Saint Maur International School vs Yokohama International School

	S Saint Maur International School Tokyo, Japan	Y Yokohama International School Tokyo, Japan
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year ¥2,857,000 - 3,626,000	Fees / year ¥2,120,000 - 3,440,000
Age range	Age range 2 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 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), Reggio Emilia Approach
Pupils	Pupils 470	Pupils 830
Typical class size	Typical class size 15	Typical class size 19
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1872	Opened 1924
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 Yokohama International School campus is in the Honmoku area of Yokohama, located in Naka-ku in a mixed commercial and residential neighborhood. It sits beside the Honmoku Front shopping complex and is well integrated with local shops, parks, and transit routes; there are multiple bus routes serving the area and nearby train access to Tokyo. The campus address is 2-100-1 Kominato-cho, Naka-ku, Yokohama 231-0802, Japan.
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 YIS operates an Early Learning Center for ages 3–5, Elementary School from Kindergarten through Grade 5, Middle School in Grades 6–8, and High School in Grades 9–12. The school follows an IB continuum: Primary Years Program (ELC–Grade 5), Middle Years Program (Grades 6–10), and Diploma Program (Grades 11–12).
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 Co-educational, day school.
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 includes more than 50 nationalities (the community is highly international). The school has around 808 students, with faculty drawn from multiple countries; the most common nationality is not publicly disclosed.
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 YIS provides Learning Support for diverse learning needs, working in collaboration with Counselors and EAL teachers to support academics, behavior, and social–emotional development. EAL support is provided across core subjects to help students access the curriculum, and wellness/counseling services are available for social-emotional health.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation No formal country affiliation is stated; the school is an international institution based in Yokohama, Japan.	Country affiliation No formal country affiliation; the school serves the international community in Yokohama and the Tokyo metropolitan area.
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 No 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 Daily start and end times vary by division and are provided during enrollment. Breakfast is available on campus before the start of the day, and lunch is served in three sittings via Dragon Dining, with a campus café (The Street Café) for breaks. The First Day of School in August 2025 ran from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm as an example of a full-day schedule.
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 with nearby pick‑ups and stops. From Sakuragicho Station or Ishikawacho, take buses 101, 105, or 106 to Kominato-cho; From Negishi Station take buses 58 or 101 to Honmoku-Miyabara; bus stops near the campus are indicated in the access information.
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 fees - Application Fee: JPY 50,000 (non-refundable). - Registration Fee: JPY 1,350,000 (non-refundable; payment due within 14 days of acceptance). Annual tuition by year group (with per-term amounts) - Early Learning Center – Half Day: Annual tuition JPY 2,025,000. Per term (two equal installments): JPY 1,012,500. - Early Learning Center – Full Day: Annual tuition JPY 2,495,000. Per term: JPY 1,247,500. - Kindergarten – Grade 5: Annual tuition JPY 3,060,000. Per term: JPY 1,530,000. - Grades 6 – 11: Annual tuition JPY 3,190,000. Per term: JPY 1,595,000. - Grade 12: Annual tuition JPY 3,285,000. Per term: JPY 1,642,500. - Campus Development Fee (annual): JPY 385,000. This fee is charged annually and is not prorated. Billing schedule and payment terms - Standard billing: Tuition is billed in two equal installments (two terms). Installment due dates: July 31 and December 8. - Mid-year enrollments: Tuition is prorated by quarters for mid-year entries; the Campus Development Fee is not prorated. - Re-enrollment deposit: JPY 300,000 due by April 15 to secure placement for the following year. - Late payment: Fees overdue by 30 days incur a 2.5% monthly late charge. - Registration fee payment: Due within 14 days of acceptance and non-refundable. Application fee is non-refundable. Payment methods and banking details - Primary payment method indicated: international bank transfer. Include the student's full name or invoice number in payment details for correct processing. - SMBC Trust Bank (SMBC信託銀行): - SWIFT: SMTCJPJT - Yokohama Branch (736) - Savings Account: 7579973 - Account Name: Yokohama International School. - Bank of Yokohama: - SWIFT: HAMAJPJT - Motomachi Branch (311) - Savings Account: 1708779 - Account Name: Yokohama International School. What the tuition covers - Tuition includes school‑issued technology (computers/tablets), most expeditions and field trips, and IB Diploma (IBDP), ISA, and PSAT examination fees (excluding resits). Additional costs billed separately - School bus service (separate charge). - Uniforms (separate charge). - Cafeteria services (separate charge). - Certain extracurricular activities (separate charge). All of the above are billed in addition to tuition where applicable. Boarding fees - Boarding fees: Not applicable. No boarding or boarding fees are listed in the school's tuition and fees schedule. Refund and withdrawal policy - Notice of withdrawal must be submitted in writing. - In principle there are no refunds of tuition. The only exceptions noted are partial refund of deposit or in cases where the student has been enrolled for less than the first five days of that semester. Other financial notes - Scholarships: Scholarships are available through a Corporate Contribution Program for students whose parents' employers participate; details are managed by the school's Business Office. - For payment processing, always include the student's full name or invoice number to ensure correct allocation of funds. Contact for billing enquiries - Admissions/Business Office email provided for payment inquiries.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
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 YIS operates a school uniform system that includes a PE uniform. Uniforms and other YIS-branded apparel are sold on campus through the Dragon's Den, the on-site school store. Families are advised to purchase the PE uniform, with specific colours and design details not published on the site.
