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Overview
Shinagawa International School is an international IB PYP school for ages 1–12 in Tokyo, Japan. Founded in 2006, it has approximately 450 students from 40+ nationalities. The language of instruction is English, with EAL support available. Annual t...
Last reviewed: May 1, 2026
At a Glance
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New IB Diploma program — Authorized May 2024, first graduating class in 2026; no university placement data yet available
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Highly diverse community — 450+ students from 40+ nationalities across three Tokyo campuses, Japanese students capped at 25%
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Intimate class sizes — Maximum 24 students per class with 1:6 teacher-to-student ratio for personalized attention
SIS operates 8 school bus routes across central Tokyo and Shinagawa areas. Buses are equipped with seat belts and GPS tracking for student safety.
Coverage Areas: Central Tokyo and Shinagawa areas
Schoozy Insights
Independent analysis by the Schoozy editorial team. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the school.
IB Inquiry-Based Learning and the SHARK Values at SIS
SIS builds its entire educational model on IB inquiry principles and five core SHARK values, fostering global citizenship through small-class personalization.
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Educational Philosophy
Shinagawa International School's educational identity is anchored in the International Baccalaureate framework and a distinctive set of core values that permeate every level of school life. The school offers the full IB continuum — Primary Years Programme (PYP, authorized 2015), Middle Years Programme (MYP, authorized 2023), and Diploma Programme (DP, authorized May 2024) — ensuring philosophical consistency from Preschool through Grade 12.
The IB Inquiry Approach
At the heart of SIS's pedagogy is the IB's five essential elements: Knowledge, Skills, Attitudes, Conceptual Understanding, and Action. Teachers design lessons that are transdisciplinary, encouraging students to make connections across subject areas rather than treating each discipline in isolation. This approach promotes critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and the ability to apply learning in real-world contexts — qualities that align with the IB Learner Profile attributes such as being inquirers, thinkers, communicators, and risk-takers.
The school's small class sizes (averaging 16–21 students) and an exceptional 1:6 teacher-to-student ratio create the conditions for genuine inquiry-led teaching. Students receive individualized attention that larger institutions struggle to provide, and teachers can tailor instruction to each learner's readiness, interests, and learning style.
SHARK Values
SIS has codified its community values into the memorable acronym SHARK:
Strength
Honesty
Adaptability
Respect
Kindness
These values are not merely decorative; they are embedded in daily routines, classroom expectations, and community interactions. The emphasis on Adaptability is particularly relevant given SIS's multicultural student body (40+ nationalities), where students routinely navigate cultural differences and build cross-cultural empathy. Kindness and Respect form the basis of the school's anti-bullying culture, which independent reviews note creates a 'warm atmosphere that discourages bullying.'
Holistic Development
SIS explicitly balances academic achievement with social-emotional growth. The school's mission and vision statements emphasize global citizenship, intercultural understanding, and the development of well-rounded learners. This manifests in practice through mixed-age extracurricular activities, experiential learning trips, and a counselling infrastructure that supports students' mental and emotional wellbeing alongside academic progress.
Transdisciplinary Real-World Learning
A signature feature of SIS's philosophy in action is the Interdisciplinary Week Without Walls, which takes students off campus for hands-on, real-world projects including outdoor expeditions, community service, and arts workshops. This annual event reflects the IB's Action component, challenging students to apply classroom learning to authentic situations — a cornerstone of SIS's belief that education extends beyond the school building.
In sum, SIS's philosophy creates a coherent, values-driven learning environment where the IB framework provides academic rigour and the SHARK values provide the moral compass.
A Multicultural Family-Like Community of 40+ Nationalities
SIS deliberately caps Japanese enrollment at 25% and serves 40+ nationalities, fostering a close-knit, internationally diverse community with active parent engagement.
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Community Culture at SIS
Shinagawa International School occupies a distinctive niche in Tokyo's international school landscape: it is genuinely small, deliberately diverse, and explicitly family-like in its culture. Understanding the community dynamics at SIS is essential for families considering enrollment.
Demographic Diversity
With over 450 students representing more than 40 nationalities — including American, Korean, British, Chinese, Russian, Peruvian, and Japanese families among many others — SIS's student body reflects the cosmopolitan character of Tokyo's international community. Crucially, the school enforces a 25% cap on Japanese nationals, ensuring that no single nationality dominates the community and that every student genuinely experiences an international, multicultural environment every day.
This policy has two effects: it reassures expat families that the school won't feel like a Japanese school with a foreign veneer, and it creates a classroom dynamic where cultural exchange is organic and constant. Students develop genuine intercultural competence simply by navigating friendships and group projects with peers from vastly different backgrounds.
Small School, Close Relationships
Independent observers consistently describe SIS as offering a 'family-like closeness' that distinguishes it from larger international schools in Tokyo. With class sizes of 16–21 students and a 1:6 teacher-to-student ratio, every child is known by name, and teachers can form meaningful mentoring relationships with their students. This intimacy means that students who might feel lost or overlooked in a larger institution often thrive at SIS.
The school's three-campus structure (Aoyama-Yokocho, Seaside, and Samezu) keeps each site manageable in scale, reinforcing the community feel rather than the institutional. Cross-grade extracurricular activities (with 70+ weekly after-school programs) further build friendships across year groups, and experiential trips such as residential camping in Chiba or hiking on Mt. Fuji create shared memories that bond cohorts.
Rolling Admissions Focused on Fit, Readiness, and Diversity
SIS uses year-round rolling admissions with MAP testing, parent-student interviews, and class-balance criteria rather than purely competitive academic thresholds.
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Admissions Culture at SIS
Shinagawa International School's admissions process reflects its broader educational philosophy: personal, holistic, and focused on finding the right fit rather than selecting only academically elite candidates. Understanding the admissions culture helps families approach the process with appropriate expectations.
Rolling Admissions — No Fixed Deadline
Unlike many international schools in Tokyo that operate annual intake windows, SIS accepts applications year-round. This rolling admissions policy is particularly practical for expat families who relocate to Tokyo on corporate or diplomatic assignments with little advance notice. Families can apply at any point in the school year, and the school processes applications continuously. The tradeoff is that popular grades can fill up, leading to waitlist situations at certain times of year.
