Compare Christian International Schools in Japan

Instructs in English

Ages 3 - 18 years

Fees ¥2,062,000 - 2,412,000

Pupils 464

Type Co-educational

Christian Academy in Japan (CAJ) is a K–12 co-educational day school in Higashi Kurume, in Tokyo’s northwest suburbs, established in 1950. Instruction is in English and follows a North American curriculum model with Bible classes across grades. In high school, students can take Advanced Placement (AP) courses and complete a required Senior Capstone research-and-project course. Each fall, “School Without Walls” replaces normal classes for a week so students practice leadership and service around Japan. World languages include Japanese and Spanish, offered from beginning levels through advanced/AP options. Students join co-curricular programs such as robotics, Student Council, National Honor Society, drama and music ensembles. Campus spaces include the ARK building, which houses the cafeteria/kitchen, band room and a multi-purpose room for events and activities. Athletics in the high school profile include basketball, soccer, volleyball, tennis and track.

Location

CAJ is located at 1-2-14 Shinkawa-cho, Higashi Kurume-shi, Tokyo 203-0013, Japan. The main CAJ campus covers about 4 acres in the western suburbs of Tokyo. Most students commute by public transportation, bicycle, or walking.

Stages

CAJ is a K-12 school serving kindergarten through high school. It operates a day school program and a Parallel Educational Services division for English-speaking homeschoolers.

Type

CAJ is a private, co-educational day school. Boarding facilities are not offered.

Pupil Nationality Mix

CAJ's student body includes students from over 20 countries. The most represented nationalities are Japan, the United States, and Korea; about 33% of students have multiple nationalities.

Additional learning support

CAJ admits students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for speech and language and/or specific learning disabilities, and accepts students with physical, emotional, or behavioral needs under defined conditions. Parallel Educational Services provides consultancy, resources, and programs for English-speaking homeschoolers and affiliated schools.

Country affiliation

CAJ has no formal country affiliation; it is operated in Japan by six evangelical mission organizations.

Religious affiliation

CAJ is a Christian school with a Christ-centered program; chapels are attended by all students as part of spiritual life. Founding missions underpin the school's Christian identity.

School day structure

Campus opens at 8:00 (9:00 on Wednesdays); classes begin at 8:30 (9:30 on Wednesdays). Elementary dismissal is at 3:30 p.m.; all students should leave campus by 5:00 p.m. unless in a supervised activity. High School runs a block-based schedule with Chapel during the day.

Bus service

CAJ does not operate a dedicated school bus service. Students typically commute by public transportation or bicycle; passes for trains or buses can be arranged, and bicycles must be parked in designated areas with safety rules observed.

Application and Entrance Fees

- Application fee: ¥16,000 (payable per child; non-refundable).
- Testing fee: ¥11,000 (payable in advance for applicants requiring testing; non-refundable).
- Entrance fee: ¥430,000 (payable before commencement once applicants are accepted; non-refundable).
- Entrance EAL fee: ¥107,000 (one-off fee for new Grade 6–12 students requiring EAL support).

Registration and Annual Facility Fees

- Registration fee: ¥54,000 (non-refundable deposit to confirm initial enrollment and payable each May to confirm continuing enrollment).
- Facilities fee (annual): ¥165,000 (non-refundable; assists with continuing development of facilities).

Tuition Fees by Year Group (annual amounts)

- Kindergarten and Elementary (K to G5): ¥1,845,000 per year.
- Middle School (G6 to G8): ¥2,020,000 per year.
- High School (G9 to G10): ¥2,165,000 per year.
- High School (G11 to G12): ¥2,195,000 per year.

Billing Schedule and Payment Terms

- Annual billing: Annual fees are payable every school year before commencement unless a Deferred Payment Plan is used.
- Deferred Payment Plans available:
- 2-Payment Plan: non-refundable plan fee ¥6,000; two payments in August and January. The 2-payment plan applies to tuition fees only.
- 10-Payment Plan: non-refundable plan fee ¥11,000; ten payments August–May. The 10-payment plan schedules Tuition, Facilities Fee, and Plan Fees across the ten payments.
- Sibling discount: tuition reduced by 25% for the 3rd and 4th child after the 2nd child per family attending in the same year.
- Refunds: refund of tuition fees is available by semester only, and only if the student is wholly unattended, exiting, and a 30-day notice is given. Admissions fees (application, testing, entrance, etc.) are non-refundable.
- Overdue account policies: grades and transcripts may be withheld at semester break until 50% of annual tuition and fees are paid; diplomas and final transcripts withheld if accounts are not paid in full; overdue accounts can lead to loss of charging privileges or termination of enrollment. The Head of School may grant exceptions only after a written request.

Per-payment Examples (derived calculations based on published annual amounts and the stated Deferred Payment Plan structures)

Note: the following per-payment figures are calculated from the published annual tuition, the published facilities fee, and the stated plan fees. These per-payment numbers are presented to show how payments would break down under each plan structure.

- 2-Payment Plan (tuition split into two equal installments; plan fee ¥6,000 is an additional non-refundable annual charge):
- K–G5: ¥1,845,000 ÷ 2 = ¥922,500 per installment. (Plus the ¥6,000 plan fee annually.)
- G6–G8: ¥2,020,000 ÷ 2 = ¥1,010,000 per installment. (Plus the ¥6,000 plan fee annually.)
- G9–G10: ¥2,165,000 ÷ 2 = ¥1,082,500 per installment. (Plus the ¥6,000 plan fee annually.)
- G11–G12: ¥2,195,000 ÷ 2 = ¥1,097,500 per installment. (Plus the ¥6,000 plan fee annually.)

- 10-Payment Plan (ten equal monthly payments August–May; each monthly payment covers tuition, the annual facilities fee ¥165,000, and the annual plan fee ¥11,000):
- K–G5: (¥1,845,000 + ¥165,000 + ¥11,000) ÷ 10 = ¥202,100 per month.
- G6–G8: (¥2,020,000 + ¥165,000 + ¥11,000) ÷ 10 = ¥219,600 per month.
- G9–G10: (¥2,165,000 + ¥165,000 + ¥11,000) ÷ 10 = ¥234,100 per month.
- G11–G12: (¥2,195,000 + ¥165,000 + ¥11,000) ÷ 10 = ¥237,100 per month.

Additional and Activity Fees

- Zero Period class (7:20–8:20 am): ¥22,000 per class.
- AP classes: ¥32,000 per course.
- Private music lessons: ¥2,900 per half-hour (some lesson fees vary).
- Co-curricular participation fees:
- Elementary: ¥5,500 per after-school activity (half semester).
- Middle School: ¥11,000 per sport or robotics season.
- High School: ¥16,500 per sport season; ¥20,000 per robotics season.
- Co-curricular tournament travel fees (indicative and subject to change):
- Kanto area: ¥35,000.
- Honshu: ¥45,000.
- Okinawa, Korea: ¥55,000.
- Guam: ¥77,000.
- Food services: hot meal program and other food items available; prices vary by item.

Refunds and Special Cases

- Admissions fees (application, testing, entrance, etc.) are non-refundable. Refund of tuition is available only by semester under the stated conditions (student wholly unattended, exiting, and 30-day notice provided). Requests for leaves of absence of a semester or more should be made at least 30 school days before planned absence and may incur fees to guarantee a re-entry place.
- Fee assistance is available for families in financial need on application. Government subsidies may be available for Grades 10–12 subject to income and application.

Payment Methods and Business Office

- Accepted methods: bank transfer (domestic bank transfer; include Family ID). No cash accepted. The school lists Resona Bank (Higashi Kurume, Futsu Yokin Savings) with account details for transfers. US dollar checks may be paid at the Business Office. US bank transfer is available on request.
- Business Office / Cashier hours are published for payments handled in person. Overdue accounts and payment compliance are managed by the Business Office.

Boarding Arrangements

CAJ does not have a boarding program. All students must reside with a parent or legal guardian or in a school-recognized alternative residence (host family or relative). Families are responsible for reporting to CAJ if the student is not residing with the parents.

Uniform Requirement

CAJ does not have a fixed school uniform. It uses a dress code that applies on and off campus and requires modest, covered clothing. CAJ-branded apparel can be purchased with approval, and approved gear typically uses a color palette of royal blue, gold, gray, and white.

Food Options

CAJ provides meals through a contracted lunch program with Cezars Kitchen. The menu includes daily fresh baked goods, a variety of snacks, vegetables, and noodles available daily for middle and high school students.

Governance and Ownership

CAJ is governed by a two-tier Board of Directors and Board of Councilors. The nine-member Board of Directors includes representatives from the six founding evangelical mission organizations and the community, plus CAJ's head of school; the Board of Councilors comprises representatives from the founding missions and the community. The board sets the school's vision and the head of school implements it.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

CAJ supports social and emotional learning (SEL) through a coordinated school-wide approach led by the K-12 guidance office and the multi-disciplinary Support Team. The Support Team includes a Health Coordinator, Guidance Coordinator, Guidance Staff, Resource Staff, and Division Principals who identify students' needs, coordinate internal and external services, and advocate for families. EAL services sit under the Support Team umbrella and may inform next steps when language development affects learning; EAL input is integrated with subject teachers and EAL staff to support learners. The Guidance Center provides study skills, career testing and guidance, college guidance, academic support, and high school course scheduling; the guidance counselor offers limited, non-intensive personal counseling, with more serious issues referred to outside resources. The Health Center is staffed by a full-time nurse to promote health and safety, complementing wellbeing supports available through guidance and resource staff. These elements collectively support students' wellbeing and emotional learning within the academic program.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

CAJ supports students with special educational needs through a multi-disciplinary Support Team that identifies students, coordinates internal and external services, and communicates with and advocates for families. The team's members include Health Coordinator, Guidance Coordinator, Guidance Staff, Resource Staff, and Division Principals; EAL services are provided under the Support Team umbrella and can guide next steps when language learning affects achievement. CAJ does not present itself as a specialist SEN institution; accommodation plans are coordinated by the Support Team and related staff, with resource teachers assisting identified learners. The Learning Resources Center (LRC) offers one-on-one support, small-group work, and services such as reading/writing support, study skills, and organizational assistance to aid learners with diverse needs. Parallel Educational Services operates as a CAJ division offering additional educational support for affiliated homeschool families.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

The EAL Department, led by Kathryn Lewis, is dedicated to supporting students as they acquire English across the curriculum. EAL works with subject teachers through co-teaching arrangements in selected Elementary and Middle School classes and runs separate EAL support classes from Elementary through High School, enabling learners to develop English while following content. Collaboration between EAL and content teachers, including co-teachers and EAL specialists, is a key feature of CAJ's approach to language support. EAL is described as a remediable learning difference, with EAL services overseen under the Support Team umbrella to guide appropriate interventions.

Mental Wellbeing

CAJ offers a Guidance Center providing study skills, career testing and guidance, college information, and academic support to promote student wellbeing. The guidance counselor provides limited, non-intensive personal counseling, with more serious concerns referred to outside resources. The Health Center is staffed by a full-time nurse who handles initial medical care and health information, contributing to students' overall wellbeing and safety. The Learning Resources Center provides personal support (advising, accountability, etc.) and academic assistance to help students manage stress and workload. CAJ's safeguarding policies further support mental wellbeing by ensuring safe, transparent responses to concerns and access to appropriate help.

Safeguarding

CAJ's Child Protection Policy establishes guiding principles of visibility, accountability, and appropriate use and balance of power to ensure student safety. The policy requires that adults on campus act openly in interactions with students, with clear expectations for behavior and boundaries. It emphasizes accountability and transparency for all staff, coaches, and volunteers working with students. Staff, students, and families are encouraged to report concerns, and CAJ commits to listening and protecting students when needed. The policy also includes a Mandated Reporting Form to facilitate reporting of suspected abuse or safety concerns.

Admissions

CAJ uses rolling admissions, and the school year runs from late August to early June. For April admission, CAJ strongly encourages applications before January 15 to enable timely processing, and applications submitted after May 1 may take longer due to the summer break. Parents should plan for a process that can extend through the school year and may involve conversations with the Admissions Coordinator before starting the formal steps.

1. Apply online. Complete the online application and assemble the required documents: birth certificate or passport, confidential teacher recommendation form, transcript, pastor's recommendation (if applicable), and pay the application fee. A testing fee may apply if testing is required. The admissions team reviews the complete application and notifies applicants after the review.

2. Notification of results. Once the complete application has been reviewed, applicants are notified of the outcome. This communication occurs in writing. The timing is not fixed and can depend on the overall review process.

3. Testing and interviews. Applicants who pass the initial screening are contacted to arrange any required testing and interviews. Kindergarten and Grade 1 receive a readiness test; non-native English speakers may need English language testing at any grade level; standardized test documentation is required for Grade 2 and above, and a test may be requested if documentation is unavailable. Both parents and the student are interviewed, and Skype or other digital options may be used for families outside the Tokyo area.

4. Admission decision. Decisions are based on factors including class availability, English language ability, presence of special needs, and classroom dynamics. Admission decisions are communicated in writing (email and postal mail), and most families are notified within 1–2 weeks of the testing and interview.

Note on fees and timing: CAJ publishes a fee schedule in Japanese Yen, with upfront application and testing fees and post-acceptance fees such as entrance, registration, and facilities charges, plus tuition by grade level. See the General Fee Schedule for specifics.

Scholarships

CAJ offers fee assistance for families in financial need, available on application. This assistance is in addition to standard tuition and fees and requires an application process. In Grade 10–12, government subsidies may be available to eligible families, subject to income and application timing. Tax-deductible donation options are also available to support CAJ; details are provided by CAJ's admissions/financial offices.

Waitlist

CAJ operates rolling admissions, meaning there is not a published waitlist system. Admissions are accepted over an extended period, and CAJ can consider admissions during the school year in many cases. Availability depends on class size and placement needs. There is no formal waitlist described in CAJ's admissions materials.

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Saint Maur International School

Instructs in English

Ages 2 - 18 years

Fees ¥2,857,000 - 3,626,000

Pupils 470

Type Co-educational

Saint Maur International School is a co-educational day school in Yamate, a historical, cultural and residential area of central Yokohama, on the same site where it was founded in 1872. The school accepts children from age 2½ through Grade 12. In Grades 9–10, Saint Maur uses the IGCSE framework and in Grades 11–12 most courses are IB courses. Students may take the IB Diploma or take individual IB courses. The school also offers students the opportunity to take Advanced Placement exams. Facilities highlighted by the school include Fine Arts spaces, science facilities, a Sports & Activities Center and Robotics Labs.

