The American School in Japan vs Tokyo International Progressive School

	T The American School in Japan Tokyo, Japan	T Tokyo International Progressive School Tokyo, Japan
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year ¥2,987,000 - 3,783,000	Fees / year ¥3,138,300 - 3,740,000
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 9 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum Advanced Placement (AP), American Curriculum	Curriculum Advanced Placement (AP), American Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 1,731	Pupils 70
Typical class size	Typical class size 20	Typical class size 6
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1902	Opened 2000
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location ASIJ operates on two Tokyo campuses: the Chofu Campus at 1-1-1 Nomizu, Chofu-shi, Tokyo 182-0031, and the Early Learning Center at 6-16-5 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0032. The Chofu Campus hosts the main school divisions, while the Early Learning Center serves nursery through kindergarten in central Tokyo. The bus system serves neighborhoods across downtown Tokyo and ASIJ provides transport as part of campus life.	Location The Tokyo International Progressive School is at 1-5-20 Kamata, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 157-0077, Japan. The campus sits in a calm residential area in Setagaya along the Tama River, close to Futako-Tamagawa. Access from Futako-Tamagawa Station (Denentoshi Line and Oimachi Line) is about a 15-minute walk or a 10-minute bus ride, and there is nearby car parking.
Stages	Stages ASIJ is organized into four divisions: the Early Learning Center (Nursery–Kinder), Elementary School (Kinder–5th), Middle School (6th–8th), and High School (9th–12th).	Stages TIPS serves grades 4–12, organized as Elementary (G4–G5), Middle (G6–G8), and High School (G9–G12).
School type	School type ASIJ is a non-profit, co-educational international day school.	School type The school is coeducational and operates as a not-for-profit organization within the Tokyo International School Group.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix The school represents students from over 50 nationalities. American families make up about half of the student body, and roughly half of the families are bi-cultural with parents from the United States and Japan.	Pupil nationality mix Nationalities represented range widely; the school reports 22–25 different nationalities in a typical year. Approximately 65% of students hold foreign nationalities, with the student body representing more than 17 countries; common nationalities include Japan and the United States among others.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support ASIJ offers a K–12 learning support program for students with mild learning needs. Each applicant is reviewed individually to determine whether the school can support their learning needs within the curriculum.	Additional learning support TIPS specializes in supporting students with mild learning differences. It offers individualized learning, small classes (up to about 10 students per class), and a team of specialists including an occupational therapist, a speech therapist, counselors, and a learning support coordinator.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation No formal country affiliation.	Country affiliation No formal country affiliation. The school is part of the Tokyo International School Group.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation.	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation.
School day structure	School day structure At the Chofu campus, classes begin at 8:00 a.m. and end at 3:00 p.m. The Early Learning Center schedule runs from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.	School day structure The school day typically runs from about 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. A lunch service is organized by the ACE class every day, with students also able to buy lunch nearby if they prefer.
Bus service details	Bus service details ASIJ operates a transportation system with 33 buses serving about 276 bus stops across downtown Tokyo. About 1,300 riders use the buses daily. The fleet includes GPS tracking, two-way radios, iPhones, seat belts, and 170 bus monitors. Parents may ride the bus to school for events at no charge.	Bus service details A regular bus service is available for registered riders, though it operates at cost. Bus routes focus on areas such as Minato-ku, Meguro-ku, and Shibuya-ku, with designated drop-off/pick-up locations and clear expectations for riders.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application & one-time fees - Application fee: ¥50,000 (non-refundable). - Registration fee (seat deposit): ¥300,000 (non-refundable). - Building Maintenance Fee (one-time): ¥1,525,000 (non-refundable). - Re‑enrollment fee: described as a non‑refundable tuition deposit that secures a seat and is applied to the first tuition installment (amount not listed on the tuition summary page). Annual fees and capital assessment - Capital Assessment (annual): ¥250,000 (non-refundable). Annual tuition — amounts by year group (2025–26) - Nursery–Pre‑K: ¥2,987,000 per year. - Kinder–Grade 5: ¥3,269,000 per year. - Grade 6–8: ¥3,425,000 per year. - Grade 9–12: ¥3,533,000 per year. (These tuition amounts are refundable as noted by the school's published schedule.) Per‑term / billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition and fees (except the application fee) are due in full upon receipt of the school's invoice. Individuals paying from personal funds may request an installment plan through the Accounting Office; corporations/organizations are not eligible for the installment option. A carrying charge applies to installment arrangements. - Tuition and other fees are payable by bank transfer only. Application fees may be paid by credit card or bank transfer. All payments are accepted in Japanese yen. The billing office email provided for payment enquiries and invoice requests is billing@asij.ac.jp. - For students enrolled after the school year starts, tuition and bus fees are calculated based on academic quarters; attendance for any portion of a quarter requires payment for the entire quarter. Delinquent accounts can result in prohibition from class attendance and/or withholding of grades, transcripts, or other records. Per‑term amounts / instalments (note on availability of detailed schedule) - The publicly posted tuition page lists the annual totals above and explains billing, instalment eligibility and quarter‑based proration for late enrollment. A detailed