Makuhari International School vs MEES International School - Hakusan Campus

	M Makuhari International School Tokyo, Japan	M MEES International School - Hakusan Campus Tokyo, Japan
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year ¥1,380,000 - 1,740,000	Fees / year ¥1,256,400 - 1,555,938
Age range	Age range 2 - 12 years	Age range 1 - 12 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum Bespoke Curriculum, EYFS (Early years foundation stage), Japanese Curriculum	Curriculum Bespoke Curriculum, Montessori Curriculum, Reggio Emilia Approach
Pupils	Pupils 385	Pupils —
Typical class size	Typical class size 22	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English, Japanese	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2009	Opened 2016
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location The Makuhari International School campus is at 3-2-9 Wakaba, Mihama-ku, Chiba City, Chiba 261-0014, Japan. It sits in the Makuhari area near parks, the waterfront, and the Makuhari Messe Convention Center. The school is easily accessible by public transport, about a 13-minute walk from Kaihin Makuhari Station and roughly 30 minutes by rail from central Tokyo or Narita Airport. MIS operates school buses to surrounding areas such as Chiba, Inage, Funabashi, Motoyawata, Urayasu, Shin-Urayasu, Tsudanuma, Makuharihongo and Baytown.	Location MEES Hakusan Campus is in Bunkyo Ward, central Tokyo, Japan. The address is in Hakusan, Tokyo 112-0001, and the campus is a short walk from Hakusan Station (about 5 minutes). The campus sits in a dense urban area with easy access to Tokyo's public transport network. The school markets its Hakusan site as the Bunkyo campus for Preschool and Elementary.
Stages	Stages MIS delivers programs for K1-G6 (Nursery to Year 7). Kindergarten comprises K1, K2 and K3 (ages 3–6), with a Pre-School for younger children, and Primary/Elementary includes Grades 1–6. The curriculum combines Japanese national objectives with international teaching approaches, taught mainly in English, with Japanese language subjects offered as Japanese studies.	Stages MEES Hakusan Campus comprises two levels: Preschool (ages 1–6) and Elementary School (grades 1–6, roughly ages 6–12). Preschool is organized into Lower Preschool (ages 1–3) and Upper Preschool (ages 3–6). The campus is explicitly described as hosting Preschool and Elementary on its Hakusan site.
School type	School type MIS is a private bilingual day school. The program is delivered in both English and Japanese, and MIS is described in external profiles as a co-educational, day school offering a dual-language programme.	School type MEES Hakusan Campus is a co-educational international day school. English is the primary language of instruction. The school offers afterschool programming but does not list boarding facilities.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix Current mix includes about 60% of students from Japanese returnee families, 29% dual nationality students, and 11% foreign nationals. That yields a domestic to international ratio of roughly 60:40. The school's most represented group is Japanese returnees.	Pupil nationality mix MEES reports about 120 students in the Hakusan campus community, with an international, multicultural profile. Publicly published nationality breakdowns are not provided. The school presents itself as an international community with English as the primary language of instruction.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support MIS provides learning support through a dedicated Learning Support/SENCO framework; the school publishes guidance for Learning Support/SENCO roles and has current job postings for a Learning Support/SENCO coordinator. This indicates formal SEN provision within the school.	Additional learning support MEES provides an Elementary English Language Support Program (ES) for students needing language support, with sessions from 15:00–16:00 and monthly fees listed for different weekly cadences. The school also references safeguarding practices aligned with JCIS standards. There is no publicly listed, school-wide SEN program beyond language support on the site.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation There is no formal country affiliation for MIS. It operates as a private international school in Japan with Article 1 status and is governed under Japanese education guidelines.	Country affiliation MEES Hakusan is based in Tokyo, Japan, with a Tokyo address and Japanese location. The school does not publish a country-specific affiliation beyond its operation as an international school in Japan.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation MIS has no religious affiliation stated in its materials; it presents itself as a secular, international bilingual school.	Religious affiliation Religious affiliation is not indicated in MEES's program or admissions materials. The school presents a secular, project-based, English-language program for ages 1–12.
School day structure	School day structure Kindergarten days begin at 8:50am; K1 finishes at 1:30pm, while K2–K3 finish at 3:20pm, with clubs and activities running until about 4:10pm. In the Elementary program, the school day runs from about 8:50am to 3:20pm, with after-school clubs and activities continuing until around 4:10pm.	School day structure Preschool runs from 9:00 to 14:00 (with Nursery 9:00–18:00; see Preschool page for details). Elementary Full Day is 8:30–15:00, with an English Language Support option and a lunch included. After-school activities run 14:00–18:00, including immersion, PBL/design thinking, MakerSpace, Tasty Lab, Tech, and more. Lunch is included for elementary students in the standard program.
