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Abroad International School Osaka is located at 2-14-3 Hayashidera, Ikuno-ku, Osaka 544-0023, Japan. The new campus is in Hayashidera, Ikuno-ku. It is about a 20-minute walk from Tennoji Station (Exit 6) and about a 10-minute walk from Teradacho Station, with access to JR Loop Line and the Osaka subway.
The school structure comprises the Early Learning Center (Infants through Kinder), Primary School (Grades 1–5), and Middle School (Grades 6–10). A High School is planned to start in the 2026-27 academic year.
Abroad International School Osaka is a co-educational day school. It operates as an IB Continuum School offering the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Middle Years Programme (MYP), with the Diploma Programme (DP) planned to launch in August 2026.
AIS Osaka has around 190 students in total. The school serves an international community; the exact number of nationalities represented, the most common nationality, and the local-to-international ratio are not publicly published.
The school provides an English as an Additional Language (EAL) program to support non-native English speakers. EAL uses the WIDA framework to assess language proficiency and develop individualized learning plans for students.
There is no published country affiliation for AIS Osaka; it positions itself as part of an international IB World School network.
AIS Osaka has no religious affiliation published by the school.
Nursery/ELC hours are 9:00–15:15; Primary School runs 8:30–15:15; Middle School runs 8:20–15:15. After-School Clubs operate 15:20–16:00.
A School Bus service is offered with routes and schedules available to families; routes and times may vary depending on demand.
Boarding is not provided. The school operates as a day school with no on-site residential facilities. A school bus service is available to several routes, subject to changes based on demand. After-school care is offered from 3:30 to 18:00, with morning care from 8:00 to 8:30; late pickups incur an extra fee.
The school requires a uniform for middle school. Uniforms are ordered online; sizes can be tried via samples and size charts in the office; delivery usually takes 2–4 weeks; if stock is available in the office, items may be handed out earlier.
Lunch is provided through a catering service with healthy, balanced meals. Lunches are ordered monthly via a calendar; parents must place orders in advance. Students may also bring their own lunch if preferred.
The school is part of the Abroad International School network, listing AIS Osaka among its campuses.
Abroad International School Osaka offers an IB continuum, with Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Middle Years Programme (MYP) authorized, and a Diploma Programme (DP) Candidate School status established in 2025, with DP launching in August 2026. The Primary School (Grades 1–6) follows the UK National Curriculum (organized at two levels) and emphasizes inquiry-based learning, with English-language instruction and EAL support; Japanese language (Kokugo) is taught as a subject for able students. The Middle School (Grades 6–10) delivers the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), a holistic, inquiry-based framework designed to connect learning across disciplines and develop internationally minded learners. The High School (Grades 11–12) will offer the IB Diploma Programme from 2026; it is an IB DP Candidate School as of 2025, and the DP will include Core elements such as the Extended Essay, Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS), and internal assessments. The Early Learning Centre (Ages 1–5) provides an English-language early years program in a nurturing environment, and AIS supports diverse learners with MAP testing and a Saturday School for additional English language development.
Abroad International School Osaka supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through a safe and nurturing environment with a low student-to-teacher ratio that fosters authentic student–teacher relationships. The Middle School program emphasizes caring, respect, and compassion through students' actions, aiming to develop internationally minded learners. A character education program is in place to reinforce SEL across the school. The school's mission states a commitment to developing knowledgeable, caring young people who contribute positively to society and pursue personal success in life. These elements reflect a holistic approach to SEL aligned with the IB framework.
The school does not publicly disclose information regarding Special Educational Needs (SEN) provision, including types of needs supported or whether it operates as a specialist SEN institution.
The EAL (English as an Additional Language) program is designed to support non-native English-speaking students in developing reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. WIDA testing is used to determine linguistic proficiency levels and needs, with reports including scale scores and Can Do descriptors for students from Grades 1–12. On enrollment, language testing and in-class observations inform an individualized learning plan and schedule that is shared with homeroom teachers, students, and parents. Division coordinators, EAL teachers, and subject teachers collaborate to tailor EAL provision to each student's needs. The program is integrated across Grades 1–12, reflecting its scope within the school.
Mental wellbeing is supported by AIS Osaka's safe and nurturing environment and a wellbeing-focused policy framework. The Health & Safety Handbook emphasizes the right to study in a health- and safety-conscious environment. The Wellbeing and Behavior Policy aims to maintain a positive school climate, with emphasis on inclusivity and respectful behavior for all members of the school community. These documents collectively reinforce a structured approach to student wellbeing and social-emotional support.
AIS Osaka publishes a Health & Safety Handbook, a Child Protection Policy, and a Wellbeing and Behavior Policy to maintain a safe and healthy learning environment. The Wellbeing and Behavior Policy explicitly grounds the school's safeguarding approach in creating a calm, purposeful, and inclusive climate. Together, these policies outline the school's safeguarding framework and commitments to protecting students from harm and promoting their wellbeing.