The Application Journey
The admissions process has a clear, step-by-step flow:
Initial Inquiry — Families contact the admissions office (email or in-person) to ask questions and learn about the school.
School Visit — Campus tours are available by appointment and strongly recommended, though not formally required. These visits give families a feel for the campus culture and allow informal questions to be answered.
Application Submission — An online form is submitted along with a ¥40,000 non-refundable application fee and recent school reports (typically the past two academic years).
Assessment — Students applying for Grade 1 and above take the MAP (Measures of Academic Progress) test, covering English, reading, and mathematics. This standardized test helps the school understand each student's current academic level and inform support planning.
70+ Free Weekly After-School Programs and Immersive Field Learning
SIS offers 70+ complimentary weekly ASPs and a structured experiential learning program including residential trips and an Interdisciplinary Week Without Walls.
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Extracurricular and Experiential Learning at SIS
One of SIS's most distinctive features in the Tokyo international school landscape is the breadth and accessibility of its extracurricular and experiential learning offerings. Far from being an afterthought, these programs are central to SIS's educational philosophy — the IB's 'Action' element made tangible.
70+ After-School Programs — Complimentary by Default
Each week, SIS offers more than 70 After-School Programs (ASPs) running on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. What sets SIS apart from many international schools is that the vast majority of these programs are free of charge (included in the school's overall fee structure, with only special materials incurring additional cost). This democratizes access to extracurriculars, ensuring that participation is driven by interest rather than ability to pay for premium clubs.
The range is genuinely wide:
Languages: Chinese club, Japanese club
Academic: Maths club, Model United Nations
Technology & STEM: Robotics, Coding
Arts & Performance: Music ensembles, Drama, Dance
Sports: Football, Gymnastics, Basketball, and more
Wellbeing: Mindfulness
These cross-grade programs allow students from different year groups to interact, building friendships and mentorship relationships that enrich the school's community fabric.
Swimming — A Structured Physical Education Highlight
For Preschool through Grade 5, SIS provides weekly swimming classes at a nearby pool. This dedicated swimming program (with a nominal additional fee) is integrated into the school schedule, giving younger students regular aquatic education that many urban schools in Tokyo cannot easily provide.
Pioneer IB Diploma School with No Graduating Class Yet — Opportunity and Uncertainty
SIS completed its full IB authorization in May 2024; the first graduating class is expected in 2026, meaning no exam results or university placement data exist yet.
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Academic Culture and Outcomes at SIS
Shinagawa International School presents a genuinely unusual academic profile: it is a fully authorized IB school with a rigorous inquiry-based curriculum, but it is simultaneously one of Tokyo's newest high school programmes, with no graduating class yet produced. Understanding this duality is essential for families evaluating academic outcomes.
The Full IB Continuum — Recently Completed
SIS achieved authorization for the IB Diploma Programme (DP) in May 2024, completing the full IB continuum from PYP (Primary Years Programme, authorized 2015) through MYP (Middle Years Programme, authorized 2023) to the DP. Grade 11 (DP Year 1) began in the 2024–25 academic year, and the first graduating class is expected in June 2026. This means that as of 2025, SIS has not yet produced IB Diploma graduates.
No Published Academic Outcome Data
As a direct consequence of its recent DP authorization, SIS has no published IB exam results, no average diploma scores, no university placement lists, and no graduation rate data. Independent reviewers confirm this explicitly: 'as of 2025, SIS has not yet had a graduating class.' For families accustomed to evaluating schools through league tables, alumni university destinations, or historical IB averages, this absence of data requires a different evaluative framework.
What the IB Curriculum Promises
While outcome data is unavailable, the IB Diploma Programme itself is a globally recognized qualification accepted by universities worldwide. The DP's curriculum — six subject groups, Theory of Knowledge, the Extended Essay, and Creativity Activity Service (CAS) — is designed specifically to prepare students for competitive university admissions globally. SIS's own materials note that the DP 'challenges students with a comprehensive curriculum… preparing them to thrive in higher education.'
Admissions Deep Dive
SIS operates rolling admissions with MAP testing, parent-student interviews, and holistic review. No fixed deadlines; decisions within weeks of assessment.
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Admissions Overview
Shinagawa International School (SIS) maintains a rolling admissions policy, accepting applications year-round with no fixed deadlines. This flexible approach allows families to apply when timing suits their needs, though space availability varies by grade level. The school serves over 450 students from 40+ nationalities across three Tokyo campuses, with class sizes capped at 24 students to maintain an intimate learning environment.
Application Process
The admissions journey follows a structured four-step process:
Step 1: Initial Inquiry and School Visit
Prospective families begin by contacting the admissions office informally via email or in-person meetings. School tours are available by appointment and strongly recommended, though not mandatory. These visits allow families to experience the campus atmosphere and ask questions directly.
Step 2: Formal Application Submission
Families complete an online application form and pay a non-refundable application fee of ¥40,000. Required documentation includes:
Recent school reports and transcripts (typically covering the past two years)
Teacher recommendations
Completed application forms
Step 3: Assessment and Interview
All applicants undergo evaluation appropriate to their age:
Academic Testing: Students entering Grade 1 or above take the MAP (Measures of Academic Progress) test, which assesses English language proficiency, reading comprehension, and mathematics skills. This standardized assessment helps the school gauge each student's academic readiness and identify appropriate placement.
Student-Parent Interview: A joint interview with the student and at least one parent is required for all applicants. The admissions officer uses this meeting to understand family expectations, assess the student's personality and interests, and evaluate overall fit with SIS's community values.
University Placement Analysis
SIS has no university placement data as its first IB Diploma cohort graduates in June 2026. The school is fully IB-authorized but lacks a track record of outcomes.
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Overview
Shinagawa International School (SIS) currently has no university placement data or academic outcomes to report. As a newly expanded institution, the school only received IB Diploma Programme (DP) authorization in May 2024 and enrolled its first Grade 11 (DP1) cohort in the 2024-25 academic year. The inaugural graduating class will complete the program in June 2026, meaning no students have yet matriculated to universities from SIS.