Bus service details	Bus service details MIS operates six school-bus routes to: Chiba, Funabashi, Nishi Funabashi, Shin Urayasu, Tsudanuma, and Urayasu; bus assistants ride on board to support students. Bus routes and timetables are subject to change, and families should contact the school office for current details.	Bus service details MEES offers bus service for both morning/full-day and afternoon programs; for Elementary, bus service is optional with published monthly costs. Preschool/Nursery also offers a bus option with separate fees listed in the Preschool and Afterschool program pages. Routes are provided by the school and details are available upon inquiry.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and Assessment Fees - Assessment fee for students invited to testing/interview: ¥20,000, payable when a child is accepted for testing or interview. One‑time (enrolment) Fees - Entrance Fee (paid once on enrollment): ¥200,000. The school does not return the entrance fee for any reason and does not issue a receipt for the entrance fee. - Maintenance Fee (paid once on enrollment): ¥400,000. Annual Tuition and Per‑installment Amounts (by year group) - Kindergarten (K1–K3): Annual tuition ¥1,380,000. Tuition is paid in three equal instalments; per instalment amount ¥460,000. Payments are due at the end of June, October and March. - Elementary (Grades 1–6): Annual tuition ¥1,740,000. Tuition is paid in three equal instalments; per instalment amount ¥580,000. Payments are due at the end of June, October and March. Billing Schedule and Payment Terms - An invoice is issued to accepted families; do not pay before receiving the invoice. Entrance Fee, Maintenance Fee and the first tuition payment must be paid into the school's bank account within the period stated on the invoice. Receipt of these payments is taken as confirmation of official enrolment. - Regular ongoing payments are collected by automatic bank withdrawal (口座振替). It typically takes approximately three months from submission of the bank‑withdrawal application form for withdrawals to begin; until withdrawals start the school issues an invoice and families transfer funds to the school's bank account. Once bank withdrawals are active, school fees are withdrawn on the 27th of each month (if the 27th is a weekend or holiday, withdrawal is the next business day). - Tuition instalments are due at the end of June, October and March. Bus fees (if used) are collected on the same schedule as tuition. Boarding - Boarding is not applicable; school transport is provided via multiple day‑bus routes and the school operates as a day school with school bus services. Transport (Bus) Fees - School bus fees vary by route. Bus fees fall within a range (examples shown by route): from approximately ¥96,600 per year (about ¥8,050 per month) up to approximately ¥303,600 per year (about ¥25,300 per month), depending on route selected. Bus fees are subject to change. Other Fees and Typical Additional Costs - Disaster‑prevention hood: ¥3,200 (charged at the end of the month following enrollment). - After‑school care (ASC) / short‑term childcare: billed at ¥350 per 30 minutes; ASC charges are withdrawn at the end of the month following usage. - Yearbook (optional, ordered by families): approximately ¥8,000 (payment timing shown as end of October when ordered). - School trips and grade‑specific residential activities (for example Grade 5 and Grade 6 trips) may incur separate additional charges; such charges are billed as required. - Uniform: MIS requires uniform from K2 upward. Uniform items (starter kit, school bag and selected items) are purchased through specified retailers (Kanko Shop Higashi Nihonbashi and Top of the Class); item lists and ordering instructions are provided by those retailers. Prices for uniform items are set by the retailers. Refunds and Non‑Refundable Items - The Entrance Fee (¥200,000) is non‑refundable for any reason. No separate general refund policy for other fees is stated in the fee documents; additional charges for trips or optional items are billed when required. Fee Discounts and Sibling Policy - A sibling discount (or in some cases a sibling exemption) is available; eligibility and the amount of any discount are arranged through the school office. Accepted Payment Methods - Automatic bank withdrawal (口座振替) is the school's preferred method for recurring payments and most charges are collected by this method once set up. - Bank transfer (bank deposit to the school's account) is used for initial payments and for payments made before bank‑withdrawal arrangements are active; invoices specify the school bank account details for transfers. Credit‑card payment is not listed as a standard payment method in the fee documents.	