Tokyo Education Guide: International Schools

Tokyo is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Asia, and education is a top priority for international families relocating here. For parents moving to Japan, one of the most important decisions is selecting the right school for their children. International schools in Tokyo provide high-quality education in English or other global languages, following recognized curricula such as IB, American, British, French, or bilingual frameworks.

In addition to dozens of independent schools, Tokyo Metropolitan Government (TMG) officially supports 14 international schools that meet specific standards. These schools offer stability, quality, and a broad range of educational options for expatriate and globally minded families.

This guide introduces these schools, outlines their curricula, and explains what makes them attractive to families considering life in Tokyo.

Why International Schools in Tokyo?

For many expatriate families, international schools are the natural choice:

  • Language of Instruction – Most teach in English or other major languages, allowing smooth academic progress without immediate fluency in Japanese.

  • Global Curriculum – IB, AP, IGCSE, A-Levels, or French/German systems ensure continuity if families relocate again.

  • Multicultural Environment – Students come from all over the world, fostering diversity and global citizenship.

  • University Pathways – Graduates are well-prepared for admission to universities in Japan, the U.S., the UK, Europe, and beyond.

The 14 Tokyo Metropolitan Government–Supported International Schools

Below is a detailed overview of the 14 officially supported schools.

1. The American School in Japan (ASIJ)

Located in Chofu, ASIJ is one of the largest and oldest international schools in Tokyo. It offers an American-style K–12 education with Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Facilities include expansive sports grounds, arts centers, and a strong extracurricular program. ASIJ is accredited by WASC and serves as a hub for the North American community.

2. The British School in Tokyo (BST)

With campuses in Shibuya and Showa, BST follows the UK National Curriculum. Students advance through IGCSE and A-Levels, preparing for universities worldwide. The school is highly structured, with strong academics and a supportive community for UK and Commonwealth expatriates.

3. Nishimachi International School

A well-respected school in Azabu, Nishimachi offers Kindergarten through Grade 9. Instruction is in English, with strong Japanese language and cultural education. Known for its small class sizes and emphasis on multiculturalism, Nishimachi is popular among families who want their children to thrive in a bilingual, bicultural environment.

4. Tokyo International School (TIS)

Located in Minato, TIS is IB-accredited and offers the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Middle Years Programme (MYP). The inquiry-based approach encourages creativity and problem-solving. The school is compact but vibrant, serving families seeking modern international education in central Tokyo.

5. Lycée Français International de Tokyo (LFI)

LFI provides French-language education under the French Ministry of Education. It caters primarily to French-speaking families but is also open to others interested in French-language instruction. The school prepares students for French Baccalauréat and European university pathways.

6. Seisen International School

A Catholic girls’ school located in Setagaya, Seisen offers the IB curriculum and emphasizes holistic development, including arts, languages, and community service. The school nurtures leadership, cultural sensitivity, and personal growth in an international environment.

7. St. Mary’s International School

Located in Setagaya, St. Mary’s is a Catholic boys’ school with a strong reputation for academics and athletics. It offers an American-style curriculum, with Advanced Placement options, and maintains a tight-knit community that encourages discipline and teamwork.

8. International School of the Sacred Heart

Another Catholic girls’ school in Tokyo, Sacred Heart offers English-medium instruction from Kindergarten through Grade 12. It focuses on character formation, academic excellence, and personal development, with a welcoming environment for international families.

9. India International School in Japan (IISJ)

IISJ follows the Indian Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) curriculum. Classes are taught in English, and the school is known for its rigorous academics and affordability compared to many other international schools. It serves both the Indian expatriate community and other families interested in its curriculum.

10. K. International School Tokyo (KIST)

KIST is fully accredited for all three IB programs (PYP, MYP, DP). It emphasizes inquiry, multilingualism, and global citizenship. Located in Koto Ward, KIST attracts a diverse student body and is one of Tokyo’s most recognized IB schools.

11. Christian Academy in Japan (CAJ)

Situated in Higashi-Kurume, CAJ is a Christian school offering a U.S.-style K–12 education in English. While rooted in Christian values, it is inclusive and welcomes families of various backgrounds. CAJ is particularly attractive to families looking for a warm, community-focused environment.

12. Japanese International School (JIS)

JIS provides bilingual education in English and Japanese. It caters to expatriate families as well as returnee students seeking to balance international learning with Japanese culture and language. The school emphasizes small class sizes and personalized learning.

13. Montessori School of Tokyo

As the name suggests, MST follows the Montessori philosophy, focusing on self-directed learning and independence. The school serves preschool through middle school students, offering a nurturing environment with English as the primary language of instruction.