Schedule of Tuition & Fees is provided by the school and itemises invoice and instalment amounts; the tuition page links to that schedule for the full, itemised per‑term breakdown. The tuition page itself does not display every per‑term numeric split directly in the summary text. Transportation (bus) fees - Annual regular bus service fee: ¥390,000 per student. The bus fee may be prorated on a quarter basis if necessary. ASIJ is not obligated to provide bus service if a family's housing location is outside existing routes. Boarding - Boarding is not applicable. ASIJ operates two campuses (Early Learning Center and the Chofu campus) as a day school for nursery through high school students. Other costs and typical additional charges - Travel programs and curricular/co‑curricular trips: most trip costs are the responsibility of families; costs vary by trip and will be published with payment deadlines. Certain exceptions (e.g., Grade 5 trip, Middle School Extended Campus Program and some High School Exploration Program trips) are noted as school exceptions. - Food services: on‑campus hot meal program and other food services at the Chofu Campus are charged separately; an optional lunch delivery service is available at the Early Learning Center. Menu pricing is published with the food program information. - Technology requirements: students in Grades 3–5 are required to have an iPad; students in Grades 6–12 are required to have a MacBook (specifications and purchase details are provided by the school). - Uniforms are not listed as a mandatory school charge on the tuition/fees summary; no compulsory uniform fee is published on the tuition page. Refund information - To be eligible for a refund of tuition and bus fees for any full academic quarter during which the student will not attend, parents must notify the school in writing of the student's last expected day of attendance. That written notification must be received by the first day of classes in August (if withdrawing during the first semester) or by the first day of the second semester (if withdrawing during the second semester). Tuition and bus fee refunds are calculated on the quarter basis described above. Fee payment options - Currency accepted: Japanese yen. - Application fee: acceptable by credit card or bank transfer. - Tuition and other recurring fees: bank transfer only. - Invoice and detailed payment instructions are issued by the school's billing office; families may request information about the installment program from the Accounting/Billing Office (a carrying charge applies).	Fee details Application and initial one‑time fees - Application Fee (one‑time, non‑refundable): ¥30,000 (before tax); ¥33,000 (including 10% consumption tax). - Registration Fee (one‑time, non‑refundable): ¥350,000 (before tax); ¥385,000 (including 10% consumption tax). - School Development Fee (one‑time, non‑refundable): ¥600,000 (before tax); ¥660,000 (including 10% consumption tax). Annual tuition and recurring fees (per year, applicable to Grades 4–12) - Tuition (annual): ¥2,853,000 (before tax); ¥3,138,300 (including 10% consumption tax). - Educational Enhancement Fee (annual): ¥200,000 (before tax); ¥220,000 (including 10% consumption tax). - Bus (optional, annual): ¥347,000 (before tax); ¥381,700 (including 10% consumption tax). - Materials Fee: may be required separately and will depend on specific classes taken. - Additional Course Fees: may be charged in cases where students require extra course credits or specific services. Tuition by year group - The published annual tuition and the educational enhancement fee are shown as a single set of amounts that apply to the school's grade range (Grades 4–12). The school's published annual total for tuition (after 10% tax) is ¥3,138,300 per student. Per‑term / installment billing and payment terms - Invoices are issued to families and are sent approximately one month prior to the payment remittance dates. - Payment for tuition, fees and services can be arranged in two to four installments per year; exact installment amounts and due dates are provided on the school invoice and in the annual service agreement. - Enrollment is confirmed by return of the registration package and payment of the registration fee within the time requested in the offer/registration package (the school requests these within the stated deadline after an offer is made). Boarding fees - Boarding is not applicable. The school's published information and admissions materials do not list a boarding program or boarding fees. Other costs and optional charges - Uniforms: the school does not require a uniform; school‑logo clothing items are available for purchase through a supplier (Land's End) and PE T‑shirts are required for physical education. - School trips, some extracurricular activities, some private instrumental lessons, certain IT devices and specific course materials or exams may incur additional charges. - Bus service is optional and charged separately at the amounts listed above. Refund information - The Application Fee, Registration Fee and School Development Fee are designated as one‑time, non‑refundable fees. - No broad public schedule of tuition refunds for mid‑year withdrawal or term pro‑rata refunds is published on the school's public fee pages; billing, refund and withdrawal terms are addressed in the school's annual service agreement and registration documents provided to families. Fee payment options - The school issues invoices via its parent/invoicing system and allows installment arrangements as described above. - The school provides bank‑transfer payment details and accepts payment by bank transfer; bank account information is supplied to families for remittance. Scholarships / discounts - Scholarships (tuition discounts) are available for new and returning students who meet the school's eligibility criteria (generally for families solely responsible for education expenses and requiring financial assistance). Scholarship awards and conditions are published by the school and handled through the scholarship application process.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements The school is a day school and does not offer boarding or homestay options; students live with their parent/guardian in Tokyo during enrollment; instruction is in English.	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement The school does not have a formal uniform. Students wear everyday clothing within a reasonable dress code, and school-logo-attached clothing is available through Land's End for the school community. For Physical Education, students are required to wear a school PE T-shirt.
