Deutsche Schule Kobe International vs Marist Brothers International School

	D Deutsche Schule Kobe International Kobe, Japan	M Marist Brothers International School Kobe, Japan
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year ¥1,609,000 - 1,876,950	Fees / year ¥1,791,000 - 2,167,000
Age range	Age range 1 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), Cambridge (Primary), German Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum, Catholic Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils —	Pupils 500
Typical class size	Typical class size 20	Typical class size 25
Instruction language	Instruction language English, German	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1909	Opened 1951
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Rokko Island 3-2-8 Koyochonaka, Higashinada-ku, Kobe City, Japan	Location MBIS is located in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. The campus address is 1-2-1 Chimori-cho, Suma-ku, Kobe 654-0072. It sits in a quiet residential area between the mountains and the sea, close to Kobe's coast. The school is within easy reach by foot to Suma Station, with two train lines nearby.
Stages	Stages Playgroup 1–2 years; Early Years 2–5 years; Primary Years 5–12 years; Secondary 12–18 years	Stages MBIS offers education from Early Years through Grade 12. It is an IB World School offering the full continuum (PYP, MYP, and DP) and is accredited by WASC.
School type	School type International school; IB World School with multilingual instruction in English, German and Japanese; Cambridge International Programmes for Lower Secondary and Upper Secondary starting 2026/27; German Thüringer Curriculum for German-native students.	School type MBIS is a co-educational international day school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix About 35 nationalities are represented. The largest group is Japanese (around 23%), followed by North Americans (about 18%), with roughly 59% of students coming from the rest of the world; overall, international students comprise the majority of the student body.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Small class sizes and personalized support, with optional one‑to‑one or small‑group support.	Additional learning support MBIS provides counseling services to support students' academic, social, emotional, and mental well-being, with a school counselor and collaboration with specialists. It includes targeted support for developmental and other special needs.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Germany	Country affiliation MBIS does not have a formal country affiliation; it is located in Japan and serves a diverse international student body.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation MBIS is founded by the Marist Brothers, a Catholic religious order, and operates within the Marist educational tradition.
School day structure	School day structure Playgroup runs Thursday mornings (1–2 years). Early Years and Primary Years run Monday–Friday, 8:30–15:30. A typical Primary day includes a 7:50 arrival, classes from 8:35, and activities up to 5:00 pm (late room, optional).	School day structure Students typically follow a school day with morning homeroom/assembly, first period starting around 8:50 AM and dismissal around 3:10 PM; after-school activities and clubs can continue beyond that time.
Bus service details	Bus service details —	Bus service details MBIS runs its own bus service with routes such as Shioya and Ashiya. The Shioya route schedules pickups at about 7:55–8:20 AM and afternoon drops around 3:25–3:50 PM. The Ashiya route serves multiple stops with pickups around 7:15–7:55 AM and afternoon drops around 4:20 PM. Timetables are published for each route.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and registration fees - Application fee: JPY 50,000. - Registration (enrolment) fee: JPY 290,000. Annual tuition (by programme / year group) - Play Group (Five Tickets): JPY 7,500. - Pre‑Kindergarten: JPY 1,563,000 per academic year. Equivalent instalments: JPY 781,500 per semester (if split in two) or JPY 390,750 per quarter (if split in four). - Early Years: JPY 1,563,000 per academic year. Equivalent instalments: JPY 781,500 per semester or JPY 390,750 per quarter. - Pre‑School: JPY 1,696,000 per academic year. Equivalent instalments: JPY 848,000 per semester or JPY 424,000 per quarter. - Primary School (Grades 1–6): JPY 1,696,000 per academic year. Equivalent instalments: JPY 848,000 per semester or JPY 424,000 per quarter. Annual mandatory / recurring fees and compulsory extras - Technology fee: JPY 35,000 per year. - Building and development fee: JPY 150,000 per year. - Insurance: JPY 21,000 per year. - Membership fee for School Association: JPY 15,000 per year. - Course materials (Pre‑School – Grade 6): JPY 10,000 per year. - PTA fee: JPY 4,000 per year. - Yearbook fee: JPY 4,500 per year (where charged). Optional / occasional extras - Pre‑Kindergarten to Grade 2 school trips: JPY 5,000 (per trip / annual item as listed). - Grades 3–6 annual school trip / camp: JPY 80,000 (annual). - School bus service (if booked): JPY 221,000 per year. - Note: several items above are indicated as subject to 10% consumption tax; tax will be applied where specified. Billing schedule and payment terms - The school issues tuition invoices on an annual basis but offers different payment schedules: a single annual payment is preferred; families may also elect to be billed in two instalments or quarterly (pro‑rata billing is used for students enrolling part‑way through the year). Instalment equivalents shown above are calculated from the annual