14. New International School of Japan (NewIS)

Located in Toshima, NewIS is unique for its dual-language (English and Japanese) approach and multi-age class structure. The curriculum emphasizes creativity, thematic learning, and global awareness. It is well-suited for families who value bilingualism and innovation.

Key Considerations for Parents

When choosing among these schools, parents should weigh:

  • Curriculum Pathway – Whether IB, American, British, French, CBSE, or Montessori best fits their child’s future.

  • Language Policy – Some emphasize bilingualism, while others are strictly English or another language.

  • Location – Tokyo commutes can be long; proximity to home or transport hubs matters.

  • Cost – Tuition ranges widely, often between ¥2,000,000 and ¥3,500,000 annually, plus additional fees.

  • School Culture – Some schools are faith-based, others secular; some focus on academic rigor, others on holistic education.

Admissions Process

Admissions vary by school, but most require:

  • Application forms and fees

  • Transcripts and recommendations

  • Placement tests or interviews

  • Early application (6–12 months before enrollment)

Popular schools often have waiting lists, so families are advised to apply to multiple options.

Daily Life and Community

International schools in Tokyo provide more than classroom learning:

  • Extracurriculars – Sports, music, robotics, drama, and cultural clubs.

  • Events – Multicultural festivals, charity fundraisers, and community gatherings.

  • Support – Counseling, English as an Additional Language (EAL) programs, and student services.

These schools also play a vital role in helping families integrate into life in Tokyo, offering a network of friendships and support.

Conclusion

Tokyo’s international schools provide diverse and world-class education opportunities. The 14 Tokyo Metropolitan Government–supported schools represent the core of the city’s international education landscape, ensuring quality and stability for families from all backgrounds.

Whether your family prefers the American or British system, the French or Indian curriculum, the Montessori approach, or a bilingual program, Tokyo offers a school that will fit your needs. With careful planning and early applications, parents can secure an excellent education for their children and peace of mind during their relocation to Japan.

FAQ:Tokyo Education Guide: International Schools

What counts as an “international school” in Tokyo?

In Tokyo, “international school” generally refers to a private school that delivers most instruction in a language other than Japanese (commonly English, but also French, German, etc.) and follows a non-Japanese curriculum such as the IB, American, British (IGCSE/A-Level), French national, CBSE (India), or Montessori. Some schools are fully English-medium; others are bilingual, combining international programs with strong Japanese language and culture. A subset of schools is officially supported by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government (TMG) for meeting specific operational standards.

Which curricula are available, and how do they compare?

Tokyo offers a wide range:

  • IB (PYP/MYP/DP): Inquiry-based, internationally portable; recognized by universities worldwide.
  • American (K–12, AP): Broad subject choice, GPA + AP exams; aligns well with U.S. admissions.
  • British (IGCSE/A-Level): Subject depth in upper years; strong signal for UK and Commonwealth universities.
  • French national (Baccalauréat): Seamless continuity for French-speaking families and European pathways.
  • CBSE (India): Structured, rigorous math/science track with English instruction; competitive for STEM routes.
  • Montessori/Bilingual models: Student-led or dual-language approaches that emphasize independence or fluent biliteracy.

Choose based on your child’s learning style and likely university destination. If relocation is common in your family, IB or American pathways can be especially portable.

How competitive is admission and when should we apply?

Popular schools can be competitive, with rolling admissions but long waitlists in certain grades. Aim to start 6–12 months before the intended start date. Peak intake is often August/September; some schools also admit in January or April. Submitting early, complete applications and applying to two or three suitable options improves your odds.

What documents and assessments are typically required?

Expect a combination of:

  • Online application and application fee
  • Recent report cards or transcripts (2–3 years)
  • Teacher recommendations and/or school profile
  • Student/parent interviews (in person or virtual)
  • Placement tests (English, mathematics; language proficiency if applicable)
  • Passport/ID, proof of residency/visa, immunization records

Schools use assessments to place students at the appropriate level, not only to gatekeep admissions.

How much do international schools cost in Tokyo?

Tuition varies widely by school and grade. As a guideline, many schools fall roughly in the ¥2,000,000–¥3,500,000 annual tuition range, with additional fees for application, enrollment, facilities, bus, meals, uniforms, technology, and activities. Total yearly costs can exceed ¥4,000,000 for some families. Ask each school for a full fee schedule and note billing cycles, currency, and refund policies.

Are there scholarships, fee assistance, or corporate sponsorships?

Need-based and merit-based assistance exists but is limited and competitive. Some employers include tuition support in relocation packages. If you are self-paying, inquire about financial aid deadlines, required documentation, and whether aid renews automatically or must be re-applied for annually.

Should we prioritize location and commute times?

