School Preparation

There are public and private schools. Public schools are managed by the state or the local government. Private schools are founded by private bodies.
In Japan children go to primary school for 6 years. The year your child turns 6-years old, s/he will enter primary school in April. You will be informed by the local government in August of the year your child turns 5-year-old. You are requested to reply to the school replying that you would like to send your child to the primary school. Otherwise, your child may not be able to attend the public school. Please be sure to reply to the local government.
In the case your child is more than 6 years old, you are supposed to ask the school affairs department in the local government in your area. Please bring your child’s passport and residence card. Your child will talk with the principal at school. Afterwards it will be decided whether your child goes to that school.
If you are thinking of sending your child to a public school, providing s/he goes to school within your district, It is free of charge. You also have the choice of a private school. To enrol at a private school, you will need to take an exam and pay the tuition fee.
Please make sure what your child needs to bring to school, as each school differs. There are resources provided by school and things you have to buy by yourself. Write your child’s name on all items to be taken to school. Stickers on which the names are printed are also available online.