Location

Saint Maur International School is located at 83 Yamate-cho, Naka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-8654, Japan. The campus sits in Yamate, a historic, residential district known for its international character and central location in Yokohama. The on-site facilities include Montessori spaces, a Fine Arts Center, a Science Center, and the Cougar Café/Activity Center on a historic yet modern campus.

Stages

The school serves mixed-gender students from Montessori preschool through Grade 12, covering ages around 2½ years to high school. It offers elementary, middle, and high school divisions, with a unified kindergarten/early years program in the Montessori pathway.

Type

Saint Maur operates as a co-educational day international school. It is presented as a Christian-oriented institution with a long-standing community focus; boarding facilities are not described as part of the school's offering, reinforcing its day-school model.

Pupil Nationality Mix

Nationalities represented are reported as approximately 35. The school describes itself as a multi-cultural, multi-national community, but a detailed breakdown by country and the local-to-international ratio is not published.

Additional learning support

Saint Maur provides Learning Support through a dedicated Learning Support Coordinator and team, who develop individual educational plans or intervention plans in consultation with families and teachers. Programs include After School Academic Support and an Advisory Program; Elementary and Middle School offer English as an Additional Language (EAL) support, with a focus on integrating learners into the curriculum. However, due to the school's relatively small size, the range of services is limited and some accommodations may be bounded by institutional capacity.

Country affiliation

No formal country affiliation is stated; the school is an international institution based in Yokohama, Japan.

Religious affiliation

Saint Maur has a Christian orientation and Catholic roots. It is described as a Catholic-founded school with moral values guiding the community, and it traces its origins to the Sisters of the Holy Infant Jesus.

School day structure

A typical day begins around 8:00 a.m. For older students, dismissal commonly occurs around 3:20 p.m.; Montessori students may be dismissed earlier, around 2:15 p.m. Early releases on Wednesdays are noted in calendars; a Prime Time program provides on-site supervision from 7:30–8:15 a.m. and 3:15–6:00 p.m. on specified days. Lunch is served by an outsourced cafeteria service.

Bus service

Saint Maur does not operate a dedicated school bus service; students generally use local transportation or cycle to campus.

Application and one‑time enrollment fees
- Application fee: JPY 35,000, payable at the time of application.
- Registration fee (newly accepted students): JPY 950,000; non‑refundable and payable within the timeframe required after acceptance.
- Reservation fee (re‑enrolling or securing a place): JPY 300,000 (may be credited toward tuition when re‑enrolment is completed).

Annual tuition fees (by program / year group) — stated annual amounts and how they are applied
- Montessori (half‑day): JPY 1,663,000 per year.
- Montessori (full‑day): JPY 2,557,000 per year.
- Pre‑1st Grade: JPY 2,752,000 per year.
- Elementary (Grades 1–5): JPY 3,072,000 per year.
- Middle School (Grades 6–8): JPY 3,142,000 per year.
- High School Grade 9: JPY 3,142,000 per year.
- High School Grades 10–11: JPY 3,153,000 per year.
- High School Grade 12: JPY 3,326,000 per year.

Per‑term / instalment detail
- Tuition is payable in two instalments. The standard instalment schedule is: first instalment due by the end of May and second instalment due by the end of November. Each instalment is equal to one half of the annual tuition unless otherwise stated.
- Late or mid‑term enrolment may be charged pro‑rated tuition based on academic quarters; any portion of a quarter attended is billed as the full quarter amount.

Recurring annual additional fees
- Annual Campus Development and Maintenance Fund (per child): JPY 300,000 (listed separately from tuition).
- Annual PSG (Parent Support Group) dues: JPY 2,000 per family (annual).
- Student Council fees (for Grades 6 and above): Middle School JPY 1,000; High School JPY 2,000 (annual).
- Textbooks, external examination fees (for IB/IGCSE/PSAT) and school medical examinations are covered by the tuition charge; other optional items or activities may incur separate charges.

Other programs and their fees
- Prime Time (before / after school supervision for younger children): spot reservation JPY 1,500 per hour per child; multi‑day plan options and fixed half‑year/monthly plans are available with published rates (examples: Plan A up to 3 days/week JPY 100,000 per half‑year; Plan C up to 5 days/week JPY 160,000 per half‑year). Prime Time fees are billed as described in the Prime Time programme terms.
- Summer school and holiday programmes: published per‑course tuition applies; cancellation and refund deadlines apply to these programmes (example refund schedule listed for summer school cancellations).
- Uniforms, team kit, certain extracurricular activities and personal music lessons are additional costs and are billed or purchased separately; the school requires uniforms but specific uniform pricing is handled at point of purchase.

Boarding fees
- Not applicable. Saint Maur operates as a day school and does not provide boarding accommodation. Families should plan for daily commuting rather than on‑campus residence.

Refunds and withdrawal
- No refunds are issued for withdrawals that occur during the half‑year payment periods (the half‑years run August–December and January–June); mid‑term withdrawals therefore do not result in a refund for the half‑year already billed. Summer school and short courses have their own cancellation/refund deadlines.

Billing schedule and payment terms (summary)
- Instalment schedule: first instalment due by end of May; second instalment due by end of November. Each instalment equals half the annual tuition unless another schedule is agreed. The Registration Fee and other one‑time fees carry the payment deadlines described above and are non‑refundable when so stated. Late enrolment may be billed pro‑rata by quarter.

Accepted currencies and methods of payment
- All school payments are accepted in Japanese Yen (JPY) only. All bank charges for international transfers are borne by the remitter.
- Bank transfer options: Bank of Yokohama (Honmoku branch) and Japan Post (Yucho) accounts are provided for JPY transfers. SWIFT details are supplied for international wire transfers.
- Credit card payments: an online payment process via the school's inquiry/admissions channel is available for card payments; the admissions office will process credit‑card payments via that route. In‑person payment at the main office is also accepted for certain fees.

Discounts, corporate contribution plan and sibling arrangements
- A corporate contribution plan is offered for companies sending employees' children to the school; details and enrolment are managed through the school's admissions/finance office. Sibling discounts, if any, are not listed as a standard published item and should be discussed with admissions/finance.

Notes for budgeting
- A family enrolling a child for the first year should budget for the one‑time non‑refundable Registration Fee and the Application Fee in addition to the annual tuition and the Campus Development and Maintenance Fund. Example first‑year totals combine the listed one‑time fees with the annual tuition and development fund shown above. Annual recurring charges (PSG dues, Student Council fees where applicable) should also be included in ongoing budgets.

(Information compiled from the school's published tuition/fees notes and recent fee summaries for the current academic year.)

Uniform Requirement

Saint Maur requires a school uniform. The uniform system includes a summer uniform, a regular (winter/formal) uniform, and a PE uniform. Uniform items are purchased via Top of the Class, the school's uniform vendor.

Food Options

The cafeteria is outsourced to Cesar's Kitchen, providing breakfast, lunch, and snacks throughout the day. The program is mindful of allergies and religious/national dietary needs, and parents can view meals and manage cafeteria accounts via Cesar's website.

Governance and Ownership

Saint Maur International School is governed by two boards: the Board of Directors, which handles fiduciary and strategic oversight, and the Board of Trustees, which provides advisory input. The school was established by the Infant Jesus Sisters and reflects its Catholic foundation.

Curriculum

Saint Maur International School offers Montessori Kindergarten (2½ years and up) through High School (Grade 12), organized as Montessori, Elementary, Middle School, and High School. In Elementary School, the IPC (International Primary Curriculum) forms the base for History, Science, Social Studies and Geography, with a program that also includes Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Japanese, EAL, Religious Studies, PSHE, Technology, Art, Music, Physical Education, Maker Space and Library Skills. In Middle School (Grades 6–8), students study English, Natural Science, Mathematics, Social Studies (Geography in Grades 6–7 and World History in Grade 8), Technology, Fine Arts, and World Language (Japanese plus French or Spanish); Grade 8 offers electives such as IGCSE Computer Science, IGCSE Visual Arts, IGCSE Drama and IGCSE Music, with a second-language option (Japanese, IGCSE French B or IGCSE Spanish B). In High School (Grades 9–12), students follow the IGCSE pathway in Grades 9–10 and enter the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in Grade 11, with six IB subjects chosen from about 22 offerings; there is one non-IB option (International Relations) and external exams include IB, IGCSE, PSAT and SAT. Languages are taught from early middle school through Grade 12 in French and Spanish, with preparation for IGCSE and IB, including IGCSE French B and IGCSE Spanish B as available options.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Saint Maur supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through its pastoral team, which provides learning and emotional support to students. In Elementary School, the homeroom program fosters a positive classroom environment and helps students develop interpersonal skills, teamwork, and problem-solving. A Secondary Advisory Program assigns an advisory teacher to support student progress in assessments and overall wellbeing. An on-site bilingual counselor (English and Japanese) is available to assist students with personal and emotional concerns in a confidential setting. Referrals can be made by teachers, parents, or students, and, when appropriate, referrals to external counseling can be arranged.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Saint Maur has a Learning Support team that provides individualized support through an IEP or intervention plan created in consultation with the Learning Support Committee, teachers, and parents. The student body includes a small percentage of students with special learning needs. Availability of special needs services is limited due to the school's size. The Learning Support Coordinator plans the support with the committee, teachers, and parents, with frequent review meetings to track progress. The admissions criteria note that the level of learning support is limited and that the school may not be able to accommodate students with substantial needs, with probationary/conditional admission used in some cases.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

English as an Additional Language (EAL) support exists in the Elementary International section, providing push-in and/or pull-out support for beginning language learners. The lessons are tailored to students' language needs and focus on listening, speaking, reading and writing to access the curriculum and cope with language demands. Specialists from the Student Support team, including Learning Support teachers, work with students, parents, and teachers to provide support for students who may require additional assistance or minor learning differences.

Mental Wellbeing

Saint Maur offers mental wellbeing support through its Learning & Emotional Support program. The school has an on-site bilingual (English and Japanese) counselor who is available to assist students and provide a confidential, supportive environment. Referrals can be made by teachers, parents, or students, and sessions can be arranged as individual, group, or family appointments depending on need. The pastoral team and leadership emphasize student wellbeing and privacy, and referrals to external counseling agencies can be made when appropriate.

Safeguarding

Saint Maur maintains Safeguarding and Child Protection policies to promote wellbeing and protect students from harm, including procedures for reporting concerns. Safe recruitment is conducted for all staff, with reference checks and eligibility to work with children assessed according to country requirements. A Safeguarding Team oversees policies and on-campus safety, with guidelines for visitors and a Child Protection Handbook. All adults on campus, including contractors and regular volunteers, must complete child protection training and sign the school's Code of Conduct. Contact details for safeguarding resources and reporting concerns are published by the school.

Admissions

Step 1. Inquiry: Begin by submitting an online pre-application Inquiry Form to determine eligibility for Saint Maur International School. The submission assigns the correct staff to the file and allows clarifying questions to be asked. After an inquiry is submitted, a family may visit the school if they are eligible for admission. Important eligibility notes: Saint Maur is a day-school that considers applicants who reside in Japan with one or both parents; a non-Japanese student must have a proper residential visa; at least one parent must speak and read English fluently to engage in the partnership with the school; the campus is not barrier-free.

Step 2. Application: If the family is eligible to apply, they receive an admissions link. The application requires copies of passport(s) and two years of academic records in English (with exceptions for the French school), and contact details for two Confidential Teacher's Recommendations. For preschool, some documentation may be limited. An application fee is collected, paid by credit card, and the fee is ¥25,000 per student. Payment can proceed via online credit card, bank transfer, or other payment methods listed by the admissions portal.

Step 3. Evaluations (Grades 4–11): All incoming students from Grade 4 through 11 are evaluated prior to acceptance. Evaluations cover English language skills and Mathematics and may be conducted remotely for applicants outside Japan or unable to travel.

Step 4. Evaluations (Grades 1–3): All incoming students from Grade 1 through 3 are also evaluated prior to acceptance. For students not in Japan or unable to travel, a tentative acceptance may be issued with the actual evaluation taking place on arrival before starting classes.

Step 5. Acceptance: A full acceptance or probationary/conditional acceptance may be issued to allow enrollment. For students living in Japan, the family has five business days to decide and enroll; an enrollment Registration fee is collected. For students outside Japan, the family is given ten business days to decide.

Step 6. Waiting Pool: If an opening is not available, the student will be placed in the Waiting Pool. Waiting Pool Guidelines exist, and the waiting pool is not sequentially structured; Saint Maur will prioritize accepting the best overall match for the school.

Scholarships

Saint Maur International School does not publish a scholarships program on its site. The Tuition Fees page outlines non-refundable fees (including Application Fee and Registration Fee) and various School Fees (such as Tuition Fee, Campus Development and Maintenance Fund, PSG Dues, and Student Council Fees) as well as policies on payments and late enrollment. There is a Corporate Contribution Plan for companies wishing to sponsor employee children, but no formal need- or merit-based scholarship program is described.

Waitlist

Yes. Saint Maur uses a Waiting Pool for cases where no immediate opening exists. The Waiting Pool is not sequentially structured, and the school will typically select the best overall match for the program when an opening becomes available. Waiting Pool Guidelines are published by the school.

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Yokohama Christian School

Instructs in English

Ages 2 - 11 years

Fees ¥2,007,000 - 2,126,000

Pupils 40

Type Co-educational

Yokohama Christian School (YCS), founded in 2002, is located in Yokohama’s historic Bluff (Yamate-cho) area and serves children from Preschool through Grade 5. The elementary program uses an American Classical Christian curriculum, including resources such as Shurley English, Saxon Math and Bible materials. The school notes that social studies draws on students’ backgrounds and the school’s Japan location. YCS also offers an enrichment program across ages that includes art, music, PE, Latin, library, technology and worship, with Japanese listed as part of enrichment in the admissions FAQ. For after-school options, the school lists clubs such as Children’s Choir, Book Club, Homework Club, Multimedia Club and Running Club. The school also describes an After School Care program with extended options.

Location

Yokohama Christian School is located at 66-2 Yamate-cho, Naka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0862, Japan. It is in the Bluff district of Yokohama, near landmarks such as the Foreigner's Cemetery, Bluff Clinic, Ferris Girls' School, and St. Maur International School. The area is accessible by nearby subway and JR lines, including Motomachi-Chukagai Station and Ishikawa-cho Station.

Stages

Preschool (age 2–4) and Elementary (Kindergarten–Grade 5). The Elementary division is split into Lower Elementary (Kindergarten–Grade 2) and Upper Elementary (Grade 3–5).

Type

The school is a non-profit, co-educational preschool and elementary school. It is non-denominational and church-sponsored, offering Christian and classical education.

