~Frequently Asked Questions~

 

About Iwatsuki High School (New School)

About School Life

About Global Education

About Career Guidance

About Student Guidance

About Fees and Expenses

 

About Iwatsuki High School (New School)
Q1 What kind of school is the new Iwatsuki High School?
A1. The new Iwatsuki High School will open in the 2026 school year as an institution dedicated to developing globally minded individuals. The school is based on the following three educational principles:
〇 Foster global human resources equipped with international awareness and language skills to succeed both in Japan and abroad.
〇 Deepen understanding of Japanese traditions and culture, cultivate attitudes that respect different cultures and values, and engage in inquiry activities related to global issues such as the SDGs.
〇 Provide education that nurtures rich expressive abilities while contributing to the local community by sharing traditional industries with the world.
Q2 What kind of career education is offered at the new Iwatsuki High School?
A2. Career guidance begins in the first year. Through subject selection and various career-related programs, students are encouraged to raise awareness of their future paths early on. In addition to group guidance, students receive individual counseling sessions. Especially for third-year students, individual meetings are held repeatedly even after three-way meetings with parents to support career decisions and learning. To adapt to increasingly diverse entrance exam formats, all teachers support students with personal instruction in essay writing, interview practice, group discussions, and more. As part of the support system, students are provided with relevant information and real-world learning opportunities. In their third year, students attend monthly seminars such as the "General Admission Seminar", "Public Service Seminar", and "Medical Field Seminar", while first- and second-year students attend every three months. Supplementary programs such as entrance exam prep and qualification test prep, including interview strategies, essay writing, Eiken, and Kanji exam courses, are offered starting in the first year to support student learning.
Q3 What kind of global education will be provided at the new Iwatsuki High School?
A3. The new Iwatsuki High School provides global education to develop global mindsets and strong language skills, helping students thrive in a rapidly changing international society. To cultivate international awareness, the school offers diverse global programs such as lectures on international understanding, cross-cultural seminars, and international exchange projects. To improve language proficiency, activities like English composition, speech contests, English proficiency exams for all students, and leveled classes are planned. Students in both the General and International Liberal Arts courses may also choose to take a second foreign language.
Q4 Will Iwatsuki High School be closed?
A4. No. The new school, which merges Iwatsuki High School and Iwatsuki Hokuryo High School, will be established on the current Iwatsuki High School campus and will offer both an international course and a general course.
Q5 Will Iwatsuki High School stop recruiting new students?
A5. From the 2026 school year, student recruitment will be conducted as part of the new Iwatsuki High School. Students who enroll in the 2025 school year will become part of the new school from their second year. Thus, enrollment will continue without any interruptions.
Q6 Does the merger mean students from Iwatsuki and Iwatsuki Hokuryo will study together?
A6. No. Iwatsuki Hokuryo High School stopped accepting new students from the 2023 entrance exam. The new Iwatsuki High School will begin anew on the current Iwatsuki campus and will accept new students independently.
Q7 What will happen to the school building of the new Iwatsuki High School?
A7. The current Iwatsuki High School building will be used as the building for the new school. To avoid disruption to student learning, major renovations will take place mainly during summer vacation, starting this school year.
Q8 What will the new school uniform look like?
A8. The school uniform will be renewed. The new design can be viewed here.