Fee details Application and one-time fees - Preschool (one-time): Enrollment fee ¥90,000; Material fee (annual) ¥20,000. - Elementary (one-time): Application fee ¥20,000; Enrollment fee ¥180,000; Material fee (annual) ¥40,000; School Growth Fund (annual) ¥50,000. - Afterschool / Afternoon programs: Afternoon program application fee (one-time) ¥15,000; Afterschool enrollment fee ¥30,000 (where applicable). Tuition fees — Preschool (regular day program 9:00–14:00) Preschool per-term and annual tuition (school year 2025–2026): - 2 days/week (1–3 years old): 1st term ¥229,040; 2nd term ¥171,780; 3rd term ¥229,040; Annual total ¥629,860. - 3 days/week (1–3 years old): 1st term ¥294,360; 2nd term ¥220,770; 3rd term ¥294,360; Annual total ¥809,490. - 4 days/week (1–3 years old): 1st term ¥367,880; 2nd term ¥275,910; 3rd term ¥367,880; Annual total ¥1,011,670. - 5 days/week (1–6 years old): 1st term ¥449,600; 2nd term ¥337,200; 3rd term ¥449,600; Annual total ¥1,236,400. Tuition fees — Preschool (nursery / extended-care example; 9:00–18:00) Example pricing for Nursery (extended hours, 30-minute increments available): - 2 days/week: 1st term ¥301,131; 2nd term ¥227,444; 3rd term ¥301,131; Summer (Jul–Aug) ¥54,204; Annual total ¥883,910. - 3 days/week: 1st term ¥393,536; 2nd term ¥297,546; 3rd term ¥393,536; Summer ¥81,306; Annual total ¥1,165,294. - 4 days/week: 1st term ¥482,195; 2nd term ¥364,838; 3rd term ¥482,195; Summer ¥108,408; Annual total ¥1,437,636. - 5 days/week: 1st term ¥577,560; 2nd term ¥437,160; 3rd term ¥577,560; Summer ¥135,510; Annual total ¥1,727,790. Tuition fees — Elementary (full day 8:30–15:00) Elementary per-term and annual tuition (school year 2025–2026): - Full day program: 1st term (Sep–Dec) ¥551,250; 2nd term (Jan–Mar) ¥413,438; 3rd term (Apr–Jul) ¥551,250; Annual total ¥1,515,938. - Bus service (both ways, optional): 1st term ¥80,000; 2nd term ¥60,000; 3rd term ¥80,000; Annual total ¥220,000. - Additional recurring charges for Elementary: Material fee (annual) ¥40,000; School Growth Fund (annual) ¥50,000. Afternoon / Afterschool program fees (monthly and one-off) - Afternoon Immersion Program (14:00–18:00) — monthly rates by frequency: 1x/week ¥15,000; 2x/week ¥25,000; 3x/week ¥33,000; 4x/week ¥40,000; 5x/week ¥45,000. - Elementary English Support (15:00–16:00) — sample monthly rates listed: ¥30,000 (2x/week) and ¥40,000 (3x/week) where applicable. - Afterschool/PBL/Makerspace club monthly fees vary by program and frequency (examples published for 1x–3x per week and specific clubs). - Afterschool enrollment fee (one-time) ¥30,000. Billing schedule and payment terms - Academic year is presented in three terms: 1st term (September–December), 2nd term (January–March), 3rd term (April–July). Tuition is shown by term with an annual total. - Enrollment-related invoices are issued as part of the admissions sequence; an enrollment invoice is issued upon approval and placement is finalized upon payment of the invoice. - Tuition and bus fees are shown exclusive of consumption tax (10%). Smaller one‑time charges (for example excursions) may be billed separately. Boarding fees - Boarding is not offered at MEES Hakusan (programs listed are Preschool and Elementary; no boarding/dormitory fees are published). Other costs and optional charges - Bus service (optional): term and annual amounts listed above. - School lunch is included in published tuition for both Preschool and Elementary day programs. - Extended-care ticket set (example) ¥5,000. - Occasional one-time fees for excursions or similar activities may be charged. - Summer program (weekly rates) is run separately; sample preschool summer program weekly fees were published (main-course and extended-course weekly pricing). Refund information - Published program pages state that paid fees are non-refundable. Fee payment options - The admissions guidance and fee process describe issuance of application and enrollment invoices and finalisation upon payment; publicly posted admissions and fee pages do not specify the detailed payment methods (e.g., whether payment by bank transfer, credit card, or other means is accepted). Invoices are issued to families as part of the enrollment process.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement The MIS uniform is required for students from K2 onward. Uniform items can be purchased from two retailers: Kanko Shop Higashi Nihonbashi Ltd. and Top of the Class, with the Starter Kit for new students ordered through Kanko Shop. The school bag is part of the uniform, and Top of the Class supplies items such as chinos, backpacks, house T‑shirts, shoes, and a cap/hat.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options Students may bring a lunch or order school lunches from Luca Deli Organic Kitchen. Reservations and cancellations are handled directly with Luca Deli Organic Kitchen via their online system, and monthly orders are placed by the 25th of the month prior to delivery.	Food options Lunch is included with tuition. The school provides daily meals as part of the program.
