Shinagawa International School - Samezu Campus vs St. Mary's International School

	S Shinagawa International School - Samezu Campus Tokyo, Japan	S St. Mary's International School Tokyo, Japan
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year ¥2,575,000 - 2,900,000	Fees / year ¥2,850,000 - 3,000,000
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 5 - 19 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Boys School
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum, Catholic Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 450	Pupils 1,000
Typical class size	Typical class size 20	Typical class size 21
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2007	Opened 1954
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Shinagawa International School has three campuses in Shinagawa Ward, Tokyo: Aoyoko Campus (Preschool–Kindergarten), Seaside Campus (Primary), and Samezu Campus (Secondary). The Aoyoko Campus is in Minamishinagawa; Seaside sits near Shinagawa Seaside Station, and Samezu is also located in Minamishinagawa. The campuses are accessible by multiple rail lines: Aoyoko is about 5 minutes from Aomono-Yokocho, 7 minutes from Oimachi, and 15 minutes from Shinagawa Seaside; Seaside is about 5 minutes from Shinagawa Seaside and Aomono-Yokocho, and 15 minutes from Oimachi; Samezu is about 7 minutes from Shinagawa Seaside, 3 minutes from Aomono-Yokocho, and 15 minutes from Oimachi.	Location St. Mary's International School is located at 1-6-19 Seta, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 158-8668, Japan. Setagaya is a western Tokyo ward with residential neighborhoods and good rail connections to central Tokyo. The campus is accessible by multiple train lines and the school operates its own bus network to support travel around Tokyo.
Stages	Stages The school offers an IB continuum: Early Learning Center (ELC) for ages 3–5 at the Aoyoko Campus; Primary Years Programme across Seaside (Grade 1–3) and Samezu (Grade 4–5); Middle Years Programme (MYP) for Grades 6–10; and Diploma Programme (DP) for Grades 11–12.	Stages The school provides a K–12 program, comprising an elementary school, a middle school (junior high), and a high school, all on the Setagaya campus.
School type	School type Co-educational day school with no boarding facilities.	School type St. Mary's International School is a single-sex, all-boys international school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix Students come from more than 40 countries. The most common nationalities are not publicly disclosed, and a detailed local-to-international ratio is not published.	Pupil nationality mix Students come from around 45–50 countries, reflecting a strong international mix. The most common nationality is not publicly published, and there is a mix of international and Japanese students.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Learning support includes English as an Additional Language (EAL) and other supports. EAL is delivered in small groups with push‑in and pull‑out sessions, with English proficiency assessed using WIDA standards. For formally assessed students, an Individual Educational Plan (IEP) may be created; for others, a Student Success Plan is used to support inclusion in mainstream classes.	Additional learning support Student Support Services include Learning Support, Academic Support, English Language Support, a School Nurse, and a Campus Minister. The school aims to accommodate a range of learning differences but notes that it may not be able to support all needs; full disclosure during admissions is requested.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation No formal country affiliation is listed.	Country affiliation The school is Catholic in affiliation.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation is listed.	Religious affiliation Catholic.
School day structure	School day structure Preschool–Kindergarten: instructional hours from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm; Grades 1–12: 8:30 am to 3:00 pm.	School day structure Elementary hours are 8:30 a.m. to 3:10 p.m. with buses leaving at 3:20 p.m.; Middle School runs 8:25 a.m. to 3:40 p.m. with a 3:20 p.m. bus and campus-off time by 5:00 p.m.; High School operates 8:25 a.m. to 3:25 p.m. with lunch 11:00–11:55 a.m.
Bus service details	Bus service details A safe school bus service operates, primarily for preschool and primary students with limited availability for secondary students. Buses have seat belts, GPS tracking, and attendants. There are eight routes (School Bus 1–8) serving various areas; routes and times may adjust based on demand. Parents can register by contacting the school.	Bus service details The school operates its own bus network with a fleet of buses serving Tokyo; typical routes include Futako-Tamagawa Station on the Den-en-toshi Line and other connections. After-school buses are used to transport students, with the middle school bus schedule noted as leaving promptly at 3:20 p.m. (the fleet is owned by the school).