1. Application form: The admissions process starts with filling out the application form. The form can be downloaded from the AIS Osaka homepage or completed via the online application form. You can request the form by phone or email. The completed application form can be submitted within one year of the expected date of entry.
2. Filling out and submitting the forms: After completing all mandatory fields, submit the form and bring hard copies of the documents together with your child's photo and any other required documents, or scan/send them by mail. Documents can be handed in up to one year in advance of the planned entry date.
3. Document screening, placement test and interview: Candidates undergo a document screening, placement test and interview as part of the admissions process. The school will contact you with the interview date.
4. Result notification and enrolment procedure: After the placement test and interview, Abroad International School will notify you of admission decisions. Successful applicants must complete the enrolment procedure by the designated deadline.
5. New life starts: Once enrolled, families begin their new life at Abroad International School and the school encourages broadening students' views.
Scholarships: There is no published scholarships program described on AIS Osaka's admissions or fees pages. The school lists standard one-time and annual fees and notes a variety of optional services and discounts (for example, a sibling discount), but no scholarship offerings are listed. If you are considering financial aid, the school's published materials do not detail scholarship opportunities.
Waitlist/Pool: No formal waitlist or pool policy is described on AIS Osaka's admissions pages. Enrollment timing is driven by places available: most children are admitted by August, but if vacancies exist, the school will admit students throughout the year. Admission decisions and interview requirements are communicated as part of the process, and no application is processed until all requested documents are submitted. This suggests there is no publicly stated waiting list policy.
Senri International School of Kwansei Gakuin (SIS) is located in Minoh City, Osaka Prefecture, in the north of Osaka. It shares its Senri campus with its sister school, Osaka International School of Kwansei Gakuin (OIS). The campus address is 4-4-16 Onoharanishi, Minoh, Osaka 562-0032, Japan. The campus is accessible by Hankyu Bus, with several stops nearby including Senri Chuo and Kita-Senri.
SIS operates the middle school (Junior High) and high school (Senior High) on the same campus and provides a pathway to the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP) for grades 11–12. The school sits alongside Osaka International School (OIS) on the same campus as part of the ‘Two Schools Together' model.
SIS is a co-educational, day-school. Boarding is available to some students through the Akebono Dormitory for those who cannot commute.
The on-campus community includes students from more than 35 nationalities, reflecting a broad international presence on the combined SIS/OIS campus. Public admissions data indicate high school enrolment is limited to returnees, which shapes the international composition, but exact local-to-international ratios are not published.
The curriculum emphasizes English development across subjects. SIS uses a trimester-based year (three terms) to support transfers and flexible study patterns; public listings do not publish a separate SEN department, but English-language support is a visible feature of the program.
The school is based in Japan and operates within the Kansai Gakuin Educational Foundation, which encompasses multiple KG institutions in the region. This reflects a Japanese-based organizational structure rather than a country-specific affiliation.
Kwansei Gakuin and its network have Christian roots; KG is described as a Christian foundational education system. SIS itself does not publish a separate religious program, but sits within this Christian heritage.
The SIS/KG system follows a trimester model with three terms (Spring, Fall, Winter), each comprising about 60 teaching days. The structure supports multiple entry points and transfers between terms.
SIS offers a campus bus service operated by Hankyu Bus. Weekday routes include numbers such as 62, 58, 177 and 181, with stops at Senri Chuo, Hankyu Kita-Senri, Onoharajutaku-minami, Minoh-Semba Handai-Mae, and Minoh Kayano among others. Weekend timetables are published as well.
The school has a student dormitory named Akebono Dorm for students whose parents work overseas and for students who have difficulty commuting domestically. Detailed information and vacancy status are provided on the Akebono Dorm external site; inquiries about vacancies should be directed to sisadmissions@soismail.jp, and availability after April 2026 should be confirmed before applying.
The school is part of the Senri & Osaka International Schools of Kwansei Gakuin network and forms a two-school community with Osaka International School of Kwansei Gakuin (OIS).
Senri International School (SIS) and Osaka International School (OIS) are sister campuses on the Senri campus of the Kwansei Gakuin Educational Foundation in Osaka, sharing governance and facilities. OIS offers an IB continuum — Primary Years Programme in elementary, Middle Years Programme in middle, and the IB Diploma Programme in high school — all taught in English. SIS follows the Japanese Ministry of Education's Course of Study for Secondary Schools at its junior and senior high levels. The two schools share a campus ecosystem with joint music and arts classes, physical education, sports teams, and student government. IB Diploma Programme requirements include six subject groups plus the core components Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity, Service, and the DP is available to high school students across the KG network. Overall, the curriculum provides an English-medium IB pathway from elementary to high school at OIS, while SIS aligns with the Japanese secondary curriculum and offers cross-campus collaboration.
