International schools in Osaka

For many expats moving to Japan, the choice of a good international school is an essential part of relocation. Finding the right school means that expat children can learn a curriculum they are familiar with, often in their native language, reducing the potential cultural and academic shock. Although Tokyo hosts a greater selection, international schools in Osaka cater to diverse educational systems.

International schools in Osaka provide a range of curricula, including education systems originating from the UK and the US, along with the globally respected International Baccalaureate (IB) system. Schools following curricula from abroad typically maintain strong connections to their home country's educational departments, ensuring a comparable quality of education. The IB curriculum, renowned for its rigorous, holistic approach to education, is taught all over the globe, offering a transferable educational pathway recognised worldwide.

Osaka's multicultural community sees various international schools reflecting other countries' educational systems, including those of Germany and France. These schools typically offer dual-language instruction, facilitating a rich bilingual environment. The educational institutions in the greater Kyoto-Osaka-Kobe area reflect Japan's commitment to multiculturalism, diversity and international collaboration in education.

Below is a list of recommended international schools for expat families in Osaka.

International schools in Osaka

Deutsche Schule Kobe International

DSK International (DSKI) is a German school abroad and an International Baccalaureate World School. Currently an elementary school, DSKI has plans to expand its offerings and introduce a secondary school. 

DSKI fosters lifelong learners who are internationally minded, can think critically, respect diversity and act with compassion. The school uniquely offers trilingual education, where students are immersed in English, German, and Japanese within their curriculum and co-curricular activities. This approach is aimed at developing multilingual global citizens passionate about learning and making a difference in the world.

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: German and International Baccalaureate
Ages: 2 to 12 years
Website: www.dskobe.org

Lycée Français International de Kyoto

Situated in the heart of Kyoto, the Lycée Français International de Kyoto (LFIK) is a thriving school community of French-speaking families. Recognised by the French Ministry of National Education and affiliated with the Agency for French Education Abroad, the school has been committed to fostering mastery of both French and Japanese languages and cultural exchange for over two decades. 

Today, LFIK continues to grow, bringing together a community of dedicated parents and teachers working towards making the school a vibrant, interactive space for learning, exchange and development for its students.

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: French
Ages: 2 to 18 years
Website: www.lfikyoto.org

Marist Brothers International School

Marist Brothers International School (MBIS) is a private, college-preparatory institution offering a holistic approach to education from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12. Established in 1951, MBIS became an IB World School in 2017, committed to fostering inquisitive, knowledgeable and compassionate individuals. 

MBIS stands out for its emphasis on character and community, which it deems integral to the Marist 'difference', ensuring its students not only achieve academic excellence but are also well-prepared for success in their future endeavours.

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate
Ages: 3 to 18 years
Website: www.marist.ac.jp

Osaka International School

Osaka International School (OIS) has been catering to the international community of the Kansai region since 1991. Alongside its sister school, Senri International School, OIS offers a unique dual-language learning environment, with shared classes in PE, art, music and more. 

The school boasts an impressive music programme and a competitive sports scheme. With more than 250 students of 35 nationalities, OIS encourages its students to become informed, caring, creative contributors to the global community.

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate
Ages: 3 to 18 years
Website: www.senri.ed.jp