Shinagawa International School

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.

Step 4: Admission Decision

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 Fees

Upon acceptance, families must pay:

• Enrollment Fee: ¥1,000,000 (non-refundable, one-time charge)
• 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:

1. Initial inquiry and tour: 1-2 weeks to schedule and complete
2. Application submission: Immediate upon family readiness
3. Assessment scheduling: Within 1-2 weeks of application
4. Testing and interview: Single day or split across a few days
5. Decision notification: Several weeks after assessment
6. 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.

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:

• Top universities in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia
• Leading institutions in Asia, Europe, and beyond
• Universities offering specific IB diploma holder benefits (advanced standing, course credit, scholarships)

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.

Skills Development Focus

SIS emphasizes IB's core competencies:

• Inquiry-based learning promoting critical thinking
• Transdisciplinary approaches connecting subjects
• 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.

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

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.

Extracurricular Activities & After-School Programs

Comprehensive Offerings

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.

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:

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)
• 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:

1. Year 1: ¥2.2-3.0 million including enrollment and setup costs
2. Ongoing years: ¥1.5-2.5 million annually per child
3. Multiple children: Significant savings through sibling discounts
4. Support services: Up to ¥1 million extra if EAL and learning support are both needed
5. 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.

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.

Globally-Minded, Culturally Adaptive Families

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:

• Application fee: ¥40,000
• Enrollment fee: ¥1,000,000 (one-time)
• Annual tuition: ¥850,000-950,000 (grade-dependent)
• Maintenance fee: ¥250,000
• Supply fee: ¥50,000
• PTA fee: ¥6,000
• Optional EAL/learning support: ¥500,000 each
• Plus uniforms, lunch, bus, and activity costs

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.

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.

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.'

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.

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.

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.