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and Admission Fees - Application fee: JPY 40,000 (one‑time, non‑refundable; payable on submission of each student's application). - Enrollment fee (registration): JPY 1,000,000 (one‑time, non‑refundable; payable within one week of confirmation of admission). Tuition — amounts and term schedule (three installments per school year) Tuition is charged per academic year and payable in three installments (Term 1, Term 2, Term 3). The following shows each term amount and the annual total for the 2025–2026 school year: - Preschool – Kindergarten: Term 1 JPY 875,000; Term 2 JPY 675,000; Term 3 JPY 675,000. Annual total JPY 2,225,000. - Grades 1–5: Term 1 JPY 850,000; Term 2 JPY 750,000; Term 3 JPY 750,000. Annual total JPY 2,350,000. - Secondary (Grades 6–10): Term 1 JPY 950,000; Term 2 JPY 750,000; Term 3 JPY 750,000. Annual total JPY 2,450,000. - Secondary (Grades 11–12): Term 1 JPY 950,000; Term 2 JPY 800,000; Term 3 JPY 800,000. Annual total JPY 2,550,000. Additional recurring educational fees shown per term (where applicable): - EAL fee (if required): Term 1 JPY 200,000; Term 2 JPY 150,000; Term 3 JPY 150,000. Annual total JPY 500,000. - Daycare service (charged at JPY 2,000/hour): Term 1 JPY 275,000; Term 2 JPY 200,000; Term 3 JPY 275,000. Annual total JPY 750,000 (dependent on hours used). (The school states that tuition is charged per year and is payable in three installments.) Maintenance, supply and support fees - Maintenance fee: JPY 250,000 per student per year (annual, non‑refundable). - Supply fee: Charged to cover small field trips, Japanese textbooks, class novels and some stationery items; amount depends on grade/use and is charged separately. - Learning support fee (if required): JPY 500,000 per year, payable in three installments. Additional and optional costs - Lunches: not included in tuition; charged separately. - Uniforms: compulsory for all grades; cost varies by items ordered. - PTA annual fee: JPY 6,000. - School excursions / field trips and non‑curricular residential/day trips: charged as required (examples of single–event charges range from JPY 100 to JPY 1,500 depending on the activity). - Some exam fees, some sports events/tournaments, some extracurricular activities/ASPs, and swimming: may be charged separately. Sibling discounts - A 20% discount on the second child's tuition is available for families with children enrolled before the 2025–2026 school year. For parents enrolling after the 2025–2026 school year, a 10% discount is available on the tuition fees for the second and any additional siblings. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition schedule: the annual tuition is split into three instalments (Term 1, Term 2, Term 3) and billed accordingly. - Application fee: due on submission of the application. Enrollment fee: payable within one week from confirmation of admission. Maintenance and other annual fees are charged as stated. - Late enrolment: students joining after the start of the school year are charged by academic term; attendance for any portion of a term requires payment for the full term. - Late payment: a 2% fee is added to late tuition payments; accounts in arrears by more than one month may result in suspension of the student until the balance is cleared. - Withdrawal notice: parents must provide not less than one complete term's prior written notice; otherwise one complete term's fees are payable in lieu of notice. Refund information - All school fees are non‑refundable. One‑time payments and first‑term tuition are non‑refundable. If travel to Japan is prevented by unavoidable circumstances such as government visa restrictions or entry regulations, tuition payments may be carried forward once. Fee payment options and contact for payment arrangements - All fees are to be remitted in Japanese yen (JPY). - The school accepts bank transfers for donations and publishes bank details for remittance; the accounting contact is accounting@sistokyo.jp for payment enquiries and arrangements. Use of bank transfer for payments and invoicing is in practice for the school's financial transactions. Notes - Tuition and fees shown above are fixed for the August 2025 to June 2026 school year and are reviewed annually. Any changes for the next school year are announced by the end of May.	Fee details Application and Admission Fees - Application fee: ¥50,000 (non‑refundable). - Registration fee (new students): ¥400,000 (one‑time, non‑refundable). - Development Fund (new students): ¥1,000,000 (one‑time, non‑refundable). Annual and Per‑Year Tuition (School Year 2025–2026) - Elementary School tuition: ¥2,700,000 per year. - Middle School tuition: ¥2,800,000 per year. - High School tuition: ¥2,850,000 per year. Per‑term / Billing schedule - The school publishes a full, school‑year Tuition & Fees schedule (School Year 2025–26) that contains the detailed billing schedule and installment information for the year; that document is the school's official tuition & fees schedule. For specifics of term‑by‑term billing and exact installment due dates you should use the school's published 2025–26 Tuition & Fees schedule. Fees for Returning Students - Re‑Enrollment Seat Deposit: ¥300,000 (non‑refundable; credited toward tuition). - Building Maintenance (annual): ¥150,000 (returning students). - Tuition for returning students is the same annual amount by level as above (Elementary ¥2,700,000; Middle ¥2,800,000; High ¥2,850,000). Transportation (School Bus) - One way (morning or afternoon): ¥310,000 per year. - Both ways: ¥420,000 per year. Device / Level‑specific mandatory costs and other academic charges - Elementary (Grades 3–5): iPad and cover are provided and the mandatory one‑time cost is charged on the student invoice; the device cost is included in the school fees invoice and is non‑refundable. - Middle School (Grade 6 and incoming Grades 7–8): MacBook Air fee is included on the invoice (one‑time mandatory cost for these cohorts). - High School IB exam fees: billed in December for students who register for IB exams; ¥20,000 per subject. - Graduation fee for Grade 12 students: ¥30,000 (cap and gown, reception and related ceremony expenses). - Additional items charged or available through the school: cafeteria/food service, school accident insurance, and any Corporate Contribution Program charges as applicable. School Accident Insurance - Students are enrolled in a school personal accident insurance policy upon payment of school fees with coverage commencing September 1: medical reimbursements up to ¥1,000,000 and loss of life/physical impediment benefits up to ¥3,000,000. Uniforms and Uniform Costs - Uniforms are purchased through the school's authorized vendor (Top of the Class). Ordering and payment are handled through the vendor; payment options offered by the vendor include PayPal and credit card. Specific uniform prices are set by the vendor and are purchased separately via that vendor. Non‑refund and Refund Information (explicitly stated items) - Non‑refundable charges explicitly stated: application fee (¥50,000); registration fee (¥400,000 for new students); development fund (¥1,000,000 one‑time); building maintenance fee (¥150,000 annual where indicated); device costs charged on invoice for required iPad/MacBook (one‑time, non‑refundable); re‑enrollment seat deposit (¥300,000) is non‑refundable but will be credited toward tuition. These items are described as non‑refundable in the school's published fees information. Boarding (if applicable) - Boarding is not listed as a program or fee category for this school; there are no boarding fees published for St. Mary's International School for the 2025–26 school year. Transportation is offered via school bus instead. Billing and Payment Terms (what is stated publicly) - Credit card payments are accepted for application fees only; credit cards are not accepted for other fees and tuition payments. - The school encourages payment of tuition and fees by bank transfer. Any bank transfer fees or lifting fees (particularly for payments from abroad) must be covered by the payer. The school provides bank transfer details (MUFG Bank, Jiyugaoka Branch) including the account number and SWIFT code for international remittance. Payments should be made in the student's name and include the student's school ID where requested. - The Re‑Enrollment Seat Deposit for returning students is credited toward tuition. Other costs parents should anticipate (examples shown on published schedule) - Field trips, retreats, ski trip charges (elementary/middle/high as described for specific grades) and optional cafeteria payments are additional to tuition and will be invoiced or charged as appropriate. Where detailed term‑by‑term instalment dates and full billing schedule are published - The school's official two‑page School Year 2025–26 Tuition & Fees document contains the complete billing schedule, instalment/due‑date information and the full fee table for the year. That published school document is the official source of the term‑by‑term billing schedule and any fine‑print payment terms for 2025–26. Summary of primary sources used: St. Mary's International School official Tuition & Fees page and the school's published School Year 2025–26 Tuition & Fees document; the school's uniform ordering page for vendor/payment details.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements St. Mary's International School operates as a day school with no on-site boarding provision. The school is listed as having boarding facilities: DAY, which indicates there is no boarding accommodation for students. Transportation to and from campus is provided via the school bus network, with options for morning-only, afternoon-only, or round-trip service. For the 2025–26 academic year, bus fees are ¥310,000 for one-way service and ¥420,000 for both ways.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniform is compulsory for all grades. Uniforms can be ordered throughout the year, and the overall cost depends on the number of items ordered. The uniform policy promotes unity within the school.	Uniform requirement Uniforms are required and are supplied by Top of the Class, a domestic vendor. Ordering is done through Top of the Class and is available in English, with sizing and delivery details provided by the vendor. For Elementary, students wear a blue polo shirt with the school logo (plus other items such as black socks and black shoes); for Middle School, students wear a long-sleeved white shirt with the logo and a navy tie, with accompanying items including black socks, a black belt, and black shoes. Shoes must be all black with solid black soles and no secondary colors or logos.
Food options	Food options An optional lunch service is available, offering a variety of meals. Dietary options are not specified on the site.	Food options The school operates an on-site cafeteria with lunch service during the school day; lunch hours vary by level and students may eat in the cafeteria. A light snack is available during the day at certain grade levels. The Kindergarten site describes a canteen that offers Western and Asian lunch options, a full salad bar, and an online canteen system for ordering meals, indicating on-site meal options and a digital ordering process.
House system	House system —	House system In St. Mary's Kindergarten, a Grizzly House System is in place. Houses are represented by trees—Pine, Birch, Cedar, and Oak—and students participate in monthly house challenges; points are awarded to encourage teamwork, school spirit, and positive behavior.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Shinagawa International School operates as a non-profit organization governed by a School Board. The Board defines the school's Vision, Mission, and policies and oversees strategic planning, financial management, and risk management, as well as the recruitment and performance assessment of the Head of School. The school is a member of the Council of International Schools (CIS) and is currently undergoing accreditation.	Governance and ownership St. Mary's International School is a non-profit, tax-exempt educational institution (gakkō hōjin) incorporated under Japan's Private School Law and supervised by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. The governance structure comprises a Board of Directors, a Board of Trustees, and Statutory Auditors, which provide strategic direction and financial stewardship for the school.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details The Samezu Campus serves students from Grade 4 through Grade 12, delivering the IB continuum: Primary Years Programme (PYP) in Grades 4–5, Middle Years Programme (MYP) in Grades 6–10, and the Diploma Programme (DP) in Grades 11–12. The Primary Years Programme (PYP) uses a transdisciplinary, inquiry-based approach organized around six themes: Who We Are, Where We Are In Place And Time, How We Express Ourselves, How The World Works, How We Organize Ourselves, and Sharing the Planet, with knowledge, concepts, skills, and dispositions developed through units of inquiry. In the Middle Years Programme (Grades 6–10), language and literature are taught in English and Japanese, language acquisition in Japanese, and the program covers Mathematics, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, PHE, Design, and Arts (Visual Arts and Music), with an emphasis on Approaches to Learning and the Personal Project. The Diploma Programme (Grades 11–12, commencing in 2024–25) offers Group 1 English A and Japanese A; Group 2 Japanese B and ab initio; Group 3 Business Management and Environmental Systems and Societies; Group 4 Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Computer Science, and Environmental Systems and Societies; Group 5 Mathematics (Applications and Interpretation SL or Analysis and Approaches HL) and includes the DP core—Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)—with college counseling support. The school provides English-language instruction with EAL and Japanese language support, and campus groupings are Aoyoko Campus (Preschool–Kindergarten), Seaside Campus (Grade 1–3), and Samezu Campus (Grade 4–12).	Curriculum details St. Mary's International School in Tokyo delivers a holistic, standards-based curriculum across elementary, middle, and high school, rooted in a Catholic values framework and a focus on the whole child.
