Compare Canadian Curriculum International Schools in Japan

Aichi International School is located at Nijigaoka 3-4, Meito Ward, Nagoya, Aichi. The campus sits in a quiet residential district opposite Nijigaoka Park. It is about a 15-minute walk from Hoshigaoka Station on the Higashiyama Line and roughly a 10-minute drive from the Nagoya Exit of the Tomei/Meishin Expressways, with parkland in the immediate surrounds supporting a calm learning environment.

AIS uses a nine-year framework: three years of kindergarten and six years of elementary school. Kindergarten classes are taught exclusively in English, while the elementary program is bilingual in English and Japanese (approximately 70% English and 30% Japanese) for Grades 1–6, accommodating students aged 3–12.

Co-educational international school serving boys and girls aged 3–12.

Class sizes range from 10 to 20 students per class, enabling individualized attention. All teachers are certified to deliver the full curriculum. The school uses external assessments such as the ISA for Grades 3–6 and EIKEN Institute-based assessments for elementary students.

Japan

Not specified

Morning care for kindergarten starts at 8:00 AM. After-care is offered for kindergarten from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM and for elementary students from 4:15 PM to 5:00 PM.

AIS offers a bus service: a 5-minute ride from Hoshigaoka Bus Terminal bound for Irinaka. Timetables for the nearest stop (Nishiyama Elementary School) are provided, and additional transit information can be found via Nagoya City public transportation resources.

Aichi International School requires uniforms for all students. There are winter and summer uniforms for both the kindergarten and elementary levels, with winter uniforms worn to the Entrance Ceremony in April. Elementary students and Dolphin/Orca kindergarten wear uniforms daily, while Turtle class children wear them on designated days; the uniform policy is inclusive with gender-neutral options, and purchasing details are provided in separate uniform purchase forms for kindergarten and for elementary (girls and boys).

Aichi International School does not have a cafeteria. The FAQ notes that the school can provide school lunch, ordered from a school lunch delivery company, or students may bring lunch from home.

The school building is owned by the operating company Nip Co., Ltd. (NIP). AIS is operated by this company, and no broader group ownership is described on the site.

Aichi International School follows a nine-year program consisting of three years of kindergarten (100% English) and six years of bilingual elementary education (English and Japanese). Kindergarten is taught entirely in English, while the elementary program delivers about 70% English and 30% Japanese. The curriculum aligns with Japan's Ministry of Education (MEXT) guidelines and the British Columbia curriculum, supporting bilingual learning across subjects. In elementary, international teachers teach English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Art, Music, Digital Technology, and PE, while Japanese teachers cover Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies under MEXT. Assessment includes internal Criterion-Referenced Testing in core Japanese subjects for all grades; external ISA examinations in English and Math for Grades 3–6; EIKEN IBA Reading and Listening for all elementary students; and EIKEN Junior Silver/Gold tests for kindergarten. Aichi International School is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

Aichi International School supports social and emotional learning through a Health & Well-being Action Team that fosters an inclusive, safe learning environment and raises awareness of health, safeguarding, and Covid-19 precautions for students and staff.

The school states a commitment to meeting diverse learner needs but does not publicly disclose specific SEN provision or designation, and it is not described as a specialist SEN institution.

Aichi International School offers a 100% English curriculum in the kindergarten and a bilingual English–Japanese program in the elementary school, with about 70% English and 30% Japanese instruction in elementary.

Mental wellbeing is supported through the Health & Well-being Action Team and the Stay Safe Program, which promote well-being, safeguarding, and safety education for students and staff.

Safeguarding is underpinned by AIS's Child Protection Policy, with internal reporting to the Student Guidance Leader, and practical safeguarding education via the Stay Safe Program.

1. Application windows and calendar for April 2026 entry: Aichi International School operates on an April–March academic year. For the April 2026 intake, Kindergarten applications open on September 1, 2025; Grade 1 applications open on September 22, 2025; and applications for Grades 2 and above open on September 1, 2025. Applications for the 2025–2026 school year remain open until all places are filled. Entry to each grade is determined by the child's age as of April 2.

2. Submitting the application and fees: Complete the AIS application form and submit the applicable application fee with the form to ensure the application is considered. The application forms are provided as PDFs for Kindergarten and Elementary, and the process emphasizes submitting the application form together with the fee. A notice also states that applications for 2026 are now open and invites inquiries for more information.

3. Application review and acceptance notice: After the school reviews the submitted application form, families will be notified of acceptance. This review step determines next steps for the family and the student. The page also offers a contact avenue for additional information during the review process.

4. Testing and interview requirements: Testing for Grade 1 includes an interview or speaking test and a written test conducted in both English and Japanese. The admission process also indicates that testing details are part of the process, with language assessment as a key component.

5. Rolling admissions and waitlist: The school operates rolling admissions for mid-year transfers, accepting applications as long as spaces are available. If no spaces are available, applicants are placed on a waiting list. School visits or online visits can be arranged if needed to support the process.