SEL is supported at SIS through The SIS Way, which uses the 5 Respects—Respect for Self, Respect for Others, Respect for Learning, Respect for the Environment, and Respect for Leadership—as a compass guiding students' social and emotional development.
The school does not publicly disclose information regarding Special Educational Needs (SEN) provision or whether SIS operates as a specialist SEN institution.
EAL support is indicated by a full-time native-level English teacher and ESL position advertised for SIS, signaling dedicated English language support for learners.
Mental wellbeing support is provided through the Osaka International School Counselling Center, and SIS and OIS share a campus under the Two Schools Together model, enabling wellbeing resources across both schools.
Safeguarding is supported by a shared Child Protection Policy and faculty Code of Conduct between Osaka International School and Senri International School.
1. Admissions tracks and eligibility: Senri International School of Kwansei Gakuin (SIS) offers admissions for middle school and, separately, high school with different entry rules. General students are typically students from domestic elementary schools; international students have specific criteria related to nationality or prior international schooling. High school admissions, however, are limited to returning students (帰国生) and international/general recruitment is not offered for the high school level. This framework defines who can apply and under which track a family should prepare.
2. International track eligibility screening (for 国際生): If applying as an international student, you must submit the 国際生入試 受験資格審査申込書 during the designated period and participate in an interview with the student and a parent. If the applicant's circumstances match the second criteria (foreign-born parent or foreign nationality) the parent may also be interviewed. The eligibility screening must be completed to move forward with an application. The interview date is set after submission, and the screening results are conveyed by mail a few days after the interview.
3. General/International track—information sessions and timelines: For families considering the General and International track, SIS runs online information sessions and offers an online or in-person component to help understand the process. An online information session can be attended by prospective applicants, and if you wish to participate in a particular session (e.g., the November 1 online session), you should submit the eligibility form by the stated deadline. The topic coverage includes how the admissions steps unfold and what documents are needed.
4. Returnee/Overseas track specifics (帰国生・海外生入試): SIS lists multiple entrance-exam options for returning students and overseas applicants, including the regular returnee entrance exam (January and June, online) and the overseas entrance exam (November, online), as well as special options that occur in August, November, and March. The school specifies the target groups for these exams and the intended entry points (next term or the term after). Detailed schedules for each year are published and updated, so families should monitor the exact dates and application windows for their chosen path.
5. 2026 admissions schedule (middle school): The 2026 middle school entrance exam is scheduled for January 18, 2026. For those applying, there are options to request the exam guidelines by mail and to have materials shipped if needed; the guidelines for the 2025–2026 cycle are posted for download. There is also mention of a written exam component for certain pathways and a note that exam fees apply.
6. Online application and timelines for eligibility: For certain admission pathways (e.g., the Returnee/Overseas route), SIS provides an online application form (forms.gle) for submission of application materials, with instructions that, once submitted online, mailing of documents is not required. The availability of online submissions and the deadlines are clearly stated in the admissions materials for the year in question. The general/International track materials indicate that the application items and guidelines can be downloaded or accessed online.
7. Entrance exam contents and fees (middle school paths including international/returnee routes): For the 2025–2026 admissions cycle, the examination contents vary by pathway. Returnee/Overseas and Returnee Special exams include components such as a 50-minute composition (in Japanese or English), 20-minute student interview, and 15-minute parent interview; the Returnee Written Exam comprises Japanese (50 minutes), Math (50 minutes), and a 30-minute group interview. The entrance examination fee is 28,000 yen, and payment can be made by credit card (VISA or MASTER CARD).
8. Results, enrollment options, and next steps: For the General and International track, exam results are communicated by mail a few days after the online interview, following the completion of the assessment process. If the International qualification is not recognized, applicants may still apply as General students. SIS lists six entrance exams per year (six for returning students and one for non-returning students), with returnee exams offered online from anywhere worldwide. This structure determines the timeline for notification and the subsequent enrollment steps.
9. Ongoing admissions activities: In addition to the formal entrance exams, SIS hosts online information sessions twice a year and hands-on workshops three times a year, hosted by SIS students. These sessions provide insight into the school, admissions expectations, and student life, and can help families prepare their application and understand the overall process.
Scholarships: SIS offers scholarships and subsidies for enrolled students, and current opportunities are published on the student portal's scholarships page. Details for specific scholarships, including eligibility and application procedures, are provided on the internal scholarships page (external link) and in PDF documents accessible to enrolled students. The scholarships page also references a PDF for internal scholarship information and a set of forms (e.g., Reference Form) to support applications. This content confirms that scholarships exist and are administered through the student portal, with some materials available for download.
Waitlist/Pool: There is no publicly documented waitlist or pool system described in SIS admissions pages. The school lists six entrance exams per year (six for returning students and one for non-returning) and states that returnee exams can be taken online from anywhere in the world, but there is no published waitlist policy or pool process. Families should rely on the announced exam times and application windows for placement, as there is no waitlist description on the admissions pages.