Pupil Nationality Mix

The student body includes international, bicultural, and local students. The school does not publish nationality percentages and does not require a specific nationality; applications are open to all faiths.

Additional learning support

YCS provides Learning Support, including Regular Learning Support on a case-by-case basis. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is available from this school year, with a focus on language arts as the foundation for other subjects. The school works with families and support staff to provide appropriate academic and behavioral support.

Country affiliation

No formal country affiliation; the school operates in Yokohama, Japan.

Religious affiliation

Christian affiliation; non-denominational and church-sponsored.

School day structure

A Before School Care option runs from 7:55 a.m. to 8:25 a.m. The After School Care program ends at 3:30 p.m., with Extended After School Care available to 5:00 p.m. Regular school hours are supported by these care options.

Bus service

There is no school bus service offered at this time; families use public transport. The school notes that many families live near Yamate-cho and Honmoku and rely on public transportation.

Admission process fees

- Application fee: JPY 30,000 payable at the time of application.
- Entrance fee: JPY 300,000 payable when invoiced.

Annual fees (non-tuition)

- Registration fee: JPY 42,000 (non-refundable).
- Annual development fee: JPY 250,000 payable when invoiced.

Tuition fees (annual and per-term by year group)

- Elementary (Kindergarten – Grade 5)
- Annual tuition: JPY 1,802,000.
- Per term (two-term billing): JPY 901,000.

- Sprouts (3–4 year olds), Full Day (08:30–15:30)
- Annual tuition: JPY 1,715,000.
- Per term (two-term billing): JPY 857,500.

- Sprouts (3–4 year olds), Regular (08:30–14:30)
- Annual tuition: JPY 1,630,000.
- Per term (two-term billing): JPY 815,000.

- Seeds (2 year olds), Full Day (08:30–14:30)
- Annual tuition: JPY 1,834,000.
- Per term (two-term billing): JPY 917,000.

- Seeds (2 year olds), Regular (08:30–12:30)
- Annual tuition: JPY 1,630,000.
- Per term (two-term billing): JPY 815,000.

Additional recurring or optional fees

- Deferred payment (10-payment plan) fee: JPY 20,000 (non-refundable). Payments on this plan run from May through March with an exemption in October.
- Learning support fee (if required): JPY 40,000 per semester.
- EAL (English as an Additional Language) support fee (if required): JPY 140,000 per semester.
- After School Club Activity (1st–5th graders): Annual club registration and maintenance fee JPY 25,000.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Standard tuition billing: Full tuition is payable in two terms; payments are due May 30 and November 30.
- Deferred 10-payment plan option is available as described above (additional non-refundable fee applies).
- All fees are stated as non-refundable. A withdrawal form is required 30 days prior to leaving. Changes of days during a term are not permitted. Late payments incur a fee equal to 10% of the total outstanding invoice.

Boarding fees

- Boarding is not applicable; the school operates as a preschool and elementary day school and does not list boarding options or boarding fees.

Other costs (uniform, materials, etc.)

- No separate uniform fee is listed in the published fee schedule. Other incidental or program-specific costs are not itemized in the headline fee summary; learning support, EAL support, and after-school club fees are listed above.

Refund information and related business policy

- All fees are non-refundable. A completed withdrawal form is required 30 days prior to leaving. No changes of days during the term are permitted. Late-payment penalty: 10% of outstanding invoice.

Fee payment options and instructions

- Bank transfer / direct deposit in JPY to Bank of Yokohama, Motomachi Branch. Account (ordinary): 311-1518402. Account name: Yokohama Union Church Yokohama Christian School. SWIFT code: HAMAJPJT. Payer must cover bank transfer fees. Use the student's name as the payment reference.
- PayPal: payments accepted via finance.school@yokohamaunionchurch.org (send as a gift and note the child's name; any extra charges deducted to the school will be charged to the parents on the next invoice).
- Japan Post (JP Post) transfer option is provided; account name and number are supplied in the fee instructions.

Tuition assistance

- Limited tuition assistance is available; contact the school office for details.

Uniform Requirement

Uniforms are required. Preschool uniforms consist of a green t‑shirt with the YCS logo and hoodies for colder months; dark colored bottoms are encouraged but not mandatory. Elementary students wear a Kelly-green polo with navy bottoms (slacks or skirts); girls wearing skirts or skorts must wear knee socks in navy or white.

Food Options

Yes. Students aged 3 and above can order a bento from Cezars Kitchen, the meal service used by Saint Maur International School. This provides a lunch option for YCS students.

Governance and Ownership

The school is governed by a School Board in conjunction with the school leadership. It is affiliated with international Christian school networks, including the Japan Evangelical Missionary Association, Christian Academy in Japan, and the Association of Christian Schools International, and holds Star Program accreditation.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Yokohama Christian School supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through an inclusive, Christ-centered learning environment where each student is viewed as a child of God with unique capabilities. The school states it aims to be an inclusive environment and works as a team with parents to ensure students' needs are met, creating a warm, nurturing community of learners. Formal learning support is provided in two areas: behavioral/developmental/learning differences and English language, coordinated by a Learning Support team. The staff includes a School Chaplain who provides pastoral support for students, and a School Nurse who contributes to students' well-being. There is no explicit, named SEL program described on the site.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Yokohama Christian School provides two categories of formal learning support: 1) behavioral, developmental, and learning differences; 2) English language support (EAL). Admissions require parents to provide transparent information about the child's schooling history and diagnosis history to shape an accurate picture of needs. The school emphasizes an inclusive environment and teamwork with parents to meet students' needs. It is not described as a specialist SEN institution, with learning support delivered as part of the regular program rather than a separate SEN-only facility. A Learning Support staff member is listed, and EAL support includes one-on-one and group lessons as well as other forms of support.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is identified at admission or through fall/spring assessments. Some students require support across reading, writing, speaking, and listening, while others may need specific support in one area to succeed at YCS. Students are able to have one-on-one lessons, group lessons, and other support as needed through this program. EAL is part of YCS's Learning Support framework, with ongoing efforts to improve how support is delivered to meet students where they are on their academic journey.

Mental Wellbeing

Mental wellbeing is supported through pastoral care staffed by a School Chaplain, indicating availability of spiritual and emotional support for students. The school describes a nurturing community framed by Christian education. The site does not describe a separate, named mental health program, counseling service, or mental health curriculum. The presence of the School Nurse further complements overall student wellbeing.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding-related information is addressed through health and safety measures. The Health page states that the health of each student is of utmost importance and outlines policies concerning illnesses and absences, with a Classroom Policy handbook available in each classroom and the school office. The school conducts monthly emergency drills, rotating between fire and earthquake drills, and maintains evacuation procedures for emergencies. The School Nurse and School Chaplain on staff contribute to student safety and welfare.

Admissions

Step 1 — Visit: School tours are available by appointment. During the visit, the School Head will discuss your family's educational goals and how Yokohama Christian School can support them. You will be given an admissions pack with information about programs, policies, and next steps. To arrange a tour, contact the school office or submit the inquiry form.

Step 2 — Application: Submit the application and application fee, and provide the required documents: proof of age (birth certificate or passport information page), teacher recommendations or reports from previous schooling, Health History (completed by a parent/guardian), and a Medical Certificate for School Entrance (ages 5 and up). Note that the yearly amounts for different grades are payable in two terms, and you should confirm that all documents have been received before the application is considered. Your application will not be considered until all documents are received.

Step 3 — Interview & Observation: A parent and child interview is conducted to discuss your situation and future school plans. Children aged 4 years and older are evaluated on English listening and speaking abilities, while elementary-aged children are assessed in language arts and mathematics in addition to English listening and speaking. This step helps determine placement and readiness for the program.

Step 4 — Review, Decision & Enrollment: After the interview and once all required documents are received, the school reviews the application and makes a admission decision. If admitted, you will receive enrollment instructions and be invoiced according to the Fees & Tuition schedule; payments are due in two terms (May and November 30th). The fee structure includes an Application Fee, Entrance Fee, Registration Fee, Annual Development Fee, and grade-appropriate Tuition, with additional Learning Support, EAL Support, and After School Club fees as applicable. All fees are non-refundable, and late payments incur a 10% charge on the outstanding balance. If you plan to withdraw, a withdrawal form is due 30 days prior to leaving.

Scholarships

Scholarships: Limited tuition assistance is available for eligible families. Details and eligibility are determined by the school office; families are advised to contact the office for information on what aid may be available and how to apply.

Waitlist

Waitlist/Pool: For the main Yokohama Christian School admissions, a formal waitlist policy is not published on the general admissions materials. The Afternoon Class page states that admission is based on availability of space and indicates that you will be informed if there is a wait list when determining your start date. This suggests that waitlists, if any, are specific to certain programs and not described as a universal policy for the entire school.

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Kansai Christian School

Instructs in English

Ages 6 - 18 years

Fees ¥1,042,000 - 1,235,000

Pupils 35

Type Co-educational

Kansai Christian School (KCS) is an all-English Christian school serving students in grades 1–12, established in 1970. Teaching and instruction are rooted in biblical values, and the school emphasizes small classes and low student-to-teacher ratios. KCS offers extracurriculars including athletics such as basketball, cross country and ultimate frisbee as well as an annual drama production through its Eagle Theater Company for students in grades 1–8. The campus is located in Heguri-cho, Nara, about a five-minute walk from Kintetsu Heguri Station, and students commute by train from areas including Osaka and Kyoto. The school is accredited through ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International).

Location

Kansai Christian School is located in Heguri-cho, Ikoma-gun, Nara Prefecture, Japan. The campus sits in a rural setting between flower fields and rice paddies, providing a quiet learning environment. It is about a 5-minute walk from Heguri Station on the Kintetsu-Ikoma line, and the address is 282-2 Oaza Misato, Heguri-cho, Ikoma-gun, Nara-ken 636-0904.

Stages

The school educates students in grades 1-12. The campus includes separate facilities for elementary and for middle/high grades, reflecting a split into elementary, middle, and high school levels.

Type

Co-educational day school. There is no boarding provision indicated.

Pupil Nationality Mix

The school describes its community as international, with students from multiple national backgrounds. A precise nationality breakdown is not published.

Additional learning support

KCS emphasizes intentionally small class sizes; a formal SEN program is not described on the public pages.

Country affiliation

KCS operates as a Japanese Zaidan Hojin (non-profit foundation).

Religious affiliation

The school is Christian; it provides a Bible-based, Christ-centered education.

School day structure

The academic year runs on a two-semester calendar, with Semester I ending in advance of final exams and Semester II starting in January. Students typically bring meals from home; occasional school-organized meals are provided by volunteers.

Bus service

KCS does not operate a school bus service; students primarily travel to and from school by train, with Heguri Station located about a five-minute walk from campus.

Application and entry fees
- Application fee (new students): JPY 10,000.
- Diagnostic / assessment fee (if required for placement): JPY 10,000 (one-time).
- Entrance / enrolment fee (one-time at first entry): JPY 50,000. If paid after April 1 a surcharge of JPY 10,000 is applied.

Tuition fees by grade (annual and per term)
- Grades 1–4: Annual tuition JPY 887,000; billed as two equal instalments (per term) of JPY 443,500.
- Grades 5–6: Annual tuition JPY 980,000; billed as two equal instalments (per term) of JPY 490,000.
- Grades 7–12: Annual tuition JPY 1,080,000; billed as two equal instalments (per term) of JPY 540,000.

First-year total (examples of one-time and annual charges)
- First year for a Grade 1 student (example): Application JPY 10,000 + Assessment JPY 10,000 + Entrance JPY 50,000 + Annual student fee JPY 55,000 + Re-enrolment fee JPY 50,000 + Development & Improvement Fund JPY 50,000 + Tuition JPY 887,000 = Total JPY 1,112,000 (first year). Subsequent years' total for that grade (excluding one-time entrance/assessment) typically appears as JPY 1,042,000.

Annual and recurring additional fees
- Annual student / administrative fee: JPY 55,000.
- Re-enrolment / registration fee (annual): JPY 50,000 (surcharge of JPY 10,000 if paid after April 1).
- Development & Improvement Fund (annual; due in September): JPY 50,000.
- Laboratory fee (grades 7–12; annual, due in September): JPY 10,000.
- Student activity fee (annual): JPY 9,000 (covers many field‑trip and activity entry costs; some transport, graduation and fundraiser costs are excluded).
- Miscellaneous items noted in published schedules: 4th‑quarter auditing tuition JPY 203,000; monthly payment plan fee JPY 5,000; graduation fee JPY 10,000; transcript fee JPY 500; achievement testing (home‑schooling) JPY 5,000.
- Sibling tuition reductions: second child 10% discount; third child 20% discount; fourth and subsequent children 50% reduction (applies to tuition).

Billing schedule and payment terms
- Standard tuition billing: tuition is billed annually and payable in two equal instalments — one half due in September and the second half due in January. Other annual fees (for example the Development & Improvement Fund) may have specified due months (Development & Improvement Fund noted as due in September).
- A monthly payment plan is offered (published schedule lists a monthly payment plan fee of JPY 5,000). Specific plan details and enrolment conditions are published with the school's fee documents.

Boarding / accommodation
- Kansai Christian School operates as a day school; boarding / school dormitory fees are not applicable.

Uniforms, supplies and other costs
- School supply lists and expected materials are published separately; parents are responsible for uniforms, personal supplies and occasional event‑specific costs. The school publishes a School Supplies List for each academic year. Laboratory, activity and occasional program fees noted above apply where relevant.

Refund information
- Published fee schedules for the 2025–2026 academic year list fees and payment schedules but do not include a general, detailed public refund policy in the items summarised in the publicly posted fee documents. Refunds and any tuition adjustments are handled according to the school's formal fee policy as set out in the official fee schedule and parent‑student handbook. For clarity on the circumstances and timing under which refunds (if any) are issued, refer to the school's official fee schedule and parent handbook.

Accepted payment methods and instructions
- The publicly available fee summary and fee schedule indicate instalment and monthly plan options (including a published monthly plan fee) but do not list specific payment channels (for example: bank transfer, credit card, online payment processor) in the summary materials. Specific accepted payment methods and the bank/account details or online payment instructions are provided in the school's invoicing documents and fee schedule materials.

