Enrolling Your Child in Japanese School
Foreign children living in Japan have the right to attend public schools for free, just like Japanese children. Your municipality will send enrollment information once your child reaches school age (April of the year they turn 6). Japanese language support classes are available at many schools to help non-Japanese-speaking children.
| School Type | Language | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Public Elementary (小学校) | Japanese | Free (lunch ~4,000 yen/month) |
| Public Junior High (中学校) | Japanese | Free |
| International School | English/Other | 1.5–3 million yen/year |
| Ethnic School | Various | Varies |
Public School Enrollment
Process
Register your address at the city office. Before enrollment season (October–January), you receive a notification designating your child's school. Visit the school for a health checkup and orientation. Bring Residence Card, child's passport, and health records.
Japanese Language Support
Many schools offer JSL (Japanese as a Second Language) classes. Some municipalities have "satellite classrooms" for intensive Japanese instruction before mainstreaming. The level of support varies significantly by area.
International Schools
International schools operate in English or other languages. They are expensive but provide continuity if you plan to return to your home country. Not all are accredited by the Japanese government.
Q: Is attendance mandatory for foreign children?
Technically, compulsory education applies only to Japanese nationals. However, foreign children are welcome and encouraged to attend, and municipalities provide equal access.
Q: My child does not speak Japanese — can they still enroll?
Yes. Schools accept children regardless of language ability. JSL support and buddy systems help with the transition. The adjustment period varies but many children become conversational within 6–12 months.
※ This article is for informational purposes only. School systems vary by municipality.