Current Academic Program Status
IB Continuum Timeline
SIS offers the complete International Baccalaureate continuum:
Primary Years Programme (PYP): Authorized 2015
Middle Years Programme (MYP): Authorized 2023
Diploma Programme (DP): Authorized May 2024
The DP program for Grades 11-12 represents the newest addition to the school's offerings. Grade 11 students who enrolled in 2024-25 will be the first to sit for IB examinations and receive diplomas in 2026.
What This Means for Families
Prospective families should understand that SIS cannot provide:
Historical IB Diploma exam scores or average point totals
University acceptance rates or matriculation statistics
Lists of universities where graduates have been admitted
Alumni network or graduate testimonials
Scholarship or merit award data from universities
College counseling track records
Expected University Pathways
IB Recognition and Eligibility
While SIS lacks historical data, its full IB authorization means future graduates will be eligible for university admission worldwide. The IB Diploma is recognized by thousands of universities globally, including:
School Culture & Community
SIS offers a warm, family-like environment with 450+ students from 40+ nationalities, small classes (1:6 ratio), and 70+ free extracurricular programs emphasizing IB inquiry and global citizenship.
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Overview
Shinagawa International School cultivates a distinctive culture centered on personalized learning, multicultural diversity, and community engagement. With over 450 students from more than 40 countries across three campuses, SIS emphasizes creating a supportive, inclusive environment where every student receives individual attention within a globally-minded setting.
Core Values & Educational Philosophy
SIS's educational approach is anchored in five core values that guide daily school life:
Strength – Building resilience and confidence
Honesty – Fostering integrity and transparency
Adaptability – Encouraging flexibility in a changing world
Respect – Valuing diversity and different perspectives
Kindness – Promoting empathy and compassion
The school implements the IB continuum (PYP, MYP, and DP) with emphasis on inquiry-based learning, conceptual understanding, and transdisciplinary approaches. Teachers design lessons around the five IB essential elements: Knowledge, Skills, Attitudes, Conceptual Understanding, and Action. This philosophy extends beyond academics to foster holistic development, preparing students to become internationally-minded global citizens.
Student Demographics & Diversity
International Composition
SIS maintains a genuinely international student body representing nations including the United States, Korea, United Kingdom, China, Russia, Peru, and Japan, among many others. To preserve its international character, the school implements a 25% cap on Japanese nationals, ensuring no single nationality dominates the community.
Class Sizes & Teacher Ratios
Total Cost Analysis
SIS total costs range from ¥2.2-3.7M annually, with ¥1M enrollment fee. No scholarships available except sibling discounts of 10-30%. Additional costs for uniforms, lunch, and bus.
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Overview of Costs
Shinagawa International School operates on a fee structure typical of Tokyo's international IB schools, with annual costs varying significantly by grade level and individual student needs. Families should budget for tuition, mandatory fees, one-time enrollment charges, and various optional services that can substantially increase total expenditure.
Tuition Fees (2025-2026)
Annual tuition varies by grade level:
Grade Level
Annual Tuition
Preschool–Kindergarten
¥875,000
Grades 1–5
¥850,000
Grades 6–10
¥950,000
Grades 11–12
¥950,000
Tuition is payable in three installments throughout the academic year. These figures represent the base instructional cost only and do not include mandatory fees or additional services.
Mandatory One-Time Fees
Every new student must pay non-refundable enrollment charges:
Application Fee: ¥40,000 (paid when submitting application)
Enrollment Fee: ¥1,000,000 (due after admission confirmation)
The enrollment fee represents the largest single cost barrier for new families. This ¥1 million charge is standard among Tokyo international schools but represents a significant upfront investment that is never refunded, even if the student withdraws.
Annual Mandatory Fees
Beyond tuition, all families pay recurring annual charges:
Maintenance Fee: ¥250,000 per student (covers campus upkeep and facilities)
Who Is This School Best For?
SIS suits families seeking personalized IB education in a small, multicultural environment with strong EAL support, ideal for globally-minded students comfortable with a newer program.
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Overview
Shinagawa International School (SIS) serves a specific niche in Tokyo's international education landscape. With approximately 450 students from over 40 countries across three campuses, SIS offers a complete IB continuum in an intimate setting characterized by small classes, personalized attention, and strong support services. Understanding who thrives at SIS—and who might find better fits elsewhere—requires examining the school's distinctive profile.
Ideal Student Profiles
Independent, Inquiry-Driven Learners
SIS's IB curriculum emphasizes inquiry-based learning, transdisciplinary approaches, and student agency. Students who flourish here are naturally curious, comfortable with open-ended exploration, and capable of taking ownership of their learning. The school's teaching philosophy centers on the five IB essential elements (Knowledge, Skills, Attitudes, Conceptual Understanding, Action), requiring students to engage actively rather than passively receive instruction.
With an impressive 1:6 teacher-to-student ratio and average class sizes of 16-21 students, SIS provides an environment where self-directed learners receive significant individual guidance while maintaining independence.
English Language Learners with Foundation Skills
SIS stands out for its comprehensive English as an Additional Language (EAL) support, available through Grade 10. The school explicitly welcomes non-native English speakers who possess foundational English competence. Using WIDA standards for assessment, SIS provides both pull-in and pull-out EAL instruction to help students achieve academic English proficiency.
However, the school advises that students need a basic English foundation upon entry. Complete beginners, especially older students, are encouraged to apply at younger grade levels where language acquisition occurs more naturally. The additional EAL support fee of ¥500,000 annually reflects the substantial resources dedicated to language development.
Frequently Asked Questions
What curriculum does Shinagawa International School teach?
Shinagawa International School follows the IB PYP.
Is Shinagawa International School an IB World School?
Yes, Shinagawa International School is an IB World School offering the IB PYP.
How much is annual tuition at Shinagawa International School?
Annual tuition at Shinagawa International School ranges from ¥850,000 to ¥950,000 (JPY), depending on the grade level.
What additional fees should I budget for at Shinagawa International School?
In addition to tuition, Shinagawa International School charges a registration fee of ¥40,000, deposit of ¥1,000,000.
