Compare Reggio Emilia Approach International Schools in Japan

The main campus of Hokkaido International School is at 1-55, 5 jo 19 chome Hiragishi, Toyohira-ku, Sapporo, Japan 062-0935. It is accessible from Odori via the Nanboku subway line, with Sumikawa Station as a nearby access point and a short walk to the school. HIS also operates HIS Niseko in Niseko town, a branch offering English-language education from Early Years through Grade 8.

The school provides education from pre-school through high school (Early Years to Grade 12). Grade placement covers EY3 and EY4 through to Grade 12, as shown in the published charts.

Hokkaido International School is a private, coeducational institution that offers both day and boarding options. The on-site dormitory has a capacity of 40 students, and boarding is open to students in grades 8–12.

About 30 nationalities are represented at HIS. Approximately 24% of students are native English speakers; the school describes a mix of locally based families, Japanese returnees, and expatriates, but the exact local-to-international ratio is not published.

The school provides a part-time on-site counselor and two part-time college counselors for high school. It can accommodate students with mild needs and offers guidance in locating external English-language resources when needed.

No formal country affiliation is stated for HIS.

Hokkaido International School has no religious affiliation listed.

The standard school day runs from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm on Mondays through Fridays.

The HIS School Bus serves the Maruyama and Miyanomori districts with fees for annual or per-ride options. The route, stops, and timetable are not published publicly; questions should be directed through the admissions office.

HIS Sapporo has an on-campus dormitory that houses up to 40 students; boarding is available.

Hokkaido International School is a private international school offering day and boarding; HIS Niseko is private and not-for-profit.

Hokkaido International School follows the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) in Elementary and the International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC) in Middle School. The High School offers a Western‑style, college‑preparatory program with AP courses, including AP Capstone (Seminar and Research) and AP offerings in Calculus, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, World History, European History, US History, Comparative Government, Studio Art, English Language and Literature, and Japanese. AP Human Geography and AP Psychology were added starting in 2019–2020. The school year has 180 days, divided into semesters, with an A‑day/B‑day block schedule. Instruction is differentiated with Honors, Standard and Developing options in the secondary school, and graduation requires a high credit load. Multiage grouping is used across the school (2‑year bands in K‑5, 3‑year band in Middle School, 2‑year bands in High School), with outdoor education and experiential learning emphasized throughout.

The upper school has a student/teacher ratio of approximately 10:1, and average class size is about 17 students.

AP data (2018–2024) shows 26 AP students in 2024, with a Total AP Mean Score of 1269; Mean Math score 648 and Mean ERW score 621. In 2024, 25 AP students earned scores of 3 or higher (96% of AP test‑takers). The Class of 2024 had 17 students take the SAT.

Post‑graduate information shows recent graduates matriculated at universities including Baylor University, Boston University, Colby College, University of California campuses, University of British Columbia, Waseda University, Sophia University, Temple University Japan, Tokyo University, Tsukuba University, University of Queensland, University of Toronto, Charles University, and Glasgow School of Art, among others. These placements span the United States, Canada, Asia‑Pacific and Europe.

Secondary instruction is differentiated by Honors, Standard and Developing options. The AP program provides advanced coursework for high‑ability students, and students must meet a high graduation credit requirement, supported by outdoor education and experiential learning as part of HIS Huskies programming.

Hokkaido International School provides a character-rich environment with formal social-emotional learning and counseling. The school has a part‑time on‑site counselor offering individual services and classroom support. Elementary daily classes include character education based on the Virtues Project, the HUSKIES learner outcomes, and the CASEL framework. In middle school and high school, a dedicated homeroom block on Monday, Thursday, and Friday supports SEL and college/career readiness through Unifrog. The Strategic Plan 2022–2027 identifies Focus Area 2 as Socio‑emotional learning and Child Protection.

The school emphasizes learning support and inclusion as part of its Strategic Plan 2022–2027. The Student Support framework describes counseling services and the ability to locate outside assessment resources, with an emphasis on inclusive education and differentiated support.

English is the language of instruction. ELL support is provided in the secondary program through push‑in and co‑teaching methods within mainstream classes.

Mental wellbeing is supported through on‑site counseling, SEL curriculum, and dedicated time in the school program for social-emotional development. Counseling services are complemented by college and career planning support for upper grades.