tuition and reflect those common billing splits. - Students who register during the school year are charged tuition pro‑rated according to the quarter in which they enter. Existing enrolment contracts are automatically extended unless written resignation is received with the required notice (contractual notice provisions apply). In exceptional cases (for example, a family's sudden relocation for work) the school considers withdrawals outside the normal regulations upon documented request. Tuition adjustments on withdrawal are handled on a quarterly basis under the school's refund/withdrawal rules. Refunds and withdrawal - Registration, application, building & development, insurance, technology and membership fees are charged for all students on entry and are not refundable in most cases. Children who register but do not attend, or who leave within a defined payment period, are generally not entitled to a refund of those upfront fees. Tuition refunds for mid‑year withdrawal are handled pro‑rata on a quarterly basis; specific notice and documentation requirements apply for withdrawal and for exceptional waivers. Boarding (residential) fees - No boarding or residential programme fees are listed for Deutsche Schule Kobe International. The school operates as a day school for the early years and primary programmes and is expanding provision into secondary in the 2026–27 timeframe; no boarding charges are published for current programmes. Other costs commonly incurred by families - Transport to/from school where not using the school bus (local public transport costs) and any emergency medical or specialist activity charges are additional and billed separately where applicable. Uniforms are not listed in the public fee items above; families should budget separately for any personal supplies, optional after‑school clubs, lunches, and incidental school costs. Fee payment options - The school issues invoices to enrolled families; specific accepted payment methods (for example, international bank transfer/wire, domestic bank transfer, credit card or other online payment services) are managed through the school's finance office and by invoice processes. Families should expect to receive an invoice and payment instructions from the school's admissions/accounts team when a place is offered. (Payment method availability may vary by payer location and by the invoicing arrangement chosen.)	Fee details Application and one‑time enrollment fees - Application fee: ¥60,000 (one‑time, payable at application). - Registration / enrollment (acceptance) fee: ¥630,000 (one‑time, payable on acceptance). Tuition — annual amounts by year group (standard annual tuition charged for the school year) - Early Years (Kindergarten 1, Kindergarten 2, Kindergarten 3): ¥1,791,000 per year. - Elementary (Grade 1–Grade 5): ¥2,030,000 per year. - Lower Middle/Upper Elementary (Grade 6–Grade 10): ¥2,158,000 per year. - Upper School (Grade 11–Grade 12): ¥2,167,000 per year. First‑year total for new entrants (example of first‑year breakdown for Early Years / K1) - Example (K1 first year): Application fee ¥60,000 + Registration fee ¥630,000 + Tuition ¥1,611,000 + Technology fee ¥180,000 = Total initial payment ¥2,481,000 for the first year (one‑time and annual components combined). Other recurring and one‑off fees - Technology / IT fee: a separate annual technology fee is charged (example figures shown in the fee schedule). - Development / school fund and building/maintenance levies: the fee schedule includes development or capital/building contributions; these appear as one‑time or annual items in the published schedule. - Uniforms: winter and summer uniforms and a PE kit are required; a full uniform price list is published. Uniform items are charged separately. - Bus service: an optional school bus is provided (two daily routes) and a bus brochure with route and service information is published; bus fees are charged in addition to tuition. - After‑school / Extended Day program: charged quarterly based on days per week attended (example quarter prices are published and billed by quarter). Boarding - MBIS operates as a day school and does not provide boarding accommodation. Transportation and optional bus service are provided for day students. Billing schedule and payment terms - Application fees are payable at application; registration/enrollment fees are payable on acceptance to secure the place. Tuition and other recurring charges are invoiced according to the school's published fee schedule and billing system. The school uses SchoolsBuddy/ManageBac for school management and billing processes. - Credit‑card payments are accepted but a card processing surcharge applies where noted (credit‑card payment currently incurs an additional processing fee of 5% when used for admissions payments). Bank transfer instructions are supplied in the applicant account for wire payments. Refunds and withdrawal / cancellation notes - For the Extended Day program: fees are charged quarterly and no refunds are issued once a quarter has begun. - The school's published fee schedule and policies set the specific terms for refunds, withdrawals, and any refundable deposits; those policies govern whether application, registration, development, or other fees are refundable in particular circumstances. Parents should note that some one‑time fees (application/registration) are typically treated as non‑refundable in the school's fee materials. Accepted payment methods and practical notes - Typical payment methods: bank transfer (wire) and credit card; bank transfer details are provided in the applicant billing portal. Credit‑card payments may carry a processing surcharge. Billing and incidental charges are managed through the school's parent billing systems. Notes for parents (concise) - The school publishes a detailed Fee Schedule (itemised annual and one‑time fees, and the billing calendar). The headline items above (application, registration, technology, tuition by grade and common additional charges such as uniforms, bus and extended day) are the main cost categories to expect when budgeting for enrollment.