OYIS operates on two campuses in central Osaka. The Nakatsu Campus is in Kita-ku, just northwest of Osaka's major transport hub, Umeda. The Tosabori Campus is located in the Osaka YMCA headquarters building in the city's business district, in Nishi-ku. Both campuses are within easy reach of public transportation.
Nakatsu Campus serves ages 3–14, housing the Early Childhood, Primary Years, and lower Middle Years programmes. The Tosabori Campus serves older students, including the upper Middle Years and Diploma Programme (ages roughly 14–18). The school offers the IB continuum: Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP).
OYIS is a private international school that operates as a co-educational day school.
The school reports over 300 students with a diverse international mix. The About page indicates 34 nationalities represented, while the homepage lists 40 nationalities in some updates; a precise local-to-international ratio and the single most represented nationality are not published.
Inclusion is integral to OYIS. The school identifies barriers to inclusion and uses a Student Support Team and an English as an Additional Language (EAL) program to support students with mild to moderate learning needs. EAL support is provided across PYP and MYP/DP through a variety of delivery models, including in-class and targeted support.
The school is based in Osaka, Japan. No formal country affiliation is listed.
There is no religious affiliation listed for OYIS.
Detailed daily start/end times for the regular school day are not published here. A Saturday English program runs from 9:00 to 15:00 (Nakatsu Campus). Office hours for external programs are typically 8:30–17:30 on Tue–Fri, and Saturday class hours are 9:30–15:00, per program pages.
A school bus is provided to and from designated train stations around the Nakatsu campus in the mornings and afternoons for Preschool to Grade 8. The Tosabori campus is not on the bus route and relies on public transport; a shuttle between campuses is offered when needed.
No boarding facilities.
Osaka YMCA International School provides a complete IB continuum: Primary Years Programme (PYP) for ages 6–12 (grades 1–6); Middle Years Programme (MYP) for ages 12–16 (grades 7–10); and the Diploma Programme (DP) for ages 16–18 (grades 11–12). In the PYP, learning centers on six Key Learning Areas—English, Japanese, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies, Visual Arts and Music, and Physical Health and Well-being—taught through six transdisciplinary Units of Inquiry, with a culminating PYP Exhibition. The MYP emphasizes inquiry-based, concept-driven learning with Approaches to Learning and strong interdisciplinarity; the MYP/DP Course Catalog shows disciplines including Language & Literature, Design, Music & Visual Arts, Individuals and Societies, Mathematics, Language Acquisition, Sciences, Physical Education and Health, and Interdisciplinary Learning, all designed to prepare students for the Diploma Programme and beyond. The Diploma Programme was authorized in February 2021 and first graduated in 2023; there are three graduation pathways for DP students—IB Diploma Programme, IB Diploma Programme Course, and the WASC Diploma—with university counseling to support applications. Across PYP, MYP and DP the language of instruction is English, and all students are required to take two language courses, with offerings including English, Japanese, and Korean.
OYIS supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) as part of its inclusive, student-centered approach. The Student Support Team (SST) coordinates holistic, well-balanced student support for MYP/DP, and the team comprises administration, student support coordinators, student support teachers, the MYP/DP counselor, the MYP/DP school psychologist, and the school nurse. The SST works in consultation with the English as an Additional Language (EAL) team to identify and provide the necessary support for language learners. All staff and faculty are responsible for inclusive education, creating affirmative, responsive, and differentiated learning environments. Homeroom teachers and the broader school community foster belonging and safety through deliberate practices and involvement, such as the Parent/Caregiver Volunteer Group, while after-school programs and clubs support social development and personal wellbeing.
OYIS can support students with mild to moderate learning support needs, including the exceptionally able. Support is coordinated through the Student Support Team (SST) in collaboration with the EAL team. The Admissions Policy outlines admission criteria and identifies the level of support needed for success. The school does not publicly disclose whether it operates as a specialist SEN institution. The SST and EAL team work together to identify and provide required support within the school's resources.
English is the language of instruction across the PYP, MYP, and DP, and the school provides English language support via the English as an Additional Language (EAL) team. The language and support team use methods including co-teaching, 1:1 and small-group teaching, scaffolded assignments, and differentiated assessments. There is a yearly fee for additional English language support. In addition to English, the school offers Japanese and Korean language courses; all students participate in two language courses throughout their studies. The EAL team works with subject teachers to support emerging English communicators and their learning across the curriculum.
Mental wellbeing is supported through the SST, which includes the MYP/DP counselor, the school psychologist, and the school nurse. The learning environment aims to promote belonging and safety, with teachers fostering affirmative and responsive classrooms. After-school programs and clubs contribute to personal wellbeing and social development. Parent involvement via the PVG and ongoing collaboration with teachers support student wellbeing and goal setting. Activities and programs during and after school, including CAS-related offerings, contribute to holistic wellbeing.