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 Shinagawa International School's guiding statements state that it cultivates a multicultural community that supports academic, social, and personal success, and it fosters a respectful, inclusive environment with a 1:6 teacher–student ratio.	Social & emotional learning St. Mary's International School supports Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) through age-appropriate Personal Social Health Education (PSHE) across all grades, and a comprehensive Elementary SEL curriculum (K-5) that includes Child Protection and Bullying Prevention Units, all taught within the school's safeguarding framework.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) SIS Samezu Campus (Grade 4–12) provides Learning Support for students with additional needs, including EAL and behavior management, with an Individual Educational Plan (IEP) or a Student Success Plan as appropriate.	Special educational needs (SEN) Student Support Services are listed as Learning Support, Academic Support, English Language Support, a School Nurse, and a Campus Minister; the Admissions Policy mentions a Learning Differences section, but the school does not publicly state that it operates as a specialist SEN institution beyond these shared services.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The EAL program uses small-group instruction and curriculum modifications, offering both 'push in' and 'pull out' sessions; English proficiency is assessed using WIDA standards, and enrollment and ongoing support are coordinated by the EAL coordinator and homeroom teacher.	English as an additional language English Language Support aims to enable students whose first language is not English to overcome language-related difficulties and integrate into mainstream classes; language support is offered for students from RP through Grade 8, with no English language support for Grade 11 and limited support for Grades 9–10.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through Counseling as part of the school's Learning Support framework, with ongoing support and counseling services to help students.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through the SEL/PSHE programs described above, plus pastoral care elements such as the Campus Minister and health support from the School Nurse.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding SIS is committed to safeguarding, with the school describing itself as committed to child safeguarding in its safeguarding and welfare practices.	Safeguarding Safeguarding and Child Protection are led by a dedicated Safeguarding and Child Protection Team; there is a secure CPOMS-based reporting system, age-appropriate PSHE health and safety instruction, annual safeguarding training for faculty, staff, and parents, and a designated Safeguarding Coordinator (Hiromi Sawamura) with an anonymous reporting option.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Shinagawa International School (SIS) operates three campuses: Aoyoko (Preschool–Kindergarten), Seaside (Grades 1–3), and Samezu (Grades 4–12). The Samezu Campus features spacious classrooms, a gym, dedicated spaces for music, visual arts, and design, a modern science lab, and a library/media center. The Seaside Campus provides spacious classrooms, a gym, a well-stocked library, and a rooftop playground. The Aoyoko Campus houses the Early Learning Center with an outdoor playground. Outdoor recreation is supported by the Samezu Athletic Park and Samezu Soccer Field, and the Seaside Campus features an outdoor rooftop play area. A Konami Sports Center is located nearby for swimming lessons and other activities.	Facilities overview St. Mary's International School sits on a single campus in Setagaya with facilities to support academics, the arts, and athletics. The campus includes a library and Learning Commons with extensive digital resources for research, and there is an on-site cafeteria for meals and lunch breaks. Elementary, middle, and high school sections each have library or learning commons spaces and dedicated computer rooms for student use. Fine arts and performing arts are supported by music groups, choirs, instrumental lessons, visual arts, and drama opportunities, including a tri-school Spring Musical. The campus is described as safe and modern with first-rate athletic facilities.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Samezu Campus includes a gym and uses the nearby Samezu Soccer Field and Samezu Athletic Park for outdoor sports and recess. The Seaside Campus has its own gym and an outdoor rooftop play area, supporting physical education in all weather. The Aoyoko Campus includes an outdoor playground for younger children as part of outdoor activity. Konami Sports Center is located nearby and provides swimming lessons for SIS students.	Sports facilities —
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Samezu Campus features a modern science lab and a comprehensive library and media center. The Seaside Campus has a well-stocked library with more than 15,000 volumes and a library program that supports the PYP curriculum. The libraries on the Seaside and Main Campuses offer flexible, welcoming spaces for collaborative study and independent work, with laptops for online checkouts. The Main Campus hosts music rooms, visual arts spaces, and a design room, and there are English as an Additional Language classrooms and Japanese classrooms to support language development.	Academic facilities Academic facilities include a library and Learning Commons across grade levels. The Elementary Library provides Destiny Discover, BrainPOP, PebbleGo, and TumbleBooks for research and literacy support. The Middle School and High School Learning Commons offer Destiny Discover, EBSCOhost, JSTOR, Classroom Video on Demand, and Sora, with access to a range of digital databases and media. Elementary students have a Computer Room for dedicated technology use.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Extracurricular activities include swimming classes and 70+ after-school programs. Swimming classes are held at the nearby Konami Sports Club Swimming Pool and are led by Konami coaches with SIS staff; there is an additional cost. After School Programs (ASPs) run on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, offering activities across music, drama, sports, arts and crafts, and homework club. Programs cover academic clubs (for example, Model United Nations and language clubs), STEAM (robotics, coding, and design), and athletics (basketball, volleyball, badminton, yoga, Taekwondo). Some specialized programs may incur material fees.	