team delivers SEL-related support, including Social and Emotional Learning, English as an Additional Language (EAL), Counselling and Medical care, to help students thrive academically and socially. The Learning Support team provides in-class and additional targeted support across all year groups, while the Social and Emotional Support team offers individual and group interventions to develop practical social skills and executive functioning. Staff work in collaboration with families to reinforce SEL strategies and ensure consistent support across home and school. Safeguarding is embedded in the wellbeing framework, with trained staff and established procedures to promote student safety and resilience.
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) BST provides an inclusive learning environment with a dedicated Learning Support team that delivers specialised in-class and additional support across year groups. The school also offers ASDAN Courses as an alternative curriculum for students with special needs, and BST is currently the only school in Japan to offer ASDAN. The presence of Learning Support and ASDAN indicates provision for a range of needs within a mainstream setting, rather than a specialist SEN institution. BST does not describe itself as a specialist SEN institution on its public materials.
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 BST welcomes students who require English as an Additional Language (EAL) support, with EAL specialists who work with students, their teachers, and their families to develop English proficiency so students can access the full curriculum confidently. EAL provision is implemented through BST's multidisciplinary Student Support Services, indicating coordinated support across classroom and school life.
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 Mental wellbeing is supported through the Counselling team, social and emotional interventions, and medical care as part of BST's Student Support Services. Counselling involves one-to-one, class, and transition sessions, while the Social and Emotional Support team provides interventions to build emotional health and wellbeing alongside academic progress. BST emphasizes a safe, secure, and supportive learning environment as central to student happiness and resilience. BST Nurses and the Health & Safety structure underpin day-to-day wellbeing and safety, including health promotion and psychological care where needed.
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 BST is committed to safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of all students, with a designated safeguarding framework and trained staff to respond to concerns. The school maintains a Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSL) team that coordinates safeguarding responses and provides staff with guidance on safety and child protection, with regular training aligned to international best practices and local regulations. The BST Safeguarding Policy informs trustees, staff, students, families, external providers and volunteers about responsibilities for safeguarding, and procedures are linked to Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance. For Showa Campus, the Designated Safeguarding Lead is Kelly Diaz, and contact details are provided for reporting concerns.
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 Showa Campus provides a university-like environment with modern classrooms, libraries and study spaces. The campus houses two art studios, Computer Science and Science laboratories, two sports halls, three sports pitches, and an on-site swimming pool. In August 2022 BST opened the Senior School Study Centre to provide Year 12 and 13 students with independent and collaborative study spaces, plus a conference room for student leadership meetings and a Higher Education counselling area. The campus includes the School Building and Senior School Study Centre, along with spaces such as Astro Athletic Field, Green Hall and Hitomi Hall for performances, a canteen and social spaces like the Global Lounge and The Boulevard. The on-site facilities also include dedicated exam rooms and reception areas to support senior students.
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 Two sports halls and three sports pitches support PE, team training and fixtures. The Showa Campus also includes an on-site swimming pool.
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 Academic facilities include modern classrooms, libraries and dedicated Computer Science and Science laboratories, and the Senior School Study Centre provides targeted spaces for higher education guidance and leadership meetings.
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 Two art studios support visual arts on campus, and performance spaces such as Green Hall and Hitomi Hall enable music, drama and assemblies. Social spaces include the Global Lounge and The Boulevard.
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 BST opened in 1989 with 63 students at its Shibuya campus and was inaugurated by UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. By 1993 BST had grown to over 200 students, teaching children aged 3 to 10. In 1998 BST relocated to a larger Shibuya campus to accommodate over 300 children aged 3 to 11. In 2006 BST opened a facility on the Showa Women's University campus, establishing the BST Showa campus, and Upper Primary Years moved there between 2006 and 2010. The Senior School was introduced in 2010–2011, with the first Year 13 graduates in 2012; August 2022 saw the opening of a Senior School Study Centre at Showa, and August 2023 saw the opening of the Azabudai Hills Primary Campus; in 2025 the Secondary School was refurbished.
