As a global business hub, international schools in Tokyo are plentiful. Parents will find schools offering the UK curriculum (including the Cambridge IGCSE and A-levels), the US curriculum (including SATs and AP subjects) and the globally respected International Baccalaureate.
Expat families tend to favour international schools in Tokyo for several reasons. Firstly, these schools have diverse student bodies, allowing children to interact with other expat students. Secondly, many families find that there are international schools teaching the curriculum of their home country in their native language. Even if one's home country isn't represented, international schools in Tokyo are still an excellent choice as they provide world-class education leading up to globally recognised qualifications.
Below is a list of international schools that are popular with the expat community in Tokyo.
International schools in Tokyo
Tokyo YMCA International School
Established more than 25 years ago, Tokyo YMCA International School (TYIS) is an experienced international school that aims to cultivate a diverse and supportive school environment, where students can become truly global citizens. The school boasts a 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio, ensuring your children receive individualised attention. Through its diverse range of programmes, TYIS motivates its students to discover their interests and passions, ensuring their holistic development. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: American
Ages: 5 to 14
Tokyo YMCA International Kids Garden
With small class sizes of just 24 students per class, Tokyo YMCA International Kids Garden is a boutique pre-school with a robust English-immersion programme. The school aims to drive English language acquisition and instil a love for lifelong learning in its students. Tokyo YMCA International Kids Garden also values diversity and aims to create a multicultural environment, where English is used as a tool for communication. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International
Ages: 2 to 5
Aoba-Japan International School
Aoba Japan International School is a fully accredited International Baccalaureate World School, offering students a globally recognised education. The school's high student-teacher ratio gives students plenty of individual attention. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate
Ages: 1.5 to 18
American School in Japan
With more than 110 years of history, the American School in Japan is experienced in providing top-quality education to both expat and local families in Tokyo. The school's main campus is situated on a sprawling 14-acre property replete with custom-designed facilities. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: American
Ages: 3 to 18
British School in Tokyo
The British School in Tokyo (BST) is a diverse school of more than 1,100 students. Accredited by the Council of British International Schools, BST is certified to offer the well-respected UK curriculum to students aged 3 to 18. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: British (English National Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE and A-levels)
Ages: 3 to 18
Canadian International School Tokyo
Situated in the bustling bayside ward of Shinagawa, Canadian International School Tokyo is a small school offering the Canadian curriculum of Prince Edward Island. From Kindergarten to Grade 6, the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme is also incorporated, and American Advanced Placement subjects are offered in senior high. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: Canadian, American and International Baccalaureate
Ages: 3 to 18
Deutsche Schule Tokyo Yokohama
Deutsche Schule Tokyo Yokohama provides a comprehensive German education. This small school has around 30 nationalities represented in its student body. Though teaching is entirely in German, additional languages, including Japanese, French and English, can be taken as subjects. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: German
Ages: 3 to 18
Global Indian International School Tokyo
With a range of curricula available, Global Indian International School Tokyo is an ideal choice for globally mobile families. The school runs a three-language programme, where teaching is in English and two foreign languages are taken as additional subjects. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: Montessori, Indian (CBSE) and Cambridge IGCSE
Ages: 3 to 18
Kspace International School
Kspace International School is a secular co-educational school with a young and dynamic staff, conveniently located in central Tokyo. Students can be taught in English, or they can enrol in the school's bilingual programme, where some days are taught in Japanese. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: British (English National Curriculum)
Ages: 14 months to 6 years
Lycée Français International de Tokyo
Lycée Français International de Tokyo aims to provide a truly global education. The French curriculum serves as the framework for teaching, with the addition of linguistic and cultural components influenced by the school's Japanese surroundings. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: French
Ages: 3 to 18
Shinagawa International School
An authorised International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme school and candidate IB Middle Years Programme school, Shinagawa International School offers a holistic education that upholds high academic standards while also encouraging personal growth. The school boasts an impressive student-to-teacher ratio of 6:1, allowing teachers to give each child individualised attention and guidance. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate
Ages: 3 to 13
Tokyo International School
Situated on a purpose-built campus in Minami Azabu, Tokyo International School offers the International Baccalaureate Primary Years and Middle Years Programmes. Facilities are spacious and well maintained, including a gym, a performing arts studio and a library. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate
Ages: 4 to 14
Further reading
►Learn more about schooling options in the country by reading Education and Schools in Japan
Are you an expat living in Tokyo?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Tokyo. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
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