Food options	Food options The cafeteria offers hot meals with a vegetarian option and a salad bar every day; the kiosk provides ready-made salads, sandwiches, soup of the day, fruit, freshly baked items, snacks and beverages including coffee.	Food options The school offers a daily lunch program. The weekly menu lists Monday: Domino's Pizza; Tuesday: Peito; Wednesday: Big Boy; Thursday: Ryuen; Friday: Ido Kitchen; Everyday: Snack Shack. Lunch is provided through the student-led Entrepreneurship program and daily lunch deliveries.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is formed as a gakko hojin (incorporated educational institution) under Japan's Private School Law and is a non-profit, tax-exempt entity. The governance structure includes a Board of Directors, a Board of Trustees, and two independent Statutory Auditors; Directors oversee the school's mission and finances, Trustees approve fundamental matters and budgets, and the Auditors oversee governance and finances.	Governance and ownership Tokyo IPS operates as a not-for-profit school and is part of the Tokyo International School Group. The school has a Chairperson on its leadership board, indicating governance by a school board.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details The American School in Japan (ASIJ) offers an English-language, American-style curriculum from the Early Learning Center through Grade 12, operating on two Tokyo campuses. The Elementary School (ages five to 11) emphasizes foundational literacy and numeracy with social-emotional development and inquiry-based learning aligned to the school's Portrait of a Learner competencies. The Middle School (grades 6–8) provides a broad, hands-on program with daily Advisory and an Approaches to Learning framework, plus exposure to language, humanities, science, math, arts, and electives and regular extended-campus experiences. The High School (grades 9–12) leads to an ASIJ diploma requiring four years and 22 credits, and offers a wide range of Advanced Placement courses (including the AP Capstone Diploma), with opportunities for concurrent enrollment via Syracuse University Project Advance (SUPA) and a personalized pathway through the IMPACT program. For the Class of 2026 and beyond, graduation requirements increase to 24 credits, with Wellness: Physical Education & Health and new elements such as Design and Innovation and digital-literacy components replacing or augmenting prior offerings.	Curriculum details The school uses American Common Core standards for Grades 4–8, and the high school program mirrors the University of Nebraska High School (UNHS) curriculum for Grades 9–12. The high school diploma is earned through UNHS and UNHS is accredited by AdvancED and the Nebraska Department of Education; UNHS courses include NCAA-approved core courses and AP courses. The TIPS high school diploma requirements include 40 English credits, 40 Social Studies (including 10 American History, 5 American Government, 5 Multicultural Studies), 30 Mathematics, 30 Science, 10 Career and Finance, and 50 credits from Complementary Courses (including 30 PE credits), with additional requirements in Japanese language or English as an Additional Language (EAP) as needed. Course outlines cover Grades 4–12 in English, Science, Mathematics, and Social Studies, with electives and Complementary Courses such as ICT, Journalism, Art, and Life Skills, aligned to UNHS in the senior years. In addition, EAP (one academic year) and a Certificate of Completion (COC) program are offered; typically less than 10% participate; safety and wellness education is integrated into the curriculum.