Notes and reminders (factual and procedural)
- One‑time fees (application, assessment, entrance) are charged on initial enrolment; some of these may carry a late‑payment surcharge if paid after the school's stated deadline (for example, the entrance fee surcharge after April 1). Annual fees recur each school year.
- The school published a fee schedule for Academic Year 2025–2026; subsequent year schedules are published by the school when released.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Kansai Christian School supports social-emotional learning (SEL) through a school culture that prioritizes relationships and skill-building. The school has been phone-free since 2013 to reduce distractions and encourage face-to-face interaction. During school activities, there is an all-English rule to promote inclusive communication in English. In grades 9-12, all students participate in the Student Council, providing leadership opportunities and a student voice. A school-wide class leader and cleaning program, along with Buddy Reading for grades 1-4 and grades 9-12, fosters responsibility, teamwork, and peer-supported literacy.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Publicly available information does not specify any dedicated Special Educational Needs (SEN) provision at Kansai Christian School. All full-time teaching staff are required to hold a teaching license and/or an advanced degree. The Admissions FAQs describe entrance testing and general admissions but do not reference SEN support or an SEN department. There is no explicit statement indicating that the school operates as a specialist SEN institution. Therefore, it is not publicly disclosed whether targeted SEN services are provided or what kinds of needs the school can support beyond standard instruction.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

KCS is an all-English school serving students in grades 1-12, indicating that English is the language of instruction. The school presents itself as an international community with English-language education. The Admissions FAQs frame the program as English-language education but do not detail specific EAL support services. There is no publicly disclosed information about structured EAL programmes, language support staff, or language development plans. Thus, EAL-specific provisions are not publicly documented on accessible pages.

Mental Wellbeing

Mental wellbeing is supported through social-emotional learning-oriented practices that build relationships and resilience. The Student Life page highlights programs such as Student Council and Buddy Reading that foster peer interaction and leadership. The Welcome from the Principal describes a family atmosphere with low student-to-teacher ratios, contributing to a supportive environment. The phone-free policy and English-language context contribute to a focused, respectful, and inclusive climate. There is no separate, publicly listed mental health program or counselor indicated on accessible pages, though SEL-related practices imply a wellbeing focus.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding information is not described in detail on publicly accessible pages. The Forms and Documents section includes downloadable items such as Emergency Procedures and a Parent-Student Handbook. These documents indicate that safeguarding-related procedures exist within the school's formal documents. The Contact page provides address and phone details for safeguarding inquiries. Explicit safeguarding policies are not publicly disclosed on accessible pages.

Admissions

1. Inquiry and campus visit. Begin by contacting the school office with questions about Kansai Christian School (KCS) and to arrange a campus visit. The Welcome page notes that families are encouraged to schedule a visit to learn more about KCS and its all-English, Christian program. The school provides a local contact address and phone number for arranging visits: 282-2 Oaza Misato, Heguri-cho, Ikoma-gun, Nara-ken 636-0904 and TEL 0745-45-6422.

Scholarships

3. Scholarships. There is no published scholarship program or financial-aid page on Kansai Christian School's site. Admissions materials discuss testing, retesting, tutoring, and language-preparation options but do not reference need-based or merit-based scholarships. Families seeking any form of financial assistance should contact the office to inquire about possible options or guidance on financing.

Waitlist

2. Application submission and rolling admissions. KCS uses rolling admissions, meaning students can enroll throughout the year rather than only at fixed intake dates. A formal waitlist or pool system is not described in the public admissions materials; seats are filled as applications are processed and space becomes available. The school also notes that the easiest academic transition occurs when entering at the start of Semester I (late August/early September) or Semester II (January), with a fourth-quarter auditing option available for mid-year entrants.

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KIU Academy - Kyoto International University Academy

Instructs in English, Japanese

Ages 6 - 18 years

Fees ¥1,453,000

Pupils 235

Type Co-educational

KIU Academy in Kyotanabe, Kyoto, is a bilingual international school serving Grades 1–12. The Academy combines an American-based curriculum with Japanese curriculum awareness and delivers instruction in both English and Japanese across elementary, middle and high school programs. KIU Academy is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), offering students a pathway that meets international and Japanese educational standards. The school’s admissions pages list a structured fee package for tuition, entrance, and other costs for annual enrollment. KIU Academy emphasizes bilingual fluency, cross-cultural communication and preparation for university study. While specific clubs and class sizes are not detailed on the official site, the Academy positions itself as a place where students gain practical bilingual skills and global perspectives designed to support further education in Japan and abroad.

Location

KIU Academy Kyoto is located at 63-1 Yuden Tanabe, Kyotanabe, Kyoto 610-0331. It is centrally positioned between Osaka, Kyoto and Nara. The campus is in Kyotanabe and accessible by rail, with a train map and the option to inquire or schedule a visit.

Stages

KIUA serves Grades 1 through 12, with elementary, middle, and high school levels.

Type

Private international school. It provides bilingual instruction in English and Japanese and serves both Japanese and foreign students within a Christian worldview.

Pupil Nationality Mix

The student body includes students from around 23 countries/regions; KIUA describes a diverse community of Japanese and international students. About 42% of KIUA graduates go on to overseas universities.

Additional learning support

Public information on Additional Learning Needs (SEN) provisions is not published. The facilities include an elevator, accessible parking and an ostomate-friendly multi-purpose restroom.

Country affiliation

KIUA follows an American-based curriculum and is accredited by WASC and ACSI, reflecting U.S.-based standards for international schools.

Religious affiliation

KIUA is Christ-centered and Christian in its worldview.

School day structure

Daily start and end times are not published publicly; current schedules are provided to enrolling families through admissions. For concrete times, contact the school staff.

Application fee
- Application (submission) fee: JPY 25,000. Payment is required by bank transfer to the school's designated account at the time of application.

Entrance and one-off initial fees (charged at enrollment)
- Entrance fee (入学金): JPY 300,000, payable in a single sum at the time of enrollment.
- Course registration fee (科目登録費): JPY 50,000, charged once per academic year at first tuition billing.
- Facilities fee (設備費): JPY 150,000 per year.

Tuition by year group and payment options
- Tuition (授業料) for Grades 1–12: JPY 953,000 per academic year (same amount for all year groups 1–12).
- Initial-year total for a newly enrolled student (Entrance fee + Course registration fee + Facilities fee + Tuition): JPY 1,453,000.

Payment frequency options and amounts
- Annual payment: One payment of JPY 953,000 (available for students enrolling in the spring term). Due date listed as February 25 for annual billing.
- Term (semester) payments (approx. 5% surcharge applies):
- Spring term: JPY 334,000 (due dates: Feb 25, Jul 25, Nov 25 depending on enrollment timing).
- Autumn term: payment dates include Jul 25 and Nov 25 as shown in the billing schedule.
- Winter term: payment dates include Nov 25 as shown in the billing schedule.
- Monthly payments (approx. 10% surcharge applies). Monthly amounts are calculated by dividing the term tuition by the number of months in that term, so monthly amounts vary depending on enrollment timing; example monthly amounts shown are:
- Spring (example): JPY 87,000 (initial monthly payment date shown as Feb 25)
- Autumn (example): JPY 100,000 (initial monthly payment date shown as Jul 25, then every month on the 25th)
- Winter (example): JPY 116,000 (initial monthly payment date shown as Nov 25).
- Notes on timing: Annual payment is available only to students who enroll in the spring. Students enrolling in autumn or winter must use term or monthly payment options until the next academic year. New Grade 1 entrants have specific initial payment deadlines (different dates shown for first- and second‑round admissions).

Billing schedule and payment terms
- The school issues tuition invoices and displays clear due dates for each payment option. Example due dates shown in the billing schedule are Feb 25, Jul 25 and Nov 25 for term payments; monthly payments are due on the 25th of the month. The school requires timely payment by the stated due dates; failure to pay can lead to withholding of grades, transcripts, and certificates, and may lead to suspension or removal from the student register if overdue beyond the school's stated limits.
- Bank transfer is used for application and entrance fee payments; tuition billing refers to payment by transfer to the school's designated account. The school's published materials instruct payment by transfer to the designated account.

Boarding / accommodation fees
- The Kyoto (Kyōtanabe) campus does not list boarding or dormitory fees for KIU Academy; no school-operated dormitory fees are published for the Kyoto Academy campus. (KIU's broader organization has stated that KIU does not provide accommodation and assists students to find housing when needed.)

Other costs and optional fees
- Optional program and incidental costs that may be charged separately include:
- Summer program participation fees (optional).
- Club/activity fees (optional).
- School supplies, workbook and materials costs.
- Any externally provided services (for example extracurricular vendor fees).
- Sibling discount: A partial tuition reduction is available for the second (and subsequent) child; details are handled by the school office.
- Government support: Students in grades equivalent to Years 10–12 are eligible for the national schooling support system regardless of nationality (as noted in the school's fee and admissions materials).

Refund information
- Application fee and entrance fee are non-refundable. Course registration fee and facilities fee are non-refundable. Only prepaid tuition may be eligible for refund under the school's refund policy.
- Tuition refund timing rule: If a formal withdrawal notice is submitted to the school office at least six weeks before the start date of a term, prepaid tuition for that term will be refunded. If the withdrawal notice is submitted later than six weeks before the term start date, that term's tuition is not refundable.
- Administrative fees for refunds: Domestic refund processing fee: JPY 5,000; international refund processing fee: JPY 10,000. Bank remittance fees are also deducted from any refund. For a tuition amount paid in full and later refunded, the school recalculates refund on a term-payment basis (the one-time full payment is re-settled at the term rate, which includes the term surcharge).

Accepted payment methods and practical notes
- Bank transfer to the school's designated account is the explicitly stated payment method for application and enrollment payments; tuition billing and enrollment materials reference transfers to the designated account. No public listing of credit-card payment or online card‑processing for tuition is published in the school's fee documents. Families should plan for bank transfer payments and the related bank fees for domestic and international remittances.

Late payment consequences and enforcement
- If tuition is overdue, the school's policy permits withholding of grades, transcripts, recommendation letters, and diplomas. Overdue status beyond 30 days can lead to withholding of exams or suspension; beyond 60 days may lead to removal from the school register. These consequences apply until outstanding amounts are settled.

Summary of the principal fee amounts (all amounts in JPY)
- Application fee: JPY 25,000.
- Entrance fee: JPY 300,000.
- Course registration fee: JPY 50,000 (annual).
- Facilities fee: JPY 150,000 (annual).
- Tuition: JPY 953,000 per year (Grades 1–12).

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

KIU Academy supports social and emotional learning through a caring, Christ-centered learning community and small-class dynamics, with homeroom teachers monitoring each student's growth and well-being within a 9:1 student–teacher ratio.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

KIU Academy does not publicly disclose information regarding specialized SEN provision or whether it operates as a specialist SEN institution; however, it notes flexible admissions for families with special education needs related to moving into or out of Japan.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

The school supports English as an Additional Language by tailoring class schedules to each student's language ability and providing online admissions interviews for overseas applicants, with language needs accommodated in scheduling.

Mental Wellbeing

Mental wellbeing is supported by a safe educational environment and strong teacher–student relationships within a caring community and small class sizes.

Safeguarding

KIU Academy is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), which require safeguarding and child-protection standards; a standalone safeguarding policy is not publicly disclosed.

Admissions

KIU Academy (Kyoto International University Academy) offers a bilingual (English and Japanese) program and accepts students into Grade 1 and Grades 2–12. Admissions are conducted with a clear, grade‑based process and, for some applicants, flexible entry points (including overseas and returnee families). The information below follows the official admissions steps and timelines published for KIU Academy.

Grade 1 Admissions Process

1. Application Period. Applications are accepted in two periods this year: Period 1 from July 1 to July 31, 2025, and Period 2 from October 1 to November 28, 2025. The school recommends applying during Period 1 when possible, regardless of location, with Period 2 remaining open mainly for returnee students and overseas families. Plan ahead for the period you choose and confirm any required documentation early.

2. How to Apply. Submit the following items by registered mail: (1) Application form with a 2.4 cm × 3 cm photo attached, (2) Academic documents (transcripts) from the last school attended, (3) Any existing academic test results (optional), (4) an application fee of ¥25,000. Use the Bank of Kyoto Osumi branch for the transfer to the Kyoto International University account. If you don't receive a receipt within a week, contact the admissions office.

3. Examination Schedule. There are two possible periods for examinations: Period 1 in late August 2025 and Period 2 in late November 2025. The exact date and arrival time for a school visit are communicated individually. Applications are reviewed across documents and interviews.

4. Test Method. The admissions review includes evaluation of the submitted documents and interviews involving the student and their parent/guardian. The school does not discuss admission decisions in advance.

5. Placement Tests. Placement tests cover English and Japanese. The tests are administered during the interview and help determine the class placement after enrollment based on demonstrated ability.

6. Notification of Results. For Period 1, results are dispatched on September 12, 2025; for Period 2, results are dispatched on December 12, 2025. The dispatch dates are fixed once the period is selected.

7. Enrollment Process. Accepted applicants must transfer the entrance fee by the specified date: September 26, 2025 (Period 1) or December 26, 2025 (Period 2). Delays in payment may result in denial of admission if seats are no longer available.

Tuition and Fees (Grade 1) — First Year Totals

- First Year Total: 1,453,000 yen, comprising Entrance Fee of 300,000 yen, Course Registration Fee of 50,000 yen, Facilities Fee of 150,000 yen, and Tuition of 953,000 yen. All fees are subject to change.
- Notes: Tuition is stated as 953,000 yen (tuition per trimester is noted as 370,000 yen, with three trimesters per year). Other miscellaneous items include optional summer programs, clubs, and school supplies. Application/entrance fees are non‑refundable. Sibling discounts and government enrollment support may apply in appropriate cases. Financial aid may be available for those who need it, with documents requested through the admissions office.

Grade 2–12 Admissions Process

1. Application Period. Applications for Fall 2025 and Winter 2026 enrollment begin July 1, 2025 and continue onward. Availability is grade‑dependent, so applicants should check with the admissions office about current capacity in their target grade. The form used for Grade 1 is the same as that used for Grade 2–12.

2. How to Apply. Submit the same set of materials as Grade 1 by registered mail: (1) Application form with a 2.4 cm × 3 cm photo attached, (2) Academic documents (transcripts from the last school attended), (3) Any existing academic test results (optional), (4) an application fee of ¥25,000. Bank transfer details are the same as for Grade 1. If you do not receive a receipt within a week, contact the admissions office.

3. Examination Schedule. Details of the examination schedule for Grades 2–12 are provided by the admissions office; applicants should contact the office for the current timetable.

4. Test Method. The process includes document review and interviews with students and their parents/guardians. The school notes that admission decisions cannot be discussed in advance.

5. Placement Tests. Placement tests cover English, Japanese, and Math. These tests are administered at the interview, and results help place students into the appropriate class after enrollment.

