Q. What is the difference between Teikyo University Kani's IB Course and an international school?
In most Japanese international schools, students cannot obtain a Japanese high school diploma. Our school is a Japanese school governed by the School Education Law, where students can acquire both the Japanese curriculum specified by the Ministry of Education (MEXT) and the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum provided by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO). Upon graduation, students can obtain a Japanese high school diploma, and if they pass the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme examinations, they can also obtain the IB Diploma. Even without the IB Diploma, students can use their Japanese high school diploma to apply to universities in Japan and abroad.
Q. What is the main language of instruction in classes?
In classes, all subjects except "Japanese Language" (an IB course) and "National Language" (a MEXT course) are taught in English. Students can significantly improve their English proficiency over the course of three years.
Q. Can students learn Japanese?
Japanese language classes are available at various levels, and students can engage in activities with Japanese students during extracurricular activities and may live alongside Japanese students in the dormitory. We also offer online Japanese language classes through affiliated Japanese language schools in Tokyo for students who are just beginning or need additional help.
Q. How do you ensure the quality of classes and teachers?
We hire highly qualified and excellent teachers from around the world through academic and interview evaluations. The teaching team regularly verifies and confirms each other's classes to maintain the level of instruction. We also emphasize the teachers' character and employ individuals who can build open-minded relationships with students.
Q. How is English language learning support provided to students?
For students with insufficient English proficiency, we provide English instruction at the school and dormitory, aiming to bring their English skills up to a level where they can handle the Diploma Programme classes from the second year onwards.
Q. Are homework assignments given?
It depends on the subject, but the IB emphasizes the importance of engaging, holistic activities, that aren’t necessarily restricted to the classroom. We provide assignments that develop investigative and problem-solving skills. It is necessary to allocate time for working on homework assignments in the dormitory or at home.
Q. Can you provide a schedule for a typical day?
Like Japanese students, the school runs from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. After that, students participate in club activities or return to the dormitory (home). Breakfast and dinner are provided in the dormitory, and lunch is provided at the school.
Q. If I want to study at a university abroad, will you support me?
We recognize that as our ultimate responsibility. We will continue to support you until your post-secondary plans are finalized. Since overseas universities primarily rely on document screening, we will provide continuous support throughout the application process.
Q. Is it possible to enroll in Japanese universities?
You can apply to national and private universities in Japan through school recommendations or general exams. More universities have started conducting entrance exams for IB Diploma holders within Japan. Depending on the faculty, you may be able to enroll in one of the three Teikyo Group universities (Teikyo University, Teikyo University of Science, Teikyo Heisei University) without taking an exam.
Q. Is dormitory living mandatory? Can I commute?
If you can commute from your parents' or guardians' home, commuting is allowed. Commuting students can bring their own lunch or use the school cafeteria. If necessary, you can apply for a student discount for trains or school bus services.
Q. Please provide a schedule for dormitory life.
Wake up at 7 a.m., have breakfast, and leave for school at 8:30 a.m. In the evening, have dinner by 7 p.m., and allocate time for personal hygiene, such as cleaning, taking a bath or shower, self-study, and socializing with friends. The benefits of dormitory life include developing self-discipline and independence, as well as forming lifelong friendships.
Q. Will meals be provided three times a day? Do I need to prepare bedding?
The school's designated caterer provides three meals a day. They offer nutritious and delicious meals made with safe and reliable ingredients. Bedding will be provided on a rental basis. We conduct a monthly exchange of sheets, pillowcases, and other bedding items. The cost of bedding is included in the dormitory fees.
Q. Are the dormitories single rooms? Will I feel isolated?
The dormitories consist of private individual rooms organized into units of four students. In addition to spaces where four people can gather, such as lounges on the same floor, there are common areas and dining halls where all dormitory residents can come together. You can enjoy watching TV or having meals with your peers. We also rotate members to ensure that you have opportunities to interact with many different people.
Q. Can students participate in extracurricular activities (club activities)?
After school, you can participate in extracurricular activities and clubs with Japanese students. If there are activities on holidays, you can also participate. However, please plan your participation carefully, as you will also have a lot of coursework to complete.
Q. The age limit for admission is stated as up to 16 years old. Is it not possible to apply if I am older than that?
If you are over 16 years old but under 18, admission may still be possible. Please consult with us for further details.
Q. Can I visit the school and dormitory before taking the entrance exam or enrolling?
If you contact us in advance, we can provide guidance and tours of the school and dormitory at any time.
Q. Is the school closed on Saturdays? Can I go out on holidays?
The school is usually closed every other Saturday. On holidays, you can go out for shopping or do other activities as long as you make it home for dinner or curfew. There are also express bus stops near the dormitory that can take you to Nagoya You can also use the bicycles available at the dormitory to go shopping.
Q. Is it possible to meet my child at the school or dormitory?
Except during class hours, you can meet your child at the school or dormitory. On holidays, you can also go out together. If you plan to stay overnight outside the dormitory, please notify us in advance.
Q. How should I provide pocket money?
As an international student, you will open a personal bank account (Juuroku Bank) after enrollment. It is possible to transfer money to this account. Any remaining balance from school fees will also be transferred to this bank account. To open a bank account in Japan, a formal seal (hanko) is required. School staff will assist you in acquiring your hanko.
Q. Can I sign a contract for a smartphone?
If you wish to sign a contract for a smartphone, our school staff can guide you to local shops and assist with the procedure. Monthly fees can be deducted from your personal bank account.
Q. Can you provide information about insurance?
As an international student, after completing resident registration, you will join Japan's National Health Insurance. The annual insurance premium is approximately 20,000 yen. In addition, you will be enrolled in school insurance and student insurance. School insurance is covered by PTA fees, and student insurance costs around 30,000 yen for three years. These insurances cover accidents, injuries, and property damage during school, dormitory, and outings, and are already included in your school fees.
Q. Is it possible to transfer as a second-year high school student?
The first year of study is for preparation for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and to complete subjects required by the national curriculum. This allows you to obtain a Japanese high school graduation qualification. While it is possible to transfer and enter as a second-year student through the transfer examination, if your grade 10 credits cannot be converted to Japanese curriculum equivalents, you will only receive the qualifications for the International Baccalaureate.
Q. Are there any scholarship programs available?
We offer three levels of scholarships for students with outstanding performance in the entrance examinations. Please refer to the admission guidelines for more details. If you are interested, please indicate your desire for a scholarship during the entrance examination.
Q. How will you handle illness or contagious diseases?
If a student requires medical attention, our staff will provide transportation to the hospital by car. If isolation is necessary, each floor of the dormitory has individual rooms designated for isolation. You can stay there until you recover. Meals will be delivered to your room by the dormitory manager.
Q. Is there a list of items required for the school and dormitory?
We have a separate list specifically for items required for dormitory life, which we will provide once your enrollment is confirmed. Many items can be purchased in Japan, so there is no need to worry. During enrollment, our staff will guide you to shops where you can purchase daily necessities.
That’s all for now. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!