Osaka YMCA International 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 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.

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.