The school does not publicly disclose safeguarding and child-protection policies on its site. The privacy policy addresses online privacy and children's information, but does not specify safeguarding procedures. The inclusion and SST structure indicates a framework for student welfare through dedicated staff (counselor, psychologist, nurse) and coordinated support. Inclusion practices involve identifying barriers to learning and consulting with the SST and the EAL team to support students. No explicit safeguarding policy is publicly disclosed, and additional details would require direct inquiry with the school.
Osaka YMCA International School (OYIS) uses a rolling admissions process that operates when vacancies exist. Applications for the 2026-2027 school year close on March 6, 2026. OYIS accepts applications online, and families can start by submitting an inquiry to begin the process. The Admissions Officer will contact you to verify the information provided and outline the next steps.
1. Submit an inquiry: Parents submit an online inquiry to initiate contact. The Admissions Officer will reach out to confirm basic information about the child and family and to outline the required documents and steps ahead. This initial contact helps clarify eligibility and fit for the IB continuum program.
2. Admissions Officer verification: The Admissions Officer verifies the information provided in the inquiry. This includes confirming the child's current grade level and country of residence, as well as any special considerations (language support needs, accessibility, etc.). The goal is to ensure that both the family and school have aligned expectations before formal applications proceed.
3. Submit the online application and pay admissions fee: The application is submitted through the online portal, and families must pay a non-refundable Admissions Fee at the time of submission. The Admissions Fee is distinct from other tuition-related charges and signals the start of the formal admissions review. Detailed instructions are provided in the online application.
4. Initial application review: The Admissions Officer conducts an initial review of the submitted application materials. This review assesses eligibility, completeness, and alignment with OYIS's IB programmes. Only when the review indicates potential fit does the process move to the next stage.
5. Documents screening: The OYIS Admissions Team screens the documents in the file. This step ensures that required transcripts, birth certificates, passports, and other materials are complete and appropriate for verification. Only candidates deemed successful at this stage proceed to testing and interviews.
6. Online tests: Online assessments are administered. Reading ability is assessed for entries from Kindergarten through Grade 11, and Math is assessed for entries from Grade 7 through Grade 11. These tests help determine readiness for the IB curriculum and placement.
7. Principal interviews: Following testing, interviews are arranged with the school's Principal(s). These interviews provide an opportunity for families to ask questions and for the school to assess fit with the IB philosophy and classroom culture. Both student and parent participation are typical components.
8. Second review: A second review is conducted by the relevant Principals and Coordinators. This review considers test results, interview outcomes, and all submitted documentation to determine final eligibility. The aim is a holistic assessment of the student's potential success at OYIS.
9. In-class observation invitation (mid-year candidates): For candidates applying mid-year, OYIS may invite an in-class observation. This step allows teachers to observe the student's interaction, engagement, and learning style in a real classroom setting before a final decision. Availability of this step depends on timing and vacancy status.
10. Admission decision: OYIS communicates a formal admission decision if the student is recommended for placement. This decision follows the completion of all prior steps and the second review. Families receive notification with next steps and timelines for enrollment.
11. Invoicing of registration and tuition: If admitted, registration fees and the applicable tuition fees are invoiced. The invoicing reflects the grade-specific fee structure and any additional charges that may apply. Families should review the invoicing details closely for deadlines and payment options.
12. Enrollment after payment: The student is enrolled once the required payments are completed and all enrollment paperwork is finalized. Enrollment confirms seat placement and access to the school's services, including transportation options and start dates.
Additional notes that affect admissions: OYIS does not provide visa sponsorship for students. Families should plan accordingly for visa requirements through other channels. The school operates across two campuses, Nakatsu and Tosabori, with different program placements across the two sites.
OYIS offers several scholarships. The Achievement Award recognizes academic excellence, community engagement, and international mindedness and can provide up to 100% scholarship for students entering Grades 10 or 11. The process includes a scholarship exam, a personal essay, and an interview, with results announced in the fall and testing taking place in January/February. Details of this award are provided in the admissions materials.
The Community Support Financial Grant (CSFG) supports families in financial need who wish to access international education. Eligibility criteria include understanding and supporting OYIS's educational philosophy, financial need, school volunteering, membership in a Parent Volunteer/Parent Ambassador group, income verification documents, and English-language communication with the school. Applications for CSFG open in February and March annually.
In addition, OYIS conducts an annual Scholarship Exam for the Diploma Programme pathway for the 2026-2027 year. The 2026-2027 Scholarship Exam is scheduled for January 17, 2026, at Tosabori Campus and online for remote participants, with no participation fee. Successful examinees may receive scholarships toward Grades 10 and 11, up to 100%, depending on exam results and government assistance applications. The exam supports two scholarship tracks: academic-based (math & English) and arts-based (visual arts & music).
Eligibility for scholarships typically includes age guidelines (students in the 10th and 11th grades for 2026-27), visa status (OYIS does not sponsor visas), and the ability to relocate or commute to Osaka. Details about the scholarship process and timelines are published in the school materials and on the scholarships pages.
