Saint Maur International School vs Tokyo International School

	S Saint Maur International School Tokyo, Japan	T Tokyo International School Tokyo, Japan
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year ¥2,857,000 - 3,626,000	Fees / year ¥3,000,000 - 3,300,000
Age range	Age range 2 - 18 years	Age range 5 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), IPC (International Primary Curriculum), Advanced Placement (AP), Cambridge IGCSE, Montessori Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)
Pupils	Pupils 470	Pupils 470
Typical class size	Typical class size 15	Typical class size 19
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1872	Opened 1994
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Saint Maur International School is located at 83 Yamate-cho, Naka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-8654, Japan. The campus sits in Yamate, a historic, residential district known for its international character and central location in Yokohama. The on-site facilities include Montessori spaces, a Fine Arts Center, a Science Center, and the Cougar Café/Activity Center on a historic yet modern campus.	Location The school is located at 2-13-6 Minami Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0047, in central Tokyo's embassy district. It is near Shirokane Takanawa Station (Namboku Line/Mita Line, Exit 4) and Azabu Juban Station (Namboku/Oedo Lines, Exit 1). The surrounding area includes landmarks such as Tokyo Tower and Shiba Park, with good access by public transport and on-foot routes.
Stages	Stages The school serves mixed-gender students from Montessori preschool through Grade 12, covering ages around 2½ years to high school. It offers elementary, middle, and high school divisions, with a unified kindergarten/early years program in the Montessori pathway.	Stages Tokyo International School currently serves students from Kindergarten through Grade 11, with Grade 12 planned to open in 2026-27. The school is organized into Lower School (Kindergarten to Grade 5) and Middle/Upper School (Grade 6 to 11). The IB continuum (PYP, MYP, and DP) is now available, with Grade 12 scheduled to begin in SY 2026-2027.
School type	School type Saint Maur operates as a co-educational day international school. It is presented as a Christian-oriented institution with a long-standing community focus; boarding facilities are not described as part of the school's offering, reinforcing its day-school model.	School type The school is co-educational and operates as an international IB World School. There is no on-site boarding; older students may access housing options through partner providers.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix Nationalities represented are reported as approximately 35. The school describes itself as a multi-cultural, multi-national community, but a detailed breakdown by country and the local-to-international ratio is not published.	Pupil nationality mix The student body comprises students from over 70 nationalities. No single nationality accounts for more than 20% of the population, and the largest represented nationalities are the United States and Japan. The school hosts a predominantly international student community with a small local proportion.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Saint Maur provides Learning Support through a dedicated Learning Support Coordinator and team, who develop individual educational plans or intervention plans in consultation with families and teachers. Programs include After School Academic Support and an Advisory Program; Elementary and Middle School offer English as an Additional Language (EAL) support, with a focus on integrating learners into the curriculum. However, due to the school's relatively small size, the range of services is limited and some accommodations may be bounded by institutional capacity.	Additional learning support TIS provides learning support and English as an Additional Language (EAL) support, along with counseling services. A dedicated learning support teacher and an EAL teacher are part of the provision to assist students with diverse learning needs.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation No formal country affiliation is stated; the school is an international institution based in Yokohama, Japan.	Country affiliation The school has no formal country affiliation and operates as a non-profit IB World School.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Saint Maur has a Christian orientation and Catholic roots. It is described as a Catholic-founded school with moral values guiding the community, and it traces its origins to the Sisters of the Holy Infant Jesus.	Religious affiliation Religious affiliation is not listed; the school presents itself as an international IB World School without a specified religious affiliation.
School day structure	School day structure A typical day begins around 8:00 a.m. For older students, dismissal commonly occurs around 3:20 p.m.; Montessori students may be dismissed earlier, around 2:15 p.m. Early releases on Wednesdays are noted in calendars; a Prime Time program provides on-site supervision from 7:30–8:15 a.m. and 3:15–6:00 p.m. on specified days. Lunch is served by an outsourced cafeteria service.	School day structure On campus from 8:00, classes begin at 8:10 and end at 15:20. Optional after-school activities run from 15:30 to 17:30, and a Beyond the Bell aftercare option extends supervision to 18:30 with additional bus options.