The school adheres to safeguarding policies aligned with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and JCIS/WASC accreditation requirements. A formal Child Safeguarding policy outlines staff obligations, student protection protocols, and related guidelines.

1. Complete an HIS application for each child. Assemble comprehensive school records, including current report cards and the previous two years of schooling, plus any standardized test scores if applicable. Include medical and inoculation records and proof of the student's age. Have the documents translated into English if possible.

2. Admission decisions are made by an Admission Committee consisting of two or three staff members and chaired by the Head of the School. This group reviews applications and makes initial grade-placement decisions. If admitted, parents should arrange for immediate payment of tuition, the application fee and the entrance fee.

3. If a space is not available for a particular year, applicants may be placed in a wait pool until space becomes available. Siblings already enrolled at HIS are given priority within the wait pool, as are children of HIS staff and alumni, and students returning to Japan who have previously attended HIS.

HIS offers financial aid programs based on need. Eligibility depends on a family's financial circumstances and funds available; most awards cover a portion of tuition and are awarded for one academic year. Applications for financial aid have spring deadlines, and families must submit required documents on time. The program includes annual reapplication for continuation, and aid is not guaranteed for all eligible families. The school also notes government tuition assistance programs in Hokkaido for eligible students and maintains separate scholarship opportunities funded by donors (e.g., Arletta Seltzer Memorial Scholarship and Husky Achievement Scholarship).

When the number of eligible applicants exceeds the available spaces for a grade year, students may be placed in a wait pool until space becomes available. Siblings already enrolled at HIS are given priority within the wait pool, as are children of HIS staff and alumni, and students returning to Japan who have previously attended HIS.

12 Aza Fujimi, Niseko-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 048-1501, Japan. The Niseko campus sits in Niseko town, offering access to local amenities and the region's outdoor-recreation opportunities. Walking from Niseko JR Station takes about 15–20 minutes; driving from the station is around 5 minutes via Route 5 and local streets. The campus is the Niseko branch of Hokkaido International School, which is WASC-accredited.

HIS Niseko provides English-language international education from Early Years through Grade 8. The Elementary School covers Kindergarten to Grade 5, and Middle School covers Grades 6–8.

HIS Niseko is a private, not-for-profit, coeducational day school. It does not operate its own boarding on site; however, high school students may reside in the Sapporo dormitory if admitted to the Sapporo campus for upper grades.

Public information does not publish exact numbers for pupil nationalities. Admissions priorities favor children of expatriates from English-speaking countries, then expatriates from other countries, Japanese returnees, and Japanese families with compelling reasons. The Niseko campus serves both expatriate and Japanese families, and staff come from multiple countries.

The school may accommodate students with mild special needs, but it does not admit students with profound learning difficulties. Admission and ongoing support are contingent on meeting the school's placement criteria and resources.

No formal country affiliation is stated. The school identifies as a private international school serving a diverse expatriate and local community.

No religious affiliation is stated.

School hours run from 08:30 to 15:30, Monday to Friday. The Niseko campus follows a conventional school-year schedule with breaks as outlined in the calendar.

A school bus service is available; bus fees for 2025–2026 are published, but bus routes and stops are not posted publicly. Interested families should inquire through the admissions or main office for route details and arrangements.

The school has a dormitory option in Sapporo for Niseko students who reach high school, allowing them to stay in the Sapporo dormitory during the week and return home on weekends.

The school is private and not-for-profit, and it operates as a branch of Hokkaido International School in Sapporo.

Hokkaido International School Niseko organizes its curriculum by stage: Early Years (ages 3-5), Elementary School (Kindergarten–Grade 5), and Middle School (Grades 6–8). Early Years follows a Reggio Emilia-inspired program aligned with Te Whāriki (New Zealand's early childhood curriculum) with five learning strands: well-being, belonging, contribution, communication, and exploration. Elementary School uses the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) in English, with specialist classes in Japanese, Art, Physical Education, and Music, and a focus on developing international-mindedness and personal learning. Middle School follows the International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC), offering integrated units in Language Arts, Social Studies, and Science, with Year A–C thematic units and electives in Japanese, Art, Music, and PE. There is no on-site high school program at Niseko; HIS's main campus in Sapporo offers a four-year high school curriculum with AP options and a range of courses.