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 ASIJ identifies social emotional learning (SEL) as a strategic priority and has engaged external expertise to support its implementation, notably with the Institute for Social and Emotional Learning (IFSEL). The school notes SEL as a priority within its Strategic Design Framework and has integrated SEL into professional learning and family engagement, including parent workshops. Vision of Learning presents SEL as a core component, with a dedicated SEL crest and a focus on interpersonal, intercultural, and collaboration skills. These elements show that SEL is embedded in ASIJ's approach to learning and wellbeing.	Social & emotional learning The school supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through a formal pastoral care framework. It operates a Teacher Advisory Programme (TAP) and Personal Counselling to provide ongoing social and emotional support to students. The Counseling section lists TAP, Personal Counselling, and Career Counseling as core services. Counselors are among the specialist staff, alongside an occupational therapist and a speech therapist who support learning and wellbeing. The Curriculum for Student Safety and Wellness integrates wellbeing topics into the broader curriculum, and staff participate in safeguarding training as part of the school's wellbeing approach.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) ASIJ states a learning support program for mild learning needs from kindergarten through 12th grade (K–12). Each applicant is reviewed individually to assess whether ASIJ can support their learning needs within the school curriculum. Public materials do not specify a broader range of Special Educational Needs or indicate that ASIJ operates as a dedicated SEN specialist institution.	Special educational needs (SEN) Tokyo International Progressive School specializes in alternative education for students with mild learning differences. Specialist staff include an occupational therapist, a speech therapist, counselors, and a learning support coordinator. Typical learner profiles include mild learning differences, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, social/organizational difficulties, and anxiety. The school states it is unable to meet the learning needs of students with extensive learning differences, and is not described as a specialist SEN institution. SEN provision is therefore targeted to mild differences within a small-class, highly individualized setting.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language ASIJ offers a language support program in grades 1–8 to support multiple language learners, alongside English as the medium of instruction. English language instruction remains the primary medium for communication at the school.	English as an additional language English proficiency is required for admission and is reviewed during the interview. If a student does not meet the English standard, the English for Academic Purposes Program (EAP) may be recommended. The EAP program places students with low English ability into English-focused work and allows them to engage in class activities with age-appropriate peers. The work covers one year of English acquisition, followed by a year of continuing academic content at the same grade level. The program is designed to enable language development and peer inclusion within the standard classroom setting.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing ASIJ places emphasis on student wellbeing, supported by safeguarding structures and a dedicated safeguarding coordinator who acts as a school counselor. Safeguarding procedures include annual training for staff and background checks for all employees, along with a safeguarding policy and handbook. The Vision of Learning also ties wellbeing to Global Citizenship, underscoring the school's commitment to well-being as part of its learning framework.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is addressed through a pastoral care framework that includes TAP and Personal Counselling to support students' social and psychological needs. The Student Care page emphasises education, social and psychological care as priorities and documents the two-system approach (TAP and Personal Counselling). The Counseling section lists TAP, Personal Counselling, and Career Counseling as formal services. Staff include counselors and other specialists to address wellbeing, alongside the broader support network (e.g., occupational and speech therapists). The Curriculum for Student Safety and Wellness integrates wellbeing education into the curriculum, with age-appropriate lessons on recognizing unsafe situations and seeking help.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding ASIJ's safeguarding framework centers on a full-time Safeguarding Coordinator, Level 2 Keeping Children Safe certification, a safeguarding policy and handbook, and annual safeguarding training. There are background checks for all employees and a Code of Conduct for faculty and staff. The safeguarding coordinator is Emily Hopwood, and the school articulates formal safeguarding procedures aligned with accrediting bodies such as WASC, CIS and Keeping Children Safe.	Safeguarding The school maintains a comprehensive Child Safeguarding Policy with defined terms, safeguarding procedures, and a Code of Conduct. Staff training is mandatory: new teachers complete a 3-hour Child Safeguarding Course through ChildSafeguarding.com (valid for two years) and a suicide-prevention course through LivingWorks; returning staff receive refreshers. The safeguarding structure includes a designated Child Safeguarding Team (CST) comprising school counselors, the principal, and Lead and Deputy CSTs who manage incidents and communications with authorities. A Flowchart for Reporting and Allegations Action Plan guides safeguarding responses, with an incident-reporting process kept in a secure digital environment. Emergency safeguarding contacts are published, and a Public Reporting Form is available for anonymous reporting of concerns.