Curriculum questions for families moving to Japan
A practical way to compare school programmes, grade placement and future transitions when moving between countries.
Japan School Finder editorial team · Updated 3 October 2026
Start with the next move as well as this one
Write down your child’s current grade, learning languages, subjects and likely next education system. Ask how the proposed school would place your child and transfer records. Grade numbers and school-year cutoffs do not always line up across systems, so use the school’s assessment rather than age alone.
- Which records or assessments determine placement?
- How will a mid-year move affect subject choices?
- What support is available during the first term?
Ask which programme the campus actually offers
IB offers four educational programmes spanning different stages. A school offering one IB programme does not automatically offer all of them. Confirm the exact programme and campus relevant to your child, including whether a programme is authorized or only a candidate.
Look beyond a curriculum label
The Cambridge Pathway includes separate stages from early years through advanced study. Ask which stages and qualifications the school offers. For any curriculum, examine the timetable, language of instruction, assessment, subject availability and the qualification awarded at graduation.
- Are the subjects needed for our next school available?
- Which external examinations, if any, are offered?
- Is curriculum affiliation being described separately from school accreditation?
Compare support with the child in mind
Discuss language learning, transitions and any support your child needs directly with admissions. Ask who provides support, how it fits into the school day and whether there are additional fees. A programme label alone cannot tell you how a child will experience the classroom.
- Can we see a sample timetable and a typical assignment?
- How are families told about progress or difficulties?
- Can we visit the actual campus and grade division?