Counseling and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) are provided at HIS Niseko through a part-time on-site counselor who offers individual counseling and homeroom curricular support. Elementary daily classes include character education based on the Virtues Project, the HUSKIES learner outcomes, and the CASEL framework for SEL. In middle school and high school, a homeroom block on Monday, Thursday, and Friday supports character education in addition to college and career readiness through Unifrog. HIS describes its environment as a “character-rich environment” with guidance for students as they engage in “repeated positive struggle.” The on-site counselor is Laura Harmon (lharmon@his.ac.jp), and two part-time college counselors support post-secondary planning for high school students.

HIS Niseko may accommodate students with mild special needs, but is not a specialist SEN institution and cannot admit students with profound learning difficulties. Admissions require students to be able to communicate with the teachers and staff in English. For students who need additional support or assessment, HIS can help locate outside resources through English-language organizations such as TELL and International Mental Health Professionals Japan. Publicly published information does not describe a dedicated on-site learning support program beyond these general policies. The school's published admissions policy explicitly notes the accommodation of mild special needs and the absence of support for profound learning difficulties.

English is the language of instruction at HIS Niseko; the school offers an English-language international education. Public materials state that applicants should be able to communicate in English and interact with teachers and staff in English. No explicit EAL program or dedicated EAL staffing is published for HIS Niseko. The overall HIS Niseko profile confirms English-language instruction and a multilingual faculty, consistent with international education.

Wellbeing and social-emotional development are supported through Counseling and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) at HIS. There is a part-time on-site counselor who provides individual counseling and homeroom curricular support. Elementary students receive character education based on the Virtues Project, the HUSKIES learner outcomes, and the CASEL framework for SEL. In middle school and high school, the weekly homeroom blocks for character education run alongside college and career readiness activities via Unifrog. The on-site counselor and SEL program are described as fostering a 'character-rich environment' and guiding students through 'repeated positive struggle.'

HIS Niseko follows safeguarding practices as part of its WASC accreditation and Japan Council of International Schools membership. The school acknowledges a duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children, and all staff have a contractual obligation to defend and uphold this right. The safeguarding policy governs conduct, and documents include a Code of Conduct and Student and All Staff Protection Protocol and Guidelines, along with Signs to Look Out For. These policy documents are available for download, and the safeguarding framework applies to school activities and staff interactions.

1. Admissions Process. Complete an HIS Application Form for each child and gather comprehensive school records, including current report cards and the past two years of schooling, plus standardized test scores if available. Include medical and inoculation records, and proof of the student's age; translate documents to English if possible. Downloadable Admissions Documents include the Admissions Policy Checklist, Application Medical Forms, All Permissions, Teacher Recommendation, Tuition Fees Schedule, HIS Academic Calendar, and Bus Information; these should be reviewed and ready for submission. An interview with teachers and the principal is required before admission, and the admissions team, chaired by the Niseko principal in consultation with the Head of School, will review the application and make initial grade-placement decisions.

2. Admissions Process (continued). If a student is admitted, parents should arrange for immediate payment of the tuition, the application fee, and the entrance fee. For Niseko, the Niseko-specific fees include an application fee of ¥20,000 (one time) and an entrance fee of ¥200,000 (one time); tuition is charged annually or can be paid quarterly, with invoices mailed in July and first payment due on August 20 of the preceding school year; seasonal residents may arrange monthly payments upon request. This payment begins the enrollment and active attendance of the student in HIS Niseko.

3. Admissions Process (continued). Upon payment, students may begin attending classes at HIS Niseko. The school notes that payment of tuition and fees enables ongoing enrollment, and periodic invoicing and payment terms apply. Families should also be aware that HIS Niseko offers a dorm option in Sapporo for high school students via the related program, and at least one parent of students interested in staying in the dorm must visit the school to meet with administrators and dorm staff.

Scholarships. HIS offers need-based financial aid through its broader Financial Aid & Scholarships program. Financial aid is awarded based on demonstrated financial need and is typically used to reduce tuition costs (the award generally ranges from 10% to 50% of tuition and is for one academic year, with families reapplying each year). The process requires contacting the HIS office, submitting all required documents on time (including income and tax information), and awaiting notification before the start of the school year; deadlines are typically in May or June. Not all needs can be met, and aid decisions depend on funds available and individual circumstances. In addition to internal aid, the government of Hokkaido offers income-based tuition assistance for eligible 10th–12th grade students, and HIS may provide information and guidance on applying for these grants. Scholarship opportunities at HIS include named awards such as the Arletta Seltzer Memorial Scholarship for Young Women Leaders (a four-year, half-tuition award for a female student entering 9th grade from outside Hokkaido who will live in HIS dormitories) and the Husky Achievement Scholarship (intended to broaden access for students who demonstrate strong merit or need and who contribute to campus diversity, and may be awarded to new secondary students). Details and eligibility criteria are provided by the school's Financial Aid office.