Bus service details	Bus service details Saint Maur does not operate a dedicated school bus service; students generally use local transportation or cycle to campus.	Bus service details The school offers a bus service; there are seven school buses and after-school buses in operation. Beyond the standard after-care, there are scheduled bus departures at 4:30, 5:30, and 6:30 pm for eligible students.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and one‑time enrollment fees - Application fee: JPY 35,000, payable at the time of application. - Registration fee (newly accepted students): JPY 950,000; non‑refundable and payable within the timeframe required after acceptance. - Reservation fee (re‑enrolling or securing a place): JPY 300,000 (may be credited toward tuition when re‑enrolment is completed). Annual tuition fees (by program / year group) — stated annual amounts and how they are applied - Montessori (half‑day): JPY 1,663,000 per year. - Montessori (full‑day): JPY 2,557,000 per year. - Pre‑1st Grade: JPY 2,752,000 per year. - Elementary (Grades 1–5): JPY 3,072,000 per year. - Middle School (Grades 6–8): JPY 3,142,000 per year. - High School Grade 9: JPY 3,142,000 per year. - High School Grades 10–11: JPY 3,153,000 per year. - High School Grade 12: JPY 3,326,000 per year. Per‑term / instalment detail - Tuition is payable in two instalments. The standard instalment schedule is: first instalment due by the end of May and second instalment due by the end of November. Each instalment is equal to one half of the annual tuition unless otherwise stated. - Late or mid‑term enrolment may be charged pro‑rated tuition based on academic quarters; any portion of a quarter attended is billed as the full quarter amount. Recurring annual additional fees - Annual Campus Development and Maintenance Fund (per child): JPY 300,000 (listed separately from tuition). - Annual PSG (Parent Support Group) dues: JPY 2,000 per family (annual). - Student Council fees (for Grades 6 and above): Middle School JPY 1,000; High School JPY 2,000 (annual). - Textbooks, external examination fees (for IB/IGCSE/PSAT) and school medical examinations are covered by the tuition charge; other optional items or activities may incur separate charges. Other programs and their fees - Prime Time (before / after school supervision for younger children): spot reservation JPY 1,500 per hour per child; multi‑day plan options and fixed half‑year/monthly plans are available with published rates (examples: Plan A up to 3 days/week JPY 100,000 per half‑year; Plan C up to 5 days/week JPY 160,000 per half‑year). Prime Time fees are billed as described in the Prime Time programme terms. - Summer school and holiday programmes: published per‑course tuition applies; cancellation and refund deadlines apply to these programmes (example refund schedule listed for summer school cancellations). - Uniforms, team kit, certain extracurricular activities and personal music lessons are additional costs and are billed or purchased separately; the school requires uniforms but specific uniform pricing is handled at point of purchase. Boarding fees - Not applicable. Saint Maur operates as a day school and does not provide boarding accommodation. Families should plan for daily commuting rather than on‑campus residence. Refunds and withdrawal - No refunds are issued for withdrawals that occur during the half‑year payment periods (the half‑years run August–December and January–June); mid‑term withdrawals therefore do not result in a refund for the half‑year already billed. Summer school and short courses have their own cancellation/refund deadlines. Billing schedule and payment terms (summary) - Instalment schedule: first instalment due by end of May; second instalment due by end of November. Each instalment equals half the annual tuition unless another schedule is agreed. The Registration Fee and other one‑time fees carry the payment deadlines described above and are non‑refundable when so stated. Late enrolment may be billed pro‑rata by quarter. Accepted currencies and methods of payment - All school payments are accepted in Japanese Yen (JPY) only. All bank charges for international transfers are borne by the remitter. - Bank transfer options: Bank of Yokohama (Honmoku branch) and Japan Post (Yucho) accounts are provided for JPY transfers. SWIFT details are supplied for international wire transfers. - Credit card payments: an online payment process via the school's inquiry/admissions channel is available for card payments; the admissions office will process credit‑card payments via that route. In‑person payment at the main office is also accepted for certain fees. Discounts, corporate contribution plan and sibling arrangements - A corporate contribution plan is offered for companies sending employees' children to the school; details and enrolment are managed through the school's admissions/finance office. Sibling discounts, if any, are not listed as a standard published item and should be discussed with admissions/finance. Notes for budgeting - A family enrolling a child for the first year should budget for the one‑time non‑refundable Registration Fee and the Application Fee in addition to the annual tuition and the Campus Development and Maintenance Fund. Example first‑year totals combine the listed one‑time fees with the annual tuition and development fund shown above. Annual recurring charges (PSG dues, Student Council fees where applicable) should also be included in ongoing budgets. (Information compiled from the school's published tuition/fees notes and recent fee summaries for the current academic year.)	