OYIS publishes a rolling admissions process that depends on vacancies; there is no publicly described waitlist or pooled admissions system. Applicants are considered as vacancies exist, with a defined close date for the 2026-2027 cycle of March 6, 2026. If a vacancy arises, applications may be reviewed and admitted on a rolling basis rather than via a formal waitlist.
The Osaka International School of Kwansei Gakuin is located in Minoh, Osaka Prefecture, in the foothills near Minoh National Park. The area offers parks and green spaces, plus a mix of Western and traditional Japanese culture with nearby shops, cafes and amenities. Train stations are a short bus ride or walk away, and it takes about 30 minutes to reach downtown Umeda. Itami Airport is a roughly 20‑minute drive or monorail ride away, with Shin-Osaka offering convenient Shinkansen access to Kyoto, Kobe and Tokyo.
OIS is a K‑12 school that offers IB programmes: the Primary Years Programme (PYP) in elementary, the Middle Years Programme (MYP) in middle school, and the Diploma Programme (DP) in high school. The school's IB framework supports progression from early years through to pre-university level.
The school is co‑educational. It operates as a day school with no boarding facilities.
Approximately 270 students are enrolled with 34 different nationalities represented. Public materials do not specify which nationality is most represented or the local versus international ratio.
The Learning & Language Support provision includes Learning Support, English as an Additional Language (EAL) and Social‑Emotional Counseling. The Learning & Language Support team comprises staff across elementary to high school, including Cary Mecklem, Melissa Lamug, Jessica Richards and Maricar Ronidel.
There is no formal country affiliation stated for OIS. The school is administered by the Kwansei Gakuin Educational Foundation in Japan.
No explicit religious affiliation is stated for Osaka International School.
The OIS academic year runs from late August to late June and is divided into three trimesters (Fall, Winter, Spring) of approximately 60 days each.
The school offers a bus option via Hankyu Bus 78. From Senri Chuo Station, the bus ride to the school takes about 25 minutes; from Kita Senri Station it takes about 15 minutes. Hankyu Bus timetable updates are available, and directions explain how to access the service from Senri Chuo and Kita Senri.
There is a campus cafeteria shared by Osaka International School (OIS) and Senri International School (SIS). The schools operate on a single shared campus with library, gym, sports facilities, science labs, art rooms and music rooms where students learn and socialize together daily. No detailed information on menus or dietary options is published.
The school is a non-profit K-12 school administered by the Kwansei Gakuin Educational Foundation (KG). KG is ranked among the top private, non-profit educational foundations in Japan and serves over 29,000 students, including a prestigious university.
Osaka International School of Kwansei Gakuin offers a full International Baccalaureate continuum (PYP in Elementary, MYP in Middle, and DP in High School) across a K-12 program on a shared campus with its sister school, Senri International School. Elementary School uses the IB Primary Years Programme for ages 4–11, with Early Years KA/KB and Grades 1–5, organized around six transdisciplinary themes, and includes a mandatory second language; Grade 5 culminates in a PYP Exhibition. Middle Years Programme (Grades 6–10) follows the MYP with eight subject groups, includes Approaches to Learning, and culminates in a personal project, with progression to the Diploma Programme in high school. Diploma Programme (Grades 11–12) core comprises Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay and CAS; six DP subject groups offer courses such as English A, Japanese A, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Language Acquisition options (English B, Japanese B, Japanese ab initio, Spanish ab initio, Mandarin ab initio via Pamoja); students typically take five of the six groups and 3–4 HL subjects, with DP results showing strong outcomes and a notable proportion earning bilingual diplomas. The academic year runs from August to late June with three approximately 60-day trimesters.
Osaka International School provides Social Emotional Learning Counseling as part of its Learning & Language Support (L&LS) program to support students' social and emotional development. The L&LS team includes Maricar Ronidel as the K-12 Social Emotional Learning Counselor, supported by Learning Support and Inclusion staff. The program emphasizes valuing student diversity and creating inclusive learning environments to meet varied learning needs. The Counselling Center operates year‑round to facilitate social and emotional well‑being and academic achievement, with students able to book appointments or drop in for conversations, and parents can contact the Counselling Centre for consultations. Together, these provisions support student well‑being, resilience, and success.
The school lists Learning Support, English as an Additional Language (EAL) and Social Emotional Counseling as SEN‑related services integrated within the Learning & Language Support program. The Learning & Language Support Team includes Melissa Lamug (MS/HS Learning Support & Inclusion), Jessica Richards (Learning Support & Inclusion) and Cary Mecklem (EAL), among others. The public pages describe Learning Support, EAL and SEL as the core services for students with learning needs, but do not itemize specific clinical SEN categories. The school does not describe itself as a dedicated specialist SEN institution; SEN provision is integrated within the L&LS framework. The emphasis is on inclusive learning environments and equitable access to education.
