Compare 3 French Curriculum international schools in Japan. Filter by curriculum, fees (average JPY 1,251,175), location, and more to find the right international school now.
French-curriculum international schools in Japan deliver the programmes of the French national education system, often operating within or alongside the AEFE network, so teaching, assessment and recognised pathways (including preparation for the French baccalauréat) follow French standards rather than primarily English-language international routes. Many of these schools teach primarily in French while offering substantial English and Japanese language provision or bilingual strands, and some combine the French curriculum with IB elements or local language programmes. Annual tuition varies by school, campus and year group, with published examples in Tokyo showing fees in the region of roughly ¥1.2 - 2.1 million per year depending on level and additional charges; costs and billing schedules are set by each school. Most follow the French academic rhythm with a “rentrée” in early September and termly breaks, but schools accept children at other times when places exist, so families should enquire well ahead of their planned move.
How does the French curriculum in Japan compare with other international curricula?
French-curriculum schools follow the programmes defined by the French Ministry of National Education, so subject sequences, assessment and official qualifications (such as the French baccalauréat) match schools in France and across the AEFE network. This makes transition back to France or between AEFE schools straightforward, while some schools also offer IB or additional local-language content for broader university access.
What language(s) will my child be taught in?
Instruction is primarily in French, but most French international schools in Japan also offer strong French-English bilingual streams and dedicated Japanese language instruction to help children integrate locally. The balance of languages varies by school and by age group, so check specific programmes and language support for learners new to French.
What should I expect to pay for tuition and extra costs?
Annual tuition differs markedly between schools, campuses and year levels; published fee schedules for major French schools in Tokyo show annual tuition commonly in the low-millions of yen, with additional charges for registration, school meals, transport, exams and activities. Schools publish their own financial regulations and termly billing arrangements, so request the current fee schedule and a full list of optional charges when you contact admissions.
When should we apply and when does the school year start?
Most French international schools follow the French ‘rentrée’ and start the academic year in early September, with terms typically beginning in September, January and April, but many accept applications year-round if places are available. Because spaces - especially at popular entry points - can be limited, families relocating should begin enquiries several months before their move and follow each school’s published admissions calendar.
Will a French school in Japan prepare my child for higher education in France, Japan or elsewhere?
Yes: schools that deliver the French national curriculum prepare students for French secondary qualifications that are recognised in France and by many universities worldwide, and some schools also offer IB or university guidance to widen options for Japanese or international university entry. If you have a specific university destination in mind, check the school’s upper-secondary programmes and university-counselling support.