House system	House system Pupils are grouped into houses, and house activities are part of MIS life, including related collaborative and competitive opportunities. House T‑shirts are part of the MIS uniform as well.	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Governance is conducted by a Board of Directors and a Board of Trustees. MIS operates under Article One status and is recognized by the Japanese Ministry of Education. CIS accreditation was reaffirmed in October 2024.	Governance and ownership The school is governed by a Board of Advisors. The founder and Head of School is Euft van den Berg. Rankukan Co., Ltd. is the owner/operator.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Makuhari International School follows the Japanese national curriculum objectives (MEXT) but expands on them with additional content from other curricula; as a MEXT-designated exceptional school, it extends learning hours and emphasizes consolidation and extension in English and Maths. MIS operates K1–G6 (Nursery to Year 7) in a bilingual English–Japanese model, with most subjects taught in English and Japanese taught as Kokugo (native/Japanese language) or Japanese Studies for non-native speakers; dual-nationality students may choose between Japanese or Japanese Studies where applicable. The Elementary program is divided into Lower Elementary (Grades 1–3) and Upper Elementary (Grades 4–6) and covers English, Mathematics (including White Rose Maths), STEAM, Science, Social Studies (with bilingual instruction in Grades 5–6), Art, Music, Home Economics, Physical Education, Social Emotional Learning and Ethics, Creative Studies, and Integrated Studies. Kindergarten uses the Early Years Foundation Stage framework with six areas of learning: Human Relationships, Language (including Japanese), Mathematics, Environment, Health, and Expression. The school is CIS-reaccredited as of October 10, 2024, and its diploma is designed to facilitate transfers to Japanese junior high schools as well as international schools.	Curriculum details MEES International School – Hakusan Campus in Bunkyo, Tokyo serves Nursery through Grade 6 (Preschool to Elementary). MEES Preschool blends Montessori and Reggio Emilia, with hands-on, project-based learning, English as the primary language of instruction, and mixed-age classrooms focusing on five core areas: language, motor, sensory development, social growth, and academic readiness. MEES Elementary uses Project-Based Learning with strong STEM integration, a Makerspace, and a full-day schedule from 8:30 to 15:00; an English Language Support Program is available after school if needed. The curriculum emphasizes digital literacy and technology across disciplines, including programming and AI-informed learning, while The Forest program provides regular outdoor learning and mixed-age cohorts to foster resilience and collaboration. Practical details include Preschool 9:00–14:00, Nursery 9:00–18:00, Elementary 8:30–15:00, with optional bus service and published 2025–2026 tuition/fees.
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 MIS supports social and emotional learning from Kindergarten with Personal, Social and Emotional Development that focuses on emotional well-being, self-identity, social competence, and a positive disposition to learn. The Vision, Mission and Aims emphasise empathy, international mindedness, and responsible citizenship as core dispositions. Through the Global Citizenship Award Program, students actively contribute to home, school, local, and global communities. Students document their service in Global Citizenship Journals, and outstanding students can earn a Super Global Citizen Award. The Student Council provides leadership opportunities, giving students a voice to plan activities and support others.	Social & emotional learning MEES Hakusan Campus prioritizes social development and collaborative learning; its core beliefs emphasise peer interactions that respect individual differences over competition, and learning is organized around project-based, mixed-age cohorts to build communication, collaboration, and confidence, with MEES The Forest outdoor education further developing social skills and resilience.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) MIS provides Learning Support and English Support as part of the admissions process, indicating provision for students needing extra help. Public materials describe these supports rather than a dedicated SEN department. Job postings indicate a desire for teachers who can work with children with special educational needs or other learning challenges/differences. The bilingual curriculum and emphasis on English language across subjects complement inclusive practices rather than indicating a separate SEN specialization. CIS accreditation highlights safeguarding and wellbeing as priorities, reinforcing support for diverse student needs.	Special educational needs (SEN) The school does not publicly disclose information regarding Special Educational Needs (SEN) provision, types of SEN supported, or whether it operates as a specialist SEN institution; the School Handbook exists in English and Japanese but content is hosted on Google Drive and requires login to view.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language MIS operates as a dual-language school with programmes in English and Japanese. All subjects other than Japanese language and Japanese studies are taught in English. English language development is prioritized across the curriculum, with a range of texts and opportunities to develop reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. Admissions include Learning Support and English Support to assist students with English language needs. MIS aims to value both languages equally and prepare students to transfer to Japanese junior high schools as well as international schools.	English as an additional language English is the primary language of instruction at MEES Hakusan, with Preschool explicitly stating English as the main language of instruction, and EAL support available through an English immersion program for Preschool and an English Language Support Program for Elementary, plus English-language afterschool clubs.