Waitlist/Pool. HIS Niseko admissions operate on a rolling basis, with applications for the 2025-2026 school year being considered as seats become available. For specifics on seat availability at particular grade levels or for the upcoming start timelines, parents should contact the admissions team. Applications for the second semester of the 2025-2026 school year can also be considered. There is no publicly published formal waitlist or pool system beyond this rolling-admission approach; decisions depend on seat availability.

MEES Hakusan Campus is in Bunkyo Ward, central Tokyo, Japan. The address is in Hakusan, Tokyo 112-0001, and the campus is a short walk from Hakusan Station (about 5 minutes). The campus sits in a dense urban area with easy access to Tokyo's public transport network. The school markets its Hakusan site as the Bunkyo campus for Preschool and Elementary.

MEES Hakusan Campus comprises two levels: Preschool (ages 1–6) and Elementary School (grades 1–6, roughly ages 6–12). Preschool is organized into Lower Preschool (ages 1–3) and Upper Preschool (ages 3–6). The campus is explicitly described as hosting Preschool and Elementary on its Hakusan site.

MEES Hakusan Campus is a co-educational international day school. English is the primary language of instruction. The school offers afterschool programming but does not list boarding facilities.

MEES reports about 120 students in the Hakusan campus community, with an international, multicultural profile. Publicly published nationality breakdowns are not provided. The school presents itself as an international community with English as the primary language of instruction.

MEES provides an Elementary English Language Support Program (ES) for students needing language support, with sessions from 15:00–16:00 and monthly fees listed for different weekly cadences. The school also references safeguarding practices aligned with JCIS standards. There is no publicly listed, school-wide SEN program beyond language support on the site.

MEES Hakusan is based in Tokyo, Japan, with a Tokyo address and Japanese location. The school does not publish a country-specific affiliation beyond its operation as an international school in Japan.

Religious affiliation is not indicated in MEES's program or admissions materials. The school presents a secular, project-based, English-language program for ages 1–12.

Preschool runs from 9:00 to 14:00 (with Nursery 9:00–18:00; see Preschool page for details). Elementary Full Day is 8:30–15:00, with an English Language Support option and a lunch included. After-school activities run 14:00–18:00, including immersion, PBL/design thinking, MakerSpace, Tasty Lab, Tech, and more. Lunch is included for elementary students in the standard program.

MEES offers bus service for both morning/full-day and afternoon programs; for Elementary, bus service is optional with published monthly costs. Preschool/Nursery also offers a bus option with separate fees listed in the Preschool and Afterschool program pages. Routes are provided by the school and details are available upon inquiry.

Lunch is included with tuition. The school provides daily meals as part of the program.

The school is governed by a Board of Advisors. The founder and Head of School is Euft van den Berg. Rankukan Co., Ltd. is the owner/operator.

MEES International School – Hakusan Campus in Bunkyo, Tokyo serves Nursery through Grade 6 (Preschool to Elementary). MEES Preschool blends Montessori and Reggio Emilia, with hands-on, project-based learning, English as the primary language of instruction, and mixed-age classrooms focusing on five core areas: language, motor, sensory development, social growth, and academic readiness. MEES Elementary uses Project-Based Learning with strong STEM integration, a Makerspace, and a full-day schedule from 8:30 to 15:00; an English Language Support Program is available after school if needed. The curriculum emphasizes digital literacy and technology across disciplines, including programming and AI-informed learning, while The Forest program provides regular outdoor learning and mixed-age cohorts to foster resilience and collaboration. Practical details include Preschool 9:00–14:00, Nursery 9:00–18:00, Elementary 8:30–15:00, with optional bus service and published 2025–2026 tuition/fees.