Fee details One-time application / enrolment fees (new students; non‑refundable) - JPY 30,000 — Application Fee. - JPY 300,000 — Registration Fee. - JPY 900,000 — Development Fee. - One‑time fees total for new students: JPY 1,230,000. Tuition and building fees (annual payment by year group) - Kindergarten – Grade 2: Building Fee JPY 150,000; Tuition JPY 2,850,000; Annual total JPY 3,000,000. - Grade 3 – Grade 5: Building Fee JPY 150,000; Tuition JPY 2,900,000; Annual total JPY 3,050,000. - Grade 6 – Grade 9: Building Fee JPY 150,000; Tuition JPY 3,050,000; Annual total JPY 3,200,000. - Grade 10 – Grade 11: Building Fee JPY 150,000; Tuition JPY 3,150,000; Annual total JPY 3,300,000. Tuition (term payment option) — amounts and per‑term billing by year group - General schedule for term payments: Term 1 payment due by Apr 30; Term 2 payment due by Oct 31; Term 3 payment due by Jan 31 (specific dates and annual term calendar shown below). - Kindergarten – Grade 2 (Building Fee JPY 150,000): - Term 1 payment (due by Apr 30): JPY 1,130,000. - Term 2 payment (due by Oct 31): JPY 860,000. - Term 3 payment (due by Jan 31): JPY 860,000. - Grade 3 – Grade 5 (Building Fee JPY 150,000): - Term 1 (due by Apr 30): JPY 1,160,000. - Term 2 (due by Oct 31): JPY 870,000. - Term 3 (due by Jan 31): JPY 870,000. - Grade 6 – Grade 9 (Building Fee JPY 150,000): - Term 1 (due by Apr 30): JPY 1,210,000. - Term 2 (due by Oct 31): JPY 920,000. - Term 3 (due by Jan 31): JPY 920,000. - Grade 10 – Grade 11 (Building Fee JPY 150,000): - Term 1 (due by Apr 30): JPY 1,250,000. - Term 2 (due by Oct 31): JPY 950,000. - Term 3 (due by Jan 31): JPY 950,000. Billing schedule and payment terms (dates and deadlines) - Academic term calendar for the 2025–26 year: Term 1: Aug 26 – Dec 19, 2025; Term 2: Jan 12 – Mar 26, 2026; Term 3: Apr 6 – Jun 19, 2026. - For returning students, annual school fees must be paid in full by Apr 30, 2025. - For newly enrolling students, school fees are due in full according to the dates stated in the acceptance letter. - Term installment payment and formal withdrawal notice deadlines are tied to the term payment dates and must be completed by Apr 30, 2025 (Term 1 payment), Oct 31, 2025 (Term 2 payment) and Jan 31, 2026 (Term 3 payment). Optional / additional fees and regular extras - Bus service (optional): One‑way route JPY 200,000; Round‑trip JPY 340,000. - Extended childcare (Beyond the Bell) — K to G5 unlimited plan (tax included): Term 1 JPY 172,000; Term 2 JPY 118,250; Term 3 JPY 118,250. On‑demand billing is JPY 1,800 per hour (rounded to nearest 15 minutes). The Beyond the Bell program is operated by an affiliated company (TIS‑AS). - Some school activities, uniforms, school lunches, IT devices for Grade 6 and above, certain social events, private instrumental lessons, and some residential trip costs (for example transportation) are not included in the listed school fees and are charged separately. Families of students in Grade 6–11 are required to provide a laptop that meets TIS IT specifications. Boarding / student housing - Tokyo International School does not operate an on‑campus boarding program. A student housing option (facilitated through an independent housing provider) is offered for eligible international students aged 16+; fees for that housing are set by the independent provider and are not listed in the school fee schedule. Refunds and non‑refundability - The one‑time new student fees (Application Fee, Registration Fee and Development Fee) are explicitly non‑refundable. - The School Fees page specifies deadlines for payment and withdrawal notice but does not provide a detailed tuition refund schedule on the public fee page. Where refund or withdrawal consequences are material (for example term‑by‑term tuition liability after a withdrawal), such terms are administered by the Business Office and are not fully itemized on the published fee summary. Fee payment options and contact for payment administration - The public School Fees summary does not list specific payment methods (for example, which cards or bank accounts will be accepted). Fee administration, payment instructions and corporate payment arrangements (Corporate Contribution Program / CCP) are handled by the Business Office; the Business Office contact is do@tokyois.com. Notes on what is not included in this overview - Exact costs for uniforms, lunches, specific extracurricular activities, required IT equipment models and the independent student housing fees are not listed in the public fee summary. The School Fees document and related guides referenced on the school information pages provide line items for many items but do not publish every ancillary price in the public summary. Summary of sources used: fee schedule, term dates, one‑time non‑refundable fees, term payment amounts, optional service fees and notes about excluded items are drawn from the school's 2025–26 School Fees information and the Student Housing description.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements Tokyo International School provides a student housing option via an independent provider (TIS x Itochu Student Housing) for international students aged 16+ in Grades 10–12. The school does not operate the housing facilities directly and refers families to Itochu Student Housing, which offers semi-independent living with safety and wellbeing standards. The housing includes fully furnished rooms, a dedicated school bus to the campus, and daily breakfast and dinner, with weekends and national holidays self-catered. Dormitory rooms are limited and availability is not guaranteed.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Saint Maur requires a school uniform. The uniform system includes a summer uniform, a regular (winter/formal) uniform, and a PE uniform. Uniform items are purchased via Top of the Class, the school's uniform vendor.	Uniform requirement Lower school students wear uniforms, available for purchase through the Top of the Class online shop. Upper school students do not wear uniforms but follow a smart casual dress code.