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 Dragon Dining runs the on-campus cafeteria, offering a rotating weekly menu with Western, Asian, vegan and vegetarian options. Meals are prepared on site with locally sourced ingredients where possible, and some herbs and vegetables are grown on campus in collaboration with students. The Street Café, located between the North and South buildings, provides coffee, tea and baked goods, and the cafeteria uses a cashless payment system with allergen labeling for menu items.
House system	House system —	House system YIS uses a house-based system to foster student leadership and community. Students participate in House events across divisions, and leadership opportunities related to Houses are available; there are Student Councils in Elementary, Middle and High School to support student voice and governance.
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 The school is governed by a Board of Directors (elected at the AGM) and a Board of Trustees, with Auditors monitoring governance and financial status. Day-to-day operations are led by the Head of School and the Senior Leadership Team. Foundational governance documents include the Act of Endowment, the Constitution, and the Board Governance Manual; the site does not indicate that YIS 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 YIS delivers instruction in English and follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum. The Primary Years Programme (PYP) runs from the Early Learning Center through Grade 5; the Middle Years Programme (MYP) runs from Grades 6 to 10; and the Diploma Programme (DP) runs in Grades 11 and 12. In addition to the IB Diploma, students may earn IB Certificates, the YIS Diploma, and the Global Citizen Diploma. The curriculum emphasizes inquiry-based learning, service learning, and well-being, with field trips, expeditions, and a range of clubs. English is the language of instruction, with an English as an Additional Language program to support learners.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results External examinations are part of the Diploma Programme assessment. YIS publishes external exam results. Details are accessible through the DP results reporting.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression Graduates are well prepared for higher education at universities around the world. YIS offers pathways including the IB Diploma, IB Certificates, the YIS Diploma, and the Global Citizen Diploma. Graduates pursue higher education worldwide with the credential mix available through YIS.
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 Counseling is available across Elementary, Middle, and High School, with counselors providing individual and group support, social-emotional learning, wellness programs, and academic advising delivered in classroom and tutor group settings. Students reflect on strengths, set personal goals, and develop resilience through a structured wellbeing program and university/career guidance. The community emphasizes mindful choices, belonging, and personal growth, with orientation and ongoing family meetings for new students.
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) Learning Support collaborates with counselors and EAL specialists to support students with diverse learning needs, offering observations, consultations, and targeted instruction to help students access the curriculum and reach their potential in an inclusive environment. The program is designed to celebrate learning differences and provide individualized or small-group support as required.
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 English is the language of instruction. The EAL program provides developmentally appropriate language support to help students access all learning programs, with targeted instruction across speaking, writing, listening, and reading. The school recognizes a multilingual environment, with home-language programs and a diverse student body speaking many languages.
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 Mental wellbeing is addressed through counseling services, social-emotional learning, and wellness programming integrated into the school's counseling and health offerings. The health office provides resources and support for student health needs, and counselors partner with families and teachers to support emotional and psychological development.
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 is embedded in daily practice with a designated safeguarding framework, staff training, and a student-protection policy aligned to international standards. The school provides clear safeguarding contacts and a responsive child-protection structure, with ongoing monitoring and reporting 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 YIS has a 14,685-square-meter campus designed so every space is a learning space, with flexible environments and communal hubs. It blends Japanese design with global values and emphasizes sustainability. Opened in January 2022, the campus supports exploration, collaboration, and a sense of community. The campus hosts a library, an Early Learning Center, a science wing, Visual Art & Design studios, performing arts spaces, a multipurpose auditorium, a double gym, and outdoor areas such as The Street and Dragon Dining.