About School Life
Q9 How are the classes organized?
A9. The average number of students per class is about 40. In the past, gender ratios have varied by year, but in the International Culture Course, 70–80% of the students were girls. At the new Iwatsuki High School, there will be 8 classes per grade: 7 for the General Course and 1 for the International Liberal Arts Course.
Q10 How many lessons are there per day?
A10. The school operates on a five-day week. From Tuesday to Friday, there are 6 periods per day, and on Mondays, there are 7 periods.
Q11 What kinds of lessons are offered?
A11. Students can choose subjects that match their interests and goals, and receive thorough career guidance to support steady progress toward their future. Exploratory activities and ICT-enhanced lessons help develop logical thinking and problem-solving skills, fostering abilities needed in the real world. In the General Course, students gain academic and personal strengths to support a wide range of future paths, including university entrance. In the International Liberal Arts Course, students improve language skills in English, Japanese, and a second foreign language while broadening their knowledge through specialized subjects. They also engage in many output-based activities to enhance global awareness and communication skills. Various in-school and out-of-school experiences help students develop the ability to form and express their own opinions, becoming globally active individuals. In both courses, each student will be equipped with an iPad, and ICT-enhanced lessons will be implemented accordingly.
Q12 Is there a swimming pool? Are swimming lessons conducted?
A12. There is no swimming pool, and no swimming lessons are provided. Even with the upcoming major renovations, no pool will be built.
Q13 Are club activities active?
A13. Yes, club activities are very active. Currently, there are 14 athletic clubs, 15 cultural clubs, and 2 hobby clubs. Students are expected to join one upon enrollment. Recent achievements include: - The boys’ tennis team participating in the Kanto Public High School Tennis Tournament (team match) - The track and field team qualifying for the Kanto meet in octathlon and competing in more than 10 events at the prefectural level - The table tennis team reaching the prefectural tournament Other active clubs include the soccer team, boys’ and girls’ basketball teams, kendo, baseball, badminton, volleyball, and the girls’ tennis team. In cultural clubs, the brass band has qualified for both the Wind Orchestra and Marching West Kanto Competitions. The music club has earned bronze medals in the Saitama Chorus Competition and Vocal Ensemble Contest. Please note that some clubs may limit membership if there are too many applicants.
Q14 Is there a cafeteria or shop?
A14. Yes. The cafeteria is located on the first floor of the "Kakuyukan" building. It offers a wide variety of delicious and filling meals at affordable prices, including set meals, rice bowls, soba, udon, ramen, curry rice, and bread. It is highly recommended!
Q15 What kinds of school events are held?
A15. Major events include: - May: Sports Festival - June: Cultural Festival - September: Field Trip - October: School Trip - November: Arts Appreciation Event and Marathon - December: Ball Game Tournament Additionally, the International Liberal Arts Course has its own events, such as kabuki viewing and an overnight camp at British Hills in Fukushima.
Q16 Where is the school trip destination?
A16. It depends on the grade. This year, the destination is Okinawa. In previous years, trips have included Hokkaido, Shikoku, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima.
Q17 Are student council activities active?
A17. Yes, they are very active. Under the motto “Led by students themselves,” the student council officers think, learn, and act independently. Currently, 29 members from all grades serve as student council officers, including assistants.
Q18 Are slacks available for female students?
A18. Yes. Slacks for female students are available and can be worn comfortably. (New Uniform)
Q19 Are the restrooms clean?
A19. Yes. All restrooms used by students in the homeroom and special classroom buildings have been renovated and are very clean. Further renovations will continue as part of the transition to the new school.
Q20 Please explain about course completion and credit acquisition.
A20. Unlike compulsory education, high school requires both class attendance and achieving passing grades to earn credits. "Course completion" refers to attending the required number of classes. "Credit acquisition" means understanding the class content and earning a passing grade. Only when both conditions are met will credits be granted. For example, even if a student scores well on tests, excessive absences may prevent credit acquisition. Conversely, if attendance is sufficient but grades are poor, the student may also fail to earn credits and be unable to advance or graduate.