6. Enrollment timing and age-based placement: Students may join AIS at various points during the school year, but placement into a specific grade is determined by the child's age as of April 2. The AIS year runs from April to March, with scheduled breaks, and the overall policy allows entry anytime during the year.

7. Class capacity and availability: Class capacity is published by grade and reflects limited spots in several classes. As of the published availability for the 2025–2026 year, some grades show few spots left or are full with waiting lists, indicating that early application is beneficial for securing a place.

AIS does not advertise a separate school-specific scholarship program. The school notes that it is certified as an unlicensed childcare facility and qualifies for the government's free early childhood education and childcare program, which can reduce costs for eligible families. There is no indication of AIS offering its own scholarships or tuition waivers.

AIS uses a waitlist as part of its rolling admissions. For mid-year transfers, applications are considered as long as spaces exist; when spaces are filled, applicants are placed on a waiting list. If needed, AIS offers school visits or online visits to support applicants during the process.

CIS Tokyo operates across three campuses in Tokyo: Osaki Main Office & Kindergarten at 5-8-20 Kitashinagawa, Shinagawa-ku, and the Senior/Junior High Campus at 5-7-13 Kitashinagawa, Shinagawa-ku; Nakameguro Elementary School Campus at 1-6-1 Nakameguro, Meguro-ku. The Osaki campuses are in Shinagawa ward, while the Nakameguro campus is in Meguro ward. The campuses are well connected by Tokyo's rail network, with the Osaki campus a short walk from JR Osaki Station and the Nakameguro campus a short walk from Nakameguro Station.

CIS Tokyo provides four levels: Kindergarten, Elementary School, Junior High School, and High School. The school blends a Canadian curriculum with International Baccalaureate elements in the younger years (PYP) and offers Advanced Placement options in the upper grades.

Co-educational. It operates as a day school with no boarding facilities.

CIS Tokyo represents more than 30 nationalities. Japanese students comprise just under 35% of the student body, about 30% come from Korea, and the remaining students come from Canada, the United States, and other countries.

The school offers an English Language Support Program for students needing English language development, including a program for April intake and small-group support for Grades 1-2. Counseling and student support are available, with educational assessments and liaison with external providers as needed.

Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada.

CIS Tokyo has no direct affiliation with a church or religion.

The school day typically starts around 8:45 am. School hours are 8:45 am–3:05 pm for Kindergarten–Grade 6 and until about 3:35 pm for Grades 7–12, with five instructional blocks for K–6 and six blocks for 7–12.

There is no school bus service. CIS is within walking distance of Osaki Station and Nakameguro Station, and students commonly use public transit or walk to campus.

Uniforms must be worn at all times during school hours and activities, unaltered and properly fitting, and purchased from the vendor of record. CIS Tokyo provides three uniform sets: Formal Uniform (navy blazer, grey slacks or green skirt, white dress shirt, necktie, optional green/blue sweater vest, black loafers); Everyday Uniform (navy blazer, grey slacks/shorts or green skirt, white dress shirt or white polo in warm months, necktie in cooler months, optional sweater vest, black loafers); and a PE Uniform (PE t‑shirt, track pants or shorts, running shoes). Extra dress guidelines cover prohibitions on hats and color qualifications.

Food and Snack Guidelines are described in the CIS Tokyo Student and Family Handbook. The guidelines state CIS aims to be peanut-free but cannot guarantee a completely allergen-free environment; all parents and families are responsible for managing allergies, and students should refrain from sharing snacks to minimize allergen exposure. The document does not specify a menu or on-site canteen offerings.

CIS Tokyo was founded in 1999 by two of its present directors, indicating governance by a small board. The integrated CIS system describes a Canadian curriculum blended with IB and AP programs across the campuses, and CIS Tokyo holds accreditation from PEI, WASC, and IB PYP. It is described as an independent private school and is not presented as part of a larger school group.

Canadian International School Tokyo (CIS Tokyo) delivers a Prince Edward Island (PEI)–based Canadian curriculum for Kindergarten through Grade 12 and is PEI-accredited and WASC-accredited; the Primary Years Programme (PYP) is offered for Kindergarten to Grade 5. In the Primary Years, CIS Tokyo uses the IB PYP framework with six transdisciplinary units per year (Pre-K has four Units of Inquiry) and a Grade 5 Exhibition, with instruction aligned to PEI curriculum guides. In Junior High and High School, the program includes a Canadian secondary program plus Advanced Placement (AP); current AP courses include Calculus AB, English, World History, Chemistry and Physics B, with additional AP options and AP Diploma pathways. English is the language of instruction for all Canadian-curriculum courses; Japanese language study begins in Grade 1 with two hours per week and increases to four hours per week for Grades 10–12; there is no language support for students in Grades 9–12. The school operates across three campuses—Osaki Campus (Headquarters and Kindergarten), Osaki Campus (Junior High and High School), and Nakameguro Campus (Elementary School)—with a September–June school year.