What are the admission requirements for Shinagawa International School?
SIS operates rolling admissions year-round with no fixed deadline. The process begins with an inquiry or school visit, followed by submission of an online application form with a ¥40,000 non-refundable application fee and recent school reports. Students applying for Grade 1 and above take a standardized MAP test (English, reading, mathematics). All applicants and at least one parent participate in an interview conducted by the admissions office. A foundation level of English proficiency is expected; EAL support is available through Grade 10 for non-native speakers. Admission decisions are communicated within a few weeks of assessment. Classes are capped at 24 students; qualified applicants may be placed on an unranked waitlist (active up to 2 years), filled based on class-balance factors including gender, nationality mix, and sibling priority.
Where is Shinagawa International School located?
Shinagawa International School is located in Tokyo, Japan.
What ages does Shinagawa International School accept?
Shinagawa International School accepts students from age 1 to 12.
How many students attend Shinagawa International School?
Shinagawa International School has approximately 450 students from 40+ nationalities.
What is the student-teacher ratio at Shinagawa International School?
The student-teacher ratio at Shinagawa International School is 6:1.
Does Shinagawa International School provide EAL/ESL support?
Yes, Shinagawa International School provides EAL (English as an Additional Language) support.
Does Shinagawa International School have a school bus?
Yes, Shinagawa International School offers a school bus service with 8 routes. SIS operates 8 school bus routes across central Tokyo and Shinagawa areas. Buses are equipped with seat belts and GPS tracking for student safety.
Campuses
Main Campus
Seaside Campus
Seaside, Shinagawa, Tokyo, Japan
Seaside Campus in Shinagawa area of Tokyo. Hosts daycare services for younger children.
Includes daycare facilities for younger children. Urban campus in Shinagawa.
Shinagawa International School (SIS) is a private IB day school in Tokyo serving students aged 3–18 across three campuses in Shinagawa and Minato. Offering the full IB continuum (PYP, MYP, and DP), SIS emphasizes inquiry-based learning, global citizenship, and holistic development in a deliberately small, multicultural community of 450+ students from 40+ countries. With a 1:6 teacher-to-student ratio, average class sizes of 16–21, and over 70 weekly after-school programs, SIS delivers personalized education in a warm, family-like atmosphere. The school's SHARK values (Strength, Honesty, Adaptability, Respect, Kindness) guide community life, and robust EAL and learning-support services ensure students of diverse backgrounds can thrive.
SIS operates rolling admissions year-round with no fixed deadline. The process begins with an inquiry or school visit, followed by submission of an online application form with a ¥40,000 non-refundable application fee and recent school reports. Students applying for Grade 1 and above take a standardized MAP test (English, reading, mathematics). All applicants and at least one parent participate in an interview conducted by the admissions office. A foundation level of English proficiency is expected; EAL support is available through Grade 10 for non-native speakers. Admission decisions are communicated within a few weeks of assessment. Classes are capped at 24 students; qualified applicants may be placed on an unranked waitlist (active up to 2 years), filled based on class-balance factors including gender, nationality mix, and sibling priority.
Requirements
Grade 1 – Grade 5
English TestMath TestStudent InterviewParent InterviewSchool Report Review
English Requirement: Basic English
Interview Required (In-person)
Application Fee: 40,000
Parent Engagement
SIS actively encourages parents to be participants in school life, not just consumers. The school explicitly states that open communication and active parent participation are valued, and the Parent–Teacher Association (PTA, annual fee ¥6,000) meets regularly to organize community events and maintain dialogue between families and staff. For new expat families adjusting to life in Tokyo, this level of parent community can be a significant source of social support beyond academics.
Wellbeing and Safety
The school's anti-bullying orientation is noted by reviewers, who describe a 'warm atmosphere that discourages bullying.' For families with children who may feel anxious about transitioning to a new school in a foreign country, SIS's culture is considered 'a reassuring choice.' Counselling services, small class sizes, and the SHARK values (particularly Kindness and Respect) collectively create a psychological safety net for students navigating the social challenges of international school life.
Interview — A joint interview involving both the student and at least one parent is conducted by the admissions officer. This is a conversational meeting designed to assess motivation, communication, and fit rather than to stress-test academic knowledge.
Decision — Results are communicated within a few weeks of the assessment. Accepted families receive an offer letter and invoice for the ¥1,000,000 enrollment fee.
What SIS Is Looking For
SIS evaluates candidates holistically: academic readiness (via MAP), English proficiency (a foundational level is expected), and overall fit with the school community. Crucially, the school is not selecting for the highest-scoring students — it is selecting for students who are ready to engage with inquiry-based learning and who will contribute to a diverse, collaborative community.
For English proficiency, SIS expects a 'foundation' level. Non-native speakers are welcomed and supported through EAL classes, but absolute beginners (especially in older grades) face practical barriers since all core instruction is in English. The school advises very limited English speakers to enroll at younger grades where immersion is more natural.
Waitlist and Class Composition
Because classes are capped at 24 students, qualified applicants are sometimes placed on an unranked waitlist when their target grade is full. The waitlist remains active for up to two years. When a space opens, SIS fills it based on class-balance factors: gender balance, nationality diversity, language profile, and sibling priority. This means that being academically qualified does not guarantee immediate placement; the school actively manages its community composition.
Selectivity Assessment
No formal acceptance rate is published. Independent reviews characterize SIS as accessible but selective in terms of fit and readiness — not an open-enrollment school, but not among Tokyo's most competitive academically either. The admissions culture prizes finding the right mutual match.
Residential and Field Trips — Learning Beyond Walls
SIS's experiential learning program is one of its most distinctive offerings. Grade 5 students undertake multi-day residential trips to destinations such as:
Camping in Chiba
Hiking on Mt. Fuji
Canyon exploration in Minakami
These trips are designed to build independence, teamwork, and connection with nature and diverse cultures. Secondary students participate in regular educational field trips to museums, cultural heritage sites, and outdoor locations that are explicitly linked to curriculum units.
