Why join for free?
Already have an account? Log In
Japan, Kyoto
Let the school know you're thinking of applying — they can share their prerequisites and help you through the process.
It's best to ask — circumstances can change at any time.
KIS does not offer boarding facilities. It operates as a day school with no on-site boarding options. The admissions notice confirms that the school does not provide boarding or student visa support.
KIS is currently non-uniform. There is a dress code that allows students to wear their own clothing, provided it is clean and weather-appropriate; KIS-logo gear is encouraged for outdoor activities and easy identification. Uniforms are not required, and branded items are sold through the KIS Store.
Upon entering the school, students are placed in a House team. There are four Houses: Black Turtles (Genbu, guardian of the North), Blue Dragons (Seiryu, guardian of the East), Red Phoenix (Suzaku, guardian of the South), and White Tigers (Byakko, guardian of the West). The House system runs weekly point-earning activities and a champion House is announced at the end of each school year.
KIS is a not-for-profit school governed by an Executive Board that provides strategic vision and financial oversight; the Principal sits on the board. There is also a Board of Trustees that offers external advice but does not hold voting authority.
Kyoto International School (KIS) has served Kyoto since 1957 and describes itself as the city’s only IB Continuum School. KIS offers the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP). The school currently provides learning from Early Years through Grade 10, with plans to expand to Grade 12 by 2026. KIS lists campus spaces that include classrooms, a library, a playground and a gymnasium. Student life includes a House Team system and after-school options such as Bukatsu (clubs) and activities like calligraphy, gardening, board games, dance, sport and STEM, with additional paid lessons such as coding, drama, basketball and piano.
