Tokyo & Greater Tokyo Area International Schools Guide 2026: A Complete Comparison of Curriculums, Tuition, and Admissions

International schools in Tokyo primarily follow one of four curriculums: IB, British, American, or a unique bilingual model. Annual tuition fees typically range from 2 to 3.5 million JPY, and admission often requires not only a high level of English proficiency from the child but, in many cases, from the parents as well. In recent years, a third option has gained popularity: international courses at *Article 1 schools* (such as Hiroo Gakuen and Mita International), which offer a path to overseas universities at a more moderate cost.

In this article, based on ELT's experience consulting on hundreds of international school admissions, we provide a comprehensive comparison of 17 major international schools plus 2 Article 1 schools in the Tokyo metropolitan area. We cover everything from curriculum differences and tuition fee benchmarks to admission requirements and post-graduation pathways.

1. What is an International School?

An international school (hereafter "international school") generally has the following characteristics:

• Multinational Environment: Children from various nationalities learn together.
• English-Medium Instruction: The official language of the school and the language of instruction is primarily English.
• International Curriculum: They adopt overseas-based curriculums (IB, British, American, etc.) rather than the Japanese Ministry of Education's curriculum guidelines.

Legal Status: The Difference Between 'Miscellaneous Schools' and 'Article 1 Schools'

There is a crucial point to understand when choosing an international school.

Under Japan's School Education Act, most international schools are classified as 'miscellaneous schools' (*kakushu gakkou*) or are unaccredited. This means they are not recognized as part of Japan's compulsory education system. Therefore, you must confirm that graduation alone may not automatically grant eligibility for Japanese high school or university entrance (a graduation qualification).

However, students who complete a 12-year program at an internationally accredited international school (by bodies like WASC, CIS, or ACSI) are granted eligibility for university entrance in Japan. Most major schools, such as ASIJ, KIST, BST, and St. Mary's, fall into this category.

On the other hand, the increasingly popular international courses at schools like Hiroo Gakuen and Mita International School are regular schools stipulated under Article 1 of the School Education Act ('Article 1 schools'). This offers the advantage of earning a Japanese high school diploma while studying in English and aiming for overseas universities (more on this later).

Can Students of Japanese Nationality Enroll?

The short answer is yes, they can. However, the admissions stance varies significantly from school to school.

Schools that are relatively open to families of Japanese nationality include Aoba (approx. 50% Japanese nationality), CIS (approx. 48% Japanese nationality), and KIST. In contrast, schools like ASIJ and BST tend to prioritize expatriate families or those transferring from overseas, and families of Japanese nationality may have a lower admission priority. Furthermore, TIS has its own strict criteria, such as not offering EAL support to families of Japanese nationality.

What Level of English is Required for Admission?

While many assume that native-level English is a must for international schools, the actual English language requirements vary greatly by school.

Schools that accept students with developing English proficiency and offer strong EAL support: Aoba (offers a 6-level EAL program, with about 30% of students from G1-G9 receiving EAL), CIS (mainstream-integrated EAL support), KIST (LEAP program, though generally not available from G8 onwards), etc. These schools make it possible to "receive an international education while improving English proficiency."

Schools that require a certain level of English but not necessarily native fluency: Seisen (offers a Language Support program), Nishimachi (has a unique policy of prioritizing mother tongue proficiency over English), etc.

Schools where native or near-native English proficiency is a prerequisite: BST (from Year 1 onwards, students must be able to follow the curriculum in English), TIS (families of Japanese nationality are not eligible for EAL), ASIJ (English proficiency is an admission requirement), St. Mary's (no EAL support in upper grades), etc.

At the kindergarten level (ages 3-5), many schools accept children with little to no English. However, for transferring in the mid-to-upper elementary years or later, a basic foundation in English is necessary even at schools with strong EAL programs. If you are aiming for international school admission starting from zero English, please be aware that the older the child, the longer the preparation period required.

2. The Four Main Curriculums at Tokyo's International Schools

The first step in choosing an international school is deciding "which curriculum to study." Here is a comparison of the four main types found in Tokyo.

Inquiry-based learning. A qualification recognized by universities in over 110 countries. Academically rigorous.

IBDP (max score 45)

Approx. 2.5–3.5M JPY

Students considering both overseas and Japanese universities.

KIST, Aoba, Seisen

② British Curriculum

Deep study of 3-4 subjects (A-Levels). Traditional education emphasizing discipline.