Interdisciplinary Week Without Walls
Perhaps the most ambitious element of SIS's experiential program is the annual 'Week Without Walls' — a full week of immersive, interdisciplinary projects that take learning off campus and into the real world. Activities include outdoor expeditions, community service projects, and arts workshops, all designed to deepen understanding of curriculum themes through authentic experience. This initiative reflects the IB's commitment to connecting academic learning with action in the broader world.
The Value Proposition
For families comparing international schools in Tokyo, SIS's extracurricular and experiential offering represents strong value relative to cost — particularly given that most ASPs are included without additional fees. The combination of 70+ weekly clubs and structured field learning programs creates a rounded educational experience that extends far beyond classroom instruction.
Students who complete the IB Diploma will be eligible to apply to universities in Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and virtually all other countries with established international student pathways. The credential itself is strong; what is unknown is how SIS's specific graduates will perform.
Academic Environment Indicators
In the absence of outcome data, proxy indicators of academic quality include:
Class size: 16–21 students average, with a cap of 24, enabling highly personalized instruction
Teacher ratio: 1:6, among the best in Tokyo's international school market
EAL support: Available through Grade 10, ensuring non-native English speakers can access the academic curriculum
Learning support: Student Success Plans and IEP-equivalent support for students with identified learning differences
The Pioneer Opportunity
For some families, SIS's newness in the DP space is a feature rather than a flaw. Families who enroll in the first or second DP cohort will experience a school community investing intensively in its high school programme — with strong teacher attention, close university counselling relationships, and the energy of a school building something new. As one independent review notes, 'the lack of a track record' is acknowledged, but 'completion of IB authorization opens worldwide university pathways' and positions SIS's graduates for global opportunities.
Families should plan to revisit academic outcome data once SIS produces its first graduates in 2026 and the IB Organisation publishes results for the school.
The school conducts a holistic review considering:
Academic performance and test results
English language proficiency
Student's social-emotional readiness
Overall alignment with SIS's educational philosophy
Decisions are typically communicated within several weeks of completing the assessment. Successful applicants receive an acceptance letter and invoice for enrollment fees. Families not admitted often receive feedback on their application.
English Language Requirements
SIS operates as an English-medium school (aside from Japanese language classes), requiring students to have a foundation level of English proficiency for admission. The school recognizes that many applicants are non-native English speakers and provides robust support:
English as an Additional Language (EAL) program available through Grade 10
Pull-in and pull-out instruction tailored to individual needs
WIDA standards used for proficiency assessment
However, students with minimal or no English proficiency face challenges. The school recommends that absolute beginners either:
Apply at younger grade levels where language acquisition is easier
Develop basic English skills before enrollment
Consider that older students need sufficient English foundation to access the curriculum, even with EAL support
Waitlist Policy
Given the 24-student maximum class size, qualified applicants may be placed on an unranked waiting list when their desired grade is full. Key features:
Waitlist status remains active for up to two years
Lists are not ranked by application date or test scores
When spaces open, the school selects students based on class balance factors:
Gender distribution
Nationality mix (maintaining the 40+ country diversity)
Language support needs
Sibling priority
This approach ensures each class maintains the diverse, balanced composition central to SIS's international mission.
Admission Criteria and Philosophy
SIS does not publish acceptance rates or competitiveness metrics. The admissions process emphasizes fit over raw academic performance. The school seeks students who:
Demonstrate curiosity and readiness for inquiry-based IB learning
Show adaptability to multicultural environments
Align with SIS's core values: Strength, Honesty, Adaptability, Respect, and Kindness
Possess (or can develop with support) adequate English proficiency
Would thrive in small, personalized classroom settings (teacher-to-student ratio of 1:6)
According to independent reviews, SIS combines a family-like atmosphere with rigorous IB standards, making admission more about personal readiness and community alignment than competitive metrics.
Enrollment secures the student's place and must be paid shortly after accepting admission
Key Considerations for Applicants
Strengths of SIS Admissions
Flexible timing: Rolling admissions accommodate mid-year moves or flexible planning
Holistic review: Focus on whole child rather than test scores alone
Language support: Strong EAL program helps non-native speakers integrate
Personal attention: Small school size ensures individualized evaluation
Potential Challenges
Limited spaces: Small class sizes mean popular grades may have extended waitlists
English requirement: Minimal English proficiency needed; absolute beginners may struggle
High enrollment fee: ¥1,000,000 enrollment fee is non-refundable
New diploma program: First IB Diploma cohort graduates in 2026, so no track record of university placements yet
Timeline Summary
While exact timelines vary by family, a typical admissions cycle follows this pattern:
Initial inquiry and tour: 1-2 weeks to schedule and complete
Application submission: Immediate upon family readiness
Assessment scheduling: Within 1-2 weeks of application
Testing and interview: Single day or split across a few days
Decision notification: Several weeks after assessment
Enrollment: Upon acceptance and fee payment
Who Thrives in SIS Admissions?
The admissions process favors families who:
Value personalized attention over large-school resources
Appreciate multicultural diversity (Japanese students capped at 25% of enrollment)
Seek IB education from preschool through Grade 12
Live in or near Shinagawa/Minato wards of Tokyo
Want to be part of a growing school community (DP program launched 2024)
Are comfortable with a newer high school program still building its university placement track record
Final Notes
SIS's admissions process reflects its educational philosophy: personalized, inclusive, and focused on developing well-rounded global citizens. The lack of rigid deadlines and emphasis on holistic review create accessibility, though the small school size and popularity mean families should apply early if targeting specific grade levels. The two-year waitlist policy provides extended opportunity, but space availability remains the primary constraint for this intimate international school.
SIS states that the DP "challenges students with a comprehensive curriculum... preparing them to thrive in higher education," emphasizing the program's college preparatory focus.
College Counseling Services
The school's website does not detail its college counseling infrastructure, but IB World Schools typically provide:
University application guidance
Standardized test preparation support
Personal statement and essay assistance
Transcript and recommendation management
However, SIS has not publicly described its counseling team size, counselor-to-student ratios, or specific services offered. This information may be available to enrolled families but is not part of public materials.