The Guidance Counselor provides confidential counseling to students, parents/guardians, and teachers, and liaises with external qualified mental health professionals when required. The Guidance and Student Support program includes university guidance for high school and educational support, including assessment of learning challenges and coordination with external providers for targeted interventions. Social-emotional wellbeing is addressed through Health and Wellness Programs, with a social-emotional counsellor available on campus. Counseling is described as short-term and solution-focused, with additional or ongoing supports arranged through external providers when needed. The school's counseling services are accessible to students and involve families as appropriate.

The CIS Tokyo Student Handbook states that the school offers a limited range of support services, including counselling and language support in early elementary grades, but services for students with special educational needs are not provided on site. External assessments and diagnostic evaluations may be required to identify and address SEN needs. Social and emotional counselling is provided in a short-term, solution-focused manner, with additional or ongoing supports potentially arranged by the family through external providers. Therefore, CIS Tokyo is not a specialist SEN institution and does not provide in-house SEN services. Families may need to pursue external assessment and support as needed.

CIS Tokyo offers an English Language Support Program (ELSP) to support students with English as an Additional Language. For new students, the April intake may require extensive language support, which is embedded in age-appropriate grade-level classes (K–6 participate in IB PYP units; 7–12 attend regular classes with language support). Language support is delivered through a variety of models depending on student needs. The program runs September–June, with specific language support for Grades 1–2 in small groups (one to two class periods per week) and progress reporting each semester. Summer sessions focus on English reading, listening, writing, and viewing for CIS students and some April intake participants.

Mental wellbeing is supported through Mental Health Support, with the school providing access to counselling services for students who need emotional support. The Guidance Counselor offers confidential counseling to students, parents/guardians, and teachers, and can refer to external mental health professionals when required. Social-emotional counselling is part of Health and Wellness Programs and is described as a short-term, solution-focused service, with external supports arranged as needed. A social-emotional counsellor is available on campus to assist students with wellbeing concerns.

The CIS Tokyo Student Handbook includes a Child Protection Policy that outlines procedures for identifying and reporting suspected abuse or neglect, reflecting the school's safeguarding duty of care. Staff comply with safeguarding requirements, and cases may be disclosed to appropriate authorities as required by law. Students and families are advised to speak with a trusted adult or the social-emotional counsellor if they have concerns about safety. All CIS campuses are closed to general access during school hours, except for predesignated events, to ensure student safety and security. The handbook also notes that CIS's safeguarding measures are part of its commitment to a safe school community.

1. Determine eligibility and grade placement. CIS Tokyo uses age-based placements with a December 31 cutoff; the Age Appropriation for 2026–2027 shows the exact age bands and birth date ranges for Kindergarten through Grade 12. All applicants must apply for the grade that matches their age, and exceptions may be made at the Head of School's discretion, including offering a start in a lower grade if the screening indicates it is necessary. At least one parent must be a functional English speaker to communicate with CIS staff.

2. Prepare the grade-specific application package. For Kindergarten (K4 and K5), required documents include the Application for Admissions, a Confidential Teacher Recommendation, a Student Health Record, proof of birth, one photo, and 2 years of school transcripts if available; you must also provide proof of payment of the 35,000 yen application fee. The Kindergarten admission procedure also lists an assessment format and confirms these documents are part of the assessment package. For other grades, the process hinges on screening and testing (MAP Test for English and Math, plus a short English essay) and a family interview.

3. Download and submit the application package. The Admissions page provides links to the grade-specific forms and directs submission to the Admissions Office. Applications are accepted year-round, subject to seat availability.

4. Pay the application fee and attach payment proof. The standard application fee is 35,000 yen and must be paid by bank transfer; include the payment slip with the application submission. The 35,000-yen fee is non-refundable and is referenced on the Application Fee document.

5. Undergo grade-appropriate assessments. For KG, assessments include home-based worksheets (Part I) and a family interview with an English-speaking parent (Part II). For Elementary through High School, admission depends on performing the MAP Test (English and Mathematics) and completing a short essay in English, followed by a family interview with a CIS administrator. These assessments determine readiness for CIS's Canadian curriculum and language expectations.

6. Receive admission decisions. Admission decisions are communicated in writing by email and postal mail; accepted applicants receive an acceptance letter, registration information, and an invoice. The seat is guaranteed once the registration fee is paid, after which families receive further registration details.

7. Submit registration and secure the seat. After acceptance, the school issues an invoice for the registration fee and related enrollment charges; payment confirms the seat. The 2025–2026 fee structure shows the Registration Fee (300,000 yen) and Building Development Fee (600,000 yen) as one-time charges, with tuition and other annual fees payable on schedule.

8. Complete enrollment and begin at CIS. Enrollment completes once fees are settled and the student is registered; the annual tuition varies by grade (Kindergarten 2,350,000 yen; Grade 1–5 2,650,000 yen; Grade 6–8 2,750,000 yen; Grade 9–12 2,850,000 yen) with an annual Building Maintenance Fee of 250,000 yen. Returning students may pay in two installments with a 35,000 yen handling charge, and a sibling discount may apply. Fees for the 2025–2026 year are fixed for the period, and withdrawal policies require notice in advance.

9. Note about grade placement options. A student may be offered to start one grade lower than the expected level based on screening results and at the Principal's discretion; age eligibility and the official age appropriation table guide final placement. This reinforces that placement decisions can reflect both academic readiness and language proficiency.