English as an Additional Language (EAL) is provided through the Learning & Language Support Team as part of the school's inclusive education framework. Cary Mecklem is listed as EAL (ES English as an Additional Language). The Learning & Language Support page places EAL among the services for students with learning needs, alongside Learning Support and Social Emotional Counseling. The EAL provision is integrated with other LS services to support multilingual learners.
Mental wellbeing support is delivered through the Counselling Center, which is dedicated to caring for students' physical and mental health year‑round. The center facilitates social and emotional well‑being and the achievement of academic potential for all Osaka International School students, with appointments available and counselling available as needed. Maricar Ronidel serves as the K‑12 Social Emotional Learning Counselor, strengthening the school's SEL provision. Parents can contact the Counselling Center for consultations, and students can seek confidential support as required.
Osaka International School and Senri International School share a Child Protection Policy and a Faculty Code of Conduct, which applicants can review prior to or during the enrollment process. The admissions page lists the Child Protection Policy and Code of Conduct as safeguarding materials accessible during the application process. This demonstrates a formal safeguarding framework across the two schools. The policy and conduct are intended to guide staff and protect students throughout their experience with SOIS and SIS.
1. Academic year and entry timing. The Osaka International School (OIS) academic year runs from late August to late June, and the main intake of new students begins at the start of the year, though admissions are accepted throughout the year to accommodate the international community. This means that families relocating at different times can still be considered, subject to space and program needs. Space availability and grade-level balance are key factors in deciding admissions.
2. Initial inquiry and response. To begin, families should use the Enquiry Form
3) Scholarships. Osaka International School offers financial aid, with an application process and forms available in the school's admissions materials. The regular OIS financial aid application form is accessible in the forms section, and applications should be submitted by the end of June. New students in Grade 10–12 may also be eligible to apply for government tuition support (“Tuition Support for High School Students”); additional documentation may be required to verify household income for this program. In principle, the school assumes families have resources to meet fee payments, but limited financial aid can be granted if circumstances change, with an annual application required. Forms for financial aid are available in the downloads section. The school also notes it can provide further financial support for families affected by COVID-19.
2) Waitlist/Pool. Osaka International School does not publish a formal waitlist or admissions pool. Admissions decisions are described as being based on space availability, grade-level balance, past achievement, motivation, and language support at home, and they may also use a Deferred Acceptance option for applicants outside Japan or those requiring testing. Overseas applicants may have a deferred acceptance arrangement if spaces are held while tests or interviews are completed. In short, there is no publicly described waitlist or pool; decisions are made as space allows and via the stated procedures.
OWIS Osaka is located at 3-1-39 Shariji, Ikuno-ku, Osaka 544-0022, on the site of the former Kyu-sono Elementary School. The campus sits in Osaka's Ikuno Ward and is accessible by train, city bus, and car. A dedicated OWIS School Bus operates on multiple routes, and an on-demand Ikuno-ku Shuttle Bus serves students from several stations.
OWIS Osaka currently offers Early Childhood to Grade 8 (ages 3-14). Grade 12 is planned to open in 2029, with new grades added gradually to build toward a full K12 offer.
OWIS Osaka is a co-educational day international school.
OWIS Osaka presents a multicultural, international student community but does not publish a numeric breakdown of nationalities.
OWIS Osaka provides English Language Support through Academic English Preparation (AEP), a Four Month Transition Programme, and After-School Intensive English Clubs. All core subjects are taught in English, with targeted language support available to students as needed.
OWIS Osaka has no formal country affiliation; it operates as part of the global OWIS network with campuses in multiple countries.
OWIS Osaka has no religious affiliation; religion is not practised at the school.
School hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 3:30 pm. After-school programmes and clubs extend beyond the core day as part of the ACES offering.
OWIS Osaka provides a dedicated school bus service with multiple routes. There is an on-demand Ikuno-ku shuttle bus serving several stations; the on-demand service charges ¥110 for children and ¥210 for adults per journey between stops.
OWIS Osaka is a member of Global Schools Group (GSG). It operates within the One World International School network.
OWIS Osaka uses an inquiry-based, student-centered international curriculum grounded in IB methodology and Global Schools Group practices. The program emphasizes values-driven education, critical thinking, creativity, and real-world connections, delivered by certified teachers in class sizes of 18 or fewer. OWIS Osaka currently offers Early Childhood (3-5), Primary (5-11), and Junior Secondary (11-16); Senior Secondary (16-18) is planned, with the campus operating EC to Grade 8 (ages 3-14) and Grade 12 opening in 2029. The school is pursuing the IB Primary Years Programme and is a candidate for the PYP. English language support is provided through the Academic English Preparation (AEP) and transition programmes, plus after-school English clubs. Technology-rich learning is integrated through Programming & Robotics, 3D printing, Nikon Photography Studio, Apple labs, and student devices.
