Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Questions you might have for us regarding general school life at MBIS.

How many students attend MBIS?

MBIS has over 450 students from pre-kinder through to Grade 12, with a student teacher ratio of 9:1

What curriculum does the school offer?

MBIS follows the IB PYP, MYP and DP curriculum frameworks supported by the California State Standards and Benchmarks for students from Kindergarten through Grade 12.

What diplomas can graduates obtain?

Graduates who meet MBIS graduation requirements are awarded the MBIS Diploma, accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Additionally, students enrolled in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme may earn an IB Diploma, a Bilingual IB Diploma, or an IB Course Completion Certificate, depending on their results, alongside the MBIS Diploma.

Do MBIS graduates attend university?

Yes, our graduates are accepted into universities both in Japan and internationally. Typically, 95% of our graduating class pursue tertiary education immediately after graduating from MBIS. For a list of universities our latest alumni have been accepted into, visit our Guidance & Counselling page.

How do MBIS grade levels compare to other countries and schools?

MBIS grade levels align with the US school system, with Grade 12 being the final year of schooling. They also correspond to Japanese grade levels. However, due to the different academic calendar (August–July), students transferring from Japanese schools after graduating in March will join MBIS at their graduating grade level.

What are the school hours and after-school policies?

Students must be in their homeroom by 8:35 AM for morning homeroom or assembly. The first period begins at 8:50 AM, and the last period ends at 3:10 PM. Clubs and activities start shortly after, at 3:30 PM.

Elementary students may stay after school until 4.15PM provided that:

They have direct and active parental supervision.
They do not interrupt any official sports practices on the field.

Students not registered for after-school activities or clubs and without parental supervision must leave campus immediately after classes. Alternatively, students may use the school library for independent study or to borrow and return books until 4:30 PM.

Does the school offer after-school sports and activities?

Yes, after-school activities and clubs are offered for students from Grades 1–12, with options varying based on availability and demand.

For students in Grades 6–12, interscholastic sports include Volleyball, Soccer, Basketball, and Baseball/Softball. As a member of the Western Japan Athletics Association, MBIS regularly competes against international schools throughout the region. The teams also participate in larger tournaments within Japan and overseas as an Asia Pacific Activities Conference (APAC) school.

Do MBIS students wear uniforms?

Yes, students are required to wear a school uniform from Grade 1 to 12. Early Years students are required to wear the school PE uniform on PE-days and during field trips. Uniforms are adjusted seasonally.

Does MBIS have boarding facilities?

No, we do not have boarding facilities and students are expected to live with their parents or guardians.

Is there a school bus?

Yes, we have two school bus services – one going to the east, the Ashiya Route and another to the west, the Shioya Route. The buses arrive at school before 8:30AM in the morning, while the afternoon bus service leaves school at 3:20PM. For further details on bus routes, stops, and availability, visit our bus timetable page.

Do parents participate in the school?

Parents are warmly encouraged to participate in school events and activities. Joining the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) provides opportunities to engage in the planning and organization of various PTA events held throughout the year.

School Life

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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