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 BST's community is diverse, with families from all backgrounds, cultures, languages and ethnicities, and the PTA invites every parent to get involved. BST operates across two central Tokyo campuses, with the Azabudai Hills Campus housing Nursery to Year 6 and the Showa Campus housing Year 7 to Year 13, creating a connected urban community. The community hosts regular events and performances, including BST's 35th anniversary concert with the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra at Hitomi Hall in March 2025. The Spring Fair 2025 brought 1,000+ attendees and highlighted sustainability initiatives with student involvement and community participation.
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 The PTA welcomes and represents all BST parents in fostering a sense of engagement and belonging in both the school and the wider community. The PTA is diverse, inclusive, and engaged, with members from many backgrounds and languages. Over the course of each academic year, the PTA collaborates closely with the school to organise monthly, termly, and annual events, including monthly coffee mornings. Charity drives and fundraisers take place each term, and on an annual basis formal galas support initiatives such as the Annual Fund. All PTA activities are volunteer-based and led by an Executive Committee. For more information, parents can contact pta@bst.ac.jp.
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 BST Showa Campus offers extensive academic activities beyond class time. Secondary clubs include MUN (Model United Nations), Debating, KS4 Maths Club, KS5 STEP Maths Club and VEX Robotics. These activities strengthen research and problem-solving alongside the curriculum.
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 and creative activities are strong at Showa Campus. Key music ensembles include Advanced Secondary String Ensemble, Brass Band, BST Orchestra and Chamber Choir. Drama, Film Review, Photography and Writing Club are among other offerings. Externally Run Clubs also expand opportunities in calligraphy, dance and other arts partnerships.
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 Language development is supported through multiple clubs. These include French Enrichment, Japanese and Spanish for Learners. NHK Learning Japanese and Japanese Calligraphy appear through externally run clubs. These activities promote cultural awareness alongside language proficiency.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies —	Social & hobbies Social and hobby activities include Board Games, Debating and E-Sports. Additional options include Creative Writing, Photography and Space Explorers. Clubs foster peer-to-peer learning and social connections.
Community & service	Community & service Within the PYP framework, CIS Tokyo encourages students to take responsible action in their communities.	Community & service Community engagement is encouraged via Creative Crafts and Volunteering and Sustainability clubs. These projects provide opportunities to contribute to local and global communities. They help students develop service-minded attitudes.
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 development is integral at Showa Campus. Model United Nations builds diplomacy and public speaking; the Senior School Study Centre supports prefect roles and leadership meetings. Participation in MUN helps students build confidence and teamwork.
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 Lifestyle and wellbeing are central, with sport emphasised from Year 7 to Year 13. The programme includes swimming, Football, Netball, Badminton and Yoga. These activities promote health, resilience and teamwork.
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 The language of instruction at BST is English. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is provided to assist non-native English speakers in accessing the curriculum. Language learning is supported through dedicated language learning spaces, including a Language Classroom at the Azabudai Hills Campus, within BST's overall English-language, international education model.
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 —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards Awards won by BST in the past 5 years (awards credited to the school, not individuals or students): - Company of the Year, British Business Awards (BCCJ), 2025 — BST was named Company of the Year at the British Chamber of Commerce in Japan's British Business Awards, a recognition of excellence, leadership and impact within Japan's international community and aligned with BST's 35th anniversary year.
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 British School in Tokyo (BST), including its Showa Campus, holds the following accreditations. - COBIS Patron's Accreditation — BST is the first school in Japan to receive Patron's Accreditation from the Council of British International Schools, confirming adherence to COBIS standards for this accreditation level and signaling high-quality British international education. - CIS Membership — BST became a member of the Council of International Schools in 2023, aligning with CIS's drivers for purpose and direction, high-quality student learning, wellbeing and global citizenship, and gaining access to CIS programs and services. - IB World School (IBDP authorization) — BST was officially authorised as an IB World School and will offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) to Years 12–13 from August 2025. - BTEC Centre — BST was approved as a BTEC centre, enabling delivery of BTEC Level 3 in Enterprise and Sport from August 2024. - ASDAN Centre — BST was approved as an ASDAN centre, and is the only school in Japan offering ASDAN courses.