Scholarships: CIS Tokyo does not publish a scholarships program on its admissions or fees pages. The fees page lists tuition and other charges and notes a sibling discount and payment options, but there is no mention of scholarship or financial-aid offerings. For families seeking financial assistance, scholarships do not appear to be publicly offered.

Waitlist/Pool: CIS Tokyo does not publish a formal waitlist or pool system in its admissions materials. Admissions are year-round and depend on current seat availability at each grade level. Applicants are notified of admission after screening, and seats are allocated based on space rather than a numbered waiting list. There is no publicly posted waitlist policy.

Columbia International School is located at 153 Matsugo, Tokorozawa, Saitama 359-0027, Japan. The campus sits in a nature-rich suburban area about 20 km northwest of central Tokyo (Shinjuku). The nearest rail access is Higashi-Tokorozawa on the JR Musashino Line, with travel times around 22 minutes from Omiya, 40 minutes from Shibuya, 45 minutes from Tokyo, and 64 minutes from Yokohama. A boarding dormitory is located about an eight-minute walk from the campus.

The school serves Kindergarten through Grade 12, with divisions for Kindergarten, Elementary, Junior High, and Senior High.

Columbia International School is co-educational and offers a boarding option via a dormitory for boarding students (for both girls and boys).

The school has students from more than 21 nationalities. A large portion of the student body is Japanese, with many international students from Asia; the community includes returnees and dual-ethnicity families.

All courses are taught in English by certified teachers; Japanese Kokugo lessons are offered daily up to Grade 8. The school provides ESL support to help students integrate into the curriculum.

The school follows the Ontario (Canada) curriculum, culminating in the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).

There is no formal religious affiliation stated in the school materials.

A public daily timetable is not published on the site. The school offers After School Care (ASC) for younger students and operates a published school bus service with multiple routes and times. Boarding students receive breakfast and dinner on weekdays and weekends per the dormitory provisions.

The bus network includes routes to Omiya/Fujimino, Kawaguchi/Wako-shi, Tokorozawa, and Higashi Tokorozawa. Example morning and afternoon stops/times are published (e.g., Omiya: 7:10 pickup and 16:20 drop-off; Fujimino: 8:00 pickup and 15:45 drop-off; Columbia: 8:35 pickup and 15:10 drop-off).

Columbia International School operates a dormitory for boarding students. The dormitory, built in March 2000, is located about an eight-minute walk from the campus and houses both girls and boys. A dorm supervisor lives on site, and the building features security measures including fingerprint entry and personal identification door systems. Breakfast and dinner are served in the on-site cafeteria from Monday to Saturday, and boarding students have access to vending machines for snacks and beverages; a bedding lease and cleaning service are available for a fee. No meals are provided on Sundays or during national holidays and school holidays, and dorm residents cannot stay in the dormitory during the winter break.

Uniforms are in place for different year groups. Junior High School and High School have summer and winter uniforms, and Elementary students have their own uniforms as well. The uniform set includes a CIS vest and CIS gym clothes.

The on-site cafeteria provides breakfast and dinner for boarding students from Monday to Saturday, with vending machines available for snacks and beverages. The school also operates a School Lunch program with CIS partnering with Cezars Kitchen K.K. to prepare balanced meals, including from-scratch cooking and options for halal and vegetarian dishes.

The school was established in 1988 by Kabushikigaisha US Canada Gakuen, and, by 2010, Kabushikigaisha US Canada Gakuen was running Columbia International School G1 to G9. This indicates that the school is privately owned and operated by that corporation.

The school offers the Ontario Program (Canada) curriculum; all courses are taught in English by certified teachers, and Kokugo (Japanese) lessons are offered daily up to Grade 8. Kindergarten (ages four to five) is an English-based program built around six developmental areas and a holistic, whole-child approach to promote physical, social, emotional, and cognitive growth. Elementary emphasizes bilingual development, with language-rich classrooms to foster fluency in both English and Japanese, along with clubs and extracurricular activities. Junior High (grades 7–9) provides two tracks—one for proficient English speakers and one for students needing language support—supported by small classes and language/academic assistance; Kokugo/Japanese is available up to Grade 8. Senior High (grades 10–12) continues the Ontario curriculum and awards the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), enabling entry to universities worldwide.

Columbia International School integrates social and emotional learning through a 'whole child' approach across its curriculum. In Kindergarten, teachers promote the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development of each child in a safe and caring environment. The Elementary program reinforces this with a positive, whole-child framework that emphasizes health, safety, engagement, support, and challenge, alongside bilingual English–Japanese language development. In Junior High, there are two language tracks—one for English-proficient students and another for language learners—delivered by experienced teachers in small classes to foster language growth and curiosity. This structure supports social integration and personal development as part of the school's wellbeing approach.