MEES Hakusan Campus prioritizes social development and collaborative learning; its core beliefs emphasise peer interactions that respect individual differences over competition, and learning is organized around project-based, mixed-age cohorts to build communication, collaboration, and confidence, with MEES The Forest outdoor education further developing social skills and resilience.

The school does not publicly disclose information regarding Special Educational Needs (SEN) provision, types of SEN supported, or whether it operates as a specialist SEN institution; the School Handbook exists in English and Japanese but content is hosted on Google Drive and requires login to view.

English is the primary language of instruction at MEES Hakusan, with Preschool explicitly stating English as the main language of instruction, and EAL support available through an English immersion program for Preschool and an English Language Support Program for Elementary, plus English-language afterschool clubs.

Mental wellbeing is supported through MEES Forest & Outdoor Education, offering regular outdoor experiences that build physical fitness, social skills, and resilience, alongside wellbeing-oriented clubs and programs.

MEES is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of every child, guided by Japan Council of International Schools standards, with staff following a strict code of conduct, clear reporting protocols, and regular training to address risks.

Preschool Enrollment Process (Hakusan Campus): Step 1 — Schedule a visit. Prospective families are encouraged to arrange a school tour to experience the Hakusan campus's learning environment firsthand. For families contacting from abroad, an online meeting can be scheduled to discuss the program and any questions you have about the approach. The visit is a practical opportunity to observe classrooms and daily routines and to gather initial information about programs available for 1–3 year olds and older. Step 2 — Submit the application form. After you have had a chance to tour or speak with the team, submit the preschool application form to begin the formal review process. Be prepared to provide basic information about your child and family and to specify desired days per week (2–5 days) for younger children; MEES notes the need to align attendance with program requirements. Step 3 — Enrollment invoice issued upon approval. If the application is approved, MEES issues an enrollment invoice to confirm the next steps toward enrollment. This invoice initiates the financial portion of the process and outlines the payment method. Step 4 — Finalized upon payment. Enrollment is considered final once the payment is processed. Families should ensure timely payment to secure placement and confirm start dates. Step 5 — Additional policy notes and attendance details. MEES reserves the right to decline applications and may do so without providing reasons. For 1–3 year olds, attendance options range from 2 to 5 days per week; from age 3, students typically start the new school year at 5 days a week to support peer relationships and progress. Elementary and afterschool options at Hakusan may also be explored during the same admission period; information on demo days and program availability is provided during outreach.

Elementary Enrollment Process (Hakusan Campus): Step 1 — Schedule a visit. Prospective families are encouraged to schedule a school tour to experience the learning environment firsthand. For elementary admissions, an assessment meeting with your child is requested, and online meetings are available for families living abroad. Step 2 — Submit the application form. Complete and submit the elementary application form to begin the formal review. Step 3 — Application fee invoice and schedule demo day. An application fee invoice is issued and a demo day for the child is scheduled to assess fit with MEES' program. Step 4 — If demo day is successful, enrollment invoice will be issued. A successful demo day leads to an enrollment invoice detailing the next steps toward enrollment. Step 5 — Finalized upon payment. Enrollment is finalized after payment is received and processed. Step 6 — Admissions cautions. MEES reserves the right to decline applications and may do so without providing reasons.

Afterschool programs (Hakusan campus) note. Afterschool program applications are handled via the APPLY link provided for MEES Hakusan and Sendagi campuses; there is an Enrollment Fee for afterschool programs, and options include a Preschool Immersion Program (14:00–18:00) with varying weekly frequencies. Other offerings include an English class and project-based afterschool activities with separate fee schedules; details are updated in the public materials. This information is relevant for families planning care beyond the standard school day.

Fees context (related to admissions and enrollment at Hakusan Elementary): The Elementary program charges include: Application fee 20,000 JPY (one-time), Enrollment fee 180,000 JPY (one-time), Material Fee 40,000 JPY (annual), School Growth Fund 50,000 JPY (annual). Tuition for the 2025-2026 school year is divided by terms (1st term 551,250 JPY; 2nd term 413,438 JPY; 3rd term 551,250 JPY; Annual total 1,515,938 JPY) with an optional Bus Service (two-way) priced per term and annually (e.g., 80,000 JPY first term, 60,000 JPY second term, 80,000 JPY third term; annual 220,000 JPY). Lunch is included with tuition, and tuition and bus fees are subject to 10% consumption tax. Prices are subject to change without prior notice.

