Inspiring Minds.
Impacting Lives.
Who We Are
UWC ISAK Japan empowers transformational leaders to make a positive impact now and in the future. As Japan’s first full-boarding international high school, we educate intellectually curious, compassionate, and innovative students from diverse backgrounds.
Our Programs
At UWC ISAK Japan, we offer transformative educational experiences through our two distinct programs. Our full-boarding High School program, offering both 2 and 3-year options, integrates our signature leadership curriculum with the comprehensive International Baccalaureate.
Complementing this, our Short Programs provide a unique introduction to the UWC ISAK Japan experience through immersive seasonal programs held during the Summer and Winter months.
Our High School
UWC ISAK Japan prepares future leaders through a unique blend of academics and leadership development in the serene mountain resort town of Karuizawa. Our boarding school experience fosters well-rounded individuals, and our university advising program supports students in achieving their goals. Students interested in our 3-year program (Grades 10-12) can apply directly to UWC ISAK Japan, beginning September 4.
Short Programs
Dive into our Summer School, a two-week exploration of global issues and leadership for 13-14 year olds, enriched with activities on our vibrant campus. Alternatively, our one-week Winter School for 12-13 year olds merges intellectual growth with winter sports in the Japanese Alps, emphasizing teamwork and problem-solving. These programs cultivate lasting international friendships and nurture compassionate global citizens.
Our Stories
Through the authentic experiences and voices of our students and alumni, the transformative impact of our unique community and curriculum is vividly brought to life. Explore some of these stories below and on our Leaders Beacon Blog.
Witness the transformative journey of Amine and Ethan, Grade 10 students at UWC ISAK Japan, who leveraged our redesigned Leadership Program to create Project Sprout - an innovative satellite imaging solution to help farmers assess crop health, inspired by a shared passion for solving agricultural issues.
Discover how Manami led a group of student to win the prestigious Zayed Sustainability Prize 2022. Their inspiring story of resilience and determination, from combating sustainability challenges on campus to engaging with local communities and NGOs, lays a blueprint for creating an environmentally-conscious future.
Follow the journey of Simon, a member of the Class of 2022, who defied the odds to join Princeton's Division 1 volleyball team. Witness how his relentless pursuit of passion, resilience, and leadership led him from his home in New Zealand to UWC ISAK Japan to his dream opportunity at one of the world's top universities.
Join Our Mailing List
Stay connected with UWC ISAK Japan by subscribing to our updates and be the first to know about our current and future programs, essential application details, and upcoming events. Simply complete our short, 3-step form, confirm your email, and join our global community.
FAQ
UWC ISAK Japan provides a comprehensive curriculum that caters to students from a diverse range of backgrounds. Grade 10 works from a MEXT-certified high school curriculum that incorporates our flagship leadership program. It also serves as a preparatory year designed to build foundational skills for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, which is taught in Grades 11 and 12. This transition year helps students adapt to the rigorous academic demands of the IB while ensuring that they receive a well-rounded education.
All our classes are conducted in English, fostering an environment that promotes both academic excellence and cross-cultural understanding. Our faculty come from all over the world and bring with them considerable IB teaching experience, further enhancing the academic environment at our school.
Karuizawa is a beautiful town nestled in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture. It offers a variety of recreational activities, such as hiking, skiing, and cultural exploration, making it a fun place for our students to live. The town is safe and secure, with a friendly and welcoming community. Living in Karuizawa offers students a unique opportunity to learn about Japanese culture, engage with the local community, and enjoy the beauty of nature in all seasons.
Life at UWC ISAK Japan extends beyond academics. Students typically share rooms with fellow students in comfortable and safe residential houses, providing an opportunity to learn from and support each other. Each house has experienced house mentors to provide guidance and support. In addition to their studies, students can participate in numerous clubs and extracurricular activities. These activities not only provide a break from academics but also contribute to personal development, leadership skills, and community involvement. As a full-time boarding school, our faculty also support student life outside of the classroom to guide and assist students throughout their journey at UWC ISAK Japan.
After graduating, our students often go on to pursue higher education in some of the world's leading institutions. Many of our alumni have gained admission to top universities in the US like Harvard, Yale, and Stanford. Others have chosen to study in Japan or in other parts of the world, launch startups, take gap years, or otherwise contribute to the global UWC community. Our graduates are sought after not only because of their academic prowess but also because of their commitment to the UWC and UWC ISAK Japan missions.
The application process for UWC ISAK Japan opens on September 4. Eligibility criteria include proficiency in English and demonstration of alignment with UWC's mission and values. The application process is entirely online, ensuring accessibility for applicants worldwide. The selection process may involve academic tests, essays, and interviews to assess not just academic ability but also potential for personal growth and contribution to the UWC ISAK community.
Join Our Mailing List
Stay connected with UWC ISAK Japan by subscribing to our updates and be the first to know about our current and future programs, essential application details, and upcoming events. Simply complete our short, 3-step form, confirm your email, and join our global community.