The site does not publicly disclose information about dedicated SEN provision or whether it operates as a specialist SEN institution. The Inclusion page states that the school accepts students regardless of race, skin color, nationality, or gender, and that staff work to maintain an open, fair, and inclusive environment with equal opportunities. In Junior High, there are two tracks: one for English-fluent students and one for those needing English language support. There is no explicit listing of specific SEN categories, SEN staff, or dedicated SEN facilities on the site. Consequently, public details about SEN provisions are not disclosed.

The Ontario Program curriculum is taught in English by certified teachers. Japanese language lessons are offered every day up to Grade 8. In Junior High, there are two tracks: one for students proficient in English and another for those needing language support. Saturday School is taught in English with Japanese supports to help prospective students become familiar with Columbia. Saturday School and Summer School provide additional English-language exposure, with English instruction complemented by Japanese assistance.

Kindergarten emphasizes the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development of each child within a safe, caring environment. The Elementary program uses a positive 'whole child' approach, focusing on health, safety, engagement, support, and challenge, with bilingual language development. The Inclusion page highlights an open, respectful, and non-discriminatory environment that supports wellbeing and equal opportunity. In Junior High, small-class language support structures and varied programs contribute to personal growth and wellbeing. Overall, wellbeing is embedded in the curriculum through development of social and emotional skills alongside academic learning.

Columbia International School maintains Child Safeguarding policies to provide a safe environment for students and staff. The school supports the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. All employees, external contractors, and volunteers receive safeguarding training. If abuse is suspected, it must be reported to the school principal or the school nurse. Safeguarding regulations are reviewed annually and shared with the school community.

1. Rolling admissions overview. Columbia International School accepts new students on a term-by-term basis in a rolling admissions style, with applications reviewed as they are received. This approach means there isn't a single fixed deadline for every term, and families may be considered for upcoming terms as vacancies arise. The 2026–2027 admissions materials note that the Spring term for G1 was already full with a waiting list, illustrating how capacity can limit available seats.

2. Admission Procedure. Begin by filling out the Application Form and any other required forms, then submit four profile photos (size 4 cm x 4 cm), the applicant's academic reports for the last three years, and pay the Application Fee of ¥25,000. You'll also need to provide bank details for the Kinder to Junior program as part of the process. After submission, the school processes the application promptly and arranges an Admission Examination and interview(s) with the applicant and parent(s). The school uses the Ontario curriculum with English-language instruction for all courses, while Japanese Kokugo lessons are offered daily up to Grade 8.

3. Application Periods and Rounds. For 2026–2027, the application periods are limited to specific windows by division: Kindergarten and Elementary in July (first round) and October (second round, if seats remain); Junior in October (first round) and January (second round, if seats remain); High School in October (first round) and January (second round, if seats remain). In 2026, a second round was open January 5–31 for New K1, G7, and G10, with only a subset of seats available in each division; transfers may be considered if vacancies exist. Applicants who apply in the second round receive admission decisions by email, and some applicants may receive a conditional letter with an offer contingent on payment and other conditions.

4. Admissions Decision, Fees, and Payment. After the examination and interviews, applicants are notified by email of their admissions status. If an offer is made and accepted, the correct amount of fees must be paid within one week by bank transfer to one of the school's accounts. The fee schedule is disclosed per division: Kindergarten first year totals 1,984,500 JPY (210,000 JPY entrance; 1,762,500 JPY tuition; 12,000 JPY PTSA; lunch and entrance donation are optional/discretionary). Elementary first year totals 2,652,000 JPY; Junior first year totals 2,727,000 JPY; High School first year totals 2,727,000 JPY (all figures include the relevant tuition, facility/maintenance where applicable, and PTSA but exclude optional items). In addition, optional Lunch Fees and a discretionary Entrance Donation (200,000 JPY per set) may apply, and a 12,000 JPY PTSA fee per family per year is charged. Fees are not refundable under any circumstances. Discounts exist for multiple children (10% for the second child, 30% for the third child; only one discount can apply per child; families already receiving a scholarship are not eligible).

5. Grade Placement and Visa Considerations. The enrollment cut-off is April 1; by that date, applicants must meet the age requirements shown in the Grade Eligibility Chart to be considered for the corresponding grade. Placement is based on age and an assessment of prior learning credits in line with Ontario Secondary School Graduation requirements. For international students requiring a study visa sponsorship, a separate visa admissions process applies, including deposits, interviews, an acceptance letter and invoice, and timelines for visa processing; the first-year total for visa students is substantially higher due to international student fees and dormitory/related costs. The visa guidelines also specify that nonrefundable application fees and additional costs may apply, and the admissions process for visa students is described in the accompanying PDF.

6. Curriculum Context (for clarity). The school uses the Ontario (Canada) curriculum, with all courses taught in English by certified teachers; Japanese language lessons are provided daily up to Grade 8. This context helps explain the admissions requirements (e.g., language considerations, grade placement) and the visa sponsorship pathway for international students.

Columbia International School offers scholarships, including a Student Diversity Scholarship and a Priority Enrollment Program (PEP).

- Student Diversity Scholarship: This program provides a reduction of school fees by up to 50% for junior high school students. Recipients are selected after a review of applications, school records, and an interview by the Principal. Scholarships are awarded for one academic year with renewal options up to graduation, and the school commits to maintaining confidentiality regarding recipients' circumstances. Interested families should contact admissions for details.