6. Notification of Results. Results are provided within two weeks after the interview.

7. Enrollment Process. Bank transfer of the designated fees is due within two weeks of notification of acceptance.

Fees (Grade 2–12) — First Year Totals

- First Year Total (Grade 2–12): Entrance Fee 300,000 yen; Course Registration 50,000 yen; Facilities 150,000 yen; Tuition 953,000 yen; Total 1,453,000 yen. All fees are subject to change.
- Notes: Miscellaneous fees include optional summer programs, clubs, and school supplies. Annual payment options are available for Spring entrants; Fall/Winter entrants use by‑term or by‑month options. A sibling discount may apply; 10th–12th graders are eligible for government enrollment support; financial aid may be available for families needing assistance.

Returnees & Overseas Students Admissions (Additional Path)

KIU Academy provides a flexible admissions path for returnees and overseas students. Enrollment is available in Spring, Fall, and Winter, and the school year runs from April to March. Online interviews are available for overseas applicants, reducing the need to travel to Japan for the interview, though in‑person interviews may be requested after arrival for specific needs. Classes are scheduled to align with each student's English and Japanese proficiency, and alumni have progressed to universities both in Japan and abroad.

Language of Instruction and General Considerations

KIU Academy operates bilingual instruction in English and Japanese, with a curriculum designed to support students as they develop proficiency in both languages. This bilingual approach is highlighted as part of the school's mission to provide education that goes beyond mere language proficiency.

Scholarships

KIU Academy does not publish detailed, school‑level scholarship programs on its admissions pages. There is a note that financial aid may be available for families with difficulty affording tuition, and families are advised to contact the admissions officer for application documents. In addition, 10th–12th graders are eligible for government‑sponsored enrollment support. These government/support options are mentioned as part of the general fees section for Grades 2–12 and Grade 1, but no specific KIU Academy scholarship program is described. Prospective families should discuss financial aid options with the admissions office and consider government enrollment support where applicable.

Waitlist

KIU Academy does not publish a formal waitlist or applicant pool system. Enrollment is described as dependent on seat availability by grade, with applications accepted on a rolling basis starting July 1, 2025 (and onward). Families should check current grade availability with the admissions office, and note that admissions are processed as seats remain open rather than through a centralized waitlist.

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Senri International Schools of Kwansei Gakuin

Instructs in English

Ages 15 - 18 years

Fees ¥2,187,000 - 2,723,000

Pupils 700

Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)

Senri International School of Kwansei Gakuin (SIS) is a Japanese middle and high school in Minoh City, Osaka (north Osaka), founded in 1991 and sharing one campus with its sister school, Osaka International School, through the “Two Schools Together” model. Students follow curricula leading to Japanese middle and high school diplomas, and SIS also offers a route for students to pursue the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP), studied in grades 11–12 (ages 16–18). SIS highlights a three-term semester system designed to support transfers and flexible study patterns, and it emphasizes English development across subjects. The campus guide notes English is commonly used across shared-campus activities. Boarding is available via the school’s Akebono Dormitory for students who cannot easily commute.

Location

Senri International School of Kwansei Gakuin (SIS) is located in Minoh City, Osaka Prefecture, in the north of Osaka. It shares its Senri campus with its sister school, Osaka International School of Kwansei Gakuin (OIS). The campus address is 4-4-16 Onoharanishi, Minoh, Osaka 562-0032, Japan. The campus is accessible by Hankyu Bus, with several stops nearby including Senri Chuo and Kita-Senri.

Stages

SIS operates the middle school (Junior High) and high school (Senior High) on the same campus and provides a pathway to the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP) for grades 11–12. The school sits alongside Osaka International School (OIS) on the same campus as part of the ‘Two Schools Together' model.

Type

SIS is a co-educational, day-school. Boarding is available to some students through the Akebono Dormitory for those who cannot commute.

Pupil Nationality Mix

The on-campus community includes students from more than 35 nationalities, reflecting a broad international presence on the combined SIS/OIS campus. Public admissions data indicate high school enrolment is limited to returnees, which shapes the international composition, but exact local-to-international ratios are not published.

Additional learning support

The curriculum emphasizes English development across subjects. SIS uses a trimester-based year (three terms) to support transfers and flexible study patterns; public listings do not publish a separate SEN department, but English-language support is a visible feature of the program.

Country affiliation

The school is based in Japan and operates within the Kansai Gakuin Educational Foundation, which encompasses multiple KG institutions in the region. This reflects a Japanese-based organizational structure rather than a country-specific affiliation.

Religious affiliation

Kwansei Gakuin and its network have Christian roots; KG is described as a Christian foundational education system. SIS itself does not publish a separate religious program, but sits within this Christian heritage.

School day structure

The SIS/KG system follows a trimester model with three terms (Spring, Fall, Winter), each comprising about 60 teaching days. The structure supports multiple entry points and transfers between terms.

Bus service

SIS offers a campus bus service operated by Hankyu Bus. Weekday routes include numbers such as 62, 58, 177 and 181, with stops at Senri Chuo, Hankyu Kita-Senri, Onoharajutaku-minami, Minoh-Semba Handai-Mae, and Minoh Kayano among others. Weekend timetables are published as well.

Application / Entrance (Exam) Fee
- Entrance examination fee: JPY 28,000.

Enrollment (Entrance) Deposit / Admission Fee
- Entrance (admission) fee (入学金): JPY 300,000 at enrollment. For internal progression from the middle school to the high school within the school, the fee is JPY 150,000. Once paid, the entrance (admission) fee is not refundable.

Annual Tuition (by year group) and Per‑term Amounts
- Annual tuition (授業料) for 2026 entrants: JPY 1,266,000 per year. This tuition amount is fixed at the time of entry and does not change through graduation for that cohort.
- Billing schedule for tuition and the listed "other fees": the annual amounts for tuition and other specified school charges are collected in three instalments per year. Using the school's instruction that these annual amounts are paid in three instalments, the per‑term division is as follows (calculated by dividing the annual totals by three):
- Tuition per term (calculated): JPY 422,000 (1,266,000 ÷ 3).

Other School Charges (annual and per‑term)
- Other annual miscellaneous charges (other fees) and their purposes: total JPY 102,000 per year, composed of:
- Miscellaneous/holding fund (諸経費預り金; used for textbooks, supplementary materials, off‑campus activities, etc.): JPY 90,000 per year.
- Parent association fee (保護者会費): JPY 9,000 per year.
- Supporters/associate members fee (後援会費): JPY 3,000 per year.
- Per term (calculated, because the school specifies annual amounts are paid in three instalments): JPY 34,000 per term for the combined other fees (102,000 ÷ 3).

Representative Total (tuition + other fees)
- Combined annual amount (tuition + other fees): JPY 1,368,000 per year (1,266,000 + 102,000).
- Combined per term (calculated): JPY 456,000 per term (1,368,000 ÷ 3).

Student Dormitory (Akebono Dormitory) — Boarding Fees
- Dormitory one‑time admission/entry fee (入寮費): JPY 50,000 (paid at move‑in).
- Dormitory room fee (寮費): JPY 998,700 per year.
- Dormitory meal fee (寮食費; breakfast and dinner): JPY 270,000 per year.
- Notes about boarding: the dormitory operates on a schedule with closures during long vacations (summer/winter/spring breaks); availability must be confirmed in advance. The dormitory capacity and facilities are described in the dormitory information.

Other potential costs parents should expect
- Textbooks, supplementary materials, club/activity costs, off‑campus activities, field trips, and annual/year‑group travel (specific charges for some year groups may be collected separately). The school lists textbook and activity costs as covered by the annual miscellaneous/holding fund (listed above) but also notes that some event‑specific or travel costs may be charged in addition.

Refund information
- The entrance (admission) fee (入学金) is explicitly non‑refundable once paid. No general refund schedule for tuition instalments or other charges is specified in the publicly posted tuition summary.

Billing schedule and payment terms
- Tuition and the listed other annual charges are billed as annual amounts and are collected in three instalments per year. Exact invoice dates and instalment due dates are managed by the school's billing procedures.

Payment options and transaction fees
- Credit card payment is available for the entrance examination fee and for the entrance (admission) deposit; accepted card brands for those items are VISA and MasterCard. Card payments are processed as single (one‑time) payments and the school issues a payment URL after request. The card payment service charges apply per transaction; the school provides example card processing fees (e.g., a card processing fee of JPY 1,290 shown for the JPY 28,000 examination fee and JPY 7,440 shown for a JPY 300,000 entrance deposit in the school's payment information as of the posted document).
- The school's admission procedures describe the credit‑card payment process (VISA/MasterCard) for examination and admission deposit transactions and note that the payment URL is issued by request; details for regular tuition payment methods and any international payment services are not specified in the tuition summary pages.

Key figures (summary)
- Entrance examination fee: JPY 28,000.
- Entrance (admission) fee: JPY 300,000 (JPN internal progression: JPY 150,000). Entrance fee is non‑refundable.
- Annual tuition: JPY 1,266,000 (per term — calculated: JPY 422,000).
- Annual other fees (textbooks/activities/parent/supporters): JPY 102,000 (per term — calculated: JPY 34,000).
- Dormitory: entry fee JPY 50,000 (one‑time), dormitory fee JPY 998,700/year, dormitory meal fee JPY 270,000/year.
- Credit card accepted for entrance exam fee and entrance deposit (VISA, MasterCard); card transaction fees apply (examples provided by the school).

(Where per‑term figures are shown as "calculated", they are derived by dividing the school's stated annual amounts by three because the school specifies tuition and the listed other fees are paid in three instalments each year.)

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

SEL is supported at SIS through The SIS Way, which uses the 5 Respects—Respect for Self, Respect for Others, Respect for Learning, Respect for the Environment, and Respect for Leadership—as a compass guiding students' social and emotional development.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

The school does not publicly disclose information regarding Special Educational Needs (SEN) provision or whether SIS operates as a specialist SEN institution.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

EAL support is indicated by a full-time native-level English teacher and ESL position advertised for SIS, signaling dedicated English language support for learners.

Mental Wellbeing

Mental wellbeing support is provided through the Osaka International School Counselling Center, and SIS and OIS share a campus under the Two Schools Together model, enabling wellbeing resources across both schools.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding is supported by a shared Child Protection Policy and faculty Code of Conduct between Osaka International School and Senri International School.

Admissions

1. Admissions tracks and eligibility: Senri International School of Kwansei Gakuin (SIS) offers admissions for middle school and, separately, high school with different entry rules. General students are typically students from domestic elementary schools; international students have specific criteria related to nationality or prior international schooling. High school admissions, however, are limited to returning students (帰国生) and international/general recruitment is not offered for the high school level. This framework defines who can apply and under which track a family should prepare.

2. International track eligibility screening (for 国際生): If applying as an international student, you must submit the 国際生入試受験資格審査申込書 during the designated period and participate in an interview with the student and a parent. If the applicant's circumstances match the second criteria (foreign-born parent or foreign nationality) the parent may also be interviewed. The eligibility screening must be completed to move forward with an application. The interview date is set after submission, and the screening results are conveyed by mail a few days after the interview.

3. General/International track—information sessions and timelines: For families considering the General and International track, SIS runs online information sessions and offers an online or in-person component to help understand the process. An online information session can be attended by prospective applicants, and if you wish to participate in a particular session (e.g., the November 1 online session), you should submit the eligibility form by the stated deadline. The topic coverage includes how the admissions steps unfold and what documents are needed.

4. Returnee/Overseas track specifics (帰国生・海外生入試): SIS lists multiple entrance-exam options for returning students and overseas applicants, including the regular returnee entrance exam (January and June, online) and the overseas entrance exam (November, online), as well as special options that occur in August, November, and March. The school specifies the target groups for these exams and the intended entry points (next term or the term after). Detailed schedules for each year are published and updated, so families should monitor the exact dates and application windows for their chosen path.

5. 2026 admissions schedule (middle school): The 2026 middle school entrance exam is scheduled for January 18, 2026. For those applying, there are options to request the exam guidelines by mail and to have materials shipped if needed; the guidelines for the 2025–2026 cycle are posted for download. There is also mention of a written exam component for certain pathways and a note that exam fees apply.

6. Online application and timelines for eligibility: For certain admission pathways (e.g., the Returnee/Overseas route), SIS provides an online application form (forms.gle) for submission of application materials, with instructions that, once submitted online, mailing of documents is not required. The availability of online submissions and the deadlines are clearly stated in the admissions materials for the year in question. The general/International track materials indicate that the application items and guidelines can be downloaded or accessed online.

7. Entrance exam contents and fees (middle school paths including international/returnee routes): For the 2025–2026 admissions cycle, the examination contents vary by pathway. Returnee/Overseas and Returnee Special exams include components such as a 50-minute composition (in Japanese or English), 20-minute student interview, and 15-minute parent interview; the Returnee Written Exam comprises Japanese (50 minutes), Math (50 minutes), and a 30-minute group interview. The entrance examination fee is 28,000 yen, and payment can be made by credit card (VISA or MASTER CARD).

8. Results, enrollment options, and next steps: For the General and International track, exam results are communicated by mail a few days after the online interview, following the completion of the assessment process. If the International qualification is not recognized, applicants may still apply as General students. SIS lists six entrance exams per year (six for returning students and one for non-returning students), with returnee exams offered online from anywhere worldwide. This structure determines the timeline for notification and the subsequent enrollment steps.

9. Ongoing admissions activities: In addition to the formal entrance exams, SIS hosts online information sessions twice a year and hands-on workshops three times a year, hosted by SIS students. These sessions provide insight into the school, admissions expectations, and student life, and can help families prepare their application and understand the overall process.

Scholarships

Scholarships: SIS offers scholarships and subsidies for enrolled students, and current opportunities are published on the student portal's scholarships page. Details for specific scholarships, including eligibility and application procedures, are provided on the internal scholarships page (external link) and in PDF documents accessible to enrolled students. The scholarships page also references a PDF for internal scholarship information and a set of forms (e.g., Reference Form) to support applications. This content confirms that scholarships exist and are administered through the student portal, with some materials available for download.

Waitlist

Waitlist/Pool: There is no publicly documented waitlist or pool system described in SIS admissions pages. The school lists six entrance exams per year (six for returning students and one for non-returning) and states that returnee exams can be taken online from anywhere in the world, but there is no published waitlist policy or pool process. Families should rely on the announced exam times and application windows for placement, as there is no waitlist description on the admissions pages.