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview ASIJ operates on two campuses: the Chofu campus for elementary through high school, and the Early Learning Center in Roppongi Hills for nursery through kindergarten. Learning spaces are flexible and technology-enabled, with specialist spaces for art, music, design, robotics, and science. Each division has an age-appropriate library with print and digital resources, and the elementary library includes a maker space. Athletic facilities include a main field, a middle school field, gyms, and a 25-meter indoor pool. Creative and performing spaces include dedicated music rooms, a video studio, art rooms, the Japan Center for authentic cultural experiences, and expansive outdoor learning spaces around a central courtyard.	Facilities overview Tokyo International Progressive School's campus is housed in a single building along the Tama River with elevator access to all floors. The first floor includes a common room seating about 60 students, while the second floor houses six small classrooms (most seating 10 students). The third floor hosts a practical activity lab with built-in water and gas outlets for science, home economics, and art projects, and a soundproof music and sensory room. The upper floors offer views of the Tama River fields, and bus parking is available on-site. For athletics, the school uses off-site facilities at Yuport Setagaya Rec Center and Futako-Tamagawa Sports Field for volleyball, basketball, and futsal, complementing the twice-weekly physical education program and occasional community sports activities.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities ASIJ's athletic spaces include a main field with artificial turf and a middle school field for day use and after-school activities. The campuses house gyms for PE and activities, six rooftop tennis courts with lighting, and a 25-meter indoor pool used year-round. A fitness center and a wrestling/gymnastics room support strength training and a wide range of physical education programs.	Sports facilities Extracurricular athletics use off-site facilities at Yuport Setagaya Rec Center and Futako-Tamagawa Sports Field. Students participate in volleyball, basketball, and futsal as representational teams with other international schools in Tokyo, with the physical education program meeting twice weekly. Periodic community sports activities bring the school community together for joint sporting events.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities ASIJ maintains libraries in each division with print and digital resources to support literacy and inquiry, including a maker space in the elementary library. The school provides design, robotics, and science laboratories equipped for hands-on learning. Middle and high school students have access to a digital composition space, a video studio, and dedicated music rooms for performance and production.	Academic facilities On-site academic facilities include a third-floor practical activity lab with built-in water and gas outlets for science, home economics, and art projects. Course outlines indicate that hands-on labs and virtual labs are part of the curriculum.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities ASIJ offers more than 170 co-curricular activities across divisions. The Japan Center provides authentic Japanese cultural experiences and partnerships with local institutions. Outdoor spaces, courtyards, and the campus facilities support outdoor learning and community events.	Extra curricular facilities Extracurricular activities include volleyball, basketball, and futsal through the athletics program, with representational teams. Physical education is conducted twice weekly as part of the curriculum. The school also offers music and performing arts activities and hosts events such as school variety shows.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History ASIJ's history begins in 1902 with the Tokyo School for Foreign Children, which started in rented rooms at the Kanda YMCA and later moved to other sites as the school expanded. It moved to the Tsukiji area, then to the Shibaura site by 1921, and in 1927 opened the Nakameguro campus with Antonin Raymond assisting in the redesign. The Chofu campus opened in 1963, introducing the iconic elementary building and subsequent expansions for the high school, gym, and theater. The Community Nursery School in Roppongi merged with ASIJ in 1968 and relocated to Nakameguro in 1973, enlarging ASIJ's early childhood offerings. ASIJ celebrated its Centennial in 2002 with a series of events in Tokyo and an alumni reception in San Francisco.	History The school originated in the late 1990s as an inclusive learning initiative led by Ikuko Tsuboya-Newell. She began International Secondary School in 2000, and the program later evolved into Tokyo International Progressive School under a not-for-profit model. The school is governed as a not-for-profit entity and is part of the Tokyo International School Group. It serves students in Grades 4 through 12 and is located at 1-5-20 Kamata, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 157-0077, Japan. Approximately 85% of TIPS graduates go on to post-secondary institutions worldwide.