- PEP Program (Priority Enrollment Program): The PEP recognizes partner preschools and kindergartens as meeting CIS criteria to gain priority for Grade 1 entry. PEP families have access to school tours in April, May, and June before open campus days, facilitating early exposure to CIS.

Columbia International School operates on rolling admissions, and when a class is full, a waiting list is used. As of September 10, 2025, the 2026 Spring term G1 class was reported as full with students on a waiting list, and a second-round application window was announced (January 5–31) for New K1, G7, and G10, with a limited number of seats remaining in each division. Transfers may be considered if vacancies exist. For Fall/Winter terms, transfers require contacting the admissions team for vacancies. Applicants accepted in the second round may be placed on a waiting list or given conditional acceptance if seats become available. Results for second-round admissions are typically communicated by email, with conditional acceptance possible if seats are not immediately available.

3-48-16 Asagaya-Minami, Suginami-ku, Tokyo 166-0004, Japan

Grades 7-12

British Columbia Offshore School

Canada (British Columbia Offshore School)

The program is administered by the host Bunka Gakuen University Suginami Junior and Senior High School and is part of the Bunka Gakuen Educational Foundation (Bunka Gakuen Group). It is an accredited British Columbia Offshore School and is fully accredited by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. Graduates earn two official qualifications: the Japanese High School Certificate and the British Columbia Dogwood Diploma.

Established in 2015, Bunka Suginami Canadian International School (BSCIS) is an accredited British Columbia Offshore School for grades 7-12. The school has a dual-diploma program that integrates the Japanese curriculum at Bunka Gakuen University Suginami Junior and Senior High School with the British Columbia curriculum. The British Columbia curriculum is competency-based, emphasizing critical thinking, communication, and problem solving. Upon graduation, students earn two official qualifications: the Japanese High School Certificate and the British Columbia Dogwood Diploma. Graduates are admitted to universities in Japan and around the world, including Waseda University, Keio University, Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, St. Luke's International University, Ritsumeikan University, Akita International University, University of British Columbia, Emily Carr University of Art and Design, University of Toronto, University of Edinburgh, University of Amsterdam, and University of Sydney.

Graduates are welcomed by leading universities in Japan and around the world. Notable destinations include Waseda University, Keio University, Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, St. Luke's International University, Ritsumeikan University, Akita International University, University of British Columbia, Emily Carr University of Art and Design, University of Toronto, University of Edinburgh, University of Amsterdam, and University of Sydney.

AP Examinations are available to current and graduate BSCIS students. AP Pre-Calculus and AP Calculus BC are offered as AP options, and AP results may be considered for university admission.

Core competencies include Social, Personal and Cultural Awareness.

BSCIS is an English immersion educational environment.

BSCIS commits to establishing and maintaining a safe, caring, and orderly environment where students can learn and grow; students are protected from discrimination, physical harm or verbal abuse.

1. Entrance exams are offered at several times each year for Grade 7 and Grade 10. 2. As a double diploma school, students must pass both the BSCIS entrance exam and the entrance exam of Bunka Gakuen University Suginami Junior and Senior High School. 3. The admissions page lists four categories: Grade 7, International Returnee, Transfer, and Grade 10. 4. The host school's information brochures contain tuition information and can be downloaded for full details.

Kunimoto Alberta International School is located at 8-15-33 Kitami, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 157-0067, Japan. The campus sits in a quiet residential area of Setagaya and is a short walk from Kitami Station on the Odakyu Line.

KAIS is a six-year program for girls, spanning Grade 7 to Grade 12. It combines the Alberta curriculum with the Japanese local curriculum, with Grades 7–9 following the Alberta stream and Grades 10–12 offering the Alberta Double Diploma Program.

KAIS is a private, all-girls school that operates as part of Kunimoto Gakuen.

Public materials do not publish exact numbers on nationalities represented; KAIS emphasizes global citizenship and diversity as part of its Alberta/Japanese double diploma program.

An English language support framework is provided through the English Lab, including access to native-English teachers and Eiken preparation. An Overseas English Training Fee applies for Grade 8 and Grade 11.

KAIS holds Tier 3 accreditation from Alberta Education in Canada, enabling the Alberta diploma on graduation.

Not specified in KAIS materials.

Hours of operation and the bell schedule are defined in the policy document. Doors are opened at 7:00am, and the policy includes a Bell Schedule and Hours of Operation.

KAIS does not offer a school bus service.

KAIS has a school uniform. The uniform incurs a one-time fee of 110,000 yen for Grade 7-9.

KAIS is a six-year, all-girls program located in Tokyo and established in April 2020 as a brand-new program within Kunimoto Gakuen. Alberta Education accredits KAIS at tier three, enabling the school to confer the Alberta diploma; Kunimoto Gakuen awards a Japanese diploma. The program offers a Double Diploma (Japanese and Alberta) pathway and KAIS instruction is integrated with the Japanese and Alberta curriculums.