Considerations for Prospective Families
Advantages of an Emerging Program
Families considering SIS despite the lack of track record may value:
Pioneer Opportunity: Being part of the first graduating classes means contributing to school history and potentially benefiting from small cohort sizes and intensive attention.
Full IB Authorization: The school has met rigorous IB standards across all three programs, demonstrating educational quality even without graduate outcomes.
Global Curriculum: The IB Diploma itself is well-established worldwide, with consistent standards across schools. Universities recognize the qualification regardless of the specific school's history.
Growth Trajectory: As a rapidly developing institution, SIS may offer innovative approaches and flexible programming that more established schools cannot.
Potential Concerns
No Proven Results: Families cannot assess whether SIS students achieve competitive IB scores or gain admission to selective universities. There are no benchmarks against peer schools.
Untested Counseling: The effectiveness of college guidance cannot be evaluated. Families don't know counselor qualifications, university relationships, or support quality.
Limited Alumni Network: Graduates will not benefit from established alumni connections at universities, a significant advantage at schools with decades of history.
Unknown University Perception: While IB authorization is universal, some universities develop familiarity with specific schools. SIS lacks this recognition.
Comparison Context
Established Tokyo international schools typically publish:
Average IB Diploma scores (often 32-36+ points)
Percentage of students earning the full diploma (vs. certificates)
Lists of 20-50+ universities where graduates matriculate
Notable acceptances to highly selective institutions
Scholarship amounts received by graduating classes
SIS will begin generating this data only after 2026, with meaningful trends emerging after several graduation cycles (typically 3-5 years).
Academic Support and Preparation
Current Student Performance Indicators
While university outcomes are unavailable, SIS does provide:
Small Class Sizes: Average 16-21 students per class with a 1:6 teacher-to-student ratio, enabling individualized attention that supports academic preparation.
Comprehensive IB Implementation: The school follows the complete IB framework including Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay, and Creativity-Activity-Service requirements essential for diploma completion.
Assessment Infrastructure: Students entering Grade 1 and above take MAP (Measures of Academic Progress) tests, indicating the school tracks academic growth systematically.
Language Support: English as an Additional Language (EAL) services through Grade 10 help ensure students can handle university-level English-medium instruction.
International-mindedness valuable for global university environments
Research and writing skills through the Extended Essay requirement
These foundational skills should prepare students for university success, though actual outcomes remain to be demonstrated.
Future Data Availability
Timeline for Results
June 2026: First IB Diploma results and initial university acceptances
2026-2027: First matriculation data becomes available
2027-2029: Multiple cohorts provide meaningful outcome trends
2030+: Established track record comparable to peer schools
Families enrolling in 2025-26 for high school may graduate before substantial outcome data exists. Elementary and middle school families will benefit from emerging results as their children progress.
What to Ask the School
Prospective families should inquire about:
College counseling team qualifications and experience
University partnerships or relationships being developed
Plans for tracking and publishing graduate outcomes
Support for standardized testing (SAT, ACT) if required
How the school will assist the inaugural cohort without historical precedent
Conclusion
Shinagawa International School offers a fully authorized IB Diploma Programme but cannot demonstrate university placement success because it has not yet graduated any DP students. The first outcomes will emerge in 2026, with meaningful data accumulating over subsequent years.
Families must weigh the benefits of a new program (small cohorts, pioneer status, full IB authorization) against the absence of proven results. Those prioritizing established track records should consider schools with multiple graduation cycles. Those comfortable with a developing program may find SIS's personalized approach and IB framework sufficient preparation for university success, recognizing that concrete evidence will follow in coming years.
This represents a fundamental consideration in the admission decision, as university outcomes are often central to evaluating international school quality.
The school prioritizes individualized attention through:
Maximum class size: 24 students
Average class size: 16-21 students
Teacher-to-student ratio: 1:6
Total enrollment: 450+ students across Preschool through Grade 12
These small numbers enable teachers to know each student personally and tailor instruction to individual learning needs.
Community Atmosphere
Family-Like Environment
SIS is frequently described as having a "warm, family-like" atmosphere that distinguishes it from larger institutional schools. The compact size across three campuses fosters close relationships among students, teachers, and families. This intimate setting creates a supportive environment where students feel known and valued, reportedly discouraging bullying and promoting positive peer interactions.
Parent Engagement
The school actively encourages parent participation in school life through:
Parent-Teacher Association (PTA): Regular meetings with an annual fee of ¥6,000 per family
Open communication: Close, collaborative relationships between teachers and parents
Community events: Seasonal performances, cultural celebrations, and family gatherings
School activities: Parents are invited to participate in various school events throughout the year
This partnership approach ensures families feel connected to their children's educational journey.
SIS provides over 70 after-school programs (ASPs) weekly at no additional cost (except for special materials). These programs run on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, offering students opportunities to explore interests beyond the classroom.
Academic Programs:
Languages (Chinese, Japanese clubs)
Mathematics enrichment
Robotics and Coding
Model United Nations
Mindfulness
Arts & Culture:
Music ensembles
Drama and theater
Dance programs
Visual arts
Athletics:
Football (soccer)
Basketball
Gymnastics
Various other sports
Weekly swimming classes (Preschool-Grade 5 at nearby pool, nominal fee)
Cross-Grade Connections
ASPs intentionally mix students from different grade levels, fostering mentorship opportunities and helping younger students build confidence while older students develop leadership skills.
Experiential Learning
Field Learning & Residential Trips
SIS places strong emphasis on learning beyond classroom walls:
Grade 5 Residential Programs:
Multi-day camping trips in Chiba
Hiking expeditions on Mt. Fuji
Canyon exploration in Minakami
Focus on building independence, teamwork, and connection with nature
Secondary School Experiences:
Regular educational field trips to museums, cultural sites, and natural environments
Curriculum-linked excursions that connect classroom learning with real-world experiences
Week Without Walls
The school organizes an annual "Interdisciplinary Week Without Walls" featuring hands-on, project-based learning activities such as:
Outdoor expeditions
Community service projects
Arts workshops
Real-world problem-solving challenges
This week deepens subject understanding through practical application and experiential discovery.