Food options	Food options The cafeteria is outsourced to Cesar's Kitchen, providing breakfast, lunch, and snacks throughout the day. The program is mindful of allergies and religious/national dietary needs, and parents can view meals and manage cafeteria accounts via Cesar's website.	Food options Boarding meals are provided: daily breakfast and dinner. Weekends and national holidays are self-catered.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Saint Maur International School is governed by two boards: the Board of Directors, which handles fiduciary and strategic oversight, and the Board of Trustees, which provides advisory input. The school was established by the Infant Jesus Sisters and reflects its Catholic foundation.	Governance and ownership Tokyo International School is a non-profit school; all funding is reinvested into the school. There is no published information indicating it is part of a larger group of schools.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Saint Maur International School offers Montessori Kindergarten (2½ years and up) through High School (Grade 12), organized as Montessori, Elementary, Middle School, and High School. In Elementary School, the IPC (International Primary Curriculum) forms the base for History, Science, Social Studies and Geography, with a program that also includes Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Japanese, EAL, Religious Studies, PSHE, Technology, Art, Music, Physical Education, Maker Space and Library Skills. In Middle School (Grades 6–8), students study English, Natural Science, Mathematics, Social Studies (Geography in Grades 6–7 and World History in Grade 8), Technology, Fine Arts, and World Language (Japanese plus French or Spanish); Grade 8 offers electives such as IGCSE Computer Science, IGCSE Visual Arts, IGCSE Drama and IGCSE Music, with a second-language option (Japanese, IGCSE French B or IGCSE Spanish B). In High School (Grades 9–12), students follow the IGCSE pathway in Grades 9–10 and enter the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in Grade 11, with six IB subjects chosen from about 22 offerings; there is one non-IB option (International Relations) and external exams include IB, IGCSE, PSAT and SAT. Languages are taught from early middle school through Grade 12 in French and Spanish, with preparation for IGCSE and IB, including IGCSE French B and IGCSE Spanish B as available options.	Curriculum details Tokyo International School offers the International Baccalaureate continuum, including the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for Kindergarten to Grade 5, the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for Grades 6–10, and the Diploma Programme (DP) for ages 16–18; Grade 12 is planned to open in SY 2026–2027, and the school currently serves students up to Grade 11. The Primary Years Programme features two classes per grade from Kindergarten to Grade 5, with Mathematics, English literacy, Science, Social Studies and Personal & Social Education as core areas, plus specialist instruction in Art, Library, Music, Physical Education and Japanese, and integrated technology and allied supports (EAL, speech therapy, counseling). The Middle Years Programme for Grades 6–10 covers Mathematics, English, Science, Individuals & Societies, Art, Music, Drama, Physical & Health Education, Japanese and Design, and includes a Service as Action component and an Advisory program, with strong technology integration and a full range of student supports. The Diploma Programme is offered to students aged 16–18 as part of the IB continuum, with Grade 11 in operation and Grade 12 scheduled to open in 2026–2027. Across the IB framework, learning is described as student-centered and inquiry-based, with university counseling and a broad co-curricular program to support holistic development.
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 Saint Maur supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through its pastoral team, which provides learning and emotional support to students. In Elementary School, the homeroom program fosters a positive classroom environment and helps students develop interpersonal skills, teamwork, and problem-solving. A Secondary Advisory Program assigns an advisory teacher to support student progress in assessments and overall wellbeing. An on-site bilingual counselor (English and Japanese) is available to assist students with personal and emotional concerns in a confidential setting. Referrals can be made by teachers, parents, or students, and, when appropriate, referrals to external counseling can be arranged.	Social & emotional learning The Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) support at Tokyo International School (TIS) is anchored in the Student Support framework built on Trust, Inspire, and Support, aiming to empower students academically, socially, and emotionally. The school uses an inclusive learning framework with tailored support for all students. Academic support is provided by the Learning Support team through in-class support, small-group instruction, and one-on-one sessions, with accommodations such as extended time or assistive technology to promote equitable learning opportunities. The English as an Additional Language (EAL) program offers specialized instruction and support to help students gain confidence and proficiency in English, enabling full curriculum access, including in-class support, small-group instruction, and differentiated resources and activities. A counseling team works with students, families, and teachers to foster social-emotional health, helping students develop self-awareness, manage emotions, build healthy relationships, and make responsible decisions. The school aims to create an environment where every student feels a sense of belonging and is empowered to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Saint Maur has a Learning Support team that provides individualized support through an IEP or intervention plan created in consultation with the Learning Support Committee, teachers, and parents. The student body includes a small percentage of students with special learning needs. Availability of special needs services is limited due to the school's size. The Learning Support Coordinator plans the support with the committee, teachers, and parents, with frequent review meetings to track progress. The admissions criteria note that the level of learning support is limited and that the school may not be able to accommodate students with substantial needs, with probationary/conditional admission used in some cases.	Special educational needs (SEN) Tokyo International School uses an inclusive Learning Support framework with a dedicated Learning Support Team that provides tailored academic support for students with identified learning needs. This includes in-class support, small-group instruction, and one-on-one sessions, with accommodations such as extended time or assistive technology to promote equitable learning opportunities. Admission for students with identified learning needs depends on the makeup of the current cohort and available resources, and the school welcomes such students only when it can provide the necessary support. The school is not described as a specialist SEN institution; support for identified needs is delivered by the Learning Support Team working with regular teachers, rather than a separate specialist program. The Admissions FAQ notes that the school does not publish a detailed list of specific SEN categories it can support and that admission decisions are contingent on cohort makeup and resources.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language English as an Additional Language (EAL) support exists in the Elementary International section, providing push-in and/or pull-out support for beginning language learners. The lessons are tailored to students' language needs and focus on listening, speaking, reading and writing to access the curriculum and cope with language demands. Specialists from the Student Support team, including Learning Support teachers, work with students, parents, and teachers to provide support for students who may require additional assistance or minor learning differences.	