Extra curricular facilities Extracurricular activities center on fine arts and athletics. There are 14 music groups, including choirs, and an Instrumental Music program with concert band and jazz ensemble. The Visual Arts program offers exhibitions and studio work, and there are drama opportunities including a tri-school Spring Musical. The program also includes clubs and service activities that complement athletics and the arts.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Shinagawa International School originated in 2007 in Shibuya, Tokyo. The school relocated to Shinagawa Seaside in June 2018 to support growth and provide modern facilities. It now operates across three campuses—Aoyoko Campus (Early Learning Center), Seaside Campus (Grades 1–3), and Samezu Campus (Grades 4–12)—forming an IB continuum from early years through secondary. The school is governed by a dedicated school board and participates in international accreditation processes, including membership in the Council of International Schools (CIS) with accreditation in progress. The Parent Teacher Association is a parent-led body that collaborates with the school to support programs and community initiatives.	History St. Mary's International School was founded in 1954. It moved to its current Setagaya campus in 1971. The school operates as an all-boys international school. The student body includes nearly 50 countries, and English is the language of instruction.
Community	Community Shinagawa International School maintains a diverse, multicultural community drawn from more than 40 nationalities, with families actively participating in school life. The Life at SIS section highlights a wide range of experiences, including after-school programs and residential trips that connect learning with real-world contexts. The school hosts a calendar of community and cultural events throughout the year, including a Winter Performance, International Children's Day activities, Japanese Culture Day, numeracy and science weeks, and a year-end celebration, all organized with PTA involvement.	Community The school has students from nearly 50 countries. The school offers extensive extracurricular programs in athletics, fine arts, the performing arts, and other areas. The campus is safe and modern and supports a comprehensive student life. The school participates in intercultural programs and events, including UNESCO exchange activities with Japanese partner schools.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The SIS PTA is a parent-led volunteer group focused on two main goals: to support projects that enhance the educational experience and to create an inclusive community. All families are members, and the PTA is governed by a seven-member leadership committee (president, vice president, secretary, health coordinator, accountant, school lunch coordinator, and a staff representative) with monthly meetings to plan activities. The PTA also coordinates events such as Family Picnic, World Teachers' Day, Family Fun Day, Open House, Winter Performance, International Children's Day, Japanese Culture Day, Numeracy & Science Week, Literacy Week, Year-end Performance, and Year Book, and supports field trips and fundraising activities. The PTA Handbook provides details on roles, election processes, and annual dues (10,000 yen), as well as procedures for handing over responsibilities. Parent volunteers contribute to communications, decorations, and day-of-event support.	Parent teacher association The St. Mary's Parent Association (SMPA) is a volunteer body that engages families in school life. The SMPA runs the annual Carnival, a long-standing community tradition and the school's largest fundraising event. Carnival features food, games, live entertainment, and booths, with all funds supporting student trips, projects, campaigns, uniforms, clubs, and sustainability initiatives. Volunteering opportunities are organized through signups for Carnival day, including booth responsibilities and coordinating donations. Donations to St. Mary's support a broad range of programs through the school's development office, and the U.S. Friends of St. Mary's International School foundation assists fundraising in the United States.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Shinagawa International School offers a broad slate of after‑school programs (ASPs) that emphasize academic enrichment and STEM. On Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, students can participate in over 70 ASPs each week, with programs rotating annually. Academic options include the Chinese Language Club, Japanese, Mindfulness Club, Newsletter, and Model United Nations, while STEAM offerings cover Robotics, Coding, Vision Math, Lego Construction, Book Illustration, Drama Club, and related topics. Some activities may involve material fees and are led by SIS staff or external instructors.	Academic & intellectual St. Mary's offers after-school programs that emphasize academic enrichment. The program includes speech and debate, Brain Bowl, and math contests to foster critical thinking and time management. Robotics is offered as a STEM-focused activity, giving students hands-on opportunities to code and work with robots. These activities extend learning beyond the classroom and support analytical thinking, collaboration, and resilience.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Arts and creative activities are delivered through ASPs that span performing arts, visual arts, and design. Options include Ballet, Hip‑Hop Dance, Drum/Percussion Ensemble, Guitar, Voice Training and Recording, and Drama Club, along with visual arts such as Arts and Crafts, Loom Bands, Origami, Book Illustration, Sculpture, and Music Appreciation. These programs support creative expression, performance skills, and visual artistry across the school. Some activities may carry material fees and are run by school staff or external specialists.	Arts & creative St. Mary's has a robust Fine Arts & Activities program. The school operates 14 music groups, including choirs, a concert band, and a jazz ensemble, with regular concerts and ensemble events. The Visual Arts program offers painting, drawing, ceramics, and printmaking, and drama opportunities exist from Elementary through High School, including a tri-school Spring Musical with sister schools. The arts program also includes trips, competitions, exhibitions, and involves service clubs connected to the arts.