IGCSE, A-Level

Approx. 2.9–3.8M JPY

Students aiming for universities in the UK, Europe, or Australia.

BST, Malvern

③ American/Canadian Curriculum

Flexible, credit-based system. AP (Advanced Placement) courses are advantageous for North American universities.

US/Canadian High School Diploma, AP

Approx. 3.0–3.8M JPY

Students aiming for universities in the US or Canada.

ASIJ, CIS

④ Unique/Bilingual

Combines a unique international education with Japanese language instruction. Common in long-established schools.

School's own diploma + SAT/AP etc.

Approx. 2.0–3.0M JPY

Families who want to raise bilingual children without sacrificing Japanese skills.

Nishimachi, Sacred Heart

*Tuition fees are estimates for tuition only. Admission fees, facility fees, material costs, etc., are additional.

IB, British, or American: Which One to Choose?

This is one of the most common questions we receive at ELT. In short:

IB: Its greatest strength is its "versatility for university applications worldwide." However, the workload for the DP (Grades 11-12) is extremely high, requiring students to manage 6 subjects plus TOK, EE, and CAS.

British (A-Level): A style where students "specialize and study 3-4 subjects in depth." It is particularly well-suited for students strong in STEM. It provides a direct pathway to universities in the UK, Australia, and Singapore.

American (AP): Its appeal lies in the flexibility to "freely choose from a wide range of subjects." It is ideal for applying to North American universities, which also place a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities and leadership.

3. A List of 17 Major International Schools in Tokyo & the Greater Tokyo Area

Here, we introduce representative schools in Tokyo, categorized by curriculum, that you should know when considering an international school.

*Tuition fees and application requirements are subject to change each year. Please be sure to check the latest information on each school's official website.

3-1. IB Continuum & IB-Focused Schools

K International School Tokyo (KIST)

With 25% of the Class of 2025 achieving a perfect score of 45 and 89% scoring 40 or above, KIST has recorded phenomenal results. It is one of Japan's top-performing schools, ranked 4th in the world among IB schools. All students also take the IGCSE (G10), and the school is known for its "cumulative" curriculum that thoroughly solidifies fundamentals in math and science. It is ideal for families with a strong academic focus, but the workload is extremely demanding, and a high level of English is required from the time of admission. It is one of the schools most frequently inquired about at ELT.

Official Website

Aoba-Japan International School (A-JIS)

Aoba is proactive in accepting students from Japanese families and provides a 6-level EAL (English as an Additional Language) support system. About 30% of students in each class receive EAL support, creating an environment where students can "learn the IB while developing their English skills." In addition to the IBDP, students can opt for the unique GLD (Global Leadership Diploma) program, and an online DP is also available. The Hikarigaoka campus offers a lush, green environment and boasts spacious facilities.

Official Website

Tokyo International School (TIS)

With students from over 60 countries, TIS's greatest appeal is its multinational environment in the heart of the city. The school is undergoing a major transformation with its upcoming relocation to a state-of-the-art campus directly connected to JR Takanawa Gateway Station. However, it has strict requirements for families of Japanese nationality, including being "ineligible for EAL support" and "requiring parents to have fluent English."

Official Website

Seisen International School

A Catholic all-girls school. The kindergarten combines Montessori education with the IB PYP, a rare educational model with only two such schools in the Asia-Pacific region. In the Class of 2025, eight students achieved scores of 40 or higher. University destinations are well-balanced, with 35% in the US, 35% in Japan/Asia, and 14% in Europe. Despite being a girls' school, its track record in STEM fields is noteworthy. There are also exchanges with the adjacent boys' school, St. Mary's, and they share a school bus service.

Official Website

3-2. British Curriculum Schools

The British School in Tokyo (BST)

In the 2025 A-Level results, several students achieved scores ranked "1st in Japan," "1st in Asia," and "1st in the world." With its official accreditation as an IB World School in 2025, the school now offers the IBDP as an option for the 6th Form (Years 12-13) (the 2024-2026 cohort will be the last for A-Levels). The state-of-the-art campus in Azabudai Hills (designed by Thomas Heatherwick) is a hot topic, but it's important to know that the admissions policy prioritizes expatriate families, placing families with only Japanese nationality in the fourth priority category.

Official Website

Malvern College Tokyo

Opened in 2023, this is the Tokyo campus of the prestigious British school, Malvern College. It offers an education that blends traditional British schooling with the IB programme in a lush, green environment. Boarding options are also available, with a focus on character development through residential life. The high school programme will be fully established in 2026, and its future university placement record is a key point of interest.