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements MBIS does not offer boarding. All students are expected to live with a parent or guardian in the Kansai region for the duration of their studies. The school does not sponsor student visa applications; families are responsible for visa arrangements. Upon enrollment, MBIS can provide proof of admission for visa purposes if needed.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement MBIS uses distinct summer and winter uniforms plus a dedicated PE kit. The winter uniform includes a blazer (mandatory for students in Grades 10–12), a long-sleeve white shirt, and sweaters or vests, with skirts or pants defined by grade. A gym uniform is required for physical education, and school ties are used for different grade bands (G1–G6 and G7–G12).
Food options	Food options —	Food options —
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership DSKI is a private, non-profit international school.	Governance and ownership MBIS is a member of the Marist Global Network. The school is governed by MBIS leadership and the MBIS Board, which outlines the board's role in policy, oversight, and compliance with relevant education acts.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details DSKI is an IB World School offering a curriculum that blends IB with Cambridge programmes. In the Early Years and Primary Years, students follow the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) with the Cambridge Primary Programme for mathematics and language. English is the main language of instruction, and all students learn German and Japanese, with Kokugo for native Japanese speakers and Japanese as a Foreign Language. From 2026/27, Lower Secondary and Upper Secondary Cambridge International Programmes lead to the IGCSE, taught in English with German and Japanese language study. In 2030/31, the Diploma Programme (IB DP) will be offered; English remains the language of instruction, German is taught as a higher-level foreign language, and Japanese may be offered at native speaker level; the IB Diploma Programme is recognised for university admissions, and Deutsches Sprachdiplom II supports German university pathways.	Curriculum details MBIS in Kobe, Japan offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum for students from Early Years through Grade 12, with English as the language of instruction and alignment with Common Core standards. The Primary Years Programme (PYP) guides learners from Early Years 3 to Grade 5 through inquiry-based, transdisciplinary units that integrate language, mathematics, science, social studies, arts, physical education, and religion. The Middle Years Programme (MYP) runs from Grade 6 to Grade 10 across eight subject groups—English, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, Arts, an additional language (Japanese), Physical Education, and Design—and includes a Grade 10 Personal Project. The Diploma Programme (DP) for Grades 11–12 requires six subjects across Groups 1–6 (Studies in language and literature, Language acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and The Arts) and the core Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge, and CAS. MBIS has been IB-authorized since 2017 and is accredited by WASC, confirming its global standards of curriculum design and assessment.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio Small class sizes and personalized support are provided to help each child thrive.	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression The Diploma Programme (IB DP) will be offered from 2030/31 and the IB is recognised in most countries as a basis for university applications. The Deutsches Sprachdiplom II is available to support German university pathways, and the school plans to introduce Cambridge IGCSE programmes for broader higher education options.	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 Social-emotional learning is embedded across the school. In Early Years, play-based learning supports social-emotional growth, language development, and problem-solving skills. Playgroup activities develop social skills and confidence in English. The IB Primary Years Programme includes Personal, Social & Emotional Education as part of its Units of Inquiry.	Social & emotional learning MBIS integrates Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) throughout its curriculum to support the emotional, social, and ethical development of every student. SEL at MBIS fosters emotional intelligence, resilience, and healthy relationships, and equips students with tools to manage their emotions, set goals, build positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. The approach emphasizes self-awareness, self-regulation, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making as core competencies. MBIS maintains a safeguarding focus and has a dedicated team to address student safety and wellbeing. Counseling services are available to support students' mental and emotional well-being, including a Guidance Counselor and a Social/Emotional Counselor who work with students across grades. The MBIS safeguarding team and policies are designed to ensure a safe, supportive environment for all students.