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Personal, Social and Emotional Development in Kindergarten emphasizes learning about emotional well‑being and how one fits within a group. Global Citizenship and service programs contribute to students' sense of belonging and purpose, supporting wellbeing. CIS accreditation notes safeguarding and wellbeing as priorities. Student leadership and community activities, such as the Student Council, promote positive wellbeing through social engagement. The school's ongoing accreditation and improvement processes reflect a broader commitment to student wellbeing.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through MEES Forest & Outdoor Education, offering regular outdoor experiences that build physical fitness, social skills, and resilience, alongside wellbeing-oriented clubs and programs.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding MIS places extreme importance on the safety and protection of children. At the time of submitting an employment application, applicants certify that they have never harmed children or vulnerable persons. MIS conducts background checks for all staff, and agrees that, if concerns arise, MIS may terminate the employment contract. All staff and volunteers sign codes of conduct and attest to suitability for roles involving contact with children. CIS accreditation highlights safeguarding and wellbeing as priorities.	Safeguarding MEES is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of every child, guided by Japan Council of International Schools standards, with staff following a strict code of conduct, clear reporting protocols, and regular training to address risks.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Makuhari International School sits on a spacious campus with award-winning facilities designed to support collaboration and exploration. Buildings and classrooms are open-plan with natural wood interiors that create a welcoming learning environment. The campus features large outdoor learning areas, including a grass field, and a central media centre. It also includes a Japanese garden and a courtyard for quiet study and outdoor activities. A gymnasium and a multipurpose hall support physical education and school events.	Facilities overview MEES Hakusan Campus provides substantial, flexible learning spaces to support project-based learning. The elementary school features 400 square meters of large open spaces and a Makerspace with a workshop and gym studio. Educational technology and AI tools are integrated into instruction, with preschool and elementary programs incorporating STEM and digital learning. The Forest School program offers outdoor learning in natural settings about an hour away from the Tokyo campuses. Afterschool clubs on site include MakerSpace, Tasty Lab, Tech Club, Judo, and English clubs, extending the use of facilities beyond regular hours. The Hakusan campus is located in central Tokyo, with easy access from Hakusan Station.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The campus includes a gymnasium for PE and indoor activities and a grass field for outdoor sport. A Multipurpose Hall supports assemblies and additional activities.	Sports facilities On-campus sports facilities include a gym studio integrated with the on-site Makerspace and workshop areas. Afterschool programs include Judo Club, which uses gym facilities.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The Media Centre at the heart of the campus functions as the library and information hub. A dedicated Science Room provides hands-on laboratory spaces, while an ICT Room supports technology education with networked devices. Learning Support (LS) and English Support (ES) rooms are available to assist students who need extra help.	Academic facilities MEES Hakusan Elementary School has 400 square meters of large open spaces for collaborative work and project-based learning. It features a Makerspace learning area, a workshop, and a gym studio to support hands-on design and physical education. Preschool programming emphasizes STEM and digital literacy with age-appropriate educational technology and AI tools. Forest School Education provides outdoor sessions as part of MEES The Forest program, expanding learning beyond the classroom to natural settings about an hour from the Tokyo campuses.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Daily after-school clubs cover art, music, drama, athletics, crafts, languages, culture, cooking, technology and design. Most clubs are run by MIS teachers, with some externally led options available for a fee. Swimming lessons are offered for one term at a local indoor facility.	Extra curricular facilities Afterschool offerings on the Hakusan campus include MakerSpace: Creative Builds; PBL Design Thinking; Tasty Lab; Tech Club; Judo Club; English Club. These clubs run after school on the Hakusan campus and use MEES facilities for hands-on activities.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History May 2006 an application was made to establish Makuhari International School in a Special Zone under Article One, enabling a flexible curriculum within the Japanese system. In January 2008 final approval was granted and the Makuhari International School Establishment Preparatory Foundation was formed to lead the project. The school opened in April 2009, welcoming students from K1 to Grade 6 and teaching the Japanese National Curriculum in English with elements drawn from international practice. In May 2016 MIS expanded its facilities to include a gymnasium, staff rooms, a conference room, and dedicated classrooms for Learning Support, English Support, Japanese Studies, and After School Care. The school is operated by the Makuhari International School Foundation, governed by a school board and a leadership team overseeing day-to-day operations.	History MEES International School was founded in 2016 by Euft van den Berg in Tokyo as a boutique international school centered on the child, blending Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and project-based learning. The Hakusan Campus in Bunkyo operates as part of MEES Tokyo, offering Preschool to Elementary with English as the primary language of instruction. The school emphasizes project-based learning and mixed-age cohorts, while also incorporating outdoor education through The Forest program. In 2026 MEES celebrated its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of growth across its Hakusan and Sendagi campuses. MEES operates under Rankukan Co., Ltd., the parent company listed in its corporate materials.