MEES Hakusan does not publish a scholarship program in its public materials. The fee structure lists one-time and annual fees (application, enrollment, material, and school growth fund) and tuition terms, with no scholarship discounts or tuition waivers described. There is no explicit scholarship or financial aid option described in the published admissions or fees content; for current, verifiable options, please contact the admissions team.

There is no published waitlist or pool system described for MEES Hakusan in public admissions materials. The available process details a direct application review, with an enrollment invoice issued upon acceptance and a right for the school to decline applications without providing reasons. There is no explicit step for placing applicants on a waiting list. This conclusion is based on the admissions steps published for Preschool and Elementary programs and the absence of any waitlist description in those materials.

The Sendagi Campus is located in the Sendagi district of Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo. It sits in a residential area with convenient access to public transport; nearby stations include Sendagi Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line and Nishi-Nippori Station. The campus address sits in Sendagi 3-chome, commonly listed as Sendagi 3-23-6, Tokyo, 2F.

The Sendagi Campus serves preschool-aged children, roughly ages 1 to 6 (Nursery to final year of preschool). It uses mixed-age classrooms to support collaboration across developmental stages.

MEES International School is a private international school in Tokyo. The Sendagi campus uses mixed-age cohorts and a Montessori/Reggio Emilia-inspired approach with project-based learning.

Enrollment is around 100 students representing about 9 nationalities; Japanese is the most common nationality.

The school provides language support for students not fluent in English; English is the language of instruction.

There is no country affiliation listed for MEES.

MEES has no religious affiliation disclosed.

Preschool days typically run from 9:00 to 14:00, with an extended day option available to 18:00 via afterschool programs. The afterschool program operates from 14:00 to 18:00.

An optional bus service is available for MEES Sendagi families.

Lunch is included with tuition.

Rankukan Co., Ltd. owns MEES; Head of School is Euft van den Berg; The school has a Board of Advisors.

The Sendagi Campus offers MEES Preschool, with Lower Preschool (ages 1–3) and Upper Preschool (ages 3–6) taught in multi-age classrooms. English is the primary language of instruction, and the program welcomes multilingual communication. The curriculum blends Montessori and Reggio Emilia-inspired approaches with project-based learning, integrating science, art, math, and language through real-world projects. The program emphasizes 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and digital literacy, and includes outdoor Forest School activities. Extended care is available via a nursery system from 9:00 to 18:00, providing options for longer days. This page describes Preschool programming, and external qualification pathways are not listed for Sendagi Preschool.

At MEES International School Sendagi Campus, social development is prioritized; the school emphasizes peer interactions that respect individual differences, and project-based learning fosters collaboration, communication, and confidence.

The school discusses aligning individual needs within the project-based learning framework, but does not specify categories of SEN or dedicated SEN staff, and is not described as a specialist SEN institution.

MEES provides an ES English Language Support Program for elementary students (15:00–16:00), with sessions offered 2x or 3x per week; English is the primary language of instruction.

Mental wellbeing is supported through MEES Forest and Outdoor Education, including regular outdoor activities, and mixed-age cohorts that promote resilience and social skills.

Safeguarding and child protection are guided by Japan Council of International Schools (JCIS) standards; staff follow a strict code of conduct and clear reporting protocols to ensure a secure and empowering environment.

Admissions Process (Sendagi Campus MEES)

1. Schedule a visit to MEES and consider an online meeting if you are contacting from abroad. A school tour helps families experience MEES's learning environment firsthand and provides an opportunity to ask questions about the program you're interested in. Preschools have on-site viewing times, and an Elementary information session is available to prospective families. For Preschool viewings, the times are 9:40 to 10:40; for Elementary, the information session runs 10:00 to 11:00. After the visit, you will receive all documentation and the application form. This initial step is the foundation for beginning the enrollment process.

2. Submit the appropriate application form to initiate enrollment. For Preschool, you submit the application form after the visit. For Elementary, the process also begins with submitting the application form, and MEES will arrange an assessment meeting with your child as part of the admissions review. If you are applying from abroad, online meeting options remain available.

3. Review and determine admission status. Preschool admissions proceed with approval of the application; upon approval, an enrollment invoice is issued. Elementary admissions involve an application fee invoice and a scheduled demo day; if the demo day is successful, an enrollment invoice will be issued. In both paths, MEES reserves the right to decline applications and may do so without providing specific reasons.

