If your family is relocating to Tokyo, finding the right school is probably the first thing on your mind. The good news is that Japan's capital has one of the most developed international school scenes in Asia, with options ranging from full IB programmes to British A-levels and American high school diplomas. This guide covers what expat families in Tokyo need to know about curricula, costs, the admissions process, and the schools worth looking at first.
International Education in Tokyo: An Overview
Tokyo is home to over 200,000 foreign residents, and the demand for English-medium international education has grown steadily over the past two decades. Schools operate across a wide range of curricula, including the International Baccalaureate (IB), Cambridge IGCSE and A-Level, the American curriculum, and in some cases Japanese-English bilingual programmes. Most established schools are located in central or western districts such as Minato, Meguro, Setagaya, and Shibuya, with some campuses further out in Koto and Shinagawa.
The academic year typically runs September to June for internationally oriented schools, although a few follow the Japanese academic calendar (April to March). Class sizes tend to be small compared to home countries, which many expat parents find reassuring.
Available Curricula for International Families
Tokyo's international schools broadly offer these curriculum tracks:
International Baccalaureate (IB): Several schools offer the full IB continuum from the Primary Years Programme (PYP) through to the Diploma Programme (DP). The IB diploma is widely accepted by universities worldwide and is a strong choice for families who move frequently.
British Curriculum: Schools following the Cambridge or National Curriculum of England offer IGCSEs and A-Levels, which are particularly valued by families planning to return to the UK or apply to British universities.
American Curriculum: The US High School Diploma and AP (Advanced Placement) courses are offered at a number of schools and are recognised by colleges across North America.
Bilingual and Japanese-integrated programmes: Some schools blend English instruction with Japanese language study, which can be valuable for long-term residents wanting their children to integrate locally.
Top International Schools in Tokyo
Below are five well-established international schools in Tokyo with confirmed profiles on International School Advisor. As Tokyo has few active ISA client schools at present, this selection includes all verified listings.
K. International School Tokyo
One of Tokyo's flagship IB World Schools, K. International School Tokyo offers the full IB continuum from PYP through to the Diploma Programme. Located in Koto, it has a strong reputation for academic rigour and a genuinely multicultural student body. The school welcomes students from over 50 nationalities and places particular emphasis on community and global awareness as core values.
Nishimachi International School
Nishimachi International School, located in Minato, has been educating children in Tokyo since 1949, making it one of the oldest international schools in Japan. It offers a US-based curriculum from kindergarten through grade 9, with a strong Japanese language programme built into all year groups. The school is particularly popular with families who want their children to develop genuine Japanese language skills alongside a solid English-medium education.
St. Mary's International School
St. Mary's International School is a Catholic boys' school in Setagaya offering the American curriculum from Pre-K through Grade 12, leading to the US High School Diploma with AP course options. Founded by the De La Salle Brothers, it has a long history in Tokyo and is consistently regarded as one of the top boys' schools in the city for both academics and extracurriculars.
Aoba-Japan International School
Aoba-Japan International School (AJI) is an IB World School with two campuses in the Nerima and Meguro districts. It offers the PYP, MYP and DP in English, with a thoughtful integration of Japanese language and culture throughout. AJI is a strong choice for families who want an internationally focused education while still building meaningful ties to Japan.
Tokyo International School
Tokyo International School is a smaller IB school in Minato, offering the PYP and MYP. It emphasises inquiry-based learning and small class sizes, which suits families looking for a close-knit community environment. The school has a particular strength in the arts and creative learning.
School Fees in Tokyo
International school fees in Tokyo sit among the highest in Asia, reflecting the cost of living in the city. Here is a realistic guide to what families should expect to budget:
Application and enrolment fees: These are typically one-off costs ranging from JPY 50,000 to JPY 300,000 (approximately USD 350 to USD 2,000), depending on the school.
Annual tuition: For most established international schools in Tokyo, annual tuition runs between JPY 1,500,000 and JPY 4,000,000 (roughly USD 10,000 to USD 27,000). IB diploma years and senior secondary tend to sit at the upper end of this range.
Facility and activity fees: Most schools charge additional annual fees for technology, sports, trips, and other activities, typically adding JPY 100,000 to JPY 400,000 per year.
Employer packages: Many multinational companies relocating staff to Tokyo include international school tuition as part of the compensation package, which can significantly offset the cost.
Practical Tips for Expat Families in Tokyo
Apply well in advance. The most in-demand international schools, particularly those with IB programmes, can have waiting lists. Starting the admissions process 6 to 12 months before your intended arrival date is strongly advisable.
School location matters. Tokyo's public transport is excellent, but rush-hour trains can be intense. Consider the commute from your home or planned accommodation when shortlisting schools, especially for younger children.
Language support. Most international schools have English as a Language of Instruction (EAL or ESL) support built in. If your child arrives without strong English, check the level of language support offered before applying.
Japanese language. Even if your family plans a short posting, encouraging your child to pick up some Japanese opens doors socially and culturally. Several international schools incorporate Japanese lessons as a core subject.
Registration in Japan. Foreign residents must register with the local municipal office within 14 days of arrival. Once registered, you can obtain a residence card, which is required for most school applications.
Find Your Best Match on International School Advisor
International School Advisor lists and reviews international schools across Japan. You can explore school profiles, compare curricula, read parent reviews, and request information directly from schools. Browse the full international school ranking for Japan to find the right fit for your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do international schools in Tokyo cost?
Annual tuition at international schools in Tokyo typically ranges from JPY 1,500,000 to JPY 4,000,000 (approximately USD 10,000 to USD 27,000), with additional one-off fees for enrolment and annual activity charges. Many companies relocating staff to Japan cover tuition costs as part of the compensation package.
Which curriculum is most common at Tokyo international schools?
The International Baccalaureate is the most widely offered curriculum among Tokyo's leading international schools, particularly the IB Diploma Programme. The American curriculum and British Cambridge programmes are also available. Some schools offer bilingual Japanese-English programmes for families planning a longer stay.
How early should I apply to international schools in Tokyo?
Most families should start the application process 6 to 12 months before their planned move. The most popular schools, especially IB World Schools, can have limited places and waiting lists. Getting on a waitlist early significantly improves your chances of securing a spot for the start of the academic year.