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 Admissions Process (Showa Campus, Year 7–13) 1. Check Eligibility. Review BST's admissions policy and guidelines, and verify the child's age against the UK year-group system to determine the correct year group. Showa Campus serves students from Year 7 (around 11 years old) to Year 13 (up to 18 years old). The school is located at Showa Women's University, and enrollment materials specify the age-to-year alignment for ongoing intakes. 2. Complete Enquiry Form. Submit the Enquiry Form and create an account to begin the process. An admissions representative will contact you within 1–2 business days after the enquiry is received. If you already have an account, use the existing one rather than submitting a new enquiry. 3. Application Forms. Access to the Application Form is provided after the Enquiry Form is reviewed. An application fee of 40,000 JPY (non‑refundable) is payable on the Application Form. Ensure all required information is accurate before submitting the form. 4. Confirmation of Application. After submitting all checklist items and receiving a reference from the applicant's current school or teacher, the applicant is placed in the school's application pool. An interview or assessment is scheduled after documents and references are reviewed, and when space is foreseen for the applicant. 5. Interview/Assessment. If required, interviews or assessments begin in late February and continue into late June. The schedule depends on space availability and the applicant's year group. Parents should plan for possible in-person interactions as part of the decision process. 6. Admissions Decisions. Admissions decisions begin in early March and continue through the summer. For year groups that are full, openings may not be clear until May or later, so families should not expect immediate offers in all cases. 7. Enrolment and Fees. If a place is offered, enrolment steps proceed with the school's fee schedule: a non‑refundable enrolment fee of 500,000 JPY and an additional Educational Resources fee of 680,000 JPY are due as part of joining the school. Tuition is billed annually with per‑term breakdowns (Term 1, Term 2, Term 3) and is payable by bank transfer within the terms specified. Invoices are usually issued 8–14 weeks before the end of the previous term, and existing students' tuition is due within 4 weeks of the invoice date; the school does not accept cash payments. Notes: BST shows that Showa Campus is Year 7–13 and located at Showa Women's University, with Showa address and contact details provided on the campus page. Applications for the 2026–2027 academic year are open.
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 Scholarships and Financial Support Bursaries: BST offers a limited number of bursaries intended to assist eligible families who cannot meet the full fees. The bursaries cover up to 100% of the enrolment fees and up to 50% of tuition (including Capital Development Funds). The total number of bursaries is limited to about 7% of the student roll, and the availability may vary by year. Bursaries are not awarded to Nursery or Reception students and are subject to annual reassessment based on family means and progress. Eligibility requires meeting normal admissions requirements plus evidence of financial need and a demonstrable benefit of a British education; decisions are final and may not be renewed every year. The 2025–26 bursary cycle closed, with plans for the 2026–27 cycle to be published in February 2026. Corporate Contribution Programme (CCP): BST also operates a CCP, a program that allows organizations with foreign employees to contribute to the school to fund corporate scholarships for dependents. The CCP is tax-efficient for participating companies and supports scholarships funded by corporate donations. To join, a company should contact the Development Office (or complete the form) to initiate the process; the arrangement can also be updated for existing enrollees. This program helps fund the school's scholarship offerings and facility improvements.
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 Waitlist / Pool (Showa Campus, Year 7–13) BST uses an application pool system for admissions when year-group spaces are limited. After you submit the complete application and a reference is received from the current school or teacher, the applicant is placed in the application pool. Any interview or assessment is scheduled once space is foreseen for the applicant. Admissions decisions begin in early March and continue through summer; for full year groups, openings may not be clear until May or later, so applicants may remain in the pool for an extended period.
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