Kunimoto Alberta International School (KAIS) is a 6-year, all-girls program within Kunimoto Gakuen in Tokyo, offering Grades 7–12. KAIS combines the Alberta curriculum with the Japanese national curriculum, delivering a double diploma program in which students graduate with both a Japanese high school diploma and an Alberta high school diploma. The Alberta program centers on the Three E's: critical thinking and problem solving; creativity/innovation and leadership; and communication with a sense of responsibility to society, plus ICT literacy and independence. The curriculum is a double diploma stream with Alberta-accredited courses taught in English by Alberta-qualified teachers, alongside Japanese-language subjects taught by Japanese teachers; a Grade 10 timetable shows ELA 10, Social Studies 10, Science 10, and Math 10 among Alberta-aligned credits. A Global Studies course was launched in 2025 and is integrated into KAIS as part of the Alberta/Japanese DD program. The campus is located near Kitami Station in Setagaya, Tokyo, with facilities such as Ariki Memorial Hall, a library, a computer room, and athletic facilities.

KAIS formalizes Social and Emotional Learning through its policy framework. The school explicitly includes Self-Advocacy and Self-Efficacy as core expectations, with students encouraged to speak up for what they need and to build confidence, supported by Grade Coordinators, Grade Level Counselors, teachers and parents. Respectful Communication and Interactions are emphasized, with a climate that promotes dignity and a duty to report and not tolerate bullying. The policy also notes that staff model positive behavior and are responsible for fostering a safe, respectful, and collaborative learning environment. Professional Growth Plans for all staff reinforce ongoing staff development to support student well-being and SEL-related learning.

KAIS adopts an inclusive education approach under the Kunimoto Inclusive Ed Policy. The Alberta-based policy states that all students belong and receive a quality education regardless of ability, disability, language, cultural background, or age, and that supports and services are provided to access and succeed. It emphasizes that the success of inclusive education relies on engagement from students, parents, staff and the community. The school describes individualized program plans for all students based on strengths and goals. The policy does not list specific SEN categories; rather, it frames SEN support through inclusive education and required supports.

EAL support is provided through the English Lab, where native English teachers are available and tutors provide English language support; EIKEN preparation is offered in the lab. KAIS also highlights Alberta Education's emphasis on English language literacy and numeracy as foundational to learning, which underpins the EAL approach. The faculty page indicates a diverse staff with Alberta-licensed teachers contributing to the Alberta program. English language support is integrated into the Alberta-program pathway, with core classes increasingly delivered in English starting in Grade 8. The Alberta Diploma pathway aims to build English proficiency to a level suitable for graduation and further study.

KAIS supports mental wellbeing through a safety-oriented and inclusive school climate, with explicit statements that students deserve a safe and healthy environment. The policy outlines emergency procedures and drills to prepare for incidents, including fire, lockdown, and earthquake scenarios. There is a nurse on site for medical needs, and staff must follow procedures for illness, injury, and reporting, including accident reports to the principal. A Harassment Policy governs inappropriate behavior, with clear reporting channels, privacy protections, and steps for remediation. Students are supported in developing self-advocacy and self-efficacy, with Grade Coordinators and Grade Level Counselors playing a role in student wellbeing and decision-making.

KAIS has comprehensive safeguarding provisions. Medical care is available on site via a nurse, with established procedures for illness, injury, and emergency medical attention. Emergency procedures for fire, lockdowns, and evacuations are documented, and students are to be escorted to designated safe meeting points. A robust Harassment Policy sets out definitions, reporting, and protective measures, including privacy considerations and corrective actions. The school also emphasizes a safe climate and anti-bullying stance, requiring respectful interactions and zero tolerance for bullying, with clear expectations for staff and students.

1. Decide on the KAIS Alberta International School program and your child's grade. KAIS is a six‑year, all‑girls program located in Tokyo that begins at Grade 7 and combines the Alberta curriculum with the Japanese local curriculum, offering a Double Diploma pathway in high school. The Alberta component is integrated within Kunimoto Gakuen, and KAIS students typically pursue both the Alberta and Japanese diplomas on graduation. 2. Prepare and submit the online Application Form. Interested families apply by completing the Application Form through the KAIS admissions portal, selecting either the junior/senior high track or the KAIS track integrated with the Alberta program. The form collects basic student information and program preferences. 3. Pay the non‑refundable Application Fee and gather required documents. The non‑refundable Application Fee is ¥25,000; the admissions materials indicate there is a defined list of supporting documents to prepare, which is outlined on the Admission Form. 4. Participate in an admission interview and take the admission test. All applicants must attend an admission interview and complete an admission test; further details about the test and required components are provided in the Admission Form. 5. Wait for the test results and admission decision. Parents will be notified of the test results and whether admission is granted, with next steps provided if admission is offered. 6. Complete enrollment and pay the required fees. If admitted, families finalize enrollment by paying the relevant one‑time fees (such as Application Fee, Registration Fee, Facility Fee, School Uniform, Tablet, and Overseas English Training Fee where applicable) and the annual fees (Tuition, Maintenance Fee, PTA Fee, Students Council Fee, Books and Course Supplies). The 2024/2025 fee schedule shows both Grade 7–9 and Grade 10–12 structures and notes that overseas training fees may be paid in installments and are subject to currency and policy changes.

