Christian Academy in Japan

CAJ uses rolling admissions, and the school year runs from late August to early June. For April admission, CAJ strongly encourages applications before January 15 to enable timely processing, and applications submitted after May 1 may take longer due to the summer break. Parents should plan for a process that can extend through the school year and may involve conversations with the Admissions Coordinator before starting the formal steps.

1. Apply online. Complete the online application and assemble the required documents: birth certificate or passport, confidential teacher recommendation form, transcript, pastor's recommendation (if applicable), and pay the application fee. A testing fee may apply if testing is required. The admissions team reviews the complete application and notifies applicants after the review.

2. Notification of results. Once the complete application has been reviewed, applicants are notified of the outcome. This communication occurs in writing. The timing is not fixed and can depend on the overall review process.

3. Testing and interviews. Applicants who pass the initial screening are contacted to arrange any required testing and interviews. Kindergarten and Grade 1 receive a readiness test; non-native English speakers may need English language testing at any grade level; standardized test documentation is required for Grade 2 and above, and a test may be requested if documentation is unavailable. Both parents and the student are interviewed, and Skype or other digital options may be used for families outside the Tokyo area.

4. Admission decision. Decisions are based on factors including class availability, English language ability, presence of special needs, and classroom dynamics. Admission decisions are communicated in writing (email and postal mail), and most families are notified within 1–2 weeks of the testing and interview.

Note on fees and timing: CAJ publishes a fee schedule in Japanese Yen, with upfront application and testing fees and post-acceptance fees such as entrance, registration, and facilities charges, plus tuition by grade level. See the General Fee Schedule for specifics.

CAJ operates rolling admissions, meaning there is not a published waitlist system. Admissions are accepted over an extended period, and CAJ can consider admissions during the school year in many cases. Availability depends on class size and placement needs. There is no formal waitlist described in CAJ's admissions materials.

CAJ offers fee assistance for families in financial need, available on application. This assistance is in addition to standard tuition and fees and requires an application process. In Grade 10–12, government subsidies may be available to eligible families, subject to income and application timing. Tax-deductible donation options are also available to support CAJ; details are provided by CAJ's admissions/financial offices.