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Makuhari International School

Japan, Tokyo

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English, Japanese
Fees ¥1,380,000 - 1,740,000
Ages 2 - 12 years
Pupil numbers 385
Type Co-educational
Opened 2009
Bus Service Yes
Academic offering
Curriculum Bespoke Curriculum, EYFS (Early years foundation stage), Japanese Curriculum
Taught languages English, Japanese
Typical class size 22
Strengths Sport, STEM, Service and Sustainability
Clubs Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language, Lifestyle and Wellbeing
Stages Early Years, Primary School
Introduction

Makuhari International School (MIS) is a private international school in Wakaba, Chiba City, serving Pre-School (two-year-olds), Kindergarten 1–3 (ages 3–6) and Grades 1–6 (ages 6–12). The curriculum follows the objectives of the Japanese Curriculum and, as a MEXT-designated exceptional school, supplements them with elements from other curricula; English literacy draws on a UK-style literacy framework, and maths uses White Rose Maths. Most lessons are taught in English, with Japanese or Japanese Studies (and some Social Studies in Grades 5–6) taught in Japanese. The campus is a 13‑minute walk from Kaihin Makuhari Station and about 30 minutes from Narita Airport and central Tokyo. MIS runs school buses to areas including Chiba, Funabashi, Tsudanuma, Baytown and Urayasu. After-school clubs include art, athletics, language, culture, drama and music, and the Global Citizenship Award Program includes projects such as growing rice in the school rice paddy.

3 Chome-2-9 Wakaba, Mihama Ward, Chiba, 261-0014, Japan

The Essentials

Makuhari International School has 385 pupils, typical class sizes of 22, instruction in English, Japanese.

Location
The Makuhari International School campus is at 3-2-9 Wakaba, Mihama-ku, Chiba City, Chiba 261-0014, Japan. It sits in the Makuhari area near parks, the waterfront, and the Makuhari Messe Convention Center. The school is easily accessible by public transport, about a 13-minute walk from Kaihin Makuhari Station and roughly 30 minutes by rail from central Tokyo or Narita Airport. MIS operates school buses to surrounding areas such as Chiba, Inage, Funabashi, Motoyawata, Urayasu, Shin-Urayasu, Tsudanuma, Makuharihongo and Baytown.

Stages
MIS delivers programs for K1-G6 (Nursery to Year 7). Kindergarten comprises K1, K2 and K3 (ages 3–6), with a Pre-School for younger children, and Primary/Elementary includes Grades 1–6. The curriculum combines Japanese national objectives with international teaching approaches, taught mainly in English, with Japanese language subjects offered as Japanese studies.

Type
MIS is a private bilingual day school. The program is delivered in both English and Japanese, and MIS is described in external profiles as a co-educational, day school offering a dual-language programme.

Pupil Nationality Mix
Current mix includes about 60% of students from Japanese returnee families, 29% dual nationality students, and 11% foreign nationals. That yields a domestic to international ratio of roughly 60:40. The school's most represented group is Japanese returnees.

Additional learning support
MIS provides learning support through a dedicated Learning Support/SENCO framework; the school publishes guidance for Learning Support/SENCO roles and has current job postings for a Learning Support/SENCO coordinator. This indicates formal SEN provision within the school.

Country affiliation
There is no formal country affiliation for MIS. It operates as a private international school in Japan with Article 1 status and is governed under Japanese education guidelines.

Religious affiliation
MIS has no religious affiliation stated in its materials; it presents itself as a secular, international bilingual school.

School day structure
Kindergarten days begin at 8:50am; K1 finishes at 1:30pm, while K2–K3 finish at 3:20pm, with clubs and activities running until about 4:10pm. In the Elementary program, the school day runs from about 8:50am to 3:20pm, with after-school clubs and activities continuing until around 4:10pm.

Bus service
MIS operates six school-bus routes to: Chiba, Funabashi, Nishi Funabashi, Shin Urayasu, Tsudanuma, and Urayasu; bus assistants ride on board to support students. Bus routes and timetables are subject to change, and families should contact the school office for current details.
Diving Deeper

Uniform Requirement
The MIS uniform is required for students from K2 onward. Uniform items can be purchased from two retailers: Kanko Shop Higashi Nihonbashi Ltd. and Top of the Class, with the Starter Kit for new students ordered through Kanko Shop. The school bag is part of the uniform, and Top of the Class supplies items such as chinos, backpacks, house T‑shirts, shoes, and a cap/hat.

