"I want to transfer my child to an international school for high school."
"I want to move away from the traditional Japanese rote-learning system to an environment where my child can aim for overseas universities."
When considering this, many families face the immense challenge of "High School Entry."
Compared to entering in elementary or middle school, transferring to an international school for high school involves a complex mix of high-level English proficiency requirements, adapting to curricula like the IB (International Baccalaureate), and legal issues concerning "qualification for Japanese university entrance."
In this article, we categorize major international schools in and around Tokyo by "admission difficulty" and "curriculum," and explain realistic strategies for gaining admission and adapting, even when starting from high school.
1. Transferring to an International High School: The "Three Walls" You Must Know
Jumping in based on aspiration alone can lead to failure. First, let's understand the realistic hurdles.
① The English Language Wall (Is Native-Level Fluency Required?)
In the high school curriculum (Grades 10-12), students read Shakespeare in the original text and debate topics in physics and history in English.
- Benchmark: Eiken Grade 1, TOEFL iBT 80-90 or higher.
- The Reality: Many traditional schools (like ASIJ) generally do not offer "ESL (English as a Second Language)" support. The ability to keep up with classes in English is a prerequisite.
② The Curriculum Wall (IB/A-Level)
The final two years, corresponding to Grades 11 and 12, mark the beginning of extremely demanding curricula like the IBDP (International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme) or A-Levels (British system).
These programs require not just "learning in English" but also "inquiry-based learning skills" to achieve high scores, which directly impacts university admissions.
③ The "Article 1 School" Issue (Can students attend Japanese universities?)
Many international schools are classified as "miscellaneous schools" (kakushu gakkou) under Japanese law.
- MEXT Accredited Schools: These are considered equivalent to Japanese high school graduates, allowing students to apply to Japanese universities (most major schools like ASIJ, KIST, and BST are accredited).
- Non-Accredited Schools: To apply to Japanese universities, students must pass the "Upper Secondary School Equivalency Examination."
2. Map of Tokyo's International High Schools by Difficulty
We have categorized schools in Tokyo into three tiers based on the perspective of "Is it possible to enter from high school?"
Tier 1: Super Competitive & Traditional Schools
Characteristics: Long-established with outstanding placement records at top overseas universities. However, high school admission is often impossible unless a spot opens up, and English requirements are near-native level.
The American School in Japan (ASIJ): The largest and oldest American-style school in Japan. Located in Chofu. SSAT score required.
ASIJ (American School in Japan) Admissions & Fees [2026 Edition]: The 'Corporate Quota' Barrier and Strategies for Getting In
The British School in Tokyo (BST): British-style school. Campuses in Shibuya and Setagaya. Offers A-Levels.
The British School in Tokyo (BST): Features, Quality of British Education, and Student Demographics
St. Mary's: A prestigious Catholic boys' school.
St. Mary's International School: The Discipline and University Success of Tokyo's All-Boys International School
Seisen & Sacred Heart: Prestigious Catholic girls' schools.
Seisen International School Review: Reputation, Features, and How This Catholic Girls' School Cultivates Next-Generation Leaders
Tier 2: IB-Focused & Academically Rigorous
Characteristics: High IB scores and a demanding academic workload. While strong English is essential, students with exceptional academic abilities may be considered.
K. International School Tokyo (KIST): Located in Koto-ku. World-class IBDP scores. Tuition is relatively reasonable, but the academic pressure is very high.
K International School Tokyo (KIST): Reputation vs. Reality | Behind Japan's #1 IB Scores & Admission Difficulty
Tokyo International School (TIS): Located in Minato-ku. An IB school. *For the high school division, confirmation of pathways to partner schools is necessary.
Aoba-Japan International School: Located in Nerima-ku. A full IB continuum school.
Tier 3: Flexible & Newer Schools
Characteristics: Offer English as an Additional Language (EAL) support and evaluate students based on motivation and potential. They are relatively easier to transfer into at the high school level.
Capital Tokyo International School (CTIS): Located in the Shibuya/Hiroo area. Features a practical curriculum produced by Kashiwa Sato.
Malvern College Tokyo: Located in Kodaira. The Tokyo campus of a prestigious British school. Offers the IB.
Malvern College Tokyo (MCT): Reputation, Features, and Admissions Prep for a Top British IB School
Hiroo Gakuen & Mita International School (International Course): Hybrid schools that are Japanese "Article 1 schools" but conduct classes in English.
Hiroo Gakuen International Course (2026): Admission Difficulty, Tuition, AG vs. SG, and Prep Strategies
Mita International School (IC & DDP): 2026 Fees, WACE Program Benefits, and Admissions Guide
3. Comparison of Major Curricula and Tuition Fees
School Name | Curriculum | Annual High School Tuition (Approx.) | Japanese University Eligibility | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
ASIJ | AP (American) | Approx. ¥3.6 million | Yes (Accredited) | Exceptional facilities and scale. SSAT required. |
BST | A-Level (British) | Approx. ¥3.8 million | Yes (Accredited) | Strong track record for top UK universities. |
KIST | IBDP | Approx. ¥2.6 million | Yes (Accredited) | Excellent value, but high pressure to perform in the IB. |
Aoba | IBDP | Approx. ¥3.0 million | Yes (Accredited) | Focuses on global leadership education. |
Hiroo Gakuen | Japanese + AP | Approx. ¥1.0 million+ | Yes (Article 1 School) | Lower tuition, with thorough preparation for Japanese universities. Extremely popular and highly competitive. |
*Tuition fees are approximate and cover tuition only. Additional fees for admission, facilities, bus services, etc., will apply.
4. Strategies for a Successful High School Transfer
1. Compete with Academic Strength, Not Just English Proficiency
In international school entrance exams, math scores are often weighted heavily alongside English essays. Students from the Japanese school system often have strong math skills, which can be a key selling point.
2. The Option to Repeat a Grade (Downgrade)
If English proficiency is a concern, schools may suggest starting in a lower grade (e.g., repeating Grade 9 or 10).
This is not something to be ashamed of; it is a smart strategy to solidify English skills before tackling the IB/A-Level programmes.
3. Use "Hybrid Schools" as a Safety Net
If you are hesitant about jumping directly into a full international school, consider applying to "Japanese private high schools that teach in English," such as Hiroo Gakuen or Mita International School, as a backup. This offers the security of an Article 1 school while still providing an English-speaking environment.
5. Conclusion: Take on the Challenge with an Understanding of the Risks
Transferring to an international school in high school is an opportunity that can significantly change your child's life, but it also comes with risks.
A motivation like "escaping to an international school because of struggles with the local system" can lead to dropping out, as students may struggle to keep up with the rigorous demands of IB or AP courses.
However, with clear goals (such as attending university overseas) and a strong motivation to learn, opportunities can be found, especially within Tier 2 and Tier 3 schools.
ELT | International School Admissions Prep
At ELT, we offer specialized preparation programs for middle and high school students aiming for admission to international schools.
- School Selection Consulting: We help you choose "realistic target schools" that match your child's English level and personality.
- Admissions Test Prep: Essay editing, English interview practice, and Math tutoring (in English).
- Post-Admission Support: Academic tutoring to keep up with classes, and preparation for IB/A-Level.