English as an additional language The English as an Additional Language (EAL) program supports students from diverse linguistic backgrounds to gain confidence and proficiency in English, enabling full access to the curriculum. EAL provision includes in-class support, small-group instruction, and differentiated classroom resources and activities. New English language learners receive support in regular classes and additional English lessons while other students study Japanese. Admissions of new English language learners depend on the language makeup of the current cohort. As an international school serving expatriate families, the school frequently provides EAL support to help students integrate and succeed.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Saint Maur offers mental wellbeing support through its Learning & Emotional Support program. The school has an on-site bilingual (English and Japanese) counselor who is available to assist students and provide a confidential, supportive environment. Referrals can be made by teachers, parents, or students, and sessions can be arranged as individual, group, or family appointments depending on need. The pastoral team and leadership emphasize student wellbeing and privacy, and referrals to external counseling agencies can be made when appropriate.	Mental wellbeing A counseling team at Tokyo International School collaborates with students, families, and teachers to foster social-emotional health. Counselors support students in developing self-awareness, managing emotions, building healthy relationships, and making responsible decisions. The school emphasizes holistic wellbeing as part of its learning approach, aiming to help students navigate school and life with resilience. The overall wellbeing framework is designed to ensure students feel supported as they engage in academically meaningful learning. Through ongoing collaboration among students, families, and staff, mental wellbeing is integrated into daily school life.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Saint Maur maintains Safeguarding and Child Protection policies to promote wellbeing and protect students from harm, including procedures for reporting concerns. Safe recruitment is conducted for all staff, with reference checks and eligibility to work with children assessed according to country requirements. A Safeguarding Team oversees policies and on-campus safety, with guidelines for visitors and a Child Protection Handbook. All adults on campus, including contractors and regular volunteers, must complete child protection training and sign the school's Code of Conduct. Contact details for safeguarding resources and reporting concerns are published by the school.	Safeguarding Safeguarding at Tokyo International School is described as an unwavering commitment to student welfare. Safeguarding is a proactive, comprehensive approach that aims to prevent harm and protect students from abuse, neglect, exploitation, or any situation that could compromise safety. The safeguarding team includes a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and other safeguarding professionals who serve as primary contacts for concerns and oversee policy implementation. All staff undergo rigorous safeguarding training, and recruitment includes thorough criminal background and reference checks to maintain a safe community. The DSL and safeguarding team provide guidance, ensure clear communication pathways, and uphold the school's safeguarding policies and procedures.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The Saint Maur campus comprises five main buildings in Yokohama's Yamate district, including an award-winning Fine Arts Center, a state-of-the-art Science Center, academic buildings, and the Cougar Café, Activity & Sports Center. The campus includes a library, a cafeteria, robotic and computer labs, recreation halls, and several outdoor play areas. The Cougar Café, Activity & Sports Center opened in 2021 and provides a cafeteria, a competitive indoor sports area with a spectator area, and two additional activity rooms. The Montessori Building houses Pre-School, Early Years & Recreation Centre, with a Maker Space and a rooftop for outdoor play. Outdoor facilities include Peverley Place, a three-minute walk away, plus additional outdoor recreation spaces and roof spaces. The Science Center features four labs (about 450 m²) and solar panels on the roof.	Facilities overview Tokyo International School will relocate to TAKANAWA GATEWAY CITY in August 2026. The new campus is designed as a 21st-century learning environment with contemporary classrooms, dedicated science labs, and spaces for design and technology, art, and language work. Architectural highlights include a library as the central learning hub, Visual Arts studios with a kiln room, a music room, and a black box theatre for performances. On-site facilities also include a large gymnasium, an outdoor play area, and safe common spaces to support wellbeing and collaboration. The campus will be integrated with TAKANAWA GATEWAY CITY, emphasizing sustainability and strong transit connectivity.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The Cougar Café, Activity & Sports Center provides a gymnasium and indoor sports area with spectator seating. The facility spans over 800 m² and includes digital scoreboards and a high-quality sound system. Peverley Place is the main outdoor sports area, located a three-minute walk from the main campus. Outdoor spaces include a large recreation facility and two large outdoor roof spaces for activities.	Sports facilities The campus features a large gymnasium and an outdoor play area to support a wide range of sports and physical education.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The Science Center, completed in 2011, hosts science classes and robotics with four labs totaling 450 m² and moveable benches. Solar panels on the roof support sustainable energy use. The campus library provides a substantial collection for study and research. The Montessori Building houses Pre-School and Early Years classrooms, three Elementary classrooms, a Maker Space, and rooftop outdoor play.	Academic facilities Modern classrooms; Science labs for Biology, Chemistry, and Physics; a Design Studio; a Library; Visual Arts studios with kiln room; a Music room with acoustically designed spaces; and a Japanese Language Room.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities The Fine Arts Center houses Music, Drama and Visual Arts and includes an acoustically designed auditorium for performances and a chapel for religious ceremonies. The Montessori Building includes a Maker Space for hands-on projects. The campus supports clubs and performances with on-site rehearsal rooms and spaces for arts and robotics activities. Outdoor spaces and the Sports Grounds support PE, clubs and events throughout the year.	Extra curricular facilities Over 50 diverse activities are available for students to explore interests and develop skills.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Saint Maur International School was founded in 1872 by the Infant Jesus Sisters from the Saint Maur Rue in Paris. It has remained on its hilltop Yokohama campus since its founding, overlooking the port. The school has endured natural disasters and war, rebuilding and adapting through the eras to educate the international community. In 1947, Sister Carmel O'Keeffe was sent to Japan to reopen the school and would serve as principal from 1967 to 1991, guiding its postwar development. In the 21st century, Saint Maur expanded its facilities and programs to support a growing, diverse student body.	History Tokyo International School began in 1994 as Tokyo International School Pre School with five students, serving mobile expatriate families in Tokyo. It was the first international school in Tokyo to offer a one-to-one laptop program and later earned accreditation from the Council of International Schools in 2004. IB authorization followed with the Primary Years Programme in 2005 and the Middle Years Programme in 2007. In 2013 the school moved to a purpose-built Minami Azabu campus, and in 2017 it gained non-profit status as a Gakko-Hojin with Ikuko Tsuboya Newell serving as Chair of the School Board. The school began offering Grade 10 in 2024 to complete the IB MYP, started Grade 11 in 2025, and plans to move to a new campus in August 2026 at Takanawa Gateway City.