Community	Community ASIJ has a highly engaged community of families, faculty, and students, supported by hundreds of active PTA members. The PTA contributes thousands of volunteer hours each year to create a welcoming, connected environment and to coordinate community events. Parents volunteer as mystery readers, chaperones for trips, and library helpers, and participate in campus celebrations such as the elementary Halloween Parade and the Senior Walk. Spirit Day is a signature ASIJ event that showcases the breadth of the school's life, with over 170 co-curricular activities and extensive student and parent participation coordinated through the PTA.	Community TIPS frames itself as Building Unity through Diversity and aims to provide a safe, inclusive community for each student. The school documents a range of community and cultural events through its blog, including field trips and service projects. Notable events include the Rotary Club Painting Project, a Woodworking event, the Q1 Awards Ceremony, and a Halloween bake sale, reflecting family and student involvement. The Grade 9 and 10 Science Museum Visit illustrates family engagement in learning beyond campus. The 2025-2026 calendar lists key events that involve families and staff.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association ASIJ's Parent Teacher Association is a central, active organization with hundreds of members who contribute thousands of volunteer hours annually. PTA volunteers support day-to-day life by serving as mystery readers, trip chaperones, library helpers, and by organizing events such as the elementary Halloween Parade and the Senior Walk. Spirit Day is a flagship PTA-driven event, with a Booster Committee coordinating food booths, vendor logistics, and special visits such as performing guests; the event illustrates the scale of PTA-led community activities. The PTA also helps coordinate hundreds of co-curricular opportunities and connects families, faculty, and students across campuses. Parents participate in ASIJ governance, with opportunities to serve on the Board of Directors, Board of Trustees, and various committees, and they are encouraged to share their professions, expertise, and hobbies with classrooms.	Parent teacher association —
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual ASIJ offers extensive co-curriculars beyond class. STEM is active with VEX Robotics, iGEM, and NEA math and International Academic Competitions. A Space Conference with NASA and JAXA broadens exposure, and the Computer Science Club develops coding and problem solving skills.	Academic & intellectual Tokyo International Progressive School serves students in grades 4 through 12. Small academic classrooms accommodate up to 10 students, and staff includes an occupational therapist, a speech therapist, counselors, and a learning support coordinator to address learning needs. Approximately 85% of graduates attend post-secondary institutions worldwide. The high school diploma is issued by University of Nebraska High School in partnership with TIPS; grades 4–9 follow the Curriculum for Excellence, and grades 9–12 study UNHS diploma courses alongside the Curriculum for Excellence, with additional requirements in languages and other areas leading to UNHS and TIPS graduation certificates.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Arts range from ELC hula to traditional Japanese theater in upper grades. Divisions stage annual musicals, and students can join Kanto Plain honor band, choir, orchestra, and AMIS programs.	Arts & creative Band Club and Stamp Making Club are among the student clubs offered. Coding Club and Board Game Club operate on Tuesdays, while Soccer Club and Stamp Making Club operate on Fridays. These clubs provide opportunities for music, crafts, games, and social interaction beyond the classroom.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Model UN and Amnesty International are offered as part of cultural and global awareness. Service activities include the elementary rice project and Habitat for Humanity trips.	Cultural & language The school has students from many countries, reflecting an international student body. The English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program provides language instruction for academic study in English, lasting one academic year and designed to support transition to mainstream study. There are opportunities to complete additional requirements in Japanese Language or English as an Additional Language as part of graduation, and graduates receive both UNHS and TIPS graduation certificates.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies ASIJ has over 170 co-curriculars. High school offers 15 sports; middle school offers 20. The arts include musicals, ASIJ TV, and VEX robotics.	Social & hobbies The Student Council leads social activities, organizes picnics, matinees, fundraisers, and acts as the hot lunch provider with daily lunch delivery. Getaways and field trips include overnight trips and day trips such as See Japan Break and a winter ski trip. Clubs such as Coding Club, Band Club, Board Game Club, Soccer Club, and Stamp Making Club offer additional social and hobby experiences.