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Small class sizes and optional one-on-one or small-group support provide personalized learning. Saturday School offers inclusive learning opportunities for SEN students. Move to Learn is an inclusive program that welcomes children with special needs.	Special educational needs (SEN) MBIS provides specialized support for students with developmental disorders, learning disabilities, ADHD, and other special needs. The school has a Director of Student Support Services and a Whole School Counselor who coordinate student support across the campus. Admissions state that MBIS welcomes all applicants, but personnel and facilities may not be equipped to accommodate the full range of student needs; admissions and placement decisions are made on an individual basis. MBIS maintains a Student Services framework that includes a Medical Office staffed by a Medical Officer and a Nurse to address health and well-being needs. Counseling services explicitly address developmental and special needs as part of MBIS's support offerings. Given the above, MBIS provides SEN-related support primarily through counseling and student support staff rather than a publicly catalogued, centralized SEN program.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language Three languages are used at DSKI: English, German and Japanese. In Primary Years, English, German and Japanese are used in the programme. In Lower Secondary and Upper Secondary, the language of instruction is English, and German and Japanese are learned as languages. All students learn German and Japanese either at native speaker level or as a foreign language.	English as an additional language English is the primary language of instruction at MBIS. The school serves a multilingual community with over 20 languages spoken. MBIS accepts students who are still developing their English; the admissions FAQ notes a preference for an age-appropriate level of English but that language-learning students can be considered. There is a Marist English School program described on MBIS's site that teaches English as a second language to younger learners. These elements indicate that MBIS supports EAL learners through both in-school acceptance of learners and an external English language program for younger students.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Move to Learn is an inclusive program designed to promote physical and mental development. Early Years learning supports emotional growth, social skills, and language confidence. The environment nurtures the academic, emotional, social, physical and creative growth of children.	Mental wellbeing MBIS prioritizes mental and emotional well-being alongside academics, with Counseling Services available to students. The school provides a Guidance Counselor for academic and university planning, and a Social/Emotional Counselor for developing emotional intelligence, resilience, and coping strategies. Counseling sessions are confidential and offered in person or online, with dedicated ways to arrange appointments (e.g., through the school's wellbeing platform). Counselors help students address issues such as stress, anxiety, interpersonal relationships, and personal growth, supporting them across the school journey. The counseling framework explicitly notes collaboration with specialists when needed to support student well-being.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding —	Safeguarding MBIS is committed to child protection and safeguarding, aligning with the Japanese Act on the Prevention of Child Abuse and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. The school's safeguarding policies and practices align with the standards of the Japan Council of International Schools (JCIS) and other accrediting bodies. A dedicated MBIS Child Saf safeguarding Team responds to concerns about student safety and collaborates with parents, school colleagues, and authorities as needed. Staff adhere to a strict Code of Conduct and receive ongoing safeguarding training with clear reporting procedures. Counseling services are part of safeguarding, with pathways to involve specialists when appropriate to protect student well-being.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The school sits on Rokko Island in Kobe city. The campus is eco-friendly and was completed in 2009.	Facilities overview Marist Brothers International School in Kobe operates a purpose-built campus designed for learning, growth and community. The campus houses dedicated academic spaces for Early Years, PYP, and MYP/DP with flexible layouts to support collaboration and inquiry. Specialized spaces include a Library, Science Labs, Art & Design Rooms, and a Music Room, all designed to support inquiry and creative expression. Athletic and wellness facilities include a multi-purpose Gymnasium with a Fitness Room and a large outdoor Field for PE and sports. Daily life is supported by an on-site Medical Room and a newly updated Cafeteria, with a school bus network providing safe transportation.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Swimming lessons are provided for all children from early years up to grade 6.	Sports facilities MBIS has a full-size gym, a well-equipped fitness room with cardio and strength equipment, and a synthetic grass field used for team sports. The Field is used for PE classes, athletics, and recreational activities. Campus games and tournaments are organized by the Marist Athletic Association (MAA). MBIS participates in regional competitions as a member of the Western Japan Athletics Association (WJAA).