Official Website

3-3. American & Canadian Curriculum Schools

The American School in Japan (ASIJ)

Founded in 1902, ASIJ is one of Japan's largest international schools with over a century of history. Its vast Chofu campus is equipped with excellent facilities, including gymnasiums, a swimming pool, sports fields, and a design technology center. Bicultural families, including those with dual nationality, make up about half the student body, creating a fluid community where 15-20% of students change each year. However, due to the Corporate Contribution Program, admission for families without corporate sponsorship can be challenging.

Official Website

Canadian International School Tokyo (CIS)

As an officially accredited school by a Canadian provincial department of education, graduates earn a Canadian high school diploma (PEI Diploma). A key feature is the flexibility it offers, allowing students to demonstrate their academic abilities through AP courses without the intense workload of the full IB Diploma Programme. Its relatively moderate tuition and strong EAL support (integrated into the mainstream classroom rather than streamed separately) are also attractive to families with Japanese backgrounds. It's worth noting that as an urban campus, it does not have a schoolyard or swimming pool.

Official Website

3-4. Long-Established & Bilingual-Focused Schools

Nishimachi International School

Nishimachi stands out among Tokyo's international schools with its "mandatory one-hour Japanese class every day" for all grades. It is a prestigious school that values not only English proficiency but also Japanese identity and language skills. Its policy of prioritizing "proficiency in their mother tongue" over English at the time of admission is also distinctive. However, as there is no high school program, students must transfer to other schools like ASIJ or KIST after completing Grade 9.

Official Website

St. Mary's International School

Founded in 1954, St. Mary's is the only all-boys international school in Japan. About 70% of high school students take the full IBDP, with 90% of them earning the diploma. Graduates' destinations are globally diverse: 56% in the US, 15% in Japan, 12% in the UK, and 1% in Europe. The school has a strong tradition of excellence in both academics and extracurriculars; the wrestling team has won over 20 Kanto and Far East championships, and the men's chorus has won gold medals in international competitions. Its spacious 9-acre campus with tennis courts, an artificial turf field, and an indoor pool is also a major draw.

Official Website

International School of the Sacred Heart (ISSH)

Established in 1908, ISSH is the oldest international school for girls in Japan. As part of the Sacred Heart network of 147 schools in 44 countries, it offers abundant opportunities for global exchange and recommendations. Despite its central location near Hiroo Station, it enjoys a lush, green environment, sharing its grounds with the University of the Sacred Heart. Reconstruction of the middle and high school buildings is scheduled from 2026. The school has a strong track record for overseas university placement through its AP program, and its after-school care program (until 6:00 PM) is a welcome feature for working families.

Official Website

3-5. Noteworthy New Schools

Capital Tokyo International School (CTIS)

A new school that has garnered attention, partly due to the involvement of creative director Kashiwa Sato in its branding. Centered on Project-Based Learning (PBL) and STEAM education, it offers an education focused on "practical skills" in small classes of 12 students. The elementary division opened in 2022, the middle school in 2023, and the high school is scheduled to open in 2026. It is aiming for official IB authorization, and its future development is being closely watched.

Official Website

3-6. Popular Schools in the Greater Tokyo Area (Commutable from Tokyo)

When considering "international schools in Tokyo," it's worth noting that there are excellent options in Kanagawa and Chiba prefectures that are well within commuting distance. Many are accessible within an hour's journey one-way, making them well worth considering to broaden your options.

Yokohama International School (YIS)

Founded in 1924, YIS is one of the oldest international schools in Japan. In 2022, it relocated to a new, state-of-the-art campus designed by Kengo Kuma. It is a full IB continuum school offering all programmes (PYP, MYP, DP) and also features a unique Global Citizen Diploma program. It is a traditional school on par with the "Big 4" (ASIJ, St. Mary's, Seisen, Sacred Heart) and is known for its liberal and open-minded school culture. However, admission for families with only Japanese nationality requires prior experience of enrollment at an international school overseas.

Official Website

Saint Maur International School

Founded in 1872, Saint Maur is the oldest international school in Asia. It is known for its small, close-knit community and provides personalized instruction with a 7:1 student-teacher ratio. The school offers a wide range of options, allowing students to earn international qualifications through the IGCSE (G10) → IBDP (G11-12) pathway, with the option to take AP exams as well. EAL support is available (though places are limited). The high school is selective, with an acceptance rate of around 30%. While based on Christian values, its open and inclusive attitude towards all religions and cultures is highly valued by parents.

