Marist Brothers International School

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Education and Learning

Marist Guidance Counseling Department

Welcome to the Marist Guidance Counseling Department, where our mission is to support students in their academic, social, and personal development while assisting them in discovering college and university opportunities both internationally and within Japan. We believe in tailoring the college application process to each student’s unique needs, while also providing comprehensive resources through preparation classes and informative sessions, including presentations and Q&A sessions for parents.

Guidance for Every Grade Level

At Marist, we understand that each stage of your educational journey is crucial. Here’s a grade-by-grade action plan to help you make the most of your high school experience:

  • Develop strong study skills.
  • Prioritize academic excellence.
  • Engage in extracurricular activities.
  • Talk to your parents about college plans, including financial considerations.
  • Utilize BridgeU to explore colleges, programs, and costs.
  • Consider visiting colleges and universities during holidays.
  • Plan for a college tour after Grade 11, preferably during the summer.
  • Seek advice from counselors, teachers, administrators, and alumni.
  • Make productive use of your summers through personal development opportunities, jobs, internships, or volunteer work.
  • Read, read, READ! Make a habit of reading every day.
  • Review high school course offerings and create a study plan.
  • Maintain a focus on academic achievement.
  • Continue involvement in extracurricular activities.
  • Attend online and in-person college events within and beyond Japan.
  • Begin creating your university list using BridgeU.
  • Take the PSAT/NMSQT.
  • Make the most of your summers with personal development experiences, jobs, internships, or volunteer work, while keeping detailed records.
  • Research summer school programs for high schoolers at colleges and universities.
  • Read, read, READ! Make a habit of reading every day.
  • Challenge yourself with appropriate coursework.
  • Stay engaged within your school and community.
  • Attend online and in-person college activities.
  • Take the PSAT/NMSQT.
  • If necessary, prepare for the SAT and take the SAT. 
  • Collaborate with your family to plan for college finances.
  • Consider visiting universities you’re interested in.
  • Enhance your profile through volunteering, interesting jobs, internships, or summer programs.
  • Schedule individual meetings with your guidance counselor to discuss personal university plans.
  • Dive deep into your college search using BridgeU, tracking preferences, researching majors and careers, exploring financial aid options, and compiling a list of 15-20 colleges that pique your interest.
  • Collaborate with your counselor to finalize your list of colleges.
  • Prepare application documents, including financial records.
  • Create a comprehensive calendar with all relevant dates, such as test dates, application deadlines, financial aid deadlines, and scholarship opportunities.
  • Complete recommendation requests for teachers and counselors in BridgeU.
  • Draft and refine your application essays, with guidance from your counselor.
  • Submit your college applications.
  • Retain copies of all materials sent to colleges.
  • If applicable, confirm the receipt of all application materials with colleges.
  • Stay vigilant about checking your email and application portals.
  • Make a thoughtful and informed choice when selecting your college.

Senior Year Timeline

  • Welcome back! Embrace your final year with enthusiasm.
  • Narrow down your college list.
  • Polish your essays and personal statements.
  • Keep an eye out for scholarship opportunities.
  • Stay actively involved in extracurriculars.
  • Begin your college applications.
  • Retake the SAT if necessary.
  • Secure your recommendation letters.
  • Ensure all required documents are submitted to your chosen schools; consult with your counselor.
  • Monitor application deadlines and complete your applications.
  • If you applied for Early Decision, carefully consider offers and make a decision.
  • Review available scholarships.
  • Retake the SAT if needed.
  • Send mid-year reports to schools that require them.
  • Arrange interviews if necessary.
  • Reassess available scholarships.
  • Regularly check your mailbox for updates.
  • Engage in detailed discussions with your family regarding college costs.
  • Make your final college decision.
  • If financial aid falls short, consider making an appeal.
  • Complete all necessary paperwork.
  • Congratulations, you’re headed to college!

University Acceptances:

University acceptances for the Class of 2024 can be seen here.

For University Representatives:

To schedule visits, kindly contact our Guidance Counselor, Mrs. Hulya Park, via email.

Access Our School Profile:

You can access our latest school profile in PDF format through this link.

Students and Parents:

Stay informed with the College Guidance group on ManageBac for the latest updates and information. We’re here to support your journey to higher education.