Community & service	Community & service Service includes Model UN, Amnesty, and 25 projects. There are over 600 service group members and activities such as rice projects and Habitat trips.	Community & service —
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Leadership develops through debate and public speaking opportunities in high school. The program encourages exploration beyond predefined tracks and involvement in clubs, service groups, and athletics.	Leadership & professional The Student Council provides leadership opportunities and coordinates school activities. From 10th Grade, students attend regular sessions with a Career Counselor to assist with university and career planning, application processes, and liaison with postsecondary institutions. The Career Counselor's role includes providing information on career paths, facilitating postsecondary admissions, promoting educational fairs, and supporting student outreach to universities.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellbeing is promoted through athletics and the Positive Coaching Alliance partnership. Karate and kendo are offered across divisions; musicals and ASIJ TV provide creative outlets.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The Athletics program offers representational teams in volleyball, basketball, and futsal, with physical education twice weekly and a focus on skill development, fitness, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Community sports activities are periodically arranged for the whole school community. The curriculum supports wellness and active learning through PE, athletics, and recreational trips such as ski trips.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision ASIJ's language provision centers on English as the language of instruction. Japanese is taught as a foreign language beginning in first grade (Chofu campus), with formal Japanese as a Foreign Language instruction documented for Grades 1–2 and Grades 3–5. In addition, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish are offered as foreign‑language options, with high school students able to pursue Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, and Spanish as part of their language track. The school provides an English Language Learners (ELL) support program for non‑native English speakers in grades 1–8. In the Early Learning Center, language and cultural experiences, including Japanese language exposure, are integrated into daily learning.	Language provision English Language Arts is taught from Grade 4 through Grade 12, and an English as an Additional Language (EAL) program supports non-native English speakers. A Japanese language offering exists as 'Japanese & Language Culture' as part of the course options. In the upper grades, the program follows Common Core standards for Grades 4-8, while the high school diploma mirrors the University of Nebraska High School curriculum. The UNHS diploma includes English, Social Studies, Mathematics, Science, and related subjects, with EAL and other language-related courses integrated into the program.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs ASIJ does not publish a year‑round language‑immersion program. Immersion opportunities exist in summer through the ASIJ Summer Passport program, a three‑week session in which most classes are taught in English, while native Japanese classes are offered to heritage speakers in grades 2, 3, 4 and 5–9. The Summer Passport program includes language arts, mathematics, technology, the arts, and sports, with native Japanese language study included as part of the curriculum. It serves as ASIJ's primary immersion‑style offering for language development during the summer.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations The American School in Japan (ASIJ) holds two primary accreditations publicized by the school: - Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accreditation. WASC is a regional accrediting body that evaluates schools to ensure they meet established standards for quality and continuous improvement, supporting ASIJ's American-style college-preparatory program. - Council of International Schools (CIS) accreditation. CIS is a global organization that provides international school accreditation against international standards, reflecting ASIJ's compliance with high-quality international-school practices.	Accreditations University of Nebraska High School (UNHS) diploma program is accredited by AdvancED and the Nebraska Department of Education. The school notes that its high school curriculum mirrors UNHS, and UNHS is described as being accredited by AdvancED and the Nebraska Department of Education, which covers curriculum, staffing, instruction, credit awarding, and diploma granting.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Step 1: Inquiry and open houses. The process starts with submitting the ASIJ INQUIRY FORM to share your family's needs and educational goals. Completing the inquiry gives you access to register for Open House sessions at ASIJ's campuses. Open House dates for the 2025–26 school year include October 2 and 16, November 6 and 13, and December 4 in 2025, with additional sessions in January and February 2026; pre-registration is required and space is limited. Step 2: Create an admission portal account and begin the online application. After submitting the inquiry, you will receive guidance to open an application account (Veracross) to start the online application. Within the portal you will see a checklist and can begin the Online Application Form, then submit the required items on the Admission Portal. Applications for the 2026–27 school year open in November 2025, and the portal supports multiple applicants for a family, though you should sign up for only ONE child to avoid duplicates. Step 3: Submit required documents on the Admission Portal. The required items vary by grade but typically include school reports or transcripts when available, and confidential teacher recommendations. Recommendations in languages other than English are acceptable, though English is preferred, and translations may be requested at your expense. You may also need mid-year report cards for certain grades; the admissions portal guides you on exactly what to upload for Nursery–Kindergarten through Grade 1. Step 4: Initial review and possible screening. There is no general entrance examination. The Admissions team reviews school reports, test scores, and recommendations, and may request academic, English, or other screening prior to a decision. The process focuses on alignment with ASIJ's philosophy, diversity balance, resource availability, and the school's English-medium education requirement. Local and overseas applicants are both considered during this review. Step 5: Admissions decision timeline. Admissions decisions typically begin in late February or early March and continue through the summer. Decisions consider how well the family's educational goals align with ASIJ's approach, as well as current seat availability and the school's ability to support the applicant. Both local and overseas applicants are evaluated within this timeline. Step 6: Offer, acceptance, and enrollment. If admitted, families receive an admissions decision and must respond to secure a seat. To finalize enrollment, the non-refundable Registration Fee of ¥300,000 is due, and the seat is reserved for the first day of school; additional annual fees and tuition apply as outlined below. Annual fees include Capital Assessment of ¥250,000 (non-refundable) and Building Maintenance Fee of ¥1,525,000 (non-refundable). 