Official Website

Rugby School Japan (RSJ)

The Japan campus of the prestigious British Rugby School, which opened in 2023. Rugby School is one of the UK's leading public schools, known for the 19th-century educational reforms by Thomas Arnold and as the birthplace of rugby football. Located within the Kashiwa-no-ha Smart City, it is adjacent to the University of Tokyo's Kashiwa Campus. It features a British-style house system for boarding life and a traditional British curriculum of IGCSE followed by A-Levels. The entrance examination includes the CAT4 (Cognitive Abilities Test) and the Oxford English Test. In only its second year, the school is already demonstrating high academic potential, with multiple students receiving early offers from Oxbridge.

Official Website

4. Another Option: International Courses at 'Article 1' Schools

In recent years, international courses at 'Article 1' schools (schools formally regulated under Article 1 of Japan's School Education Act) have been rapidly gaining prominence in Tokyo's international education market.

Sometimes referred to as 'quasi-international schools,' these institutions offer the 'best of both worlds' by being official Japanese schools where major subjects are taught in English, preparing students for overseas university applications. However, as they are fundamentally 'international courses within Japanese schools,' they differ significantly from traditional international schools. It's crucial to understand both the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision.

Advantages of International Courses at Article 1 Schools

① Tuition is about 1/4 to 1/5 of a traditional international school
While traditional international schools have annual tuition fees of ¥2.5 to ¥3.8 million, the international courses at Article 1 schools cost around ¥0.5 to ¥1.0 million per year. Furthermore, since these are official private schools, they are eligible for tuition subsidies (up to approx. ¥490,000 in Tokyo) and other financial aid, further reducing the actual financial burden on families.

② Students earn a Japanese high school diploma
Because students can learn in English while earning an official graduation certificate recognized by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), it keeps doors open to both Japanese university entrance exams and overseas university applications. This eliminates the concern that 'attending an international school might prevent my child from entering a Japanese university.'

③ A rapidly growing track record of university placements abroad
With graduates from Hiroo Gakuen accepted to universities like Yale, UPenn, and UCL, and Mita International offering the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE), it is becoming clear that 'students from Article 1 schools can certainly aim for top global universities.'

Disadvantages of International Courses at Article 1 Schools (Common Oversights)

On the other hand, some families who consult with ELT expect that 'enrolling in an international course at an Article 1 school will yield the same results as attending a full international school,' but this is not entirely accurate. It is important to understand the following points beforehand.

① International qualifications like the IBDP, A-Levels, or AP are generally not available
The curriculum of an Article 1 school is based on the Japanese national curriculum guidelines, so students cannot obtain an IB Diploma or A-Level qualifications. While some schools, like Hiroo Gakuen, are official AP test centers where students can take AP exams individually, this is an optional examination and is fundamentally different from a full international school where the entire curriculum is designed around the IB or A-Level framework.

When applying to universities abroad, a major advantage for international school graduates is the ability to apply directly with their IBDP score (e.g., 38+ points) or A-Level grades (e.g., A*AA). Students from Article 1 schools must instead combine SAT scores, TOEFL/IELTS scores, their school GPA, and letters of recommendation, limiting the types of 'weapons' in their application arsenal. Universities in the UK and Australia, in particular, often set entry requirements based on A-Level or IB scores, which can create additional hurdles for applicants from Article 1 schools.

② The level of student diversity is significantly different
International schools have students from 40-65 countries, and English functions as the 'language of daily life' in the classroom. In contrast, the vast majority of students in the international courses of Article 1 schools are Japanese. While there is a certain number of returnees and bilingual students, the reality is that Japanese becomes the primary language outside of class (during breaks, in club activities, at school events, etc.). In terms of 'living a life immersed in English,' one cannot expect the same multicultural and multilingual environment as a true international school.

③ The 'concentration' of the English environment
At an international school, the principal and the majority of teachers are native English speakers, and everything from parent communications to PTA activities is conducted in English. At an Article 1 school, while some subjects are taught in English, the school's operational foundation is Japanese, and the common language in the staff room is also Japanese. There is a significant difference between 'learning in English' and 'living in English,' and the amount of daily English output is overwhelmingly higher at an international school.

④ Lack of access to educational approaches unique to international schools
Inquiry-based learning programs like the IB's TOK (Theory of Knowledge), EE (Extended Essay), and CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) are integral components of an international school's curriculum. While some Article 1 schools incorporate inquiry-based lessons, the quality differs from the systematic programs based on the IB or A-Level frameworks.