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The school is an IB World School with the Primary Years Programme (PYP). It follows the Thüringer Lehrplan for the German curriculum and is a Cambridge International School certified for Mathematics and Language. Languages offered are English, German, and Japanese.	Academic facilities Library is a vibrant, student-centered hub for reading, research, and quiet study with soft seating and collaborative areas. Science Labs are newly redesigned with modern equipment, safety features, and collaborative workstations for biology, chemistry, and physics. Art & Design Rooms offer space for drawing, painting, printmaking, digital art, and mixed media. Music Room is equipped for both individual practice and ensemble performance with a range of instruments and acoustic enhancements. PYP Classrooms are collaborative and adaptable, while MYP/DP Classrooms support seminar-style learning, subject specialization, and independent study.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Saturday School is a morning program for children aged 5 to 12 whose mother tongues are German, English or French. School life includes clubs / AGs and events, and there are summer and winter schools.	Extra curricular facilities After-school activities and clubs are offered for students from Grades 1–12, with options varying based on availability and demand. In Grades 6–12, interscholastic sports include Volleyball, Soccer, Basketball, and Baseball/Softball. MBIS competes in regional events and participates in larger tournaments within Japan and overseas as part of the Asia Pacific Activities Conference (APAC).
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Founded in 1909, the Deutsche Schule Kobe International (DSKI) began as a small community school for the German community in Kobe. In 1963 the school moved to Rokko to a purpose-built site as enrollment rose to around 100 students. In 2002 the school opened to non-German students with the European School Kobe (ESK) English-language section, offering the IB Primary Years Programme alongside the German curriculum. The ESK/DSK partnership moved in 2009 to a new eco-friendly campus on Rokko Island. In 2015 the DSK/ESK partnership merged to form Deutsche Schule Kobe International (DSKI), an IB World School open to all nationalities, with English as the language of instruction, a native German language programme for the German community, and a Japanese mother tongue programme for the host community.	History MBIS opened in Kobe in 1951 on the Higashi Suma slope, founded by Brothers Charles Fojoucyk and Stephan Weber who had relocated from China. In 1952 the school moved to Viscount Kuki's former residence in Sanda, where classrooms were created in two large wooden houses. The first major expansion occurred in 1955 with new facilities, and the following year the first PTA was established along with extracurricular activities. MBIS was accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges in 1972, survived the Great Hanshin earthquake in 1995 and reopened within five weeks, and in 2017 became an International Baccalaureate World School. A campus redevelopment began in 2022, and by 2025 MBIS had gained IB Continuum authorization for the IB PYP and MYP.
Community	Community DSKI is located on Rokko Island in Kobe and presents a small, family-like community in action. The campus has an international atmosphere with the student body representing many nationalities. The school is close to cultural facilities such as the Kobe City Koiso Memorial Museum of Art, Kobe Fashion Museum, and Kobe Artists Museum, reflecting a connected local context. Teachers and staff focus on inquiry-based learning within a close-knit environment that supports students' confidence and diverse perspectives.	Community MBIS has a close-knit international community in Kobe, with students and families from multiple nationalities and a strong emphasis on collaboration among parents, teachers, and students. Community life is supported by the MBIS Parent-Teacher Association, which coordinates open meetings and a range of initiatives that connect families with the school. The MBIS Food Fair is a flagship PTA event, raising over 2,000,000 yen annually to fund student initiatives, and the PTA has organized programs such as cyber safety sessions and Faculty & Staff Appreciation Day. The MBIS athletics program, led by the Marist Athletic Association, brings together middle and high school students for competitions and events, reinforcing community through sport.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) consists of parent and teacher representatives from each of the primary school and Early Years / Kindergarten classes who are elected as representatives.	Parent teacher association MBIS has an active Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) that partners with the school to support students and strengthen the community. PTA meetings are held throughout the year to welcome input from families and to plan initiatives that benefit students. The MBIS Food Fair is a signature PTA event, raising over 2,000,000 yen annually with proceeds supporting student initiatives. The PTA runs Cyber Safety Sessions for students, faculty and parents, hosts Faculty & Staff Appreciation Day, and coordinates Food Booths at the Food Fair, as well as Sponsorship Drives to fund enrichment programs. PTA involvement helps fund student programs and fosters communication between families and MBIS.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual DSKI is an IB World School offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP) in combination with the Cambridge Mathematics and Language curriculum. The multilingual education spans English, German, and Japanese for students aged 2 to 12. Learning is inquiry-based, guiding students to become confident, globally minded learners. Digital literacy is integrated through STEM subjects, including coding, robotics, and 3D modeling.	