4. Finalize enrollment by payment. After the enrollment invoice is issued, payment completes the enrollment process and finalizes admission. This step marks the formal start of attendance after the necessary verifications and documentation have been completed. Preschool and Elementary paths both conclude with payment to finalize enrollment.

5. Practical scheduling notes for Sendagi Campus visits. Preschools may have viewing times as noted (9:40–10:40) and Elementary information sessions (10:00–11:00) to help families understand the program and ask questions. These sessions are designed to give families a clear sense of MEES's approach before making a decision.

Scholarships (Sendagi Campus MEES)

MEES does not publish a scholarship or tuition-assistance program in its publicly available admissions and fee materials. There is no separate scholarship offering listed within the Preschool or Elementary fee schedules, nor within the standard admissions steps. Families should plan for standard tuition and fees as published for Preschool and Elementary programs, with no documented MEES-provided scholarship options.

Waitlist / Pool (Sendagi Campus MEES)

MEES publishes the admissions steps and the right to decline applications but does not publish a formal waitlist or pool system on its public materials. There is no explicit waitlist process described in the standard admissions steps; decisions can be made on a per-application basis and applications may be declined without providing reasons. Families should plan to initiate the process via a visit and application, and rely on the stated review practices if admission is not offered.

The Yokohama International School campus is in the Honmoku area of Yokohama, located in Naka-ku in a mixed commercial and residential neighborhood. It sits beside the Honmoku Front shopping complex and is well integrated with local shops, parks, and transit routes; there are multiple bus routes serving the area and nearby train access to Tokyo. The campus address is 2-100-1 Kominato-cho, Naka-ku, Yokohama 231-0802, Japan.

YIS operates an Early Learning Center for ages 3–5, Elementary School from Kindergarten through Grade 5, Middle School in Grades 6–8, and High School in Grades 9–12. The school follows an IB continuum: Primary Years Program (ELC–Grade 5), Middle Years Program (Grades 6–10), and Diploma Program (Grades 11–12).

Co-educational, day school.

The student body includes more than 50 nationalities (the community is highly international). The school has around 808 students, with faculty drawn from multiple countries; the most common nationality is not publicly disclosed.

YIS provides Learning Support for diverse learning needs, working in collaboration with Counselors and EAL teachers to support academics, behavior, and social–emotional development. EAL support is provided across core subjects to help students access the curriculum, and wellness/counseling services are available for social-emotional health.

No formal country affiliation; the school serves the international community in Yokohama and the Tokyo metropolitan area.

No religious affiliation.

Daily start and end times vary by division and are provided during enrollment. Breakfast is available on campus before the start of the day, and lunch is served in three sittings via Dragon Dining, with a campus café (The Street Café) for breaks. The First Day of School in August 2025 ran from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm as an example of a full-day schedule.

The school offers a bus service with nearby pick‑ups and stops. From Sakuragicho Station or Ishikawacho, take buses 101, 105, or 106 to Kominato-cho; From Negishi Station take buses 58 or 101 to Honmoku-Miyabara; bus stops near the campus are indicated in the access information.

YIS operates a school uniform system that includes a PE uniform. Uniforms and other YIS-branded apparel are sold on campus through the Dragon's Den, the on-site school store. Families are advised to purchase the PE uniform, with specific colours and design details not published on the site.

Dragon Dining runs the on-campus cafeteria, offering a rotating weekly menu with Western, Asian, vegan and vegetarian options. Meals are prepared on site with locally sourced ingredients where possible, and some herbs and vegetables are grown on campus in collaboration with students. The Street Café, located between the North and South buildings, provides coffee, tea and baked goods, and the cafeteria uses a cashless payment system with allergen labeling for menu items.

YIS uses a house-based system to foster student leadership and community. Students participate in House events across divisions, and leadership opportunities related to Houses are available; there are Student Councils in Elementary, Middle and High School to support student voice and governance.

The school is governed by a Board of Directors (elected at the AGM) and a Board of Trustees, with Auditors monitoring governance and financial status. Day-to-day operations are led by the Head of School and the Senior Leadership Team. Foundational governance documents include the Act of Endowment, the Constitution, and the Board Governance Manual; the site does not indicate that YIS is part of a larger group of schools.

