When Does International School Start in Japan? A 2027 Guide

Most international schools in Japan begin their academic year in mid to late August, some in early September, unlike Japanese national schools, which start in April. It isn't universal though, a small number of bilingual or Japan-affiliated international schools follow the April start instead, so it's worth checking each school directly rather than assuming. For 2027 to 2028, expect a similar window, though exact dates are usually confirmed only around 12 months out.

Why the dates are different from local schools

Japan's national school system runs April to March, tied to the country's fiscal calendar. Most international schools don't follow this, running instead on the calendar used by their curriculum. American-curriculum schools typically run late August to mid June. British-curriculum schools tend to follow September to July across three terms.

IB schools can align with either, depending on the school. This keeps most international schools in step with sister schools and universities abroad. For more on Tokyo specifically, see doris's guide to Tokyo school fees and neighbourhoods.

Term dates for the school year

Within that August to June shape, expect a winter break of around two weeks from late December, and a shorter spring break in March. Yoyogi International School's 2026 to 2027 year, for example, began on 18 August. Japan's Golden Week, a cluster of fixed national holidays running 29 April to 5 May every year, falls inside the international school year and closes every school in the country, alongside occasional bridge holidays in September when Respect for the Aged Day and Autumn Equinox Day land close together.

IB Diploma and IGCSE exams for international pupils sit in May and June, while Japanese national exams cluster in January and February, worth knowing if you're timing a move around exam season either side.

What to prepare, and from when

Five popular international schools in Japan

The American School in Japan, Tokyo. American curriculum with AP, ages 3 to 18, around 1,730 pupils. JPY 2,987,000 to 3,783,000 a year (approx. USD 19,100 to 24,200), plus a one-time building maintenance fee.

Rugby School Japan, Chiba, near Tokyo. British curriculum to A Level, ages 11 to 18, day and boarding. Tuition runs JPY 4,500,000 to 5,500,000 a year (approx. USD 28,800 to 35,100); boarding is billed separately on top. Holds an annual open day each autumn term.

UWC ISAK Japan, Karuizawa. IB Diploma boarding school, ages 14 to 18, around 200 pupils from 80+ nationalities. Full fees, tuition, boarding and facilities combined, run up to JPY 7,455,000 a year (approx. USD 47,600), though most pupils get some financial aid. Runs regular campus tours through autumn.

Tokyo International Public School, Edogawa-ku, Tokyo. Cambridge Primary and Montessori kindergarten, ages 3 to 11. JPY 3,000,000 to 3,300,000 a year (approx. USD 19,200 to 21,100).

Hiroshima Global Academy, Osakikamijima. Public IB boarding school, ages 12 to 18, taught in English and Japanese. Tuition alone is notably low at around JPY 376,800 a year (approx. USD 2,400), reflecting its public funding, though boarding and meals are billed separately on top.

Schools shown for informational purposes only. doris does not rank or promote any school.

Check school availability in Japan on doris

Schools in Japan may have waiting lists for certain year groups, so it helps to prepare well ahead of your preferred start date.

Start by exploring schools in Japan on doris and opening the profiles of those on your shortlist. You can review admissions details and, where available, check availability or send an enquiry to ask about places, waiting lists and application requirements. Include your child’s age and intended start date so the school can give you relevant guidance.

Start your school search early to give your family more time to explore options and prepare your application.

FAQ

What month does school usually start in Japan? Local schools start in April. Most international schools start mid to late August, sometimes early September, though a few bilingual or Japan-affiliated schools keep the April start.

What are the term dates for schools in Japan? Japanese national schools run three terms, April to March. International schools generally run August or September to June or July, with the exact shape depending on curriculum, American schools tend to run two semesters, British schools three terms.

Does the international school year in Japan match the Japanese school year? No. They share Japan's national public holidays, including Golden Week, but the term structure and academic year run on entirely different calendars.

When should we start applying for a 2027 start in Japan? Around 12 months ahead, particularly for younger year groups at popular Tokyo schools where places go quickly.

How long is the summer break at international schools in Japan? Around eight to ten weeks, roughly mid June to late August, longer than the six-week break at Japanese national schools.

doris is a free, impartial international school discovery platform designed to help parents find the right international school for their children worldwide. Every school profile includes fees, curriculum, admissions, pupil numbers and more. Parents can compare schools, contact schools directly, access expert parent guides, and connect with a community of parents around the world. Start your search at doris.

This guide was written by Aziza F, part of the doris editorial team. doris sources school data from institutions worldwide and speaks directly with parents navigating the school search process. Fee data reflects published and publicly available information for the 2026 to 2027 academic year and is reviewed annually. External sources: school academic calendars and fee pages, MEXT (Japan's Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology).

Schools are listed for informational purposes only. doris does not rank or promote any school.