Prominent International Courses at Article 1 Schools

Hiroo Gakuen Junior & Senior High School (International Course)

Designated as a 'Super Global High School' by MEXT. In the AG course, math and science are also taught in English, and students can take AP courses from high school. The school has a track record of placements at universities like Yale, UPenn, and UCL, and its junior high entrance exam scores are rising rapidly. The strong support for overseas university applications from school counselors (including scholarship negotiations) is also highly regarded.

Official Website

Mita International School (International Class)

The school has introduced a Dual Diploma Program (DDP), allowing students to aim for both a Japanese high school diploma and the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE). While the WACE provides direct entry to Australian universities, it's important to note that universities in the UK and US often require additional test scores. The school also features an inquiry-based education centered on 'science,' making it popular among students interested in STEM fields.

Official Website

International School vs. Article 1 International Course: Which to Choose?

ELT's View:

For families who want to 'keep tuition costs down while securing a Japanese diploma and keeping overseas universities as an option,' an international course at an Article 1 school is a very realistic choice. However, international schools have a clear advantage when it comes to 'being immersed in a multinational, English-speaking environment' and 'earning globally recognized academic credentials like the IBDP or A-Levels.'

Particularly if your first choice is a top university in the UK or Australia (e.g., Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College, University of Melbourne), IBDP or A-Level scores are often a prerequisite for application, so applying from an Article 1 school requires strategic planning. On the other hand, US universities often have flexible admissions that emphasize SAT scores and extracurricular activities, so students from Article 1 schools can compete effectively.

Which option is more advantageous—an international school or an Article 1 school—largely depends on the region of your child's target universities. If you are unsure, please feel free to consult with ELT.

5. How Much Does International School Cost?

The cost of international school is one of the biggest concerns for many families.

Overview of Costs

The average annual tuition fee for international schools in Tokyo is approximately ¥2.0 to ¥3.8 million. However, this is only the tuition fee; the following additional costs also apply:

• Application/Registration Fee: ¥300,000–600,000 (first year only)
• Capital/Building Fee: ¥500,000–1,000,000 (first year only, usually non-refundable)
• Annual Facility Fee: ¥100,000–600,000 per year
• Materials/Technology Fee: ¥50,000–500,000 per year
• School Bus Fee: ¥200,000–400,000 per year
• Other: Lunch fees, uniforms, extracurricular activity fees, parent association fees, etc.

In total, the total cost for the first year is typically between ¥3.5 and ¥5.5 million, and from the second year onwards, it is around ¥2.8 to ¥4.3 million annually. The total cost for 12 years from elementary to high school can reach approximately ¥24 to ¥36 million.

Tuition Fee Comparison of Major Schools (Based on Annual Tuition)

※ The figures above are estimates. Please check the official website of each school for the latest, most accurate information.

6. Life After Graduation: What University Options Are There?

'What universities can my child get into after attending an international school?' is a key question for parents, right alongside tuition fees.

University Paths by Curriculum

IB (International Baccalaureate) → Accepted by universities worldwide Recognized by over 4,500 universities in about 110 countries. The number of IB admission slots at Japanese universities like the University of Tokyo (PEAK), Kyoto University, and Waseda/Keio is also expanding annually. A score of 38-40+ (out of 45) is a general benchmark for aiming at the Ivy League or Oxbridge.

A-Levels → Especially strong for the UK, Australia, and Singapore Students focus deeply on 3-4 subjects, which is advantageous for those with specific strengths. It provides a direct pathway to top UK universities like Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College. Japanese universities (including Todai, Kyodai, Waseda, Keio) also recognize A-Levels as an entrance qualification.

AP → Ideal for North American universities For US university admissions, AP scores are a powerful addition to SAT/ACT scores. ASIJ graduates are accepted into universities like Yale, Stanford, and MIT every year.

Considering Japanese Universities

There are two main routes for international school graduates to enter Japanese universities:

1. English-Taught Degree Programs: Waseda SILS, Keio PEARL/GIGA, Todai PEAK, Sophia FLA, etc. All classes are conducted in English.
2. Returnee/IB Admissions: Special admission tracks that value overseas experience and international curricula.

However, some cases may require essays or interviews in Japanese, so it is crucial to maintain academic-level Japanese language skills.

7. School Selection Checklist for Making the Right Choice

Once you've found some schools that interest you, check the following points one by one.