OWIS Osaka places social and emotional development at the core of its education alongside academics. Teachers are certified and trained to help students progress academically while developing socially, emotionally, and personally. The school fosters a culture of kindness, inclusivity, and community to support belonging and respectful interaction among students. Mindfulness and other well-being practices are integrated into daily life as part of its holistic approach. Through project-based learning and a supportive environment that encourages risk-taking and iterative growth, students build collaboration, resilience, and communication. The school emphasizes strong relationships with staff and peers as a foundation for wellbeing.
The school does not publicly disclose information regarding SEN provision, the kinds of SEN it can support, or whether it is a specialist SEN institution.
OWIS Osaka provides structured English language support for non-native speakers. The Academic English Preparation (AEP) programme offers three progressive levels to build English proficiency and enable full participation in an English-first classroom. The Four-Month April-July Transition Programme and the After-School Intensive English Club provide additional language immersion and practice opportunities. All classes at OWIS Osaka are taught in English, and Japanese language support is offered as Kokugo for native Japanese speakers and Japanese as a Second Language (JSL) for non-native speakers. These provisions are designed to help students integrate into mainstream classes.
OWIS Osaka places wellbeing at the center of its school life. The campus emphasizes a nurturing environment where students are happy, healthy, and engaged in meaningful learning. Mindfulness and a holistic approach support students' emotional well-being, with staff focused on helping students understand their impact on others and communicate openly. The school describes its culture as inclusive and respectful, aiming to foster a sense of belonging for every student. Staff professional development includes training to support social and emotional development and to build resilience through collaboration.
OWIS Osaka uses security and safety measures to protect students on campus. Students and parents carry personalized photo ID cards, and visitors wear clearly marked lanyards while on site. A full-time security department monitors safety and the premises to ensure a secure environment for learning.
Admissions Process (4-step).
1. Initial contact and campus visit. Reach out to the Osaka admissions counsellor, who will be your assistant and guide through the rest of the process. Tell them you would like a tour of the campus and set a convenient date. The counsellor provides information about OWIS Osaka's programmes and what to expect during the visit, and can advise on next steps. For relocations within Japan or from afar, the counsellor can share a relocation guide and discuss timelines (research typically 6–12 months in advance for city-to-city moves).
2. Application review and fee instructions. After you visit, the admissions counsellor reviews the application form and directs you on how to pay the online application fee. They walk you through any required documents and answer questions about program placement and entry requirements. This step ensures you understand what is needed before proceeding with the formal application.
3. On-site logistics and resources. Return to the school to meet Student Services, who will provide uniforms, photo IDs, and school resources. They can also arrange lunches and school bus services if needed. This step covers practical arrangements to support a smooth first weeks after enrollment.
4. Financing and enrollment confirmation. Meet with the finance department to pay for the first term tuition fees. Once the payment is completed, the child is ready to start school. If the application has been accepted, OWIS Osaka welcomes the child into the school community and confirms enrollment details.
Language of instruction and English support (context for admissions). OWIS Osaka uses English as the language of instruction for core subjects. English language support pathways are available, including Academic English Preparation (AEP), a four-month transition programme, and After-School Intensive English clubs to support learners at different stages of language development.
Relocation and ongoing inquiries. The admissions team can assist with transfers between OWIS campuses and between schools, and there is a relocation guide for moving between cities or countries within Japan. Rolling admissions are available year-round, with August (start of the academic year) and the December or April terms highlighted as advantageous entry points when possible.
Fees and admissions integration (summary for families). The school outlines a fee structure for the Osaka campus that applies to the 2025–26 academic year, with term-based tuition, a building fee, a yearly resource fee, and one-time application fees. Details by grade band are provided, and discounts for families (sibling and founder/family discounts) are noted. (See Fees section for full breakdown.)
OWIS Japan Scholarships are annual awards managed under the Global Schools Group (GSG), with a one-month application cycle. These scholarships aim to support meritorious students from moderate-income families and provide access to OWIS's programs and facilities. Availability includes multiple named awards, each with its own grade eligibility and duration (typically 1 year). The current offerings include:
- OWIS Community Scholarship for Financial Assistance (All grades, Early Childhood to Grade 12; 1 year; Deed required).
- OWIS Excellence Scholarship for Academic Achievements (Grade 6–9; 1 year).
- OWIS Creativity Award (Grade 6–8; 1 year) – listed as Closed.
- OWIS Innovation Award (Grade 6–8; 1 year) – listed as Closed.
These scholarships are designed to attract meritorious students and support a diverse, inclusive OWIS community across 20+ nationalities. Language: Japanese and English materials note the availability and application cycles; the OSC has a last-updated date of 2026-01-16, reflecting current offerings.
Waitlist or pool information is not published as a separate system. OWIS Osaka operates rolling admissions year-round, and seat availability can fluctuate as spaces fill quickly. For current seat availability, families are advised to contact the admissions team promptly. The policy indicates rolling admissions with best opportunities at the start of the academic year (August), and also in December or April when possible.