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Cultural and language activities feature language clubs such as Chinese Language Club and Japanese language sessions, complemented by global‑minded programs like Model United Nations. The school calendar includes events such as Japanese Cultural Day and other cultural celebrations, along with International Children's Day, STEAM Day, and Literacy Week. Interdisciplinary Week Without Walls (ID WWW) and educational field trips further deepen cross‑cultural understanding.	Cultural & language St. Mary's supports cultural and language activities through events and clubs. The school participates in Model United Nations conferences, and hosts intercultural events such as the International Interkultur Choir Competition Kobe. Debating appears in KPASS events and debate meets, providing opportunities to engage in competitive discussions. The Summer Adventure program offers language-rich experiences to support international students and cross-cultural learning.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Social and hobby activities are a core part of the ASPs, with more than 70 options weekly that span music, drama, sports, arts and crafts, and social clubs. Athletics options include Football Club, Table Tennis, Yoga, Gymnastics, Taekwondo, Basketball, Volleyball, and Badminton, allowing students to pursue shared interests and build friendships across grades. These programs are designed to foster social interaction, collaboration, and personal interests beyond the classroom.	Social & hobbies Beyond academics, students can pursue informal interest-based activities and clubs. After-school options include board games and other social clubs that help students socialize and develop teamwork skills. These activities are designed to complement classroom learning and foster peer connections.
Community & service	Community & service Community and service activities are integrated into student life, including service activities and residential trips as part of experiential learning. The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) coordinates volunteering and community events, with all families automatically belonging to the PTA and encouraged to participate. Primary‑level residential trips and secondary‑level educational field trips help foster community, social responsibility, and real‑world engagement.	Community & service Community service and service clubs are part of student life at St. Mary's. The Fine Arts & Activities program notes that the school supports numerous organizations and service clubs, offering opportunities to give back and engage with the local and global community. Students may participate in service projects coordinated by clubs or through advisory programs. These activities foster social responsibility and lay the groundwork for ongoing community involvement.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Leadership development is supported through participation in Model United Nations and through immersive experiences like Interdisciplinary Week Without Walls (ID WWW), which includes projects in social entrepreneurship and collaborative problem solving. Experiential learning activities, including residential trips and field trips, are designed to build independence, resilience, and leadership skills. The PTA also provides leadership opportunities for parents to contribute to the school community.	Leadership & professional Leadership and professional development are supported through advisory programs and university counseling. The High School Advisory helps students reflect on values and goals. The University Counseling program runs from Grade 10 with an introduction to standardized testing and ongoing guidance through Grade 12, including PSAT practice and families' conferences for planning. Career Day invites industry professionals and supports resume building and interview skills.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellbeing and physical wellness are supported by swimming classes at the Konami Sports Club, with SIS staff and external coaches, as well as indoor gym facilities at the Samezu Campus. Outdoor recreation is facilitated by access to the Samezu Soccer Field and other nearby athletic facilities, supporting PE and after‑school sports. ASPs also include Yoga and other mindfulness and fitness activities to promote physical and mental health.	Lifestyle & wellbeing St. Mary's emphasizes physical wellbeing through athletics. Major sports include swimming, baseball, and basketball, with inter-scholastic competitions in the middle and high school and weekend fixtures such as ball hockey, soccer, and tennis. An annual ski trip is part of the Elementary program, contributing to fitness, teamwork, and outdoor activity.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English is the primary language of instruction across the Early Learning Center through Secondary. English as an Additional Language (EAL) classes are offered for students in Grades 1–10 to support non-native English speakers. Japanese language instruction is delivered through a Japanese as an Additional Language (JAL) program and a Kokugo program for proficient Japanese speakers; Kokugo follows a modified version of the national curriculum and is taught within the English-dominant program. Language learning is integral to SIS, with ongoing support for English and for students' native languages.	Language provision The language of instruction is English. In the IB Diploma Programme, language offerings include English A Language and Literature HL/SL; Japanese A Language and Literature HL/SL; Japanese B HL/SL; Japanese Ab Initio; French B HL/SL; French Ab Initio; and Spanish Ab Initio. English language support is available for non-native speakers from Readiness Program through Grade 8, with limited support for Grades 9 and 10 and none for Grade 11 due to IB DP requirements.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs Summer Adventure 2025 is a language-rich summer program for Grades 1–6 designed for non-English-speaking children, but all students are welcome to join, learn, and make new friends. The program uses hands-on activities and language-focused experiences to provide immersion in an international school setting. There are two sessions: Session A from July 28 to August 1 and Session B from August 4 to August 8, 9:00–15:00, with registration via ClubsBuddy. The program aims to support language development and social integration in a multilingual context.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards There is no publicly posted list of school-wide awards for St. Mary's International School on the site for the past five years.
