admissions faq
Our Admissions FAQ is designed to support families exploring a YIS education by answering the most common questions about applying, enrolling, and becoming part of our vibrant international community.
the application process
HOW DO I START AN APPLICATION TO YIS?
- Begin by completing the Pre-Application Form on our Admissions Portal. Once eligibility is confirmed, you will be contacted to continue the application process which includes submitting school records, confidential recommendations, and a non-refundable application fee of ¥50,000.
IS THERE A DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS?
- Applicants Residing Outside Japan: We accept applications year-round. However, for August entry, we recommend applying by early March (early February for high school applicants).
- Applicants Residing in Japan: Deadlines vary by grade level. For example, the application deadline for High School is end of January and ELC-Kindergarten is April 18, 2025. Please refer to our Application Timing section for detailed information.
WHAT DOCUMENTS ARE REQUIRED FOR THE APPLICATION?
- Early Learning Center (ELC): Passport copy, 2 confidential recommendation forms and school reports (if attending nursery/preschool), and a physician-signed physical examination certificate.
- Elementary School: Passport copy, two years of official school grade reports, two confidential recommendations, and a physical examination certificate.
- Middle School: Passport copy, two years of official school grade reports, two confidential recommendations (including one from a current English teacher), and a physical examination certificate.
- High School: Passport copy, three years of official school grade reports, official transcripts from any high schools attended, three confidential recommendations (including one from a current English teacher and one from a mathematics teacher), and a physical examination certificate.
IS AN INTERVIEW OR ASSESSMENT REQUIRED?
- ELC and Kindergarten: An informal play session and parent interview are part of the admissions process.
- Grades 1–5: Interviews are not typically required, but a trial session may be requested.
- Grades 6–10: An assessment and interview may be requested if there are concerns about the applicant’s English proficiency to access the curriculum.
- Grades 11 & 12: Interviews are more commonly requested.
WHEN WILL I RECEIVE AN ADMISSIONS DECISION?
- Overseas Applicants: Decisions are typically made within a few weeks after the application is complete.
- Japan-Resident Applicants: Decision timelines vary by grade level. For instance, ELC and Kindergarten decisions are announced in early May, while high school decisions are typically communicated between late February and April.
ELIGIBILITY & PLACEMENT
WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO APPLY TO YIS?
YIS welcomes children of all nationalities whose families are committed to an international educational curriculum in English. Children of Japanese nationals may be eligible if they have been educated primarily in non-Japanese schools overseas or at other accredited international schools in Japan. Regardless of nationality, we require one residing parent to be able to orally communicate with the school without any assistance for all school matters.
HOW IS GRADE PLACEMENT DETERMINED?
Grade placement is primarily based on the student’s age as of September 1st in the academic year of entry. Exceptions are rare and considered on a case-by-case basis to ensure the most appropriate placement for the student’s academic and social development.
DOES YIS OFFER BOARDING FACILITIES?
No, YIS is a day school. Students must reside with their parent(s) within commuting distance to the school.
DOES YIS PROVIDE ASSISTANCE FOR VISAS?
Families are expected to apply for and acquire the necessary visa that by law, allows children to enroll in a school in Japan (i.e. family dependent visas, residence visas). Tourist visas do not allow children to enroll in a school. We also expect the residing parent(s) to hold a Residence Card issued by the local authority of their residence. The school may request proofs of visas and/or residential status as needed.
LANGUAGE & LEARNING SUPPORT
IS ENGLISH PROFICIENCY REQUIRED FOR ADMISSION?
- ELC and Elementary School: Children are admitted regardless of English proficiency, provided there are no other additional learning needs.
- Middle School: Students should have sufficient competency in academic English to benefit from our programs.
- High School: A high degree of academic English proficiency is required, as students must earn credits equivalent to four full years of high school English to graduate.
WHAT SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE FOR NON-NATIVE ENGLISH SPEAKERS?
All YIS teachers are trained to support language acquisition, and specialist English as an Additional Language (EAL) teachers provide additional instruction. However, we do not offer a separate ESL track within our academic program.
HOW DOES YIS SUPPORT STUDENTS WITH LEARNING NEEDS?
YIS is committed to inclusive education and supports students with diverse learning needs to achieve their highest potential. Applicants with mild social/emotional issues, learning differences, or other needs are reviewed by our learning support staff. Admission decisions consider the availability of appropriate resources. Full disclosure of any learning needs or assessments is required during the application process.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
WHAT IS THE ROLE OF PARENTS IN THE YIS COMMUNITY?
YIS believes in a strong partnership between parents, teachers, and school personnel. At least one parent residing with the student must be able to communicate effectively in English, both spoken and written, as this is essential for student success and well-being.
HOW DOES YIS HANDLE THE WAIT POOL?
When the number of eligible applicants exceeds available spaces, applicants may be placed in a wait pool if deemed acceptable. Priority is given to siblings of current students, children of YIS staff and alumni, returning students, and dependents of organizations participating in our Corporate Contribution Program (CCP). Applicants in the wait pool are requested to submit updated school reports to confirm continued interest.
WHO CAN I CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION?
Our Admissions Office is open from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm when school is in session. You can reach us at [email protected].