Student Support Services
English as an Additional Language (EAL)
For non-native English speakers, SIS provides comprehensive language support:
Assessment using WIDA standards upon entry
Pull-in and pull-out instruction tailored to proficiency levels
Support available through Grade 10
Additional fee of ¥500,000 per year when required
The school recommends a foundational level of English for admission, with younger students finding it easier to build language skills with support.
Learning Support
Students with learning differences or special needs receive individualized assistance through:
Student Success Plans or Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
Small-group interventions in reading, mathematics, and other subjects
Integration into regular classrooms while addressing individual needs
Extra support fee of ¥500,000 per year when formal IEP is required
Counseling & Wellbeing
Qualified counselors provide social-emotional guidance, helping students navigate challenges and develop healthy coping strategies. Support services are gradually reduced as students achieve age-appropriate benchmarks.
Practical Community Features
Uniforms
All students wear required uniforms, promoting unity, reducing social comparison, and helping maintain a focused learning environment. Uniforms must be purchased through official suppliers.
Lunch Program
While lunch is not included in tuition, SIS arranges on-site catered lunch service with rotating healthy meal options, allowing families to purchase meals conveniently.
Transportation
The school operates eight bus routes throughout central Tokyo and Shinagawa areas, equipped with seat belts and GPS tracking for safety. This service supports families across the metropolitan area.
Daycare Services
For younger children, SIS offers on-campus daycare at the Seaside Campus (¥2,000 per hour), providing extended care options for working families.
Campus Culture Summary
Shinagawa International School creates an environment where:
Diversity thrives: 40+ nationalities learn together, building intercultural competence
Individuals matter: Small classes ensure every student is known and supported
Exploration is encouraged: 70+ free activities allow students to discover passions
Families partner: Active parent involvement strengthens the community
Learning extends everywhere: Field trips, residential programs, and real-world projects complement classroom instruction
This culture appeals particularly to families seeking a nurturing, internationally-minded alternative to larger institutional schools, where children can develop confidence, curiosity, and global citizenship in a supportive setting.
Supply Fee: ¥50,000 per student (books, materials, and some field trips)
PTA Fee: ¥6,000 per family (not per student)
These mandatory fees add ¥300,000-¥306,000 to the annual cost for one child, bringing the base annual expense to approximately ¥1.15-1.26 million depending on grade level.
Support Service Fees
Additional charges apply for students requiring specialized support:
English as an Additional Language (EAL)
Non-native English speakers needing language support pay an extra ¥500,000 per year. This substantial fee covers pull-in and pull-out instruction through Grade 10. EAL assessment uses WIDA standards upon entry, and support gradually reduces as students achieve age-level benchmarks.
Learning Support
Students with formal learning disabilities or requiring Individual Education Plans (IEPs) incur a ¥500,000 annual Learning Support Fee. This covers personalized intervention, extra tutoring in subjects like reading and math, and individualized Student Success Plans developed with specialists.
For families with children requiring both EAL and learning support, these fees can add ¥1 million to annual costs.
Optional Services and Additional Costs
Transportation
SIS operates eight school bus routes covering central Tokyo and Shinagawa areas, equipped with seat belts and GPS tracking. Bus fees are not published on the website but are arranged separately with enrolled families. Transportation costs represent an additional recurring monthly expense.
Meals
Lunch is not included in tuition. The school offers an on-site catered lunch program with rotating healthy menus, but families must pay separately for this service. Meal plan costs depend on selected options.
Uniforms
All students must wear school uniforms. New families must purchase complete uniform sets through official suppliers. While specific pricing isn't published, uniform costs typically represent a few hundred thousand yen in initial outlay, with ongoing replacement costs.
Daycare
The Seaside Campus offers extended daycare for younger children at ¥2,000 per hour. Families using this service regularly can expect substantial annual costs, potentially reaching several hundred thousand yen.
After-School Programs
SIS offers over 70 after-school programs (ASPs) three days per week, covering languages, arts, technology, sports, and academics. Most ASPs are complimentary, but some specialized activities like private music lessons or certain sports incur additional fees.
Swimming Classes
Weekly swimming instruction for Preschool through Grade 5 takes place at a nearby pool and carries a nominal additional cost beyond tuition.
Field Trips and Residential Programs
Grade 5 students participate in multi-day residential trips (camping in Chiba, hiking at Mt. Fuji, canyon exploration), and secondary students take regular educational field trips. These experiential learning opportunities require extra payment. The annual "Interdisciplinary Week Without Walls" also involves additional costs for hands-on projects and expeditions.
IB Exam Fees
For Diploma Programme students in Grades 11-12, IB examination fees are not included in tuition and must be paid separately.
Total Cost Projections
First Year (New Student)
For a new elementary student (Grades 1-5) without support services:
Application Fee: ¥40,000
Enrollment Fee: ¥1,000,000
Tuition: ¥850,000
Maintenance Fee: ¥250,000
Supply Fee: ¥50,000
PTA Fee: ¥6,000
First-Year Total: ¥2,196,000
For a secondary student (Grades 6-12) requiring EAL support:
Application Fee: ¥40,000
Enrollment Fee: ¥1,000,000
Tuition: ¥950,000
EAL Support: ¥500,000
Maintenance Fee: ¥250,000
Supply Fee: ¥50,000
PTA Fee: ¥6,000
First-Year Total: ¥2,796,000
Adding uniforms, lunch, transportation, and activity fees can push first-year costs to ¥2.5-3.0 million or higher.
Continuing Years
Without one-time enrollment fees, annual costs range from approximately ¥1.15 million (elementary, no support) to ¥1.76 million (secondary with EAL). With optional services, ongoing annual expenses typically fall between ¥1.5-2.5 million per child.
Discounts and Financial Assistance
Sibling Discounts
SIS offers tuition reductions for families with multiple children:
Second child: 10% off tuition (20% if first child enrolled before 2025-26)
Third child: 10% base discount, plus an additional 30% discount if already a current student
These discounts apply only to tuition, not to other mandatory fees. For a family with three children, savings can reach several hundred thousand yen annually.
No Scholarships Available
SIS does not offer need-based or merit-based scholarships. The sibling discounts represent the only formal tuition reductions available. No bursaries, fee waivers, or financial aid programs are advertised. Families should plan to cover full costs minus applicable sibling discounts.