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KIU Academy Niseko

Instructs in English, Japanese

Ages 6 - 18 years

Fees ¥1,475,000 - 1,725,000

Type Co-educational

KIU Academy Niseko is a bilingual (English–Japanese) international school in Niseko, Hokkaido, located at 56-3 Motomachi and about a five-minute walk from Niseko View Plaza. The school opened in April 2025 and follows the Kyoto campus’s WASC/ACSI-accredited curriculum model, with subjects including English, Japanese, math, science, social studies and Bible, with additional electives such as computer, P.E., art and music. The campus is a two-story building, and the school describes planned outdoor facilities including a basketball court and futsal court, with views of Mt. Yotei. For transport, the school operates a shuttle bus with pick-up points such as Kutchan Station, Hirafu and Kabayama. High school students (Grade 10+) may apply for school-owned apartments near campus if available.

Location

KIU Academy Niseko is located at 56-3 Motomachi, Niseko-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 048-1544. It is centrally located in Niseko with easy access to the Niseko View Plaza bus stop, about a 5-minute walk from the plaza. The campus sits within the Niseko town area, providing convenient access for residents and staff.

Stages

KIU Academy Niseko serves Grades 1-12. The elementary division runs Grades 1-5, the middle school Grades 6-8, and the high school Grades 9-12. For the 2026-27 school year, the plan is to offer Grades 1-11 (1-5 elementary, 6-8 middle, 9-11 high school).

Type

KIU Academy Niseko is an international, bilingual school that operates as a branch of KIU Academy Kyoto. It is a co-educational, English-Japanese environment and offers a dorm option for high school students (Grade 10 and above) if housing is available.

Pupil Nationality Mix

Public data on Niseko's pupil nationality mix is not published. The Kyoto campus reports 23 countries and regions represented among students, illustrating broad international representation in KIU's network; initial Niseko intake figures reported in external coverage have varied by year.

Additional learning support

KIU Academy Niseko provides an inclusive, bilingual learning environment with a focus on individualized attention. The admissions policy requires documentation for learning disabilities and outlines how the school will provide support based on professional recommendations; the school does not discriminate by disability and seeks to accommodate students with documented needs.

Country affiliation

The program is American-based, reflecting KIU's educational approach.

Religious affiliation

KIU Academy Niseko has a Christian, Christ-centered philosophy. Students and families of all faiths are welcome, but the school maintains a Christian character in all aspects of school life.

School day structure

KIU Academy Niseko follows the Japanese academic calendar, which starts in April and ends in March. The year is organized into three trimesters: Spring (April–July), Fall (September–December), and Winter (January–March).

Bus service

The school operates a shuttle bus for students, with pickups at locations such as Kutchan Station, Hirafu, and Kabayama, with expansion of routes as needed. Niseko school buses are also available.

Application Fee
- Application fee: ¥25,000. Single payment at the time of enrollment.

Entrance Fee (one-time)
- Entrance fee: ¥300,000. Single payment at the time of enrollment.

Facilities Fee
- Facilities fee: ¥200,000 per year (annual).

Tuition (all grade levels: Grades 1–12)
- Annual tuition: ¥1,200,000. This same annual tuition applies across all grade levels. Installment options are available (by year, by term, or by month).
- Per-term tuition (calculated): the school year is divided into three trimesters (Spring: April–July; Fall: September–December; Winter: January–March). Dividing the annual tuition by three yields ¥400,000 per trimester (this per-term amount is a calculation based on the published annual tuition and the school's trimester calendar).

First-year total (example, one-time + annual fees)
- First-year total on initial enrolment (application + entrance + first-year facilities + annual tuition): ¥25,000 + ¥300,000 + ¥200,000 + ¥1,200,000 = ¥1,725,000.

Tuition discounts and adjustments
- English / bilingual ability discount: Tier A reduces the annual tuition by ¥200,000 for students with native English ability. Tier B provides an additional ¥50,000 deduction if the student is fluent in Japanese. These deductions apply to the annual tuition amount. For example, a student meeting both Tier A and Tier B criteria would have the annual tuition reduced by ¥250,000 (¥1,200,000 − ¥250,000 = ¥950,000).

Billing schedule and payment terms
- Application and entrance fees: payable as single payments at the time of enrollment. Facilities fee: charged annually. Annual tuition: payable in a single annual payment or by installments. Installment options: by year, by term, or by month. Annual payment of tuition is available only for Spring entrants; Fall and Winter entrants must use by-term or by-month payment options until the start of the next academic year. Monthly instalment amounts depend on the term length and enrollment timing.

Boarding fees
- No boarding provision or boarding fees are listed for the school. The school describes a two-story campus and outdoor sports facilities but does not list boarding services or related charges.

Other costs and optional fees
- Miscellaneous / optional costs that may be charged separately: summer and winter programmes (optional), clubs (optional), school supplies, and similar items. These are listed as additional miscellaneous fees. Specific uniform charges are not listed.

Refund information
- Application fee and entrance fee are non-refundable. No further detailed refund policy for tuition, facilities, or other fees is provided on the published fee information.

Fee payment options
- All fees must be paid by bank transfer. Installment schedules (year/term/month) are offered for tuition. No credit-card payment option is listed.

Notes and practical points
- All amounts above are denominated in Japanese yen (¥). The school states that miscellaneous fees and all listed fees are subject to change. Financial aid and sibling discounts may be available on a case-by-case basis; these require separate application/assessment.

Curriculum

KIU Academy Niseko follows Kyoto's WASC/ACSI-accredited curriculum and offers a bilingual English–Japanese international education for grades 1–11 in the 2026-27 school year (elementary 1–5, middle 6–8, high school 9–11). The program includes Bible, core subjects—English, Japanese, Math, Science, Social Studies—and electives such as Computer, Physical Education, Art, and Music. Instruction is bilingual, with classes conducted in English and Japanese across the full program to support bilingual proficiency. It is fully accredited by WASC and ACSI; second through fourth grade of KIU Academy High School (Grade 10-12) is recognized as a Gakko Hojin by Kyoto Prefecture, and students may pursue university admission in Japan after completing a 12-year accredited curriculum. University placement shows graduates attend leading universities worldwide, with about 50% overseas and 50% in Japan, including Harvard, Stanford, Kyoto University, and the University of Tokyo.

Higher Education Progression

Graduates proceed to universities worldwide; 50% overseas and 50% in Japan (historic placement data). Notable destinations include Harvard, Stanford, Kyoto University, and the University of Tokyo.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

KIU Academy Niseko describes its program as bilingual English–Japanese with a Christian, caring community; there is no public disclosure of any specific SEL programme, staff, or initiatives.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

The school does not publicly disclose information regarding SEN provision, the kinds of SEN supported, or whether it is a specialist SEN institution; the site notes an environment with individualized attention, but no explicit SEN services are described.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

The school is bilingual in English and Japanese, but there is no published detail about an EAL program or dedicated EAL staff.

Mental Wellbeing

There is no publicly disclosed information about mental wellbeing programs or staff; the mission emphasizes a caring community and Christian values.

Safeguarding

There is no publicly disclosed safeguarding or child-protection policy for the Niseko campus; accreditation is noted but does not specify safeguarding provisions.

Admissions

1. Application Period. Official admissions are open for 2025-26 (Fall '25 & Winter '26) and 2026-27 (Spring '25, Fall '25, Winter '26). The school operates with multiple enrollment windows and encourages applying as early as possible, with Period 1 and Period 2 defined for Fall and Winter enrollments. Prospective families should plan around these windows and note that visa-related timing may affect eligibility.

2. How to Apply. Applicants complete the online student Application Form via the designated online link, then mail items 2–4 to the KIU Academy Niseko Admissions Office: (2) an ID photo, (3) a transcript from the last school attended, and (4) any available test results; a Scholarship Request Form can be submitted if applicable. The process requires an application fee of ¥25,000 and, for international processing, an additional ¥2,500 handling fee. Payments are made by bank transfer to the specified Kyoto bank accounts, and a receipt notification should be expected within about a week if not received.

3. Fees at Enrollment. For 2025-26 & 2026-27, the base fees are: Entrance Fee ¥300,000; Facilities Fee ¥200,000; Tuition ¥1,200,000; plus the Application Fee ¥25,000. Fees are payable by the chosen option (annual, term, or monthly installments), and all fees are subject to change. English/Bilingual Ability Discounts can reduce the annual tuition by ¥200,000 for native English ability (Tier A) and a further ¥50,000 for fluent Japanese (Tier B); other miscellaneous fees cover optional programs and supplies. All fees are paid by bank transfer, and application/entrance fees are non-refundable.

4. Examinations & Placement. The school schedules examinations individually: Period 1 is late August 2025 and Period 2 is late November 2025; exact dates and times are announced to families separately. The admissions method combines review of application documents with interviews for students and their guardians. Placement tests include English and Japanese (and, for Grade 2–12, English, Japanese, and Math) and are used to determine class placement after enrollment.

5. Notification of Results & Enrollment. Results are dispatched within two weeks after the interview. Once accepted, families must transfer the enrollment-related payments (entrance and related fees) within two weeks of notification. Enrollment payments can be made by year, by term, or by month, with timing varying by the enrollment period (Spring, Fall, Winter entrants). The placement test results and interview content are considered along with transcripts in the final decision.

6. Housing & Local Arrangements. Housing is available in school-operated dorms for high school students (grade 10 or above) near the campus; 1-room, 26 square meter units are offered at ¥72,000 per month (utilities included). If you wish to be considered for housing, indicate your preference on the online application form; the Admissions Office will communicate housing outcomes alongside enrollment status. Students in Grades 1–9 must have a parent or adult guardian co-residing with the student to be eligible to apply.

7. Notes on Timeline, Admissions Policy & Contacts. The Niseko admissions policy provides that interviews and placement tests occur as part of the standard process, with decisions communicated to families after review; there is no published waitlist in the policy. The school maintains an online application and publishes contact details for inquiries and scheduling. Families should monitor the Admissions section for any updates to guidebooks and deadlines.

Scholarships

Financial aid is available on a case-by-case basis, and a Scholarship Request Form is part of the application process. Eligibility for aid requires submission of relevant financial information and is considered alongside transcripts and test results. In addition to need-based aid, there are English/Japanese language-related discounts: Tier A reduces tuition by ¥200,000 for native English ability, and Tier B reduces by ¥50,000 for fluency in Japanese. Sibling discounts are also available—details are provided by the admissions office. All fees include an application fee (¥25,000), entrance fee (¥300,000), facilities fee (¥200,000), and tuition (¥1,200,000) with potential discounts and payment options; aid is not guaranteed and is offered on a case-by-case basis.

Waitlist

KIU Academy Niseko does not publish a waitlist or pool system in its admissions materials. Admissions are described as open within specified annual/seasonal periods, and decisions are based on application documents, interviews, and placement tests rather than a formal waitlist. There is no explicit waitlist policy published on the Niseko admissions pages.

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Okinawa Christian School International

Instructs in English

Ages 3 - 18 years

Fees ¥1,150,000 - 1,250,000

Pupils 583

Type Co-educational

Okinawa Christian School International (OCSI) is an English-language school in Yomitan, Okinawa, established in 1957. The campus is described as being in a suburban setting overlooking the East China Sea and about 23 km north of Naha, Okinawa’s capital city. OCSI serves students from PreK through Grade 12 and uses an American-based, Biblically integrated program. In high school (Grades 9–12), students can take Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Beyond the school day, OCSI runs After-School Activities and student “Circles,” with examples such as coding, choir, basketball, Young Engineers, debate, chess, student council (STUCO) and NJHS. The athletics program includes competition with local schools and off-island tournaments in Asia.

Location

OCSI is located at 1835 Zakimi, Yomitan, Nakagami-gun, Okinawa 904-0301, Japan. The campus sits on the coast with an ocean view overlooking the East China Sea. It is located in Yomitan on central Okinawa Island. The address is publicly listed for campus visits and tours.

Stages

OCSI provides a K–12 program. The school is organized into Elementary (K–5), Middle School (6–8), and High School (9–12).

Type

OCSI is a private, co-educational day school.

Pupil Nationality Mix

OCSI serves around 583 students in the K–12 program. The school notes an international focus with students from across the globe; exact nationality numbers and local/international ratios are not publicly published.

Additional learning support

OCSI offers counseling services (personal matters and college/career). The non-discrimination policy includes disability. A dedicated Special Educational Needs program is not publicly described.

Country affiliation

OCSI does not have a formal country affiliation; it serves families from Japan and overseas and uses an American-based English curriculum.

Religious affiliation

OCSI is a Christian school with a mission to equip students to walk with Jesus and impact the world for Him, and it presents a Christian Statement of Faith; it is affiliated with the Japan Evangelical Missionary Association.

School day structure

The academic year has 180 instructional days and is divided into two semesters (August–January and January–June). Middle School and High School use a modified block schedule.

Bus service

OCSI offers a bus service with several routes across central and southern Okinawa. Bus route details and seat availability are managed via the Veracross portal; routes and stop times are not published publicly.

Application & new‑student fees

- Application fee: ¥20,000 (non‑refundable).
- Interview / testing fee: ¥20,000 (paid prior to the scheduled appointment).
- Enrollment fee (one‑time, due at enrollment): ¥240,000 for the first child; ¥120,000 for each additional child. All new‑student fees are non‑refundable. OIST & SOFA families are eligible for a 50% discount on the enrollment fee.
- ESL fee (if required): ¥140,000 (one‑time, due at enrollment).

Annual tuition — amounts by division (annual total for tuition only)

- Elementary (Kindergarten – Grade 5): ¥1,000,000 per year.
- Middle School (Grades 6–8): ¥1,040,000 per year.
- High School (Grades 9–12): ¥1,080,000 per year.

Note on billing format: tuition may be paid either as a single annual payment (1‑pay) or via a 10‑pay plan; the 10‑pay plan spreads the annual tuition amount into 10 equal monthly installments. A 2% discount on the annual tuition is applied for families who pay the full 10 months of tuition by August 10.

Annual / recurring fees (annual amounts unless noted)

- Facility (Building improvement) fee: ¥100,000 (annual).
- Materials (Books & materials) fee: typically ¥50,000 (secondary); ¥50,000 / ¥20,000 amounts are shown by grade bracket (G4–5 exception noted below).
- Technology fee (1:1 Chromebook): ¥50,000 for secondary; ¥20,000 for G4–5. Facility, books & technology fees are due July 10 and are non‑refundable.
- Annual PTF fee: ¥3,000 (per family).
- Annual lunch fee (Cezar's lunch): Elementary ¥121,000; Secondary (G6–12) ¥132,000 (annual). Lunch is included in tuition when the lunch fee is paid.