Food Options
Students may bring a lunch or order school lunches from Luca Deli Organic Kitchen. Reservations and cancellations are handled directly with Luca Deli Organic Kitchen via their online system, and monthly orders are placed by the 25th of the month prior to delivery.

House System
Pupils are grouped into houses, and house activities are part of MIS life, including related collaborative and competitive opportunities. House T‑shirts are part of the MIS uniform as well.

Governance and Ownership
Governance is conducted by a Board of Directors and a Board of Trustees. MIS operates under Article One status and is recognized by the Japanese Ministry of Education. CIS accreditation was reaffirmed in October 2024.
Fees

Annual tuition at Makuhari International School ranges from JPY 1,380,000 to JPY 1,740,000 for 2026/27.

Application and Assessment Fees
- Assessment fee for students invited to testing/interview: ¥20,000, payable when a child is accepted for testing or interview.

One‑time (enrolment) Fees
- Entrance Fee (paid once on enrollment): ¥200,000. The school does not return the entrance fee for any reason and does not issue a receipt for the entrance fee.
- Maintenance Fee (paid once on enrollment): ¥400,000.

Annual Tuition and Per‑installment Amounts (by year group)
- Kindergarten (K1–K3): Annual tuition ¥1,380,000. Tuition is paid in three equal instalments; per instalment amount ¥460,000. Payments are due at the end of June, October and March.
- Elementary (Grades 1–6): Annual tuition ¥1,740,000. Tuition is paid in three equal instalments; per instalment amount ¥580,000. Payments are due at the end of June, October and March.

Billing Schedule and Payment Terms
- An invoice is issued to accepted families; do not pay before receiving the invoice. Entrance Fee, Maintenance Fee and the first tuition payment must be paid into the school's bank account within the period stated on the invoice. Receipt of these payments is taken as confirmation of official enrolment.
- Regular ongoing payments are collected by automatic bank withdrawal (口座振替). It typically takes approximately three months from submission of the bank‑withdrawal application form for withdrawals to begin; until withdrawals start the school issues an invoice and families transfer funds to the school's bank account. Once bank withdrawals are active, school fees are withdrawn on the 27th of each month (if the 27th is a weekend or holiday, withdrawal is the next business day).
- Tuition instalments are due at the end of June, October and March. Bus fees (if used) are collected on the same schedule as tuition.

Boarding
- Boarding is not applicable; school transport is provided via multiple day‑bus routes and the school operates as a day school with school bus services.

Transport (Bus) Fees
- School bus fees vary by route. Bus fees fall within a range (examples shown by route): from approximately ¥96,600 per year (about ¥8,050 per month) up to approximately ¥303,600 per year (about ¥25,300 per month), depending on route selected. Bus fees are subject to change.

Other Fees and Typical Additional Costs
- Disaster‑prevention hood: ¥3,200 (charged at the end of the month following enrollment).
- After‑school care (ASC) / short‑term childcare: billed at ¥350 per 30 minutes; ASC charges are withdrawn at the end of the month following usage.
- Yearbook (optional, ordered by families): approximately ¥8,000 (payment timing shown as end of October when ordered).
- School trips and grade‑specific residential activities (for example Grade 5 and Grade 6 trips) may incur separate additional charges; such charges are billed as required.
- Uniform: MIS requires uniform from K2 upward. Uniform items (starter kit, school bag and selected items) are purchased through specified retailers (Kanko Shop Higashi Nihonbashi and Top of the Class); item lists and ordering instructions are provided by those retailers. Prices for uniform items are set by the retailers.

Refunds and Non‑Refundable Items
- The Entrance Fee (¥200,000) is non‑refundable for any reason. No separate general refund policy for other fees is stated in the fee documents; additional charges for trips or optional items are billed when required.

Fee Discounts and Sibling Policy
- A sibling discount (or in some cases a sibling exemption) is available; eligibility and the amount of any discount are arranged through the school office.