Payment Terms and Refund Policy
Tuition is paid in three installments per academic year
All fees are non-refundable once paid
Withdrawal requires one full term's notice; failure to provide notice results in charges of one term's tuition in lieu
Payment is made in Japanese yen only
Cost Comparison
By Tokyo standards, SIS's pricing is competitive with similar international IB day schools. Total annual costs of ¥2.45-2.85 million align with other mid-size IB institutions in the city. However, families should carefully account for excluded items like uniforms, lunch, transportation, and extracurricular activities, which can add ¥300,000-500,000 or more to annual expenses.
Items Not Included in Tuition
The school explicitly notes that tuition does not cover:
Lunch programs
School uniforms
Field trips and residential programs
IB examination fees
Swimming classes
Some extracurricular activities and ASPs
Transportation
Daycare services
Financial Planning Considerations
Families should budget for:
Year 1: ¥2.2-3.0 million including enrollment and setup costs
Ongoing years: ¥1.5-2.5 million annually per child
Multiple children: Significant savings through sibling discounts
Support services: Up to ¥1 million extra if EAL and learning support are both needed
Hidden costs: Several hundred thousand yen for uniforms, meals, transport, and activities
The absence of financial aid means families must have full fee capacity or rely on employer education benefits, as no assistance is available from the school itself.
SIS intentionally limits any single nationality to 25% of enrollment (including Japanese nationals), creating an authentically international environment. Students from the U.S., Korea, UK, China, Russia, Peru, Japan, and dozens of other countries learn together, making cultural adaptability essential.
Families who value intercultural understanding, global citizenship, and exposure to diverse perspectives will find SIS's environment enriching. The school's core values—Strength, Honesty, Adaptability, Respect, and Kindness—are woven throughout community life, reinforcing the importance of cross-cultural collaboration.
Students Requiring Individualized Support
SIS's small size and robust support services make it particularly suitable for students who benefit from personalized attention. The school provides:
Learning support specialists for students with learning differences
Student Success Plans and IEPs (Individualized Education Programs)
Social-emotional counseling services
Small group and one-on-one interventions in reading, mathematics, and behavior
Gradual integration with support levels reduced as students achieve benchmarks
Families report that SIS's "warm, family-like atmosphere" creates a nurturing environment where students who might feel overwhelmed in larger schools can thrive. The additional learning support fee of ¥500,000 annually ensures dedicated resources for students with formal learning disabilities.
Geographically Convenient Families
SIS's three campuses in Shinagawa and Minato wards (Aoyama-Yokocho, Seaside, and Samezu) serve central and western Tokyo families well. The school operates eight bus routes with GPS tracking and seat belts, covering extensive Tokyo areas. For families living or working in these neighborhoods, the convenient location and transportation options reduce daily commute stress.
Pioneer-Spirited Families
SIS's Diploma Programme received IB authorization in May 2024, with the first DP cohort graduating in June 2026. This means no historical university placement data, IB exam averages, or alumni network yet exists. Families comfortable being "pioneers"—contributing to a developing high school program and participating actively in community building—will find this aspect exciting rather than concerning.
The school's rapid growth trajectory (PYP authorized 2015, MYP 2023, DP 2024) demonstrates institutional momentum, but requires families to trust the school's vision without proven track record at the secondary level.
Students Who May Find Better Fits Elsewhere
Those Seeking Established Track Records
Families prioritizing proven university placement outcomes, established alumni networks, or historical IB diploma score averages will find SIS's newness at the secondary level challenging. As of 2025, the school cannot provide data on university acceptances, scholarship awards, or graduate outcomes.
While IB authorization ensures curriculum quality and global university recognition, risk-averse families may prefer schools with decades of DP results to reference.
Very Limited English Speakers
Despite strong EAL support, SIS conducts instruction in English (except Japanese language classes). Absolute beginners in English, particularly at older grade levels, may struggle to access content while simultaneously acquiring language fundamentals. The school acknowledges this limitation, recommending lower grade enrollment for near-beginners.
Large School Experience Seekers
With approximately 450 students total and maximum class sizes of 24, SIS offers intimacy rather than scale. Families seeking extensive specialized facilities, hundreds of club options, large competitive sports programs, or big-school social dynamics won't find them here.
While SIS offers over 70 after-school programs spanning academics, arts, technology, and athletics, the breadth cannot match larger institutions. The compact urban campuses likewise have space constraints compared to sprawling international school complexes.
Budget-Conscious Families
SIS offers no merit-based or need-based scholarships beyond sibling discounts (10-30% off tuition for second and third children). With first-year costs including:
Total expenses can reach ¥2.5-2.8 million in the first year. Without financial aid programs, families requiring tuition assistance should explore schools with established scholarship funds.
Language and Academic Readiness Considerations
Successful SIS applicants typically demonstrate:
Foundation English proficiency sufficient to access grade-level content with support
Academic readiness appropriate for their age (assessed via MAP tests for Grade 1+)
Social-emotional maturity to navigate a multicultural, inquiry-based environment
Family commitment to active participation in school community
The joint student-parent interview during admissions assesses not just academic preparedness but also family alignment with SIS's educational philosophy and community values.
The SIS Sweet Spot
Shinagawa International School excels at providing personalized, supportive IB education in an authentically international community. The school is best for:
Families valuing small class sizes and individual attention over institutional scale
Students who are curious, adaptable, and culturally open
English language learners with basic proficiency seeking comprehensive support
Children requiring learning support or social-emotional guidance in a nurturing environment
Families living in central/west Tokyo seeking convenient access
Multi-child families benefiting from sibling discounts
Those excited to participate actively in a growing school community
Conversely, families seeking proven secondary outcomes, extensive financial aid, large-school amenities, or instruction for near-beginner English speakers should carefully consider whether SIS's current profile aligns with their priorities.
The school's combination of "family-like closeness with world-class IB programme" creates a distinctive value proposition—one that resonates strongly with certain families while being genuinely unsuitable for others. Understanding this fit honestly helps ensure successful, satisfying school matches.
