Under Japanese law, compulsory education applies to Japanese nationals. Foreign children are not legally required to attend, but the Japanese government strongly encourages enrollment and local governments are obligated to accept foreign children into public schools if parents request it.

Many schools offer Japanese language classes or pull-out JSL sessions. Some municipalities have international classrooms or assign bilingual support staff. The availability varies significantly by area — urban areas with larger foreign populations typically offer more support.

Tuition at public elementary and junior high schools is free for all children, including foreign nationals. However, families typically pay for school supplies, lunch (around 4,000-5,000 yen/month), uniforms, and activity fees. Financial assistance is available for families with lower incomes.

Yes, but high school is not part of compulsory education, so admission requires passing an entrance exam. Some prefectures offer special entrance exam accommodations for foreign students, such as extended time, furigana on kanji, or separate tracks.

International schools offer education in English or other languages, following foreign curricula. Annual tuition typically ranges from 1.5 to 3 million yen. They are not part of the Japanese public school system.