Accepted Payment Methods
- Automatic bank withdrawal (口座振替) is the school's preferred method for recurring payments and most charges are collected by this method once set up.
- Bank transfer (bank deposit to the school's account) is used for initial payments and for payments made before bank‑withdrawal arrangements are active; invoices specify the school bank account details for transfers. Credit‑card payment is not listed as a standard payment method in the fee documents.
Academics

Makuhari International School teaches Bespoke Curriculum, EYFS (Early years foundation stage), Japanese Curriculum for students aged 2 to 12.

Curriculum
Makuhari International School follows the Japanese national curriculum objectives (MEXT) but expands on them with additional content from other curricula; as a MEXT-designated exceptional school, it extends learning hours and emphasizes consolidation and extension in English and Maths. MIS operates K1–G6 (Nursery to Year 7) in a bilingual English–Japanese model, with most subjects taught in English and Japanese taught as Kokugo (native/Japanese language) or Japanese Studies for non-native speakers; dual-nationality students may choose between Japanese or Japanese Studies where applicable. The Elementary program is divided into Lower Elementary (Grades 1–3) and Upper Elementary (Grades 4–6) and covers English, Mathematics (including White Rose Maths), STEAM, Science, Social Studies (with bilingual instruction in Grades 5–6), Art, Music, Home Economics, Physical Education, Social Emotional Learning and Ethics, Creative Studies, and Integrated Studies. Kindergarten uses the Early Years Foundation Stage framework with six areas of learning: Human Relationships, Language (including Japanese), Mathematics, Environment, Health, and Expression. The school is CIS-reaccredited as of October 10, 2024, and its diploma is designed to facilitate transfers to Japanese junior high schools as well as international schools.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
MIS supports social and emotional learning from Kindergarten with Personal, Social and Emotional Development that focuses on emotional well-being, self-identity, social competence, and a positive disposition to learn. The Vision, Mission and Aims emphasise empathy, international mindedness, and responsible citizenship as core dispositions. Through the Global Citizenship Award Program, students actively contribute to home, school, local, and global communities. Students document their service in Global Citizenship Journals, and outstanding students can earn a Super Global Citizen Award. The Student Council provides leadership opportunities, giving students a voice to plan activities and support others.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
MIS provides Learning Support and English Support as part of the admissions process, indicating provision for students needing extra help. Public materials describe these supports rather than a dedicated SEN department. Job postings indicate a desire for teachers who can work with children with special educational needs or other learning challenges/differences. The bilingual curriculum and emphasis on English language across subjects complement inclusive practices rather than indicating a separate SEN specialization. CIS accreditation highlights safeguarding and wellbeing as priorities, reinforcing support for diverse student needs.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
MIS operates as a dual-language school with programmes in English and Japanese. All subjects other than Japanese language and Japanese studies are taught in English. English language development is prioritized across the curriculum, with a range of texts and opportunities to develop reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. Admissions include Learning Support and English Support to assist students with English language needs. MIS aims to value both languages equally and prepare students to transfer to Japanese junior high schools as well as international schools.

Mental Wellbeing
Personal, Social and Emotional Development in Kindergarten emphasizes learning about emotional well‑being and how one fits within a group. Global Citizenship and service programs contribute to students' sense of belonging and purpose, supporting wellbeing. CIS accreditation notes safeguarding and wellbeing as priorities. Student leadership and community activities, such as the Student Council, promote positive wellbeing through social engagement. The school's ongoing accreditation and improvement processes reflect a broader commitment to student wellbeing.

Safeguarding
MIS places extreme importance on the safety and protection of children. At the time of submitting an employment application, applicants certify that they have never harmed children or vulnerable persons. MIS conducts background checks for all staff, and agrees that, if concerns arise, MIS may terminate the employment contract. All staff and volunteers sign codes of conduct and attest to suitability for roles involving contact with children. CIS accreditation highlights safeguarding and wellbeing as priorities.
Parent Experience

History
May 2006 an application was made to establish Makuhari International School in a Special Zone under Article One, enabling a flexible curriculum within the Japanese system. In January 2008 final approval was granted and the Makuhari International School Establishment Preparatory Foundation was formed to lead the project. The school opened in April 2009, welcoming students from K1 to Grade 6 and teaching the Japanese National Curriculum in English with elements drawn from international practice. In May 2016 MIS expanded its facilities to include a gymnasium, staff rooms, a conference room, and dedicated classrooms for Learning Support, English Support, Japanese Studies, and After School Care. The school is operated by the Makuhari International School Foundation, governed by a school board and a leadership team overseeing day-to-day operations.