Academic & intellectual MBIS offers a broad range of academically oriented after-school clubs and programs that extend learning beyond the classroom. Bulldog Robotics uses the VEX V5 system to design, build, and code robots, with opportunities to participate in national and international competitions. A Science and Engineering Club and a Math Club provide hands-on STEM exploration and problem solving, including participation in CEMC contests, the American Mathematics Competition, UKMT challenges, and the Kansai Math Olympics. The school also supports leadership and service-oriented activities through Model United Nations, National Honor Society, and a student-led Student Council, which complement classroom study with research, debate, and scholarship.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Music is taught with two specialist-led classes per week, where students develop their musical abilities through singing, learning instruments, composition, and music analysis. Art is integrated into IB PYP units to foster creative expression, critical thinking, and personal growth. Creativity and physical development are supported through music and art as part of the well-rounded curriculum.	Arts & creative MBIS provides an active arts program with after-school music clubs. The music offering includes Beginner Band, Rock Band, and Jazz Band, with small-group lessons and instrument rental to support practice. The Jazz Band performs at school events such as Food Fair, Winter Band Concert, and the Spring Arts Festival, reflecting the program's emphasis on performance and collaboration. Participation in music extends beyond class time and is integrated with school celebrations and community events.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language DSKI runs a multilingual programme in English, German, and Japanese. Kokugo is taught for native speakers and Japanese as a Foreign Language (JFL) for non-native learners. The Languages section confirms English, German, and Japanese as the languages used in the multilingual environment. Saturday School offers courses in English, German, and French.	Cultural & language Model United Nations is a longstanding MBIS program that combines research, diplomacy, and public speaking as part of the Social Studies curriculum. A Language Learning Club provides structured study of Korean and Chinese languages and cultures, with older students serving as instructors. These activities support intercultural understanding and global awareness as part of MBIS's international orientation.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies DSKI offers around 20 after-school clubs each term across sports, music, language, arts, science, and movement, providing opportunities to explore new interests. Participation is optional and flexible.	Social & hobbies MBIS offers a variety of social and hobby-based after-school clubs. Chess Club teaches chess using ChessKid for home-learning; After-School Cooking Club focuses on culinary skills (grades 6–10); Joyful Voices, and the Jazz/Rock music clubs provide ensemble experiences. The Jump Squad, Card Game Club, and Book Club are available in the lower and upper schools, and the Tennis Club engages students across grades.
Community & service	Community & service —	Community & service NHS at MBIS recognizes Scholarship, Leadership, Service and Character, and its members participate in service activities benefiting the school and community. Model United Nations involves students in diplomacy and global issue engagement through conferences, reinforcing service-minded citizenship. The Marist Athletic Association (MAA) coordinates games, tournaments, and school-wide activities that foster community and leadership.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional —	Leadership & professional Student Council is a student-led organization with separate Elementary and Upper School councils to develop leadership, collaborate on events, and promote school spirit. The National Honor Society recognizes and promotes scholarship, leadership, service, and character among MBIS students and supports service initiatives. The Marist Athletic Association (MAA) coordinates games and events that require planning and teamwork, and Model United Nations emphasizes leadership through diplomacy and public speaking.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Two weekly Physical Education lessons focus on movement, coordination, teamwork, and fitness, with activities in the rubberized school playground, multipurpose hall, grass sports field, and a swimming facility. This emphasis on active learning supports physical and mental well-being and fosters resilience. Well-rounded development also includes creativity and sports as part of the curriculum.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Athletics are a core part of MBIS wellbeing, offering five sports across four seasons for middle school and varsity levels (Volleyball, Soccer, Basketball, Baseball, and Softball) and competing in the Western Japan Athletics Association. The school also hosts an annual Invitational Futsal Tournament for grades 3–6, fostering competition and camaraderie. The Extended Day Program provides after-school supervision and enrichment with activities such as creative play, sports, homework support, and reading, aligned to MBIS values. Social-emotional learning is integrated across the curriculum to support emotional intelligence, resilience, and healthy relationships.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision DSKI teaches English, German, and Japanese. English is the main language of instruction; German and Japanese are taught to all students, with English language development supported by an EAL programme. Japanese instruction includes Kokugo for native speakers and Japanese as a Foreign Language (JLF) for others; German lessons can lead to Goethe Institute accreditation via one-on-one or small-group instruction.	