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Curriculum Bespoke Curriculum, British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels
Taught languages Japanese, Mandarin
Typical class size 16
Strengths Sport, Outdoor Education, Service and Sustainability
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Community and Service, Lifestyle and Wellbeing
Stages Secondary School, Sixth Form
Introduction
Harrow International School Appi Japan is a full-boarding school in Appi Kogen, enrolling students aged 11–18 (Years 7–13). The school follows a bespoke Harrow International Curriculum that leads to IGCSE and A-Level examinations. All lessons and examinations are conducted in English (except Modern Foreign Languages). In Prep, students study core subjects including English, Mathematics, Science and a language choice of Japanese or Mandarin. Beyond timetabled lessons, the school offers “Super Curriculum” activities such as clubs and societies, guest speakers and debate/public speaking competitions. The campus is reachable via routes including Tokyo Station to Morioka Station and onward to Appi Kogen.
180-8 Appikogen, Hachimantai, Iwate 028-7306, Japan
The Essentials
Harrow International School Appi Japan has 300 pupils, typical class sizes of 16, instruction in English.
Location
Harrow International School Appi Japan is located at 180-8 Appikogen, Hachimantai City, Iwate Prefecture, Japan, in the Appi Kogen mountains. The campus sits adjacent to JR Appi-Kogen Station and is within reach of Appi Kogen's ski resort area, offering a mountain environment suitable for a full boarding programme. The surrounding nature supports a focus on outdoor, nature‑based learning.
Stages
Harrow Appi serves students aged 11 to 18. It is structured into Prep (Years 7–8, ages 11–13), Senior School (Years 9–11, ages 13–15), and Sixth Form (Years 12–13, ages 16–18).
Type
The school is co-educational and offers full boarding for all students. There are seven boarding houses on campus.
Pupil Nationality Mix
The school describes a mix of nationalities and operates as an international school. An exact count of nationalities represented is not published, and there is no publicly available breakdown of local vs international students. The current pupil body is around 250 students.
Additional learning support
The school provides 360° personalised support through its house system and pastoral teams. It operates a 24/7 on-site Medical Centre staffed by qualified (often bilingual) nurses, with dedicated nurses in every boarding house. Safeguarding policies are in place and staff are screened and trained to international standards. Specific SEN provisions are not publicly detailed on the school's pages.
Country affiliation
Harrow Appi is affiliated with Harrow School in the United Kingdom and is part of the AISL Harrow group of international schools.
Religious affiliation
No religious affiliation is stated; Harrow Appi operates as a secular international school.
School day structure
The school operates a full boarding model with boarding life integrated into the day; Prep is for ages 11–13, with Senior and Sixth Form levels following the British curriculum and boarding life embedded in daily routines. Boarding is supported by seven houses and on-site staff. Specific start and end times are not published publicly.
Bus service
Travel to Appi is via air, train, or car; From Morioka Station to Appi, it is about 60 minutes by train or 50 minutes by car. A shuttle bus for events is offered for Morioka Station pickups during campus tours. Regular, published daily bus services are not listed publicly.
Fees
Annual tuition at Harrow International School Appi Japan ranges from JPY 9,767,360 to JPY 10,606,830 for 2026/27.
Application and enrolment fees
- Application fee: JPY 22,000, payable upon application. - Enrolment fee: JPY 772,000, payable upon acceptance of a place (non-refundable). - School deposit (refundable): JPY 440,000 for applicants not requiring visa support; JPY 880,000 for applicants requiring visa support. The deposit is refundable subject to the school's Terms and Conditions and may be retained or offset against outstanding charges in specified circumstances.
Tuition and boarding fees (annual and per-term)
Tuition fees include boarding costs. The tuition fee is split into three payments due before each term begins; the per-term amounts shown are the annual fee divided by three (rounded where necessary).
- Year 7: Annual tuition JPY 9,767,360 — three term payments of approximately JPY 3,255,787 each. - Year 8: Annual tuition JPY 9,767,360 — three term payments of approximately JPY 3,255,787 each. - Year 9: Annual tuition JPY 10,227,520 — three term payments of approximately JPY 3,409,173 each. - Year 10: Annual tuition JPY 10,227,520 — three term payments of approximately JPY 3,409,173 each. - Year 11: Annual tuition JPY 10,227,520 — three term payments of approximately JPY 3,409,173 each. - Year 12: Annual tuition JPY 10,606,830 — three term payments of JPY 3,535,610 each. - Year 13: Annual tuition JPY 10,606,830 — three term payments of JPY 3,535,610 each.
Billing schedule and payment terms
- Timing: Term fees are due and payable before the commencement of the term to which they relate. Tuition and boarding fees are split into three payments which are due before each term begins. Failure to pay by the due date may result in the school setting a new payment date, and continued non-payment may be treated as withdrawal. - Notice and withdrawal: A term's written notice is required before a pupil is withdrawn; otherwise a term's fees in lieu of notice will be payable. On withdrawal, the school will refund the school deposit on the pupil's final fees bill subject to the Terms and Conditions. - Late payment: The school may charge interest on unpaid fees and may withhold services, references or take other actions where fees remain unpaid, as set out in the Terms and Conditions.