Community
MIS maintains an active, inclusive school community with a wide range of after‑school clubs and events. The school hosts annual events such as Opening Ceremony, Sakura Medal Book Bowl, and a School Bazaar, and runs Calligraphy Week three times a year, along with inter‑house activities and an annual Sports Day. Students also participate in swimming lessons, Book Week activities, and Kindergarten and Grade 6 graduations. The school celebrates both Japanese and international holidays, including Setsubun and Halloween, reflecting its bilingual, globally aware culture.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
Makuhari International School's PTA is led by a chair and an elected board of parents and staff. It holds annual general meetings and organizes family events to connect parents with the school, and it supports the MIS Bazaar with stalls and activities, engaging families in fundraising and community life. The PTA maintains channels for feedback and updates through contact@mispta.com and via the MIS PTA site mispta.com. The PTA bylaws are available in English and Japanese to accommodate all families, and the group encourages broad parent involvement in events and volunteering.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
Makuhari International School sits on a spacious campus with award-winning facilities designed to support collaboration and exploration. Buildings and classrooms are open-plan with natural wood interiors that create a welcoming learning environment. The campus features large outdoor learning areas, including a grass field, and a central media centre. It also includes a Japanese garden and a courtyard for quiet study and outdoor activities. A gymnasium and a multipurpose hall support physical education and school events.

Sports Facilities
The campus includes a gymnasium for PE and indoor activities and a grass field for outdoor sport. A Multipurpose Hall supports assemblies and additional activities.

Academic Facilities
The Media Centre at the heart of the campus functions as the library and information hub. A dedicated Science Room provides hands-on laboratory spaces, while an ICT Room supports technology education with networked devices. Learning Support (LS) and English Support (ES) rooms are available to assist students who need extra help.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Daily after-school clubs cover art, music, drama, athletics, crafts, languages, culture, cooking, technology and design. Most clubs are run by MIS teachers, with some externally led options available for a fee. Swimming lessons are offered for one term at a local indoor facility.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
MIS offers a broad after-school program with clubs in art, music, drama, sports, games, crafts, homework support, culture, foreign languages, nature studies, cooking, and information technology. Most clubs are led by MIS staff and are free, though some are provided by external specialists for a fee. Students may participate in multiple clubs during the week, with activities typically running from 3:30 pm to 4:10 pm. The program complements the core curriculum with STEAM experiences, including coding and robotics, and the school hosts an annual MIS Science Fair.

Arts & Creative
After-school clubs cover arts and creative pursuits such as art, music, drama, crafts, and related activities. The curriculum emphasizes art and music as core areas, offering hands-on exploration of materials and opportunities for creative expression. MIS's elementary program integrates visual arts and music into learning, with dedicated instruction and performance opportunities.

Cultural & Language
Japanese is offered in two tracks: Kokugo for native/near-native speakers and Japanese Studies for non-native learners, with culture highlighted in assemblies and events. The school also marks cultural occasions and celebrations, including Setsubun, Halloween, and a Winter Performance, along with annual Book Week. Global citizenship and cross-cultural learning are embedded through the Global Citizenship program, which includes projects like rice cultivation, safety campaigns, and wildlife conservation partnerships with WWF; students document their service in Global Citizenship Journals.

Social & Hobbies
Clubs in social and hobby areas include games, culture-related activities, language clubs, and other informal groups. Many after-school offerings are run by MIS staff, with some external providers as needed; students may join more than one club in a week. The school also uses spirit days organized by the Student Council to foster school community and social engagement.

Community & Service
MIS emphasizes community service and global citizenship. Student Council-led fundraising and charity drives have supported disaster relief and national campaigns, illustrating a commitment to helping others. Through the Global Citizenship program, students undertake local and global service projects and record their experiences in journals that are shared with peers.