About Global Education
Q21 What are the features of the International Liberal Arts Course?
A21. In the International Liberal Arts Course, students develop their language skills in English, Japanese, and a second foreign language, while acquiring broad knowledge through specialized subjects. The course includes many output-based activities to enhance global awareness and communication abilities. Through various in-school and off-campus experiences, students cultivate international perspectives and become capable of forming and expressing their own opinions. The course offers a distinctive learning environment focused on foreign languages and cultures, setting it apart from the General Course. Unlike many schools where students only learn from an ALT for one year, once a week, this course provides small-group (under 20 students) lessons with ALTs for three consecutive years. Small-group instruction is also used for subjects like math and classical Japanese. Students can choose from Spanish, Chinese, or Korean as a second foreign language (General Course students may also take these classes). Other subjects include city promotion and traditional culture (e.g., Japanese instruments, doll-making), all connected to international education. A unique feature is the opportunity to learn alongside many international and exchange students. Events such as English summer camps, cross-cultural seminars, and overseas study trips make it a truly international experience—“every day is international exchange.”
Q22 What are English classes like, given the school emphasizes global understanding?
A22. The foundation of English education is a strong vocabulary and grammar base, combined with pair work, performance tests, and team teaching with ALTs. These classes improve all four language skills and five functional areas. The International Liberal Arts Course uses all-English lessons with authentic materials, promoting global perspectives and intercultural understanding. At the new Iwatsuki High School, small-group, proficiency-level lessons and mandatory English proficiency testing (Eiken) are implemented to develop language skills applicable for both entrance exams and global contexts.
Q23 What is the Australia Overseas Study Program?
A23. The program is planned for Queensland, Australia. While staying with host families, students experience English conversation and local lifestyles. They also participate in English classes and local school activities, visit scenic spots and universities, and enjoy a full range of immersive experiences. This program is open to all students, regardless of their course.
Q24 What is the English Summer Camp at British Hills in Fukushima for International Liberal Arts students?
A24. First-year students in the International Liberal Arts Course participate in an overnight school event at British Hills in Fukushima, which recreates the atmosphere of medieval England. Students enjoy English immersion through interaction with native instructors and British cultural experiences. They enhance their communication, cross-cultural understanding, and presentation skills through this practical and enjoyable camp.
Q25 What is the Debate Contest about?
A25. In the Debate Contest, teams of four debate a set topic in English and compete for victory. The largest contest in Saitama, the “Inaho Cup,” is held in November, and the Winter Cup is in February. Iwatsuki students participate each year. For example, a past topic was: “The Japanese government should move the capital functions out of Tokyo. Agree or disagree?” Although difficult even in Japanese, students researched, discussed, wrote speeches, and practiced English debates as a team. This experience improved their logical thinking, research skills, and all four English skills—making it a comprehensive and empowering challenge.

About Career Guidance
Q26 What kind of career guidance and education is provided?
A26. 〇 Systematic and planned career guidance is provided to help each student realize their first-choice career path. Various career-related events are held at each grade level, including aptitude surveys, lectures, trial classes, and information sessions by field or booth type, helping students plan for the future.

〇 As part of career education, students participate in one-on-one interviews with teachers in April using the “Career Passport” (a record of student activities from elementary to junior high school) and a school-original “Interview Sheet.” These meetings are valuable opportunities for students to share their thoughts, concerns, and future plans. Parents are also invited to comment on the Interview Sheet. We encourage everyone to use this sheet to clarify and focus on future goals.
Q27 Are there any supplementary or preparatory lessons?
A27. Yes. Under the title of "Entrance Exam Prep Courses," sessions are held for all grades. For first- and second-year students, basic content is taught mainly in Japanese, Math, and English. There are also courses to prepare for the Eiken (English proficiency test). For third-year students, around 15 different courses are offered, covering all five core subjects. In addition, preparation for essay writing and interviews is available for students taking AO or recommendation-based entrance exams. Teachers also design customized courses for students aiming for general entrance exams. Students are encouraged to make the most of these.
Q28 Can you tell me about the high school–university partnership program?
A28. Since 2018, the school has had an academic partnership with Dokkyo University. Various collaborative activities are held, including participation in university classes as special auditors and lectures by Dokkyo professors during International Culture Department seminars. Credits earned as a special auditor can be transferred if students later enroll in Dokkyo University.
Q29 Are there any certifications or qualifications students can earn?
A29. Yes. The school regularly administers the Eiken (English proficiency test) and the Kanji Kentei (Kanji proficiency test) on campus. Students can take these exams 2–3 times a year. As entrance exams increasingly use certifications, early participation is encouraged. Many students take advantage of the convenience of the on-campus test site.
Q30 What kinds of paths do students take after graduation?
A30. Roughly 60% of graduates go on to universities or junior colleges, 30% to vocational schools, and 10% pursue employment, public service, or other paths.
Q31 What kinds of universities do students attend?
A31. Please visit the top page and click on Career Guidance to see university admissions results for the past three years.
Q32 Are career guidance events held at school?
A32. Yes. First-year students participate in “Trial Classes,” second-year students attend “Field-Specific Seminars” and “Booth-Style Guidance Sessions,” and both grades join the “Alumni Career Lecture.” Representatives from universities, junior colleges, and vocational schools visit the school to provide presentations and classes. For students aiming for employment or public service, vocational schools assist with test and interview preparation to help students acquire the necessary skills.
Q33 Are mock exams conducted in preparation for university entrance?
A33. Yes. Planned mock exams are held throughout the year. Basic mock exams are given in April, September, and March for all students to assess their learning and study habits. Students receive a handbook called the “Career Guide” after enrollment, which contains information on mock exams and test-taking models. Although most mock exams are optional, students are strongly encouraged to read the guide and actively participate.