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 athletics program is supported by world-class campus facilities, including a 25-meter heated indoor swimming pool, a 90m x 46m artificial turf field with floodlights, netting and a digital scoreboard, a double gymnasium with two official-size basketball courts and spectator seating, outdoor basketball courts, and an indoor dance studio. The secondary athletics program is organized in three seasonal offerings (Fall, Winter, Spring) with opportunities across multiple sports, and teams compete under the Dragons banner.
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 The campus includes a Library with satellite libraries and study spaces, a Codependent Science Wing with six laboratories, and Classrooms designed with movable furniture and large glass doors to support inquiry-driven learning. The Early Learning Center (ELC) serves ages 3–5 with floor-to-ceiling glass doors and a fluid layout. Visual Art & Design Studios, Black Box Theatre Rooms, and Music Studios support arts learning, while a Multipurpose Auditorium accommodates performances and gatherings. A solar energy system on the roof, a Deck Garden, and Chowa-an (teahouse) and gardens integrate sustainability and host-culture elements into daily learning.
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 Expeditions provide hands-on, experiential learning beyond the classroom. The Japanese Culture Program (JCP) integrates activities and events that celebrate Japanese culture while primarily teaching in English. Service Learning connects empathy with action through community partnerships. The Elementary School Activities program (ESA) offers clubs such as Gardening, LEGO, Robotics, and Book-related activities; Secondary Activities include Model United Nations, Robotics, Environment Club, and Student Councils. Athletics and Artistic Opportunities further broaden experiences through team sports, performance, and visual/performing arts showcases.
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 Yokohama International School was founded in 1924 and opened on October 27, 1924 in a YMCA classroom with six students and one teacher. It was among the first schools to include 'international' in its name, and by the late 1930s enrollment exceeded 100 students with a boarding facility added in 1936. The school closed during World War II, its campus was destroyed by fire in 1945, and it was rebuilt and reopened in 1955 on its original Yamate site. YIS became a registered School Juridical Person in 1969, introduced the IGCSE in the 1990s, and offered the IB Primary Years Programme from 2001 with a full Early Learning Centre–High School structure by 2003. In January 2022 the school moved to a new Honmoku campus designed by Kengo Kuma & Associates, and the centenary was celebrated on October 27, 2024.
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 close friendships and cooperation between students, staff, parents and alumni lie at the heart of YIS. A range of events and activities are offered by the Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA), supporting learning opportunities and community engagement. The Food Fair is a hallmark event that unites the YIS community and nearby neighborhoods in a festival of food and culture. Alumni remain connected after graduation, with many returning as staff or as parents of current students.
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 Student Association (PTSA) provides a calendar of events and activities for families, supports learning opportunities, and drives community engagement. The Food Fair is the largest annual PTSA-led event, attracting thousands of attendees and involving hundreds of volunteers across many booths and cultural presentations. Proceeds from the Food Fair fund the PTSA Grants Program, which supports student and wider-community projects. Culture Workshops at Food Fair bring immersive country experiences to the school community, expanding intercultural understanding. The PTSA and school collaborate to foster parent involvement, fundraising, and service opportunities across the year.
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 Expeditions are a key experiential opportunity at YIS. They connect wilderness engagements to classroom concepts and personal growth, with clear learning intentions. They promote resilience, collaboration, and a deeper respect for nature. Expeditions encourage stepping outside comfort zones, reflection, and returning to campus with new skills, stronger relationships, and a richer understanding of themselves.
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 Artistic Opportunities at YIS include visual and performing arts driven by student choice, creative exploration, and collaboration. Learners pursue personal expression and cultural insight through arts activities. They gain confidence in creative abilities and connect with others through showcases and exhibitions. They build skills, confidence, and empathy through artistic exploration.
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 Japanese Culture Program (JCP) offers immersion in Japanese culture through an integrated program. Although we primarily learn in English from the ELC to High School, students engage in activities, workshops, and community partnerships that celebrate our host culture. Activities include tea ceremonies, calligraphy, festivals, and traditional cultural experiences that cultivate appreciation, respect, and a deeper understanding of Japan.