Accreditations	Accreditations - IB Continuum School (PYP, MYP, DP): Shinagawa International School is authorized to implement the IB Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme, providing a single IB framework from early years through the end of secondary. This continuum supports consistent international standards across grade levels, including the Diploma Programme for Grades 11–12. - Council of International Schools (CIS) accreditation process underway: The school states that CIS accreditation is in progress, signaling an ongoing commitment to meeting international accreditation standards and continuous educational excellence.	Accreditations St. Mary's International School is fully accredited by two agencies: the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Council of International Schools (CIS). WASC is one of six regional associations that accredit public and private schools, colleges and universities in the United States and East Asia. CIS is a membership organization of international schools around the world. The school also offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) in its High School, authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO).
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Inquiry: Begin by reaching out with questions about Shinagawa International School (SIS) and its IB-aligned programmes. You can ask about facilities, the IB frameworks (PYP, MYP, DP), and the learning approach to determine fit for your child. The admissions team can provide guidance on requirements and next steps, and there is no obligation to proceed after an inquiry. 2. School Visit (highly recommended but not mandatory): Arrange a visit through the admissions page or the School Visit Reservation form to see classrooms, talk with staff, and observe the campus culture. A visit helps families understand daily routines, student life, and how SIS supports multilingual and international students. This step is not mandatory for applicants, but it is strongly encouraged for a comprehensive understanding of the environment. 3. Application Submission: Complete the application form and submit it along with the required application fee. Prepare any documents requested during the application process for a smooth review. This step is essential to move forward in the admissions process. 4. Interview – Assessment: After submitting the application, applicants undergo an interview and assessment. For students in Grade 1 and above, MAP Tests assess English, reading, and math levels as part of the evaluation. The admissions team will review the results after the interview and assessment. 5. Admission Decision and Acceptance: Admission decisions are communicated within a few weeks of the assessment. Accepted applicants receive an acceptance letter and enrollment instructions, including next steps for fee payments. 6. Enrolment: Parents complete the enrollment form and arrange the necessary school fee payments to finalize enrollment. Enrollment communications and invoices are issued to successful applicants when an acceptance is granted.	Admissions 1. Admissions Process Step 1 — Inquire and arrange a campus visit. Prospective families should start by making an inquiry or signing up for a campus tour. Applications are welcome at any time, and visiting the campus is encouraged to understand the school's environment. Note that there is no parking available for school tours. The school can be contacted via the Admissions team for questions or to schedule a visit. Step 2 — Prepare and submit the application with supporting documents and fees. Begin by completing the online application and paying the non-refundable application fee of ¥50,000 for each application. The application requires an Application Form, Confidential Information Form, Record Release Form, a copy of the applicant's birth certificate or passport page, a recent family photo, and the applicant's school records for the past two years plus the current year's progress report. For Readiness Program (kindergarten) and Grade 1, a Kindergarten Teacher's Recommendation is also needed; for older grades there are grade-specific recommendations. The application fee can be paid by credit card or wired to the school's account. Step 3 — The admissions evaluation includes academic records, testing, and interviews. Students are admitted on the basis of transcripts from previous schools, standardized test results, a screening test, and a personal interview with both the prospective student and the parents. The school reviews documentation and test results to determine fit with the English-based curriculum. Some grades also require teacher recommendations and counselor/principal references as part of the evaluation. Step 4 — Grade-specific screening steps and timelines. For Readiness Program (RP) and Grade 1, there are on-campus activities such as a group observation (RP) and an on-campus screening (Grade 1) followed by on-campus family interviews. For RP, the process includes a teacher recommendation deadline and a family interview window, with admission decisions communicated after the interview period. For Grade 1, the on-campus screening occurs in early November, followed by observations and a family interview in November–December, with admission decisions typically issued in late January. Step 5 — Admission decision, offer, and enrollment. Admission decision letters are issued on set dates (e.g., February 28, 2026 for RP and January 31, 2026 for Grade 1 in the 2026–2027 cycle). If offered a seat, enrollment requires payment of the Registration fee within two weeks of the offer. The Re-Enrollment Deposit for returning students is non-refundable but credited toward tuition, and a School Bus or other transportation option may be selected with its own fee. Step 6 — Post-acceptance steps and forms. After acceptance, families must complete and submit Health Record forms, the Student ID Card Application Form, the School Bus Application Form (if applying for transport), and provide the Final School Report for the current school year. These steps complete enrollment and help the school finalize records. Notes on fees and payments (embedded in the process): The school lists the following for new entrants: Application Fee ¥50,000; Registration ¥400,000; Development Fund ¥1,000,000; Building Maintenance ¥150,000 per