KAIS offers scholarships and merit-based awards. The school provides a structured scholarship system with tiered options for middle school and a separate high school framework, plus a Kanagawa resident tuition subsidy and an annual financial‑assistance option for economically challenged students. Middle School scholarships (S1–S3) are awarded based on percentiles or test scores and result in exemptions from the enrollment procedure fee (320,000 yen) and partial or full tuition waivers: S1 (85%+): enrollment procedure fee exempt and 480,000 yen per year tuition waived for 3 years; S2 (75%+): enrollment procedure fee exempt and 480,000 yen per year tuition waived for 1 year; S3 (65%+): enrollment procedure fee exempt only. High School scholarships (for the Double Diploma course) are based on entrance results or internal grades; the scholarship covers Japanese tuition (480,000 yen) but not the Canadian tuition (600,000 yen). Scholarships are reviewed annually based on grades and attendance, and new recipients are determined each year. In addition, there is a Kanagawa Prefecture tuition subsidy for eligible Kanagawa residents, and an economic‑hardship tuition reduction program. Details and application steps are published on the KAIS scholarship page and are subject to annual policy revisions.

KAIS does not publish a waitlist policy on official admissions materials, and public listings indicate there is no waiting list for KAIS. There is no published waitlist process or pool system beyond standard admission notifications.

1-4-15 Nagai, Sumiyoshi-ku, Osaka 558-0003, JAPAN. JR Hanwa Line: About 6 minutes on foot from Nagai Station; about 8 minutes on foot from Tsurugaoka Station. Osaka Metro Midosuji Line: About 7 minutes on foot from Nagai Station; about 10 minutes on foot from Nishitanabe Station.

High school level (Grades 10–12) with a BC Double Diploma program. BC coursework is taught entirely in English by BC-certified teachers; Japanese coursework is taught in Japanese by Osaka Gakugei High School staff.

BC offshore international high school program (Double Diploma) hosted within Osaka Gakugei High School's International Department.

Canada (British Columbia)

Staying with a host family for a five-week stay; BC Program students attend classes and activities on weekdays and spend time with their host families on weekends (and after school).

OGCIS is a BC Offshore School fully-certified by the British Columbia Ministry of Education and Child Care. It shares a campus with Osaka Gakugei Senior High School and offers the BC Double Diploma Program in partnership with that school.

The BC/DD Program is a bilingual English–Japanese high school graduation program offered by OGCIS and Osaka Gakugei Senior High School, enabling students to graduate with both a British Columbia Dogwood Diploma and a Japanese High School Diploma. English-language courses are taught in English at OGCIS following the British Columbia curriculum and BC-certified teachers; Japanese-language courses are taught in Japanese at Osaka Gakugei Senior High School by licensed local teachers. The program's sample 3-year curriculum includes English Language Arts (taught in English) and a range of Japanese courses including Japanese Language Arts, Mathematics, Informatics, Physical and Health Education, Science, Art or Music, Home Economics, Social Studies, and Integrated Studies. Current students can access the Japanese curriculum (Japanese only). All Grade 11 students participate in a five-week Short-Term Study Abroad program in British Columbia, earning four credits for Social Studies 10. BC assessment and curriculum policies describe assessment as course-based, school-based, or province-based, with three formal reports per year and alignment between BC and Japanese transcripts through a published scoring/gradation correlation; the BC core competencies (Communication, Thinking, Personal and Social) and First Peoples principles are part of the curriculum.

Successful BC/DD graduates have expanded choices for higher education and receive support and guidance with university applications within the Career Education and Career Life Connections courses.

Mindfulness is a core value of the school, guiding students toward mindful leadership.

All OGCIS coursework uses the BC curriculum and is taught in English by BC-certified teachers, while Japanese-language instruction is provided by Osaka Gakugei High School teachers.

1. Check eligibility. Several steps must be completed to apply. Eligibility checks exist for returnee and international admissions; for 2026 admissions, eligibility checks are closed. Separate eligibility requirements apply to returnee and international students; the Returnee and International Student Eligibility Form is part of the process (closed for 2026 admissions). Applicants who do not qualify for returnee or international admissions will be notified and asked to apply for regular admission. 2. Submit academic history. Applicants provide their academic history from previous schools for consideration. The records are reviewed as part of the eligibility and admissions process. 3. Consultation. A private consultation is held to address each student's individual concerns and goals. The consultation helps clarify program options and admission requirements. It may determine what documents or forms are needed next. 4. Apply. Following consultation, applicants submit the application. Application packages are distributed during private consultations. The application is reviewed for eligibility and readiness for entrance exams. 5. Entrance Exams. Applicants take the required entrance examinations for admission to the BC/DD Program. The entrance exams include the Osaka Gakugei Senior High School exam and BC entrance exams. Final qualification decisions are made after the exams and review of submitted documents. See Requirements and Check Eligibility for detailed eligibility criteria.