Community	Community Saint Maur emphasizes a strong, family-like community that fosters cross-cultural interactions. The campus hosts a range of activities and clubs that involve students, families and staff. The school's community groups include the Parent Support Group (PSG), the Saint Maur Charity Committee, and an active Alumni Network, all of which contribute to events and service projects throughout the year.	Community The school describes itself as a vibrant international community of around seventy nationalities, with every member valued and having a voice. The TIS community is organized in part through the TIS Family Community (TFC), the parents' association of which all parents are automatically members. TFC volunteers coordinate support for families entering Japan, organize social events for the community, run fundraising for extras and support TIS-affiliated charities such as Playground of Hope. Social life and community engagement are coordinated via the TFC Facebook Group, with events including cocktail evenings, sake tastings, shopping trips, running clubs and taiko drumming.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association Saint Maur's Parent Support Group (PSG) functions as the school's parent-teacher association, run by volunteers and automatically includes all parents of Saint Maur students. The PSG organizes activities and events for parents, students and staff, including Welcome Meetings, monthly Coffee Mornings with guest speakers, the Welcome Picnic, and social events, bake sales at Fine Arts performances, and the annual Christmas Bazaar. It supports school life through volunteer participation and fundraising to enhance student activities and events. The Saint Maur Charity Committee coordinates charity projects that involve the entire school community in service and fundraising. Alumni relations are coordinated through the Alumni Group, which helps connect current students with Saint Maur graduates for events and mentoring. Through these volunteer-led efforts, the PSG and related groups help sustain a collaborative atmosphere across the school.	Parent teacher association The Parent Teacher Association at Tokyo International School operates as the TIS Family Community (TFC), and all TIS parents are automatically members. Active members support families entering Japan, organize social events for the community, run fundraising for extras, and back TIS-affiliated charities and projects such as Playground of Hope. TFC-led projects include the Cherry Blossom Fair, a fundraising committee, and coordinating parent education workshops. Regular volunteering roles include class homeroom parents, library helpers, and field trip coordinators. Social activities organized by TFC include cocktail evenings, sake tastings, shopping trips, running clubs and taiko drumming, coordinated through the TFC Facebook Group. New parents are welcome and encouraged to get involved, with a core volunteer group aiming to create a warm, inclusive community.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Saint Maur offers a range of academic enrichment beyond the classroom. Elementary clubs include athletic activities, dance, Lego, crafts, arts, cooking, woodworking, robotics, and martial arts. In secondary, students participate in competitive, academically oriented activities and in Model United Nations (MUN) through the KPASS network, with teams attending multiple conferences in Tokyo. After-school sessions for elementary clubs run on Monday, Tuesday (sports emphasis), Thursday and Friday afternoons from 3:30 to 4:30 pm.	Academic & intellectual Tokyo International School participates in KPASS Academic Competitions, providing high-paced challenges beyond the classroom. Key competitions include the Model UN Club (MUN), Math Field Day, and Brain Bowl. These events develop quick thinking, teamwork, and subject-specific skills, and TIS hosts the Middle School Brain Bowl for participants across the KPASS network. The KPASS framework connects students with peers from other international schools in the Tokyo area, enhancing global awareness.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Saint Maur's arts program spans music, drama, and visual arts. The Music Department provides opportunities to learn, perform, and study music across grade levels, including instrumental study and IGCSE/IB Music options in high school. The school collaborates with external institutions, including Tokyo College of Music, to enrich ensembles and performances. The campus hosts drama and visual arts activities supported by dedicated faculty and showcases through performances and exhibitions.	Arts & creative Co-curricular Fine Arts opportunities are provided through KPASS, including the Drama Festival, Choral Festival, and Artscape (a visual arts showcase). Students can also participate in clubs such as Video Making, Manga Drawing, Guitar, and Choir, which run as part of the co-curricular program. These activities broaden creative expression, performance, and cross-cultural collaboration within the KPASS network.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Saint Maur is multinational and multifaith, uniting students from over 40 nationalities in a global community. Language clubs and cultural societies form part of student life, complemented by the school's emphasis on global citizenship through its Saint Maur Essential Outcomes. The school participates in Model United Nations conferences and other international exchanges to develop cross-cultural understanding and global awareness.	Cultural & language The Experiential Education program offers international experiences that extend cultural learning beyond the classroom. The Overseas Learning Trip in Grade 10 is a capstone service-learning trip that engages students directly with local communities, such as destinations like Thailand. In addition, the school runs residential journeys across Japan (Grades 3-10) and an annual Ski Trip to the Japanese Alps (Grades 6-9) to broaden horizons and resilience. The school also hosts Model UN as part of KPASS, fostering diplomacy and cross-cultural communication, and the student body represents around seventy nationalities.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Saint Maur offers a broad range of social and hobby clubs. Elementary and middle/high school students participate in sports and non-sport clubs, including Ping Pong Club, Tennis Club, and Running Club, with activities scheduled after school. Elementary clubs cover athletic activities, dance, Lego, crafts, arts, cooking, woodworking, robotics, and martial arts, offered on Monday, Tuesday (sports emphasis), Thursday and Friday afternoons from 3:30 to 4:30 pm. The campus hosts outside clubs and associations year-round, expanding opportunities for students to pursue their interests.	Social & hobbies A broad range of recreational activities supports social and hobby development, including STEAM Club, Multisports, Video Making, Manga Drawing, Guitar, Speech, Rock Climbing, Choir, Introduction to Programming, and Kids-4-Kids (a community service-based club for younger students). Activities rotate seasonally so offerings change throughout the year. Space permitting, students may join multiple activities each term.