year; Tuition by level: Elementary ¥2,700,000; Middle ¥2,800,000; High ¥2,850,000. Returning students pay a Re-Enrollment Seat Deposit of ¥300,000 and Building Maintenance ¥150,000 plus tuition at the applicable level. Transportation by school bus is available at ¥310,000 one-way or ¥420,000 for both ways. Payments can be made by credit card (for the application fee only) or by bank transfer for the other items; remittances should be made in the student's name with the English spelling of the name and the school ID number. The Re-Enrollment Deposit is credited toward tuition. Cafeteria, accident insurance, and the Corporate Contribution Program are listed as separate items or programs. For full details, view the current Tuition & Fees schedule. Language of instruction and curriculum: The school operates with an English-based curriculum, and families are expected to support their child's success within that framework. The school does not discriminate in admissions on race, creed, or national origin. References: Admissions overview, RP / Grade 1 admissions timeline for 2026–2027, application requirements, and the general admissions policy are publicly posted. Fees for new entrants and returning students, as well as transportation and payment methods, are listed in the Tuition & Fees page. The Admissions section notes that inquiries and campus tours are available and that applications are welcome at any time. The language of instruction is described as English-based in the admissions policy. Waitlisted applicants are governed by a separate policy (see the Waitlist section). Faculty and staff contact information is included in the Admissions and Contact pages. Citations: Admissions overview and steps (turn1view0), RP / Grade 1 admissions timeline (turn2view0, turn4search5), Application Requirements (turn4search6), Tuition & Fees (turn5view0). Waitlist/Pool 2. Waitlist Policy and Process If a grade level is full, students may be placed on a waitlist. Waitlisted students are expected to continue their education while on the waitlist rather than remaining at home; the waitlisted status is valid only until a designated date set by Admissions. Importantly, waitlist placement is not based on a first-come, first-served basis but rather on the individual screening results. Students on the waitlist will be considered for enrollment as soon as a seat opens at their grade level. The waitlist policy applies to each grade-level as appropriate. References: Admissions Policy (turn4search0). Waitlist/Pool details (additional context): The policy specifies that the waitlist is used when a grade is full and that the process is driven by screening results rather than order of application. The policy indicates the waitlist is grade-specific and has an expiration date determined by Admissions. References: Admissions Policy (turn4search0). Scholarships 3. Scholarships There is no publicly posted scholarship program listed for St. Mary's International School in Tokyo. The site describes the school as a not-for-profit institution and notes a Corporate Contribution Program and fundraising activities, but it does not publish formal need-based or merit-based scholarships in the admissions or fees sections. Families may inquire with Admissions about any possible financial aid or external funding opportunities, but no scholarship details are published on the site. References: Support Us page (turn7view0) and Tuition & Fees page (turn5view0) which reference the Corporate Contribution Program and general fundraising, but no scholarship offerings are listed. Additional notes for context - The school teaches in English and uses an English-based curriculum. This is stated in the admissions policy. References: Admissions Policy (turn0search5). - The school is actively international in focus and emphasizes partnerships with families; inquiries and campus tours are encouraged, with admissions open to both local and overseas applicants per RP/G1 timelines. References: Admissions page (turn1view0) and RP / Grade 1 Admissions (turn2view0, turn4search5). - The latest published fee structure for new entrants is for School Year 2025-2026, with annual tuition by level and one-time and annual ancillary fees; the 2026-2027 timelines are available for RP and Grade 1 admissions, indicating the school publishes updated timelines for future cohorts. References: Tuition & Fees (turn5view0), RP / Grade 1 Admissions (turn4search5). If you'd like, I can format this into a printable guide or tailor a calendar with key deadlines based on the grade you're considering.
Scholarships	Scholarships Shinagawa International School does not advertise formal scholarships. There is a tuition sibling discount of 10% for the second and any additional siblings. A third-child discount of 30% is described as applicable to current students.	Scholarships 3) Scholarships - St. Mary's International School does not publish scholarships on its site. The school operates as a not-for-profit institution and relies on donations and fundraising; there is a Corporate Contribution Program, but no formal scholarship program is listed. Families interested in financial aid or scholarships should consult Admissions for any possible options or external funding, though no SMIS-based scholarship offerings are published. References: Support Us (turn7view0) and Fees page (turn5view0).
Waitlist	Waitlist There is no published waitlist or pool system described in SIS admissions materials. Applications are accepted year-round with no fixed deadline. Admission decisions follow the interview/assessment process, and decisions are communicated within a few weeks; acceptance letters and enrollment instructions are sent to successful applicants.	Waitlist 2) Waitlist / Pool - When a given grade level is full, applicants may be waitlisted. Waitlisted students are expected to continue their education while on the waitlist and not simply wait at home. Waitlisted students will be considered for enrollment when a seat opens at their specific grade level. The waitlisted status is valid only until the designated date as set forth by Admissions. Importantly, waitlisted students are not admitted based on a first-come, first-served basis but rather on their individual screening results. Reference: Admissions Policy (turn4search0).
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