Community	Community MIS maintains an active, inclusive school community with a wide range of after‑school clubs and events. The school hosts annual events such as Opening Ceremony, Sakura Medal Book Bowl, and a School Bazaar, and runs Calligraphy Week three times a year, along with inter‑house activities and an annual Sports Day. Students also participate in swimming lessons, Book Week activities, and Kindergarten and Grade 6 graduations. The school celebrates both Japanese and international holidays, including Setsubun and Halloween, reflecting its bilingual, globally aware culture.	Community The MEES community is a close-knit network in which every child is known by name, and there are strong connections between teachers, students, and families. A hallmark event is the MEES 10th Year Anniversary Festival, featuring hands-on activities, student projects, performances, shared food, and a parents-led second-hand children's items bazaar. The school's outdoor education through The Forest program brings families into regular learning experiences outside the classroom. Parental engagement is supported by school coffee mornings and information sessions that foster ongoing collaboration between families and school staff.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association Makuhari International School's PTA is led by a chair and an elected board of parents and staff. It holds annual general meetings and organizes family events to connect parents with the school, and it supports the MIS Bazaar with stalls and activities, engaging families in fundraising and community life. The PTA maintains channels for feedback and updates through contact@mispta.com and via the MIS PTA site mispta.com. The PTA bylaws are available in English and Japanese to accommodate all families, and the group encourages broad parent involvement in events and volunteering.	Parent teacher association Parent involvement at MEES Hakusan is active through volunteer activities and events coordinated by families. A prominent example is the second-hand children's items bazaar organized by parents, linked to major community events like the anniversary festival. Parents also participate in coffee mornings and information sessions that facilitate updates and safeguarding discussions. While a formal PTA is not publicly described in MEES materials, the parent community functions in a PTA-like capacity by organizing volunteering, fundraising, and communication with the school leadership. This collaborative structure supports student learning and community life.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual MIS offers a broad after-school program with clubs in art, music, drama, sports, games, crafts, homework support, culture, foreign languages, nature studies, cooking, and information technology. Most clubs are led by MIS staff and are free, though some are provided by external specialists for a fee. Students may participate in multiple clubs during the week, with activities typically running from 3:30 pm to 4:10 pm. The program complements the core curriculum with STEAM experiences, including coding and robotics, and the school hosts an annual MIS Science Fair.	Academic & intellectual Hakusan campus offers after-school programs that emphasize academic enrichment and STEM through project-based learning. Afternoon options include Kitchen Chemistry, Garden to Table, Food Around the World, and Taste & Nutrition, linking cooking, science, and math to real-world activities. Tech Club explores coding, game design, and digital storytelling with tools like Scratch, HTML/CSS, Python, BSD, and Minecraft, including solo challenges and team projects. MakerSpace: Creative Builds and project-based learning (PBL) design thinking provide hands-on engineering and problem-solving opportunities beyond the classroom.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative After-school clubs cover arts and creative pursuits such as art, music, drama, crafts, and related activities. The curriculum emphasizes art and music as core areas, offering hands-on exploration of materials and opportunities for creative expression. MIS's elementary program integrates visual arts and music into learning, with dedicated instruction and performance opportunities.	Arts & creative MakerSpace and related after-school activities provide hands-on creative building opportunities at Hakusan. The Hakusan campus features a dedicated MakerSpace/workshop for creative projects and design work, integrated with the elementary program. MEES emphasizes creative exploration alongside STEM through its project-based learning and forest education, which includes nature-inspired art and hands-on outdoor creativity during MEES The Forest sessions. These programs support artistic expression within a broader learning approach.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Japanese is offered in two tracks: Kokugo for native/near-native speakers and Japanese Studies for non-native learners, with culture highlighted in assemblies and events. The school also marks cultural occasions and celebrations, including Setsubun, Halloween, and a Winter Performance, along with annual Book Week. Global citizenship and cross-cultural learning are embedded through the Global Citizenship program, which includes projects like rice cultivation, safety campaigns, and wildlife conservation partnerships with WWF; students document their service in Global Citizenship Journals.	Cultural & language Hakusan offers English-language immersion through after-school English Club and immersion-based language activities in MEES programs. English Club provides foundational phonics, daily life language, storytelling, and games to build listening and speaking skills. The Hakusan campus also runs mixed-age immersion arrangements in the afternoon, with English as the main language of instruction. English-language offerings include activities focused on phonics, routines, storytelling, and interactive language practice.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Clubs in social and hobby areas include games, culture-related activities, language clubs, and other informal groups. Many after-school offerings are run by MIS staff, with some external providers as needed; students may join more than one club in a week. The school also uses spirit days organized by the Student Council to foster school community and social engagement.	Social & hobbies Afterschool programs include team-based projects and unplugged logic games that emphasize collaboration and peer learning. Clubs offer a range of interests such as Tech Club (coding and digital storytelling), Judo, and MakerSpace projects, supporting social interaction and shared activities. Forest education and outdoor activities promote teamwork and social development through group exploration. These activities complement classroom learning and provide informal opportunities for students to pursue personal interests.