① Accreditation

Confirm whether the school is accredited by an international body like WASC, CIS, or the IBO. This directly affects future university admission eligibility. Choosing a non-accredited school may require your child to pass the 'Certificate for Students Attaining the Proficiency Level of Upper Secondary School Graduates' exam to enter a Japanese university.

② Curriculum and Your Child's Personality Fit

The IB is 'broad and inquiry-based,' A-Levels are 'specialized and in-depth,' and the American system is 'flexible with free choice.' It's important to assess your child's learning style (do they perform well across many subjects, or prefer to focus on one thing?).

③ Approach to Japanese Language Education

• Type A: Japanese lessons only a few times a week (maintaining proficiency requires support at home).
• Type B: Daily compulsory Japanese (e.g., Nishimachi), allowing for a certain level of language skill to be maintained at school.

The type of school you should choose will vary greatly depending on whether 'future university entrance or employment in Japan' is a possibility.

④ Required English Proficiency for Admission

This varies significantly between schools. For kindergarten (ages 3-5), many schools will accept children with almost no English ability. From elementary school onwards, schools with strong EAL support like Aoba, CIS, or KIST may accept students whose English is still developing. On the other hand, schools like BST, TIS, and ASIJ require grade-level English proficiency from the time of admission. It's not true that 'all international schools require native-level English,' so be sure to check the specific English requirements and EAL availability for each school you are considering.

⑤ Parent's English Proficiency and Involvement

PTA activities and communications from the school are generally in English. Some schools include 'parental English proficiency' as an admission requirement (e.g., TIS, BST), while others have ample Japanese-speaking staff to assist (e.g., Aoba, CIS).

⑥ Commute Time and School Bus Availability

The daily commute time directly impacts a child's energy levels. Consider whether lunches are provided and the school bus routes and costs to create a shortlist of schools that are realistically commutable.

⑦ Total Cost Simulation

Calculate the total cost over 12 years, including not only tuition but also application fees, facility fees, material costs, bus fees, uniforms, and extracurricular activity fees. Also, check for any sibling discounts.

⑧ Attend a School Tour or Information Session

The final decision is best made after visiting the school in person to get a feel for the atmosphere. Popular schools fill up quickly, so if you are interested, book an open house or school tour appointment right away.

8. ELT's Proven Steps for a Successful School Search

Since our founding in London in 1984, ELT has provided support for English and international education, with a track record of helping students gain admission to prestigious schools worldwide, including Harrow School, Phillips Academy Andover, ASIJ, BST, and UWC. Based on our experience supporting students with international school admissions and their ongoing studies, we present a three-step guide for a smooth transition.

Step 1: Articulate Your Family's Goals

'Why an international school?' 'Is the future goal an overseas university or a Japanese medical school?' 'To what extent do we want to maintain Japanese language skills?' — The curriculum you should choose (IB, British, Article 1, etc.) will change dramatically depending on your goals. Attending school information sessions without clarity on these points will only lead to being overwhelmed by information.

Step 2: Narrow Your List to 3 Schools Based on 'Curriculum x Location x Budget'

Commuting is a daily reality. A commute of over an hour each way can significantly drain a child's energy and study time. Use the three criteria of curriculum preference, distance from home, and the total 12-year cost to narrow down your realistic options to no more than three schools.

Step 3: Start Building Foundational English Skills Early

While English proficiency requirements vary greatly by school, it is always better to start preparing early. Even at schools with strong EAL support like Aoba or CIS, a higher level of English at entry will allow for a smoother transition into classes. If you are aiming for schools with limited or no EAL support, such as BST, TIS, or ASIJ, 1-2 years of intensive English preparation before applying is necessary. Especially for transfers in the upper elementary grades and beyond, a certain foundational level of English is assumed by all schools, so we recommend starting your preparations as soon as possible.

If You're Wondering, 'Which School is Right for My Child?'

Choosing an international school is a major decision that will shape your child's future.

• 'My child's English isn't strong. Is there enough time to prepare?'
• 'IB or A-Levels—which one is a better fit for my child's personality?'
• 'International school vs. an Article 1 international course—which offers better value for money?'
• 'What should we do to prepare for the admissions interview and tests?'

If you have questions like these, please don't hesitate to consult with ELT.

At ELT, we provide comprehensive support, from advising on school selection based on your family's educational philosophy, budget, and your child's English level, to building the foundational English skills needed for acceptance, preparing for admissions interviews and tests, and providing post-enrollment academic support (for IB, A-Level, and AP). We are here to support you every step of the way.