About Student Guidance
Q34 Are smartphones and mobile phones prohibited?
A34. Currently, we are reviewing the policy for the upcoming school year. (At present, students are not prohibited from bringing phones to school. However, we believe that phones are generally unnecessary during school life centered on academics, so their use is restricted on campus. If needed during class, homeroom, or school events, students may use them under teacher supervision. Use after school in the classroom is permitted.)
Q35 What is the policy regarding hairstyles?
A35. This is also under review for the next school year. (Currently, grooming checks are conducted twice per term. Natural features are not subject to correction, but artificial alterations such as dyeing or excessive use of flat irons are subject to guidance. Male students are generally expected to keep their hair short.)
Q36 Are part-time jobs allowed?
A36. In principle, part-time jobs are prohibited. However, in cases of financial necessity, students may apply in advance. Approval is granted only if the job does not interfere with their studies.
Q37 Can students get a license for mopeds or motorcycles?
A37. If a student wishes to obtain a license for a moped or motorcycle while in high school, they must submit a formal application with parental consent. An interview and required documents are also necessary. Obtaining a license without permission will result in disciplinary action. Additionally, riding with passengers or commuting by motorcycle is prohibited. After obtaining a license, students must participate in a training session held by the Saitama Prefectural Board of Education.
Q38 Can students commute to school by bicycle? Should they get insurance?
A38. Students may commute by bicycle if they submit a commuting application. However, the entire distance from home to school must be by bicycle. If the distance is less than 1.5 km, permission is not granted. Insurance is mandatory, as required by Saitama Prefecture regulations. Details will be provided at the school orientation session for new students. Students must also wear helmets in accordance with traffic laws.

About Fees and Expenses
Q39 How much is the tuition fee?
A39. For students from households with annual incomes under 9.1 million yen, tuition fees are waived under the "High School Tuition Support Fund System." Thus, the actual tuition fee payment is zero. (*The system may be revised depending on national or prefectural policy changes. If there are any updates, we will promptly notify guardians.)
Q40 What other expenses are required besides tuition?
A40. Textbook and teaching material fees, as well as various association and event fees (student council, PTA, alumni association, school trips, etc.), are required. These are collected at the beginning of each term via bank transfer. In the first year, additional costs include items like iPads and uniforms. (Uniforms are around 70,000 yen. Female students can choose skirts or slacks. iPads can be paid in installments and come with optional insurance.) At the school orientation for new students, you will receive a detailed explanation from our partner provider.
Q41 Is there any financial aid or scholarship system?
A41. Yes. There are national and prefectural programs available. These include the High School Tuition Support Fund, financial aid for educational materials and other school-related expenses, and scholarships from the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO). Detailed explanations are provided to parents during the new student orientation.
Q42 Are there any school-specific aid systems?
A42. Yes. The school has systems to support students in financial need, such as the "Iwatsuki High School Alumni Association Scholarship," which offers up to 60,000 yen annually for textbooks and teaching materials. The PTA and alumni association also help fund school events and activities. We do our best to reduce the financial burden on students and families.
Q43 Are there any other optional expenses?
A43. Yes. Optional expenses include items like practice uniforms for PE, class T-shirts, training wear, school-designated bags, and commemorative photos. Participation in school excursions and events like overseas study programs also incur separate costs, though all of these are optional. We make efforts to keep costs reasonable and explain all details in advance to ensure informed choices.