Community & service	Community & service MIS emphasizes community service and global citizenship. Student Council-led fundraising and charity drives have supported disaster relief and national campaigns, illustrating a commitment to helping others. Through the Global Citizenship program, students undertake local and global service projects and record their experiences in journals that are shared with peers.	Community & service —
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Student leadership is cultivated through an elected Student Council that plans events, represents student voices, and raises money for charities. The Global Citizenship Award Program recognizes students who exemplify global citizenship, reinforcing leadership and service. MIS also employs a House system with Inter-House Challenges to develop teamwork and leadership across year groups.	Leadership & professional —
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Physical Education is a core component of MIS, focusing on safe movement, fitness, teamwork, and healthy habits. For example, MIS provides term-long swimming instruction at a nearby indoor pool delivered by professional coaches. Weekly assemblies recognize student effort, and annual awards and ceremonies celebrate achievement, contributing to a positive wellbeing culture.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Judo Club provides regular physical activity, focusing on balance, safe falling, strength, and discipline. The Forest program emphasizes daily outdoor exploration, hiking, hands-on nature projects, campfire lunches, and building resilience. Outdoor education fosters physical health, social skills, and environmental awareness. MEES's forest and after-school programs aim to promote physical and mental well-being beyond classroom learning.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English is the primary language of instruction for most subjects; all lessons, with the exception of Japanese or Japanese Studies (and some Social Studies in Grades 5–6), are taught in English, and students are screened on entry to ensure English proficiency to access the curriculum. Japanese is taught as Kokugo for native/near-native speakers or Japanese Studies for non-native speakers, with Grades 5–6 offering Japanese Studies that include language development and cultural content. The school provides language support through a dedicated Japanese Learning Support Teacher and English language support arrangements as needed, with admissions screening and English support coordination available when required.	Language provision English is the primary language of instruction at MEES. The school values home languages and multilingualism. The Preschool Immersion Program supports learners at different English proficiency levels (beginner to advanced). There are English language offerings beyond the core curriculum, including an Elementary English Class (1 hour) and an Afterschool English Club.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching Makuhari International School operates as a dual-language school where English and Japanese are valued equally. The bilingual program runs from Kindergarten (K1) through Grade 6, serving Japanese returnees, dual-nationality families, and expatriate families. Most subjects are taught in English by native English teachers, while Japanese is taught as Kokugo for native/near-native speakers or Japanese Studies for non-native speakers. In Grades 5–6, Social Studies is taught in both English and Japanese to support language development and cultural learning.	Bilingual teaching There is no explicit bilingual program described at MEES Hakusan. English is the primary language of instruction across MEES. The school values home languages and multilingualism.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs An Afternoon Preschool Immersion Program is offered at the Hakusan Campus (and Sendagi). The Preschool Immersion Program is for children ages 1 to 6 and requires English proficiency levels from beginner to advanced. It runs 14:00 to 18:00, Monday to Friday. The program integrates immersion into regular MEES classes to support English language development. There is also an elementary immersion track that continues as part of PBL and related clubs.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards No school-level awards published by MEES in the past five years are listed on the MEES site. The site does highlight school events such as the MEES 10th Year Anniversary Festival, but it does not publish formal awards for the school.
Accreditations	Accreditations Makuhari International School holds CIS accreditation (re-accredited on 10 October 2024).	Accreditations The school adheres to Japan Council of International Schools (JCIS) safeguarding standards. JCIS is a non‑profit network of English‑medium international schools in Japan that promotes quality practices and safeguarding guidelines; member schools work within a shared framework to uphold international education standards. This means MEES aligns its child-protection and welfare practices with JCIS's guidelines to ensure a safe learning environment.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Determine eligibility and choose entry path. Makuhari International School offers two entry pathways: the April intake at the start of the academic year and mid‑year transfers. Review the Qualification Requirements to confirm your child's eligibility for the selected route. If guidance is needed, contact the Admissions Officer for support. 2. Plan a school visit or information session. School tours are typically scheduled once per month for families not applying for April. For April admissions, attend the Information Day session and school tour (usually held in September). 3. For April admissions, follow the Enrollment for April schedule; for other times, download and complete the application forms and prepare supporting documents. For non‑April admissions, use the Forms page to download the application form(s) and submit them with Form A, any records, references or test results from current/previous schools, plus a copy of the child's passport photo page, the Parents Information Form, and a copy of the family's Certificate of Residence. For full details, request the Admissions Booklet from the school. 4. Screening, tests, or informal meeting. If a child meets the criteria, a screening test will be organized with the class teacher. For Kindergarten 1 or 2, an informal meeting with the kindergarten staff is arranged instead of a test. Where a child is accepted for testing or interviewing, a fee of ¥20,000 is payable to the school. 5. Follow‑up assessments and interviews. In some cases, after testing, a follow‑up interview might be arranged with the Learning Support or English Support Coordinator to discuss any language or learning needs. 