Language provision English is the primary language of instruction at MBIS, and the school hosts a multilingual community with over 20 languages spoken. Japanese is taught within the IB framework, with English A and Japanese A in Group 1 and Japanese B in Group 2. Other language options include School-Supported Self-Taught Languages and DP online courses via Pamoja. Non-native English speakers can access English language support through the Marist English School, which runs Weekday ESL and Saturday sessions with native-English-speaking teachers and bilingual assistants. The school supports a broad language ecosystem across its IB programmes and additional language offerings.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching English is the main language of instruction; German and Japanese are taught to all students, with fluency developed through immersive learning. An English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme supports students who need English development to access the curriculum. One-on-one or small-group German lessons can be arranged for Goethe Institute accreditation; Japanese is offered as Kokugo for native speakers and Japanese as a Foreign Language (JLF) for others.	Bilingual teaching MBIS offers an IB bilingual diploma pathway within the IB Diploma Programme. All Diploma subjects are taught in English—except for Japanese, and MBIS maintains a high standard of Japanese language education. The bilingual diploma requires studying two Group 1 languages: English A and Japanese A. English is the primary language of instruction, and the school provides a linguistically diverse environment with over 20 languages spoken by students and families.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs German and Japanese are taught through immersive learning to develop fluency. English remains the main language of instruction within a multilingual curriculum. Language enrichment includes Spanish and French clubs, and bilingual summer and winter camps are organized.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations :[
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. The inquiry introduces your interest and allows the school to share guidance on the admissions process. An initial inquiry helps staff understand your needs and plan a suitable visit. This first step starts the enrollment process. 2. Tell us about yourself: Submit the Pre-Admission Questionnaire to the school office. The form helps gather basic information ahead of your visit so staff can prepare a focused discussion about your child's needs and development. It marks the formal move toward the application process. 3. Visit us: For Families in Japan, a guided school tour is available by appointment; for FamiliesOutside Japan, the school can arrange a video or phone meeting. Tours provide a real sense of the school community and programs. 4. Submit an Application Form: After the initial visit or call, provide a completed Application Form and the three most recent report cards from your current school or kindergarten; translations are required if the reports are not in English, German, French, or Japanese; if recent report cards are not available, submit Confidential School Report Form (Primary School) or Recommendation Form (Early Years). 5. Attend a Trial Day: Entrance exams are not required. The school aims to meet each student, observe language skills and readiness, and confirm fit. For Families in Japan, children aged 2–5 join a trial from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and children aged 6 and above from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM; after the trial, a follow-up interview is arranged or the school contacts you with the result. For Families Outside Japan, admissions decisions may be based on report cards and confidential references. 6. Accept an Offer & Complete Registration: Accept the offer and complete registration; vaccination records (if not submitted at a trial) and a copy of the student's passport (photo page) should be provided. Download and complete the Registration Form, Declaration Form, Emergency contact / Pick up, Student Information Form, Student Health Form, and Physical Examination Form, then email or send them back to the school.	Admissions 1. Submit an Online Application: Begin by submitting the online application with the required details about the child and family. An online Applicant Page is created after submission to organize and track the process. An application fee is required and can be paid via bank transfer or credit card, incurring a 5% processing fee. 2. Provide Supporting Documents: Upload all necessary documents, including academic records from the past three years, proof of identity, and a recommendation from a current teacher or principal. A checklist of the required documents is provided in the online Applicant Page to guide families. 3. Interview & Assessment: After the application is reviewed, an admissions team member will schedule an interview with the Divisional Head. An English language proficiency test may be administered if deemed necessary for certain grades. 4. Finalize Enrollment: If accepted, complete the required enrollment forms and submit payment for the enrollment deposit. All applicants must reside in the Kansai region with at least one parent or guardian during study, and the school does not sponsor student visas; families should arrange the visa themselves and can request proof of admission if needed.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships Marist Brothers International School offers scholarships and tuition assistance programs to support families. Eligibility criteria and application guidelines are outlined in the Scholarships and Tuition Assistance Policy. For the 2025–2026 academic year, a detailed Fee Schedule is available, and scholarship programs are designed to assist students based on merit and/or need. Parents should review the policy for specifics on how to apply and qualify.
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist If no space is available in the requested grade level, an applicant may be placed in a wait pool. The wait pool operates as a pool of candidates rather than a strict sequential list. When a space becomes available, the most suitable candidate is selected from the pool, and some grade levels may be nearing capacity, which influences waitpool usage.
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