YIS delivers instruction in English and follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum. The Primary Years Programme (PYP) runs from the Early Learning Center through Grade 5; the Middle Years Programme (MYP) runs from Grades 6 to 10; and the Diploma Programme (DP) runs in Grades 11 and 12. In addition to the IB Diploma, students may earn IB Certificates, the YIS Diploma, and the Global Citizen Diploma. The curriculum emphasizes inquiry-based learning, service learning, and well-being, with field trips, expeditions, and a range of clubs. English is the language of instruction, with an English as an Additional Language program to support learners.

External examinations are part of the Diploma Programme assessment. YIS publishes external exam results. Details are accessible through the DP results reporting.

Graduates are well prepared for higher education at universities around the world. YIS offers pathways including the IB Diploma, IB Certificates, the YIS Diploma, and the Global Citizen Diploma. Graduates pursue higher education worldwide with the credential mix available through YIS.

Counseling is available across Elementary, Middle, and High School, with counselors providing individual and group support, social-emotional learning, wellness programs, and academic advising delivered in classroom and tutor group settings. Students reflect on strengths, set personal goals, and develop resilience through a structured wellbeing program and university/career guidance. The community emphasizes mindful choices, belonging, and personal growth, with orientation and ongoing family meetings for new students.

Learning Support collaborates with counselors and EAL specialists to support students with diverse learning needs, offering observations, consultations, and targeted instruction to help students access the curriculum and reach their potential in an inclusive environment. The program is designed to celebrate learning differences and provide individualized or small-group support as required.

English is the language of instruction. The EAL program provides developmentally appropriate language support to help students access all learning programs, with targeted instruction across speaking, writing, listening, and reading. The school recognizes a multilingual environment, with home-language programs and a diverse student body speaking many languages.

Mental wellbeing is addressed through counseling services, social-emotional learning, and wellness programming integrated into the school's counseling and health offerings. The health office provides resources and support for student health needs, and counselors partner with families and teachers to support emotional and psychological development.

Safeguarding is embedded in daily practice with a designated safeguarding framework, staff training, and a student-protection policy aligned to international standards. The school provides clear safeguarding contacts and a responsive child-protection structure, with ongoing monitoring and reporting procedures.

1. Eligibility. The school accepts applicants who are foreign nationals or Japanese nationals with prior international education. At least one residing parent must be fluent in speaking, reading, and writing English. Applicants must live with at least one parent within commuting distance while enrolled at YIS.

2. Admissions Portal and Pre-application. Start with the Pre-application Form to provide basic information and create an account for the Admissions Portal. If a child is already enrolled at YIS, begin the process in the Veracross Parent Portal under the Admissions option. The school year runs from August to June.

3. Our Admissions Team Reviews Your Pre-application. The Admissions Team reviews the pre-application to confirm eligibility and may request additional information by email. If there are issues regarding eligibility, follow-up communication will occur.

4. Complete Application in The Admissions Portal and Pay Application Fee. Return to the Admissions Portal to complete the forms and upload required documents so the school can form a full picture of the child's suitability for the program. Payment of the application fee is part of this step.

5. Document Submission. Submit all requested documents through the Admissions Portal to support the application review. Ensuring all documents are uploaded helps avoid delays in processing.

6. Application Review & Notification Of Admission Decision. The Admissions team reviews the complete application and aims to notify applicants within a few weeks for overseas submissions. There is rolling admission for overseas applicants due to space constraints. For entry at the beginning of the school year (August), apply by early March (early February for high school).

7. Respond To Admissions Decision. If admitted, the family should respond to the admission decision to indicate whether they will enroll. This response typically follows the notification of the decision.

8. Complete Online Enrollment and Pay Registration Fee. After accepting the offer, complete online enrollment and pay the registration fee to secure a place.

Corporate Contribution Program (CCP): The CCP is a corporate scholarship program for organizations that cover expatriate employees' educational expenses. Donations fund corporate scholarships for dependents and support the school's fundraising and facilities. CCP donations are not taxable as personal income in Japan under an authorized agreement; contact the business manager for details on eligibility and participation.

Chowa Scholarship Fund: The school is launching the Chowa Scholarship Fund in 2026–2027 to provide need-based financial assistance to students facing hardship. The fund is designed to promote equity and inclusion so students can continue to thrive at YIS.