"I've heard their EAL (English support) is strong, but can my child really keep up with their current English level?"
"What happens for university admissions if the IB (International Baccalaureate) program is too demanding in high school?"
Many parents considering applying to Aoba-Japan International School (A-JIS) have these kinds of concerns about the reality of school life after enrollment and their child's ultimate university prospects. A-JIS is a comprehensive K-G12 international school that, while centered on the International Baccalaureate (PYP/MYP/DP), is an innovative institution that warmly welcomes families from diverse linguistic backgrounds.
In this article, ELT, experts in international school admissions and interview preparation, will provide a thorough analysis of A-JIS's greatest strength—the reality of its EAL support—as well as university placement results from its unique high school Global Leadership Diploma (GLD) program, and strategies for the crucial family interview.
1. A Savior for Non-Native Speakers? The Reality of EAL Support
One of the main reasons families from non-English speaking backgrounds choose A-JIS is its support system for students whose native language is not English. However, this doesn't mean that extensive support is available to everyone indefinitely. We'll break down the realistic, grade-level standards based on official information and external analysis.
Acceptance Criteria and Support (EAL) by Grade Level
- K–G1 (Kindergarten to Grade 1 Equivalent): The official FAQ states that the school accepts a small number of students with little to no English, on the condition that their "home environment can foster language development."
- G1–G9 (Elementary to Middle School Equivalent): For students whose English is not at grade level, a support program is provided within the mainstream classroom. According to analysis from external education consultants (Tokyo Academics), beginners in G6–G8 in particular receive robust EAL support in small groups alongside their regular MYP classes.
- G9 and Above (High School Equivalent): While not officially stated as an admission criterion, external reviews observe that new students transferring in from G9 onwards are expected to have the English proficiency to access the curriculum without EAL support.
[Important] English Proficiency for Parents is "Essential"
While the English support for children is extensive, one thing that cannot be overlooked is the parents' English ability. A-JIS's official FAQ explicitly states that it is "essential for at least one parent/guardian to be able to communicate in English" for school correspondence. Fluency is not required, but parents must be prepared and willing to handle email exchanges and meetings in English.
2. High School Pathways: Differences and University Outcomes for IBDP and GLD
In its high school division, A-JIS offers not only the rigorous International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) but also an alternative pathway: the Global Leadership Diploma (GLD), the school's unique graduation qualification. The existence of this "safety net" significantly alleviates concerns about future academic paths.
IBDP vs. GLD Comparison Chart
Comparison Point | IBDP (IB Diploma) | GLD (Global Leadership Diploma) |
|---|---|---|
Provider | Implemented by the school within the framework of the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO). | A high school program developed independently by A-JIS. |
Qualification | IB Diploma + course grades. | An internationally accredited "High School Diploma" (awarded to GLD students). |
Learning Structure | Six subjects from six subject groups + a mandatory core (including a 4,000-word essay). | Individually optimized learning plans, portfolios, experiential learning, etc. Supported by a leadership coach. |
Assessment & English Requirements | Adaptation to academic English is crucial. Involves external assessments (externally marked). | Requires strong self-management skills due to high flexibility (with coach support). |
Suited For | Students with a solid academic and English foundation who can withstand a continuous cycle of exams and essays. | Self-driven students with clear career paths or interests who thrive in a learning environment with greater autonomy. |
The IB Diploma (DP) Uncovered: A Survival Guide to High Scores & University Admission | Mastering Subject Selection and the 'Challenging Core Trio'
Can Students Get into Top Japanese and International Universities with the GLD?
Some may worry, "Will choosing the GLD put my child at a disadvantage for university admissions?" but there is no need for concern. The diploma awarded upon completion of the GLD is accredited by CIS and NEASC, and is recognized as an official high school qualification by universities worldwide, including those in Japan. The school's official FAQ also notes that because the school is recognized by Japan's Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), graduates are eligible to apply to Japanese universities.
【Examples of University Offers (from official & external sources)】
- Japanese Universities: Waseda University, Keio University, Sophia University, etc.
- Overseas Universities: UCLA, UC Berkeley, University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, King’s College London, Imperial College London, University College London, etc.
3. Aoba's Tuition and "Hidden Costs" (EAL Fees)
Before applying, it's crucial to run an accurate tuition simulation.
Annual Estimated Core Costs (Tuition + Core Fees)
Based on information from the A-JIS official website and school fee databases (such as Doris), the approximate "core annual costs" are as follows:
- Primary (G1–G5): Tuition ¥2,332,000 + Family Community Association Fee (approx. ¥12,500) + Building Maintenance Fee (approx. ¥154,000–¥200,000) = Approx. ¥2,498,500–¥2,544,500 / year.
- Middle/High (G6–G12): Tuition ¥2,650,000 + same fees as above = Approx. ¥2,816,500–¥2,862,500 / year.
※For new students, one-time fees such as the Application Fee, Registration Fee, and Building Development Fee are added in the first year.
[Important] EAL May Incur Additional Charges
The most critical factor to consider in your budget planning is the cost of EAL (English as an Additional Language) support. According to school fee databases, if additional support is required, fees for EAL/Inclusion/Communications Support may be charged separately. As the amount varies depending on the program and placement, it is essential to individually confirm during the interview and application process, "Based on my child's English level, what would be the estimated annual cost for additional EAL support?"
4. The A-JIS Admissions Process and "Family Interview" Preparation
In the A-JIS admissions process, the parent interview (Family Interview) is as important, if not more so, than the document screening and the child's assessment.
The Reality of the Screening (Assessment)
According to the official FAQ, the pre-enrollment assessment is conducted to "evaluate past academic understanding" and "identify any learning or language support needs." While the specific test names are not officially disclosed, external sources like The Good Schools Guide suggest that A-JIS holds a membership with "WIDA," a framework for assessing English language learners.
[Actionable] Family Interview Success Checklist
During the interview, parents are directly asked their reasons for wanting an international education for their child. Preparing to answer the following four points in English (or with well-reasoned responses) is key to a successful application.
- Alignment of Educational Philosophies: Can you articulate with specific examples how your family's educational philosophy aligns with Aoba's values (such as a learning environment based on inquiry and collaboration)?
- The 'Why' Behind International Education: Can you explain your reasons for choosing international education beyond superficial answers like "for university admissions," connecting it to your vision for your child's future and your family's commitment (e.g., creating a bilingual environment)?
- Demonstrating Your Home Language Environment: Especially for applicants in the early years (K-G1) with low English proficiency, can you present a concrete plan for how you will foster language development at home?
- Commitment to English Communication with the School: Can you demonstrate that a system is in place for at least one parent to communicate smoothly with the school in English (e.g., who the contact person will be, how you'll handle emergencies)?
Conclusion: Let's Resolve Your Application Worries with a Professional
Aoba-Japan International School offers a wonderful environment with robust EAL support tailored for families from diverse linguistic backgrounds and flexible academic pathways with the IBDP and GLD. However, precisely because of this supportive nature, the school carefully assesses whether a family can partner with its educational philosophy (including the parents' ability to communicate in English) through application documents and the interview.
"I need a native speaker to check the English in my application essay."
"I want help crafting my answer to 'Why Aoba?' for the family interview."
"I'd like to do a mock English interview for both me and my child to simulate the real thing."
If you have needs like these, we invite you to use ELT's private counseling and trial lessons. Our native instructors and consultants, who are experts in international school admissions, will provide comprehensive support to help you succeed in your A-JIS application.