2025–26 tuition is ¥2,987,000 for Nursery–Pre-K, ¥3,269,000 for Kindergarten–Grade 5, ¥3,425,000 for Grades 6–8, and ¥3,533,000 for Grades 9–12. Bus service is available for ¥390,000 per year, with pricing for trips, meals, and technology requirements published in advance. Tuition and fees are due upon receipt of the invoice in Japanese yen; personal installment plans may be available. Corporate Contribution Program offers a way for participating organizations to sponsor educational benefits, potentially reducing the net cost to families through corporate funding and scholarships funded by the program. Step 7: Language and campus logistics. One or both parents must be fluent in English to ensure effective communication and support for the child's education; English is the medium for all ASIJ communications. If language support is needed, ASIJ provides programs for language learners in Grades 1–8. Kindergarten is offered at two campuses—ELC in Roppongi and K–12 in Chofu—and applicants should indicate their campus preference during the application. ASIJ also notes mid-year transfer considerations, with the school year running August to June and certain transfer rules for families already in Tokyo.	Admissions 1. Initial Communication: Prospective families can inquire by phone, email, or an initial contact form, and may arrange a school visit by appointment to learn about the programs. Parents provide a brief introduction of their child through the initial contact form so TIPS can determine if the child meets the school's application requirements. This step sets up the information exchange and helps families understand whether the school's program aligns with their child's needs. 2. Application: To apply, submit the application package with a 33,000 yen application fee; the package is sent to you by email. An interview with the Principal follows as part of the assessment. An English proficiency assessment may be required, and in some cases a writing sample may be requested. A 1–2 day trial period is offered to experience the class environment, and all applicants must provide transcripts in English. 3. Offer of Placement: After reviewing the application package and observing the trial day, if TIPS can meet the child's needs, an acceptance letter and the registration package are sent by email from the Principal within about one week. In some cases, an undiagnosed student may be referred to meet with the school psychologist to ensure the school can provide appropriate services. This step confirms the school's fit with the student's needs and outlines next steps for enrollment. 4. Registration: Enrollment is confirmed upon receipt of the registration package and the 378,000 yen registration fee, with the package and fee requested within two weeks of offer of placement. Families should complete the registration process within that two-week window to secure placement. Source references: Admissions Process page (Initial Contact, Application, Offer of Placement, Registration).
Scholarships	Scholarships ASIJ does not offer scholarships or need-based financial aid for new applicants. The admissions page states clearly that new applicants are not eligible for scholarships or financial aid. The school does offer a Corporate Contribution Program, which allows participating corporations to donate to ASIJ to fund corporate scholarships for dependents of employees; this program can influence admissions decisions as part of consideration of overall enrollment. ASIJ also maintains a Financial Aid Endowment fund with various named funds that support financial aid in general, though specific award processes and eligibility are not detailed publicly. Families should consider corporate sponsorship options if applicable and note that donor-funded financial support exists as part of the school's long-term financial structure.	Scholarships Scholarships: Tokyo International Progressive School offers a scholarship program to assist new and returning students whose parents are solely responsible for education expenses and who require financial assistance. Scholarships are not available to students whose tuition is paid, in part or wholly, by an employer or other sponsoring organization. The program includes two tiers with specific discounts on tuition and related fees and requires annual reapplication. Tier 1 Scholarship: School Development Fee reduced from 550,000 yen to 275,000 yen (before tax); 2022–2023 Scholarship Tuition reduced from 2,636,800 yen to 2,300,000 yen (before tax). Tier 2 Scholarship: School Development Fee reduced from 550,000 yen to 275,000 yen (before tax); 2022–2023 Scholarship Tuition reduced from 2,636,800 yen to 2,300,000 yen (before tax); Educational Enhancement Fee reduced from 200,000 yen to 0 yen (before tax). Application is annual for each enrolled child. Required submissions include a Scholarship Application Form, a Financial Worksheet, the most recent income certificate (gensenchoshuhyo) or equivalent, and any optional documents to support the application. The scholarship decisions are confidential and final, with notifications issued by the end of April.
Waitlist	Waitlist ASIJ does not publish a formal waitlist or pool system on its admissions materials. Admissions decisions are driven by seat availability and the school's stated criteria, including alignment with ASIJ's philosophy, diversity goals, and resource capacity. Mid-year transfers are subject to seat availability and campus policies, and local applicants may face timing constraints due to the August–June school year. In practice, families may need to plan around the annual admissions cycle (with decisions typically issued from late February through the summer) rather than a published waitlist.	Waitlist Waitlist/Pool: The official admissions materials do not publish a waitlist or pool system. The Admissions Process page outlines the steps for inquiry, application, placement, and registration but does not describe any waiting list or pool process. Therefore, there is no publicly documented waitlist policy on the school's admissions pages.
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