Bus service fees (by zone; each shown as ROUND‑TRIP and ONE‑WAY annual prices)

- Zone 1: ¥165,000 (round‑trip) / ¥82,500 (one‑way).
- Zone 2: ¥220,000 (round‑trip) / ¥110,000 (one‑way).
- Zone 3: ¥253,000 (round‑trip) / ¥126,500 (one‑way).
- Zone 4: ¥275,000 (round‑trip) / ¥137,500 (one‑way).
- Re‑enrolling for lunch or bus service or changing bus stops after the first day of school carries a change fee of ¥3,000.

Other program and activity fees

- Athletic fee (Grades 6–12): ¥10,000 per season (additional tournament costs may apply).
- After‑school clubs: ¥6,000 per season.
- After‑school program (extended care): ¥220,000 annual.
- Advanced Placement (AP) course fee: ¥20,000 per AP course (note: this includes the AP exam fee).
- PE uniform (Grades 4–12): full set ¥4,400; individual shirt or shorts ¥2,200.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Payment plans available: single annual payment (1‑pay) or a 10‑pay plan (monthly installments over 10 months). A 2% discount applies when the full 10 months of tuition are paid by August 10.
- Facility, Books & Technology (annual) fees are due by July 10 and are non‑refundable. New student fees and the re‑enrollment fee are non‑refundable. Refunds and withdrawals are handled under the school's Fee Conduct Policy / Withdrawal Policy.
- All fees include tax.

Refunds and withdrawal

- New‑student fees (application, interview/testing, enrollment) are non‑refundable. Re‑enrollment fees confirm enrollment and are non‑refundable. Facility, Books & Technology fees are non‑refundable once billed (due July 10). Refunds for tuition are subject to the Fee Conduct Policy's Withdrawal Policy.

Fee payment options

- Bank transfer (furikomi / bank wire) is an accepted payment method; dedicated bank‑wire information is provided for tuition payments. Cash payments may be made in person at the school office. Online payment options are used for some programs (for example, summer program payments may be taken online or at the school cashier). For applications, payment may be made by bank transfer or cash in person.

Important notes and common extras

- A change fee of ¥3,000 applies for re‑enrolling for lunch or bus service or changing bus stops after the first day of school.
- Additional trip or activity fees may apply (notably for grades 5, 8 and 12), and tournament fees may vary by sport/year.

(Selected fee line items and billing rules above are taken from the school's published Tuition & Fees and related fee documents.)

Uniform Requirement

OCSI enforces a dress code. Clothing should be modest and cover the shoulders to mid-thigh.

Food Options

OCSI provides an on-site lunch service prepared by Caesar's Kitchen. Menu options are published monthly (e.g., January 2026 and February 2026), and enrollment or cancellations are handled through the Veracross parent portal. The service includes opportunities for special items, such as a birthday classroom service, and dietary requests can be addressed with Caesar's Kitchen.

Governance and Ownership

OCSI is governed by a Board of Directors using a policy governance model. The board sets the mission and vision, and the Leadership Team implements it. The school is incorporated in Japan as an educational institution (Gakkou Houjin) under Japanese law.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

OCSI's School Counseling Team supports all students' academic, social, emotional, and spiritual development by providing guidance, college and career counseling, and pastoral support. Counselors meet individually with students, lead developmentally appropriate lessons in classrooms and small groups, and partner with families and staff to help every student thrive in mind, body, and spirit. Counseling is rooted in biblical faith and community and aligns with OCSI's mission and values. Counseling programs are organized by grade level with focus areas including executive functioning, peer relationships, transition support, personal resilience, and collaborative planning with educators and parents. The aim is to help students discover their God-given identity and purpose and to guide them toward excellence in character, informed decision-making, and compassionate service.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

OCSI does not provide IEPs or 504 plans and does not have Special Education teachers who can work one-on-one with students. Acceptance of students with ADD/ADHD depends on whether the school can provide accommodations, with examples including seating arrangements or extra time on assignments. The school is not described as a specialist SEN institution and does not list a broader range of SEN categories it supports. Publicly described SEN provisions are limited to the accommodations noted above, and more intensive supports would not be available within the school.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

OCSI classes are taught in English, using an American-style curriculum. ESL/Literacy support is available for English learners. If a student is identified as needing ESL support, a literacy/ESL fee may apply starting the next school year. Identification and delivery of EAL services are discussed in admissions-related resources. This indicates that EAL support exists within the school's student services framework.

Mental Wellbeing

OCSI supports student mental wellbeing through the School Counseling program, which addresses personal, social, academic, and spiritual growth. The counseling team works with students individually, in groups, and in classrooms, and collaborates with families and staff to foster well-being and resilience. The program is framed by biblical values and the school's mission to Excel, Grow, and Serve, emphasizing belonging, character, and healthy decision-making. Focus areas by grade level include executive functioning, peer relationships, transitions, and personal resilience.

Safeguarding

OCSI maintains a Child Safeguarding Policy & Procedures (Public) and related documents, including a Student Code of Conduct, a Computer and Technology Acceptable Usage Policy, and a Staff Code of Conduct. The school is committed to making the environment a safe place for children to learn. These policies detail safeguarding measures, expected behaviors, and reporting procedures to protect students. The Student Code of Conduct and related policies form the core safeguarding framework for the school.

Admissions

1. Admissions Process
1. Start with the online application and inquiry. Begin by creating an admissions account and submitting the online application form. An inquiry is included in the process, and you'll find that an application fee is required at the time of submission. The school reviews the submission to determine eligibility for an interview and assessment, and you'll be informed of the next steps if eligible. Important dates for the 2026–2027 cycle include two seasons: Season 1 with a January 31, 2026 deadline for February interviews (results by March 10), and Season 2 with a April 30, 2026 deadline for May interviews (results by June 10). If space is available, enrollment can begin in April or August.

2. Prepare and submit required documents. All applicants must provide the standard set of materials, including the completed application form, a record release form, a copy of the child's passport page, a recent photo, and several years of school records as applicable. Grade 7–12 applicants should also supply prior school records and current year progress reports; behavior/discipline records may be required. After acceptance, additional documents such as immunization records and a physical exam are requested. This documentation is reviewed in the admissions process to determine qualification for the next step.

3. Complete the document verification and schedule an interview/assessment. Once the completed packet is received, it is reviewed by the divisional principal to determine eligibility for an interview and testing. If eligible, families may be contacted to schedule an interview and assessment; note that interview/testing may not be granted for all applicants due to factors like language proficiency and space.

4. Receive admissions results by email and follow enrollment instructions. Admissions decisions are communicated by email and may be categorized as acceptance, denial, or waitlist. If accepted, families follow the instructions in the enrollment email to confirm enrollment and make the required payments. The process emphasizes multiple factors beyond test results, such as class size, English proficiency, and overall fit.

5. Begin enrollment and complete any remaining steps. Upon acceptance, you will complete enrollment by paying the specified fees and submitting any remaining documents requested by the admissions team. If you are enrolling in Season 2 or in mid-year, space availability may apply, and there are specific deadlines for enrollment depending on the season.

2. Waitlist/Pool
- The school uses a waitlist when spaces are not available. Admission results can indicate a waitlist status, and families may be placed on the waiting list while spaces become available. There is no guaranteed space for waitlisted applicants. In practice, spaces often open up later in the year (for example, late June/July), but availability is not guaranteed and varies by grade and capacity. Families on the waitlist are typically informed by email as spaces become available.

3. Scholarships
- OCSI offers several financial-aid-oriented funds to support access to education. The OCSI Fund for the Future includes a Tuition Assistance Fund to help eligible families, funded through donations and school fundraising. There is also a College Scholarship Fund to assist qualifying students with college costs, and a University Scholarship Award as part of donor-supported programs. The school notes that gifts and funds may be tax-deductible in Japan and the USA depending on the donor program.

Notes and sources used in this overview: The admissions process is documented in Apply to OCSI and the Admissions Guidelines, including timelines, required documents, and the sequence of steps from application through enrollment. Required documents detail what all applicants must submit and what follows after acceptance. Tuition & Fees are published with the 2025–2026 and 2026–2027 data showing one-time and ongoing costs, with notes about payment plans and discounts for certain families. Information about waitlists and admissions results is included in the admissions FAQs and the specific waitlist article. Details about scholarships and financial-assistance funds are found in the donor and support pages on OCSI's site.

Scholarships

Scholarships and financial aid: OCSI maintains a Tuition Assistance Fund to help ensure access for qualifying students and a College Scholarship Fund to assist with college costs. There is also a University Scholarship Award as part of donor-funded programs. These funds are supported by donations and fundraising and are described in the school's donor materials.

Waitlist

Waitlist/Pool information: The school does not guarantee a space for waitlisted applicants; admission results may designate a waitlist, and spaces often become available later in the season or in late spring/summer, but nothing is guaranteed. Families on the waitlist are typically notified by email as spaces open up. To the extent possible, the school communicates about the likelihood of openings, but there is no fixed timeline for when a space will become available.

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New Life International School - Yamanashi

Instructs in English

Ages 6 - 18 years

Fees ¥588,000 - 870,450

Type Co-educational

New Life International School (NLIS), located in Kofu, Yamanashi, offers an American-style Christian education for students from grades 1 through 12. As the only school in the prefecture with accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), the institution provides a structured learning environment that connects students to an international educational framework. The school maintains a small, family-like atmosphere where students participate in a variety of specialized activities. Offerings include ESL and EIKEN preparation, Japanese as a Second Language (JSL) classes for JLPT study, non-contact karate, and after-school care. Students also participate in elective clubs, such as sports for grades seven and up, and student-led Bible clubs. By integrating daily English-language instruction with community-focused projects, the school encourages students to communicate clearly while learning to apply their skills to help others within their community.

Location

New Life International School is located at 5-4-16 Asahi, Kofu, Yamanashi 400-0025, Japan. The campus sits in the Asahi district and is about a 10-minute walk north of Kofu Station. It shares a building with the New Life International Church, and the area is accessible by train, bus, bicycle, or car.

Stages

The school offers Kindergarten through High School (grades 1–12). It uses an American curriculum with AP courses and is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) for all grades from 1 through 12.

Type

Co-educational international Christian day school. The campus is within a church building and the school is affiliated with Christian Academy of Japan.

Pupil Nationality Mix

NLIS represents over a dozen nationalities. The school does not publicly disclose the exact local-to-international ratio or identify a single most common nationality.

Additional learning support

A low student–teacher ratio (approximately 14:1) supports individualized learning. Japanese language support is provided (Japanese literacy four days a week for grades 1–12; Japanese as a second language for grades 3–6 and 7–12 with JLPT preparation). After-school ESL/EFL and related activities are available.

Country affiliation

NLIS is affiliated with Christian Academy of Japan in Tokyo.

Religious affiliation

NLIS is a Christian evangelical school sponsored by New Life International Church; Bible instruction and chapel are part of daily life, and families of all religious backgrounds are welcome.

School day structure

School hours are: Grades 1–2 9:00–3:00; Grades 3–6 9:00–3:15; Grades 7–12 8:50–3:30. Arrival typically begins at 8:40, with dismissal following the older student's schedule. Lunch options include bringing an obento from home or using on-site meal providers; a daily 30-minute recess is scheduled.

Bus service

There is no listed school-provided bus service. Many students commute by train, bus, bicycle, walking, or car. NLIS is located about 800 meters from Kofu Station, which facilitates commuter options.

Application fees

- Application fee: JPY 10,000 payable at the time of application for entrance to elementary, junior high, and high school. All admissions fees are non‑refundable.

Entrance (entrance/registration) fees

- Elementary (Grades 1–6) entrance fee: JPY 180,000. Emergency food & water charge: JPY 1,000.
- Junior high (Grades 7–9) entrance fee: JPY 120,000. Emergency food & water charge: JPY 1,000.
- High school (Grades 10–12) entrance fee: JPY 150,000. Emergency food & water charge: JPY 1,000.

Annual fees (charged at start of school year)

- Building fee: JPY 70,000.
- Accident insurance fee: Grades 1–6: JPY 1,450; Grades 9–12: JPY 2,000.
- Parents Supporting Education (PTA-type program): JPY 1,000. Annual fees are payable at the beginning of every school year and are nonrefundable.

Tuition (yearly and monthly; sibling reductions and policy)

- Tuition is stated per child and shown as annual and monthly amounts. All listed prices are in Japanese yen.
- First child: JPY 804,000 per year (JPY 67,000 per month).
- Second child (and third, fourth, etc.): JPY 588,000 per year (JPY 49,000 per month).
- Sibling discount: families with more than one child attending simultaneously receive a 27% tuition reduction for additional children; this reduction applies to tuition only (not to entrance fees or other fees).
- Scheduled tuition increases: NLIS applies a planned tuition adjustment over multi‑year periods. Example schedule published by the school: first‑child monthly tuition shown as JPY 67,000 (2026–2028), JPY 69,000 (2028–2030), JPY 71,000 (2030–2032) with corresponding annual values of JPY 804,000; JPY 828,000; JPY 852,000. Sibling monthly tuition shown as JPY 49,000; JPY 50,000; JPY 51,000 with annual values JPY 588,000; JPY 600,000; JPY 612,000 respectively.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Annual fees: payable at the beginning of every school year and nonrefundable. Tuition is presented as a monthly and annual figure; the school notes a specific late‑payment penalty and a withdrawal fee (see below).
- Late payment charge: a late fee of JPY 30,000 is charged for payments made after March 31.
- Withdrawal fee: JPY 30,000 is charged on withdrawal to cover textbooks, computers, desks, and any items the school paid for in anticipation of the child.

Boarding fees

- NLIS does not list any boarding program or boarding fees in its published fee information; fees are presented for day students only.

Other costs and typical ancillary fees

- Uniform / school clothing:
- Elementary students are required to wear an NLIS school t‑shirt daily. Short‑sleeved t‑shirt: JPY 1,600; long‑sleeved t‑shirt: JPY 2,000. Elementary students wear navy or gray sweaters in winter.
- Junior high and high school students wear a school uniform (navy blazer, trousers, white shirt, tie for boys, bow tie for girls, sweater vests in winter, plaid skirt option for girls); prices for full uniform sets are not published on the public fee pages.
- Badges: the first elementary badge is free; additional badges cost JPY 300 each.
- AP exam and online AP course fees: AP courses are delivered online and AP examinations are taken in Tokyo; additional fees for AP courses/exams are noted in school materials (specific AP exam amounts are not published on the public fee page).
- Textbooks: textbooks are provided on loan at no cost but must be returned in good condition; the withdrawal fee covers school expenses for textbooks/computers/desks if applicable.