Leadership & Professional
Student leadership is cultivated through an elected Student Council that plans events, represents student voices, and raises money for charities. The Global Citizenship Award Program recognizes students who exemplify global citizenship, reinforcing leadership and service. MIS also employs a House system with Inter-House Challenges to develop teamwork and leadership across year groups.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Physical Education is a core component of MIS, focusing on safe movement, fitness, teamwork, and healthy habits. For example, MIS provides term-long swimming instruction at a nearby indoor pool delivered by professional coaches. Weekly assemblies recognize student effort, and annual awards and ceremonies celebrate achievement, contributing to a positive wellbeing culture.
Languages

Language Provision
English is the primary language of instruction for most subjects; all lessons, with the exception of Japanese or Japanese Studies (and some Social Studies in Grades 5–6), are taught in English, and students are screened on entry to ensure English proficiency to access the curriculum. Japanese is taught as Kokugo for native/near-native speakers or Japanese Studies for non-native speakers, with Grades 5–6 offering Japanese Studies that include language development and cultural content. The school provides language support through a dedicated Japanese Learning Support Teacher and English language support arrangements as needed, with admissions screening and English support coordination available when required.

Bilingual Teaching
Makuhari International School operates as a dual-language school where English and Japanese are valued equally. The bilingual program runs from Kindergarten (K1) through Grade 6, serving Japanese returnees, dual-nationality families, and expatriate families. Most subjects are taught in English by native English teachers, while Japanese is taught as Kokugo for native/near-native speakers or Japanese Studies for non-native speakers. In Grades 5–6, Social Studies is taught in both English and Japanese to support language development and cultural learning.
Reputation

Accreditations
Makuhari International School holds CIS accreditation (re-accredited on 10 October 2024).
Admissions

Admissions
1. Determine eligibility and choose entry path. Makuhari International School offers two entry pathways: the April intake at the start of the academic year and mid‑year transfers. Review the Qualification Requirements to confirm your child's eligibility for the selected route. If guidance is needed, contact the Admissions Officer for support.

2. Plan a school visit or information session. School tours are typically scheduled once per month for families not applying for April. For April admissions, attend the Information Day session and school tour (usually held in September).

3. For April admissions, follow the Enrollment for April schedule; for other times, download and complete the application forms and prepare supporting documents. For non‑April admissions, use the Forms page to download the application form(s) and submit them with Form A, any records, references or test results from current/previous schools, plus a copy of the child's passport photo page, the Parents Information Form, and a copy of the family's Certificate of Residence. For full details, request the Admissions Booklet from the school.

4. Screening, tests, or informal meeting. If a child meets the criteria, a screening test will be organized with the class teacher. For Kindergarten 1 or 2, an informal meeting with the kindergarten staff is arranged instead of a test. Where a child is accepted for testing or interviewing, a fee of ¥20,000 is payable to the school.

5. Follow‑up assessments and interviews. In some cases, after testing, a follow‑up interview might be arranged with the Learning Support or English Support Coordinator to discuss any language or learning needs.

6. Placement and written offer. A child is placed in the relevant Grade based on chronological age. An offer of a place (or not) is issued in writing, and the Head of School's decision is final.

7. Waitlist if spaces are unavailable. If there are no spaces at the time of application, a child may be invited to join a waiting list at the school.

8. Registration and invoicing. Registration and other entry fees are payable immediately on entry to the school; do not pay before you receive the invoice. The school issues an Admission Pack (including the admission certificate and related documents) after deposit confirmation.

9. First day arrangements. On the first day, arrive at the MIS office with your child at 8:30 am.

10. Timeline and ongoing recruitment. The entire admission process takes at least 30 school days (about one month) from submission to completion. For 2026 admissions, there are Additional Recruitment for 1 April 2026 Enrollment and Rolling Applications for 2026–2027; download the 2026–2027 Admission Booklet/Forms from the Forms page for current timelines.

Scholarships
MIS does not publish a traditional scholarship program. The school provides a fee reduction primarily through a sibling discount, with possible exemptions in some cases. Eligibility and exact discount amounts are determined by the school office. Fees (subject to change annually) include an Entrance Fee of ¥200,000, a Maintenance Fee of ¥400,000, Kindergarten tuition of ¥1,380,000, and Grades 1–6 tuition of ¥1,740,000 per year.

Waitlist
Yes. If no spaces are available at the time of application, MIS may invite the child to join a waiting list. The Head of School's final decision governs offers, and spaces vary by grade and intake. There is no publicly published, step‑by‑step waitlist timetable beyond this policy.
School Events
The school has not added events
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