Community & service	Community & service Saint Maur runs a Charity Committee that engages students, teachers, and families in fundraising and outreach projects. The school community also organizes service-oriented activities through the Saint Maur Charity Committee and related initiatives. The Parent Support Group (PSG) coordinates events and volunteer activities for the school community, enhancing engagement among families and staff.	Community & service Community service and service-learning are integral to TIS beyond the classroom. The Kids-4-Kids service club provides a platform for students to plan and run fundraising activities for charities. The Experiential Education program includes a Thailand service-learning trip as part of Grade 10, offering direct engagement with local communities. The admissions FAQ notes that the school offers learning opportunities with an emphasis on service learning and residential trips.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Saint Maur promotes leadership and professional development through its Saint Maur Essential Outcomes, which emphasize global citizenship, moral citizenship, and lifelong learning. Participation in Model United Nations helps students develop research, collaboration, public speaking, and diplomatic skills. The school has hosted and sent students to multiple MUN conferences, including TJMUN and other KPASS events, contributing to leadership growth and international engagement.	Leadership & professional Leadership development is a core component of TIS through its KPASS membership. KPASS provides a powerful platform for students to grow as leaders and reflective team members. Participation in athletics and academic competitions further develops leadership, collaboration, and strategic thinking. These opportunities are grounded in the KPASS framework and in the school's program for co-curricular activities.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sports and fitness are integrated into school life with seasonal teams and clubs in cross country, volleyball, basketball, and soccer, among others. The campus also supports wellness and emotional well-being through on-site counseling and guidance services. Additionally, adult enrichment options on campus include Wellness-related activities such as Yoga, which complements the school's emphasis on balanced, healthy living for the broader Saint Maur community.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The co-curricular program emphasizes health and movement beyond the classroom, with a strong focus on Physical Health Education and movement through the Lower School PSPE curriculum. Upper- and lower-school activities include Outdoor Education and Adventure such as hiking, snowshoe walking, and camping, promoting resilience and environmental awareness. Facilities include an indoor gymnasium, an outdoor track and a rock climbing wall to support physical activity. Clubs such as Chess and Video Making complement wellbeing through cognitive challenge and social engagement.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English, French, Spanish, and Japanese are taught at Saint Maur. English is the primary language of instruction in most programs, with IGCSE and IB English offerings, and language support for non-native speakers including the Linguist of the Year award. French is taught through the French & Spanish Department and the École Française, including CNED‑based options for distance French study, with daily French sessions for early learners. Spanish is offered within the French & Spanish Department, and Japanese is taught from Grade 1 through Grade 12 with three courses (A, B, and H) aligned to IB and AP.	Language provision English is the language of instruction. From Kindergarten through Grade 10, students study Japanese as part of the curriculum. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is provided for students from diverse linguistic backgrounds, including in-class support and small-group instruction. Parent-led home-language programs (Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Swedish) use school facilities.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching Saint Maur offers a bilingual program through the École Française on campus. In the youngest year groups, Kindergarten is English‑medium, and daily French language sessions are offered for pupils who join École Française in the final year of kindergarten. From Kindergarten through CM2, the French program is delivered in a bilingual format, with English-language instruction integrated in the Elementary International Section. Approximately 20% of school time is dedicated to English instruction, including music and physical education.	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs École Française emphasizes cultural immersion through a team of four native speakers (France, Canada, Spain, and Colombia) who integrate language learning with cultural experiences. The school follows a French curriculum and provides CNED‑based French study options after the regular day; CNED sessions include Saturday morning French language offerings for early years, with CNED enrollment available at multiple levels. In Elementary, selected lessons and activities are conducted in English as part of the International Section, and about 20% of school time is in English.	