Refund information

- All admissions fees are nonrefundable. The entrance fee is nonrefundable. Annual fees are nonrefundable. The published materials explicitly state these items are nonrefundable.
- The withdrawal fee (JPY 30,000) is charged to cover the cost of items already provided or ordered for the student; the published materials describe this charge as covering textbooks, computers, desks, and any items the school paid for in anticipation of the child.

Fee payment options

- Publicly available fee pages and contact information list the amounts, due/late‑fee rules, and where to enquire, but they do not publish detailed payment method options (for example, specific bank transfer details, credit card acceptance, or online payment portals are not shown on the published fee pages).

Summary of the key published fee figures (JPY)

- Application fee: JPY 10,000.
- Entrance fees: Elementary JPY 180,000; Junior high JPY 120,000; High school JPY 150,000. Emergency food & water charge: JPY 1,000 per entry.
- Annual fees: Building fee JPY 70,000; Accident insurance JPY 1,450 (Grades 1–6) or JPY 2,000 (Grades 9–12); Parents Supporting Education JPY 1,000.
- Tuition (first child): JPY 804,000 per year (JPY 67,000 per month). Tuition (sibling): JPY 588,000 per year (JPY 49,000 per month).
- Late fee (payments after March 31): JPY 30,000. Withdrawal fee: JPY 30,000.
- Elementary t‑shirt: short sleeve JPY 1,600; long sleeve JPY 2,000. Additional elementary badge: JPY 300.

(Amounts and policies above are those published in the school's official fee and admissions materials.)

Uniform Requirement

Elementary students wear an NLIS school T-shirt daily; short-sleeve shirts cost 1,600 yen and long-sleeve shirts 2,000 yen, with shirts available in black, white, and blue. In winter, they wear navy or gray sweaters. Junior high and high school students wear a navy blazer with a white shirt and a tie for boys or a bow tie for girls, with navy trousers or a plaid skirt, and winter sweaters; PE requires an NLIS T-shirt during PE and a winter jacket.

Food Options

Grades 7–12 have a one-hour lunch with daily recreation time. The page does not specify whether meals are provided on site or if dietary options or snacks are available.

Governance and Ownership

NLIS is governed by a school board and holds Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accreditation. It is affiliated with Christian Academy of Japan (CAJ) in Tokyo. The school operates in the building of the New Life International Church in Kofu, and students are not required to attend church.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

NLIS supports social and emotional learning through its overall wellbeing and faith-based school climate, which the Western Association of Schools and Colleges identifies as a strength where students feel socially and emotionally supported. The school maintains open communication with students and parents in both English and Japanese. All students receive annual instruction in child protection, and puberty education is provided to Grades 4–12 in age- and gender-appropriate settings. Chapel and Bible study are conducted weekly, contributing to community and values education that underpins SEL. These elements collectively reflect NLIS's approach to student wellbeing and social-emotional development.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

English is the primary language of instruction at NLIS and is used in all classrooms except Japanese classes. To support non-native speakers, the school offers Japanese for Foreigners (year-long) four days per week. After-school support includes Japanese classes for non-native speakers and tutoring to prepare for EIKEN English proficiency exams. English language development is integrated into the curriculum alongside English-language instruction throughout the school. NLIS also provides bilingual communication and language supports as part of its curriculum and accreditation assurances.

Mental Wellbeing

NLIS emphasizes mental wellbeing as part of its accreditation, noting that students feel socially and emotionally supported within a supportive, faith-based climate. All students receive annual instruction in child protection, and puberty education is provided to Grades 4–12 in appropriate settings, promoting wellbeing and informed decision-making. The Health program addresses personal safety, cyber safety, and related wellbeing topics. Weekly chapel and Bible study contribute to community, values, and spiritual wellbeing. The school prioritizes open communication with students and parents in English and Japanese to support wellbeing.

Safeguarding

NLIS has a comprehensive safeguarding framework, including a Child Protection Policy Handbook, a Critical Incident Management Plan, and an E-Safety Policy. There is a zero-tolerance policy for bullying, and incidents are addressed promptly with safeguarding measures. All teachers and staff receive annual first aid training, and protection policies are reviewed annually, with regular earthquake, fire, and lockdown drills. Safe recruitment procedures require employee screening and background checks, including police clearances where available. The E-Safety Policy governs responsible technology use and online safety for students, and intimate personal care procedures uphold supervised safety standards.

Admissions

1. Inquiries and eligibility: New Life International School welcomes inquiries from all interested students. Students are accepted throughout the year.

2. Application and admissions fees: Submit the application for entrance to elementary, junior high, or high school and pay the application fee of 10,000 yen at the time of application. All admissions fees are non-refundable.

3. Age & grade placement: Students are placed primarily by age. Grade 1 begins at age 6, with an April 1 cut-off date, though this may be adjusted for students transferring from overseas or from schools with different calendars.

4. English language requirement: All students are interviewed and assessed to determine English proficiency and readiness. An oral English interview lasts 10–20 minutes, and at least one parent is interviewed in English or Japanese. Overseas families may complete interviews online. Students entering Grades 2–5 with limited English may be accepted if highly motivated and willing to attend after-school ESL classes (additional fees apply). Students in Grade 6 and above must be able to speak, read, and write in English.

5. Reading & math assessments: All students take reading and math assessments (30–60 minutes) to determine placement and support needs.

6. Agreement to school policies: At least one parent must read and agree to the NLIS Handbook and school policies. Students are also expected to follow school rules. Upon acceptance, families submit required documents, including contracts, health records, and permission forms.

7. Transfers: Transfers for English Students, Homeschoolers, and Japanese School Students are welcomed; NLIS offers flexible placement and support to help students make up missed credits and transition smoothly. Permanent records, transcripts, and a letter of recommendation are required for all students.

8. Uniforms and related expectations: Uniforms are required. Elementary students wear NLIS T-shirts daily; short-sleeved shirts are currently 1,600 yen and long-sleeved shirts 2,000 yen, with colors available in black, white, and blue. Junior high and high school students wear a navy blazer, trousers, a white shirt, a tie for boys, a bow tie for girls, and sweater vests in winter; during PE and field trips, a NLIS T-shirt is worn, and a jacket is worn in winter for PE. All elementary students must wear a school badge on days they are not wearing a school shirt; the first badge is free, and each additional badge costs 300 yen. (Uniform details also cover winter wear and badge policies.)

(References: Admissions page for enrollment steps and requirements; Fees page for fee items such as application fee and tuition. )

Scholarships

Scholarships: NLIS does not list a separate scholarships program on its site. The Fees page outlines the application fee (10,000 yen), entrance fees by level (elementary 180,000 yen; junior high 120,000 yen; high school 150,000 yen) plus a non-refundable status, annual building fees (70,000 yen), insurance fees, and a 27% tuition reduction for siblings. The tuition amounts are 804,000 yen per year (67,000 yen per month) for the first child and 588,000 yen per year (49,000 yen per month) for subsequent children, with a 27% reduction applying only to tuition. A late payment fee (30,000 yen) and a withdrawal fee (30,000 yen) apply, and the school follows a plan to increase the first child's monthly tuition by 2,000 yen every other year and the sibling tuition by 1,000 yen. There is no separate scholarship program described.

Waitlist

Waitlist/Pool: NLIS accepts students year-round; the admissions information indicates that students are accepted throughout the year and does not describe a published waitlist or enrollment pool. This implies there is no formal waitlist process described in the available admissions details.

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Doshisha International School Kyoto

Instructs in English

Ages 14 - 18 years

Fees ¥1,700,000 - 1,850,000

Pupils 150

Type Co-educational

Doshisha International School Kyoto (DISK) is a Japanese-registered IB World School located in Kansai Science City, Kizugawa City, Kyoto Prefecture. Established in 2011 as part of the Doshisha International Academy, the campus sits in a rural setting with mountain views. Facilities include a gym, outdoor grounds, Kizuna Terrace, a Science Lab, a Library with nearly 20,000 books in Japanese and English, plus an Art Room, a Music Room and Kizuna Hall. The school delivers the IB curriculum in English for students aged 11 to 18, with a Middle School Programme (MSP) for ages 11–16 and the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) framework used for grades 9–10, comprising eight subject groups and an inquiry-based, concept-based approach. The IB Diploma Programme (DP) offers six subject groups, requires study in at least two languages, and includes the Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge and CAS; DP total score up to 45. The motto Learning for Life, Learning for the World, Learning for Love guides principled, internationally minded learners. DISK is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). After-school clubs include Model United Nations and Yearbook Club.

Location

The school is located at 7-31-1 Kizugawadai, Kizugawa City, Kyoto Prefecture, 619-0225, Japan. The campus sits in the Keihanna Hills within the Kansai Science City region, conveniently nestled between Kyoto, Osaka and Nara Prefectures. It is connected to nearby train lines via DISK's scheduled bus service from Shin-Hosono/Hosono and Nara-Tomigaoka stations.

Stages

Middle School Programme; IB Diploma Programme

Type

IB World School offering a comprehensive international curriculum delivered in English

Additional learning support

The health office is located on the 2nd floor of DIA; the bilingual school nurse is on duty from 8:30am to 4:30pm, Monday to Friday. A part-time bilingual counselor (clinical psychologist) provides psychological support to parents and students. A University Advisor supports tertiary education planning, and a School Chaplain leads weekly worship services focused on Christian values.

Country affiliation

Japan

Religious affiliation

Christian

Bus service

There are two bus routes for commuting students. Route 1 (Shin-Hosono / Hosono) departs Hosono at 7:35am, 7:55am, 8:10am and 8:15am; departs DIA at 3:40pm and 4:00pm. Route 2 (Nara-Tomigaoka) departs Tomigaoka at 7:25am, 7:40am and 8:05am; departs DIA at 3:40pm and 4:00pm. The buses are green city buses operated by Seika Town; ICOCA is accepted; each bus has 30 seats with space for up to 50 standing; routes run to and from DIA with designated pickup/drop-off locations.

Fees (published for the 2025/26 academic year)

Application & Registration Fees
- Entrance (entrance test) fee: ¥20,000 per child — non-refundable.
- Registration fee (one-time, paid on acceptance): ¥250,000 per child — non-refundable; payment by bank transfer required within seven days of notification of admission. Remittance/transfer fees must be paid by the sender so the exact amount is received.

Tuition and Academic Fees (Grades 9–12)
- Annual tuition: ¥1,700,000.
- Educational enrichment fee: ¥150,000 per year.
- Total annual academic fee (tuition + enrichment): ¥1,850,000.
- Academic fee billing by term (per-semester/term amounts):
- Fall term: ¥740,000.
- Winter term: ¥555,000.
- Spring term: ¥555,000.

Billing Schedule & Payment Terms
- Academic fees are automatically deducted from a designated bank account three times per year (September, January, and April). Academic fees are non-refundable.
- Entrance and registration payments must be made by bank transfer; detailed domestic and international remittance instructions (including bank names, SWIFT code, and reference numbers) are provided for those transfers. Remittance/transfer charges should be paid by the sender so the school receives the exact fee amount.

Boarding
- Doshisha International School, Kyoto is not a boarding school; students must live with a parent or legal guardian. There are no boarding fees.

Other Costs and Typical Additional Fees
- Emergency supply items (Grades 9–12): ¥3,000 per academic year (included as a listed other fee). Excursions, expeditions and study-trip costs are not included in the academic fee and are charged separately when applicable.
- Uniform / PE kit (middle school only): DISK does not require school uniforms for daily wear, but all middle school students must purchase a full Physical Health Education uniform set costing approximately ¥13,000 (inclusive of tax). The PE set includes short pants, short-sleeve T-shirt, long-sleeve T-shirt, long pants, and a zip-up parker with approximate item prices listed. Payment for uniform orders operates by cash-on-delivery; a cash-on-delivery fee (approx. ¥440) and a transportation fee (approx. ¥770) are added to each order. Customized uniform items cannot be returned or exchanged.

Refund Information
- Academic fees are non-refundable.
- The entrance test fee is non-refundable. The registration fee is non-refundable. Customized uniform items cannot be returned or exchanged.

Fee Payment Options (published methods)
- Automatic direct debit from a designated bank account for academic fee instalments (September, January, April).
- Bank transfer for entrance-test payments and registration fee payments (domestic and international bank transfer instructions and required reference numbers are provided). Remittance/transfer charges are to be borne by the payer.
- Cash-on-delivery for uniform orders (COD and transportation fees apply).

Boarding Arrangements

The school is not a boarding school.

Uniform Requirement

The school does not wear a uniform to school; students dress conservatively and neatly. All middle school students must purchase a full PE uniform set.

Governance and Ownership

DISK is part of the Doshisha International Academy in Kizugawa City and is a member of the Doshisha family of schools. It is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The school provides a part-time bilingual counselor (clinical psychologist) to offer psychological support to parents and students. The counseling room is on the 4th floor and is open every Thursday and once a month on Monday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. The School Chaplain leads worship services weekly and Christian values are explored through chapel and related activities.

Mental Wellbeing

The Health Office includes a bilingual school nurse on duty from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday. A part-time bilingual counselor provides psychological support to students and parents, coordinating with health staff to support student wellbeing.

Safeguarding

The school has a Child Protection Policy with zero tolerance for abuse or neglect. Abuse is defined to include physical, emotional, sexual abuse and neglect, inappropriate peer-to-peer behavior, and online harassment. A designated Child Protection Officer handles concerns, and staff are mandated reporters with regular training. Confidential reporting is available, including an anonymous report form; the policy is reviewed annually. The designated Child Protection Officer is Gavin Storey.

Admissions

Admission steps (1–7):
1. Request an Admissions & Enrollment Application Form link by emailing the Admissions Office to receive the digital form.

2. Complete the digital Admissions & Enrollment Application Form, including personal details, identification (passport information page), documentation (academic transcripts from the last two years in English, English-language enrollment certificate), and additional information about educational history and needs, plus a medical disclosure form.

3. Review: after submission is checked, you receive an email with entrance test fee payment details; if not approved, you are notified and application materials are not returned.

4. Entrance Test Fee Payment: pay a non-refundable entrance test fee of 20,000 yen per child before testing; ensure remittance details specify exactly 20,000 yen and include the required reference number.

5. Entrance Test & Interview: the test and interview are conducted in person on campus and take about 4–5 hours; there is no online remote testing option. All applicants take a language and math test; non-native English speakers must be able to read, speak and write English; MAP practice links are provided for practice.

6. Admissions Panel Decision: the final admission decision is communicated by email.

7. Registration Fee Payment: a one-time non-refundable registration fee of 250,000 yen per child is due within seven days of admission notification, with remittance details provided.

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