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 Student Activities offer clubs and organizations enabling students to explore interests, develop talents, and challenge themselves. Activities promote creativity, collaboration, and pursuing personal passions. Based on diversity and inclusion, a vibrant range of clubs enables students to try new things and collaborate with peers.
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 Service Learning at YIS turns empathy into action. Through hands-on projects and partnerships, students address community and global challenges, learn diverse perspectives, and experience teamwork. It fosters a sense of responsibility for local, national, and international communities and breaks down barriers. Making service a core part of learning nurtures compassionate students who understand that real change starts with them.
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 Expeditions build leadership, self-management, and collaboration skills through challenging journeys. Grade-specific expeditions develop leadership across grades 3–10, culminating in experiences such as the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage and a diving expedition. The program includes leadership retreats and service leadership opportunities as part of authentic learning, enabling students to lead with confidence. Students reflect on leadership and apply it in teamwork and community projects.
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 Safeguarding and wellbeing are integral to YIS. Safeguarding is woven into every aspect of the community, with staff undergoing regular training in child protection and adherence to international standards for safe recruitment. The middle school program includes a supportive wellbeing program. Expeditions and outdoor education contribute to wellness by promoting resilience, physical health, and mindful connection with nature.
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 across Yokohama International School. The EAL program personalizes language support to help multilingual learners participate across all subject areas and activities. Japanese language is offered as part of the language program; in Grades 1–5, students new to English may attend EAL instead of the Japanese Language class to access the curriculum, while other students study Japanese in the regular language program. The school offers additional modern foreign languages as IB/DP options, including Spanish, French, German, and Japanese; the Home Language program supports more than 20 home languages, with over 90% of students speaking two or more languages.
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 English is the language of instruction. The Early Learning Center and Kindergarten are fully English-language immersion. In Grades 1–5, students new to English may attend a specialized EAL class instead of the Japanese Language class to access the curriculum with language support. In Secondary (MYP/DP), language progress is monitored by an EAL specialist who collaborates with subject teachers to provide differentiated instruction.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
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. Eligibility. The school accepts applicants who are foreign nationals or Japanese nationals with prior international education. At least one residing parent must be fluent in speaking, reading, and writing English. Applicants must live with at least one parent within commuting distance while enrolled at YIS. 2. Admissions Portal and Pre-application. Start with the Pre-application Form to provide basic information and create an account for the Admissions Portal. If a child is already enrolled at YIS, begin the process in the Veracross Parent Portal under the Admissions option. The school year runs from August to June. 3. Our Admissions Team Reviews Your Pre-application. The Admissions Team reviews the pre-application to confirm eligibility and may request additional information by email. If there are issues regarding eligibility, follow-up communication will occur. 4. Complete Application in The Admissions Portal and Pay Application Fee. Return to the Admissions Portal to complete the forms and upload required documents so the school can form a full picture of the child's suitability for the program. Payment of the application fee is part of this step. 5. Document Submission. Submit all requested documents through the Admissions Portal to support the application review. Ensuring all documents are uploaded helps avoid delays in processing. 6. Application Review & Notification Of Admission Decision. The Admissions team reviews the complete application and aims to notify applicants within a few weeks for overseas submissions. There is rolling admission for overseas applicants due to space constraints. For entry at the beginning of the school year (August), apply by early March (early February for high school). 7. Respond To Admissions Decision. If admitted, the family should respond to the admission decision to indicate whether they will enroll. This response typically follows the notification of the decision. 8. Complete Online Enrollment and Pay Registration Fee. After accepting the offer, complete online enrollment and pay the registration fee to secure a place.
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 Corporate Contribution Program (CCP): The CCP is a corporate scholarship program for organizations that cover expatriate employees' educational expenses. Donations fund corporate scholarships for dependents and support the school's fundraising and facilities. CCP donations are not taxable as personal income in Japan under an authorized agreement; contact the business manager for details on eligibility and participation. Chowa Scholarship Fund: The school is launching the Chowa Scholarship Fund in 2026–2027 to provide need-based financial assistance to students facing hardship. The fund is designed to promote equity and inclusion so students can continue to thrive at YIS.
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 When the number of eligible applicants exceeds available spaces, applicants may be placed in a wait pool if deemed acceptable. Priority is given to siblings of current students, children of YIS staff and alumni, returning students, and dependents of organizations participating in our Corporate Contribution Program (CCP). Applicants in the wait pool are requested to submit updated school reports to confirm continued interest.
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