Absolutely. Tokyo is large and commutes can be long. When possible, choose a school within a manageable train/bus ride of your home or workplace. Many schools offer school buses from key neighborhoods; routes fill early and may add to costs. A shorter commute often correlates with better student well-being and time for extracurriculars.

What language support is available for non-native speakers?

Most schools offer EAL/ELL (English as an Additional Language) or host-language support (e.g., French/Japanese). Ask about entry requirements, the intensity and duration of support, criteria for exiting EAL, and whether extra fees apply. In bilingual schools, clarify how literacy is developed in both languages and how newcomers are integrated midstream.

How do schools accommodate learning differences and special educational needs?

Provision varies. Many schools provide learning support, counseling, and accommodations (e.g., extended time, assistive technology). Some partner with external specialists for occupational therapy or speech/language therapy. Request the school’s Student Support policy, staffing ratios, and whether they can implement individual plans. If your child needs significant support, confirm feasibility before applying.

What is daily life like—class size, homework, and activities?

International schools typically feature smaller classes than public systems, a mix of formative and summative assessments, and regular homework scaled by age. After school, students can join sports, music, drama, robotics, MUN, coding, and service clubs. Weekend tournaments and performances are common. Ask for seasonal activities calendars and participation fees.

Are uniforms, lunches, and transportation included?

Uniforms are common at British and many faith-based schools; others use dress codes. School lunches may be catered or bring-your-own, with allergy management protocols. Transportation is rarely included in tuition; dedicated buses, if offered, incur separate fees. Verify policies for late buses tied to clubs or rehearsals.

What accreditations and quality assurances should we look for?

Seek external quality markers such as IB authorization, WASC, CIS, Ofsted-equivalent inspections for British schools, or national ministry oversight for language-specific schools. Accreditation ensures curriculum integrity, safeguarding standards, governance, and ongoing improvement cycles.

How do mid-year transfers and grade placements work?

Most schools accept mid-year transfers capacity permitting. Placement is guided by age, prior curriculum, and assessment results. If shifting systems (e.g., from British Year 8 to U.S. Grade 7/8), counselors will map equivalences. Provide syllabi or course descriptions to help with credit recognition, especially in IGCSE/IB/AP years.

Can students keep up Japanese while attending an international school?

Yes. Options include in-school Japanese classes (often leveled), after-school language programs, private tutors, and community language schools on weekends. Bilingual or dual-language schools integrate Japanese literacy more deeply. Clarify whether Japanese is taught as a native or additional language track and how placement works.

What is the role of parents and community?

International schools in Tokyo typically have active parent associations (PTA/PSO), class reps, and volunteer opportunities for events and cultural festivals. Schools communicate via portals and apps; expect regular newsletters, progress reports, and parent-teacher conferences. New family onboarding and buddy systems help with settling in.

How safe are campuses, and what about wellbeing?

Schools maintain controlled access, visitor protocols, and emergency drills (earthquake/fire). Safeguarding policies cover child protection, staff vetting, and reporting. Student wellbeing includes counseling services, advisory programs, and anti-bullying initiatives. Request the school’s Safeguarding & Pastoral Care handbook.

What should we know about technology and digital citizenship?

Many schools operate 1:1 device programs from upper primary or middle school. Platforms like learning management systems house assignments and grades. Ask about screen-time guidelines, cybersecurity, AI/academic integrity policies, and support for responsible use at home and school.

How do we compare the 14 TMG-supported schools specifically?

Start with the fundamentals: curriculum (IB/US/UK/French/CBSE/Montessori), grade span (early years to Grade 12 or partial), single-sex vs coeducational, faith-based vs secular, location and commute, EAL and learning support depth, facilities (science labs, arts, sports), historical university placements, and total cost of attendance. Shortlist three to five schools to tour—seeing facilities and meeting staff is often decisive.

What is a realistic application timeline?

Use this sample rhythm:

  1. 12–9 months out: Research curricula, budget, neighborhoods; attend virtual open houses; request fee sheets.
  2. 9–6 months: Campus tours; gather transcripts, recommendations, testing histories; book assessments.
  3. 6–3 months: Submit applications; complete interviews/assessments; apply for buses/financial aid.
  4. 3–1 month: Confirm offers; pay enrollment and facility fees; order uniforms and devices; arrange immunization documentation.
  5. First month: Attend orientation; set up parent portals; meet counselors/EAL staff; choose clubs and music lessons.

Any final tips for choosing the right fit?

Prioritize your child’s needs over a school’s brand name. Match curriculum to learning style and university plans, keep commutes humane, budget for the full cost (not just tuition), and scrutinize support for language and learning differences. Most importantly, visit—school culture, student-teacher rapport, and how your child feels on campus often tell you more than a brochure.

Tokyo Education Guide: Schools & International Programs