6. Placement and written offer. A child is placed in the relevant Grade based on chronological age. An offer of a place (or not) is issued in writing, and the Head of School's decision is final. 7. Waitlist if spaces are unavailable. If there are no spaces at the time of application, a child may be invited to join a waiting list at the school. 8. Registration and invoicing. Registration and other entry fees are payable immediately on entry to the school; do not pay before you receive the invoice. The school issues an Admission Pack (including the admission certificate and related documents) after deposit confirmation. 9. First day arrangements. On the first day, arrive at the MIS office with your child at 8:30 am. 10. Timeline and ongoing recruitment. The entire admission process takes at least 30 school days (about one month) from submission to completion. For 2026 admissions, there are Additional Recruitment for 1 April 2026 Enrollment and Rolling Applications for 2026–2027; download the 2026–2027 Admission Booklet/Forms from the Forms page for current timelines.	Admissions Preschool Enrollment Process (Hakusan Campus): Step 1 — Schedule a visit. Prospective families are encouraged to arrange a school tour to experience the Hakusan campus's learning environment firsthand. For families contacting from abroad, an online meeting can be scheduled to discuss the program and any questions you have about the approach. The visit is a practical opportunity to observe classrooms and daily routines and to gather initial information about programs available for 1–3 year olds and older. Step 2 — Submit the application form. After you have had a chance to tour or speak with the team, submit the preschool application form to begin the formal review process. Be prepared to provide basic information about your child and family and to specify desired days per week (2–5 days) for younger children; MEES notes the need to align attendance with program requirements. Step 3 — Enrollment invoice issued upon approval. If the application is approved, MEES issues an enrollment invoice to confirm the next steps toward enrollment. This invoice initiates the financial portion of the process and outlines the payment method. Step 4 — Finalized upon payment. Enrollment is considered final once the payment is processed. Families should ensure timely payment to secure placement and confirm start dates. Step 5 — Additional policy notes and attendance details. MEES reserves the right to decline applications and may do so without providing reasons. For 1–3 year olds, attendance options range from 2 to 5 days per week; from age 3, students typically start the new school year at 5 days a week to support peer relationships and progress. Elementary and afterschool options at Hakusan may also be explored during the same admission period; information on demo days and program availability is provided during outreach. Elementary Enrollment Process (Hakusan Campus): Step 1 — Schedule a visit. Prospective families are encouraged to schedule a school tour to experience the learning environment firsthand. For elementary admissions, an assessment meeting with your child is requested, and online meetings are available for families living abroad. Step 2 — Submit the application form. Complete and submit the elementary application form to begin the formal review. Step 3 — Application fee invoice and schedule demo day. An application fee invoice is issued and a demo day for the child is scheduled to assess fit with MEES' program. Step 4 — If demo day is successful, enrollment invoice will be issued. A successful demo day leads to an enrollment invoice detailing the next steps toward enrollment. Step 5 — Finalized upon payment. Enrollment is finalized after payment is received and processed. Step 6 — Admissions cautions. MEES reserves the right to decline applications and may do so without providing reasons. Afterschool programs (Hakusan campus) note. Afterschool program applications are handled via the APPLY link provided for MEES Hakusan and Sendagi campuses; there is an Enrollment Fee for afterschool programs, and options include a Preschool Immersion Program (14:00–18:00) with varying weekly frequencies. Other offerings include an English class and project-based afterschool activities with separate fee schedules; details are updated in the public materials. This information is relevant for families planning care beyond the standard school day. Fees context (related to admissions and enrollment at Hakusan Elementary): The Elementary program charges include: Application fee 20,000 JPY (one-time), Enrollment fee 180,000 JPY (one-time), Material Fee 40,000 JPY (annual), School Growth Fund 50,000 JPY (annual). Tuition for the 2025-2026 school year is divided by terms (1st term 551,250 JPY; 2nd term 413,438 JPY; 3rd term 551,250 JPY; Annual total 1,515,938 JPY) with an optional Bus Service (two-way) priced per term and annually (e.g., 80,000 JPY first term, 60,000 JPY second term, 80,000 JPY third term; annual 220,000 JPY). Lunch is included with tuition, and tuition and bus fees are subject to 10% consumption tax. Prices are subject to change without prior notice.
Scholarships	Scholarships MIS does not publish a traditional scholarship program. The school provides a fee reduction primarily through a sibling discount, with possible exemptions in some cases. Eligibility and exact discount amounts are determined by the school office. Fees (subject to change annually) include an Entrance Fee of ¥200,000, a Maintenance Fee of ¥400,000, Kindergarten tuition of ¥1,380,000, and Grades 1–6 tuition of ¥1,740,000 per year.	Scholarships MEES Hakusan does not publish a scholarship program in its public materials. The fee structure lists one-time and annual fees (application, enrollment, material, and school growth fund) and tuition terms, with no scholarship discounts or tuition waivers described. There is no explicit scholarship or financial aid option described in the published admissions or fees content; for current, verifiable options, please contact the admissions team.
Waitlist	Waitlist Yes. If no spaces are available at the time of application, MIS may invite the child to join a waiting list. The Head of School's final decision governs offers, and spaces vary by grade and intake. There is no publicly published, step‑by‑step waitlist timetable beyond this policy.	Waitlist There is no published waitlist or pool system described for MEES Hakusan in public admissions materials. The available process details a direct application review, with an enrollment invoice issued upon acceptance and a right for the school to decline applications without providing reasons. There is no explicit step for placing applicants on a waiting list. This conclusion is based on the admissions steps published for Preschool and Elementary programs and the absence of any waitlist description in those materials.
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