Immersion programs There is no formal language immersion program described. The school operates an English-medium IB program, with Japanese taught as part of the regular curriculum from Kindergarten through Grade 10. The school offers cultural immersion experiences through Tokyo As Our Classroom that connect students with local culture and environments. Dutch, Finnish, French, German and Swedish home-language programs use school facilities but are run by parent communities rather than as official immersion programs.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations CIS (Council of International Schools) and NEASC (New England Association of Schools and Colleges) accreditation.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Step 1. Inquiry: Begin by submitting an online pre-application Inquiry Form to determine eligibility for Saint Maur International School. The submission assigns the correct staff to the file and allows clarifying questions to be asked. After an inquiry is submitted, a family may visit the school if they are eligible for admission. Important eligibility notes: Saint Maur is a day-school that considers applicants who reside in Japan with one or both parents; a non-Japanese student must have a proper residential visa; at least one parent must speak and read English fluently to engage in the partnership with the school; the campus is not barrier-free. Step 2. Application: If the family is eligible to apply, they receive an admissions link. The application requires copies of passport(s) and two years of academic records in English (with exceptions for the French school), and contact details for two Confidential Teacher's Recommendations. For preschool, some documentation may be limited. An application fee is collected, paid by credit card, and the fee is ¥25,000 per student. Payment can proceed via online credit card, bank transfer, or other payment methods listed by the admissions portal. Step 3. Evaluations (Grades 4–11): All incoming students from Grade 4 through 11 are evaluated prior to acceptance. Evaluations cover English language skills and Mathematics and may be conducted remotely for applicants outside Japan or unable to travel. Step 4. Evaluations (Grades 1–3): All incoming students from Grade 1 through 3 are also evaluated prior to acceptance. For students not in Japan or unable to travel, a tentative acceptance may be issued with the actual evaluation taking place on arrival before starting classes. Step 5. Acceptance: A full acceptance or probationary/conditional acceptance may be issued to allow enrollment. For students living in Japan, the family has five business days to decide and enroll; an enrollment Registration fee is collected. For students outside Japan, the family is given ten business days to decide. Step 6. Waiting Pool: If an opening is not available, the student will be placed in the Waiting Pool. Waiting Pool Guidelines exist, and the waiting pool is not sequentially structured; Saint Maur will prioritize accepting the best overall match for the school.	Admissions 1. Submit Online Application. Begin by submitting an online application through the school's admissions portal. The application is accompanied by a non-refundable processing fee, which is valid for one academic year. The school places students into grades based on age, with an August 31 birthday cut-off guiding grade placement. Tokyo International School offers IB programs (PYP, MYP, DP) and considers multiple factors in admissions during the review stage. 2. Submit Supporting Documents. After starting the online application, follow the documents checklist provided in the system and upload the required materials. The checklist guides what needs to be submitted; requirements may vary by age/grade and specific circumstances. Completing all items in the system is essential before the admissions team proceeds. 3. Admissions Team Review. Fully completed applications are reviewed by the Leadership Team and relevant teachers. The review considers factors such as cultural and language diversity, learning diversity, and the resources available to support the student. The process also weighs space availability and class size when determining suitability. 4. Admissions Decision. The school states that English language proficiency is a factor for admissions, but not a requirement, and that admissions are pursued only when there is sufficient support to ensure success. A seat must be identified before assessments are conducted, which may be deemed necessary at the discretion of the admissions team. There is a non-refundable processing fee for each application, and the fee remains valid for one academic year.
Scholarships	Scholarships Saint Maur International School does not publish a scholarships program on its site. The Tuition Fees page outlines non-refundable fees (including Application Fee and Registration Fee) and various School Fees (such as Tuition Fee, Campus Development and Maintenance Fund, PSG Dues, and Student Council Fees) as well as policies on payments and late enrollment. There is a Corporate Contribution Plan for companies wishing to sponsor employee children, but no formal need- or merit-based scholarship program is described.	Scholarships Scholarships. The school describes the Corporate Contribution Program (CCP) as a mechanism for corporate funding of scholarships for the dependent children of employees. The CCP is part of Tokyo International School's fundraising framework and is designed to be tax-efficient for participating companies, with scholarships funded by corporate contributions. Details about eligibility, funding, and administration are provided through the CCP, including contact instructions for inquiries (do@tokyois.com).
Waitlist	Waitlist Yes. Saint Maur uses a Waiting Pool for cases where no immediate opening exists. The Waiting Pool is not sequentially structured, and the school will typically select the best overall match for the program when an opening becomes available. Waiting Pool Guidelines are published by the school.	Waitlist Waitlist/Pool. A formal waitlist or pool system is not described in the admissions materials. Admissions decisions hinge on space availability and current class sizes, with a maximum of 22 students per class in both lower (Kindergarten–G5) and upper (G6–G11) grades. Assessments are only performed when a seat has been identified, and space constraints drive the timing of any admissions decision.
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