Boarding fees
- Boarding is included in the published tuition fees above; there are no separate standard ‘boarding-only' charges listed because the tuition fee covers boarding costs. Additional optional or trip-related boarding charges (if applicable) may be invoiced separately.
Other costs and additional fees
- Overnight trips and expeditions (Year Group Trips/Long Expeditions): These are required and are usually added to the Spring Term tuition invoice. Typical costs are usually in the range JPY 200,000–JPY 600,000 depending on itinerary and location. Other overseas or optional trips are charged separately and vary by itinerary. - School uniform: Estimated around JPY 260,000; this charge is required and usually requested approximately one month before school begins. - Appropriate personal clothing for the mountain environment: Required; cost depends on clothing selected and is payable before term begins. - Academic equipment (laptop and stationery): Required; cost depends on the chosen laptop and stationery and is payable before school begins. - Additional educational and activities charges: One-to-one coaching (music, sports), certain specialist assessments, and some co-curricular activities may incur extra charges; these are optional or charged as required and billed as they arise. - Other potential charges: The school may charge for items such as damage or loss of school property, photographs, transport, lunches if applicable, and extra-curricular activities where not included in tuition. The school will inform parents in advance where possible.
Sibling discounts
- Discounts apply for the third and subsequent siblings educated concurrently at the school (applied in birth order): 3rd child 5%; 4th child 10%; 5th and subsequent children 15%. No discount for the second child.
Refund information
- Application and Enrolment fees: Non-refundable. - School deposit: Non-interest-bearing and refundable, but may be retained or offset against outstanding amounts in specified circumstances under the Terms and Conditions (for example unpaid fees or other charges). The deposit will generally be refunded on the pupil's final fees bill, subject to the Terms and Conditions. - Tuition fees: Tuition and other term fees are payable in advance and are not refunded for absence through sickness, term shortening, extended vacations, or similar causes except in exceptional cases at the sole discretion of the Head or where a legal liability to refund exists. - Other paid events (camps, trial classes): Generally non-exchangeable and non-refundable unless otherwise stated.
Fee payment options
- Accepted methods of payment: Bank transfer or credit card payment only. - Billing and collection: Fees are billed in advance for each term; the school may collect bank account or third-party payment platform transaction details as part of fee collection and reconciliation. Parents remain responsible for ensuring funds are received in cleared funds by the due date.
Other notes (administrative and discretionary points)
- Additional fees not listed may be charged from time to time; the school will advise parents in advance where practicable. - Bursaries and scholarships: The school operates scholarship and bursary arrangements for eligible pupils; these are handled through separate policies and application processes and may affect fee liability where awarded. Sibling discounts are applied as noted above.
For contractual details about deposits, refunds, late payment, withdrawal notice and other fee-related terms, the school's Terms and Conditions set out the governing rules used when fees are collected, refunded, or offset.
Academics
Harrow International School Appi Japan teaches Bespoke Curriculum, British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels for students aged 11 to 18.
Curriculum
The curriculum at Harrow Appi Japan is the bespoke Harrow International Curriculum, leading to IGCSE in Senior School and A-Levels in Sixth Form, with all core subjects taught in English and language support in Japanese and Chinese. Prep School (Lower Prep Year 7 to Upper Prep Year 9; ages 11–13) covers core subjects—English Language and Literature, Mathematics, and Science—alongside Art, Design & Technology, Computer Science, Dance, Drama, Geography, History, Music, Physical Education, Outdoor Pursuits, and PSHE. Senior School (ages 13–16) offers a broad IGCSE range including Art, Biology, Chemistry, English Language, English Literature, Mathematics, Physics, Geography, History, Computer Science, Drama, Music, PE, Psychology, with language options such as Chinese (First/Second Language), Japanese, and French, plus Co-ordinated Science or Combined Science. Sixth Form (ages 16–18) provides the A-Level programme with subjects including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics and Further Mathematics, Economics, Geography, History, English Language, English Literature, Computer Science, Japanese, Chinese, Drama, Art, Graphic Design/Graphic Communication, Fashion and Textiles, Environmental Science, Philosophy, Physical Education, Music, and Business Studies. Beyond examinations, Harrow Appi emphasises a Super Curriculum and extensive co-curricular opportunities, alongside a full boarding environment with seven houses and a strong focus on language learning and Japanese culture.
Wellbeing
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The houses provide a close-knit community where students are supported academically, socially, and emotionally. The boarding House system explicitly emphasizes pastoral care, with each House acting as a supportive social unit for its pupils. The school offers 360° personalised support, with teachers and staff available to help students every day. A Safe School materials describe safeguarding as central to the ethos, reinforcing emotional safety across the community. The safeguarding framework is aligned with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, underscoring students' right to protection, voice, and development.
Special Educational Needs (SEN)
The school publicly documents English as an Additional Language (EAL) provision, including English-language support integrated with the curriculum. All core subjects are taught in English, and students with EAL are explicitly supported to develop confidence and accuracy in spoken and written English. The admissions materials provide CEFR and GSE benchmarks for English development, reflecting a formal EAL programme. There is no published information describing a dedicated SEN department or specialist SEN facilities beyond EAL. Materials emphasize inclusive language support and multilingual language study, rather than a standalone SEN provision.
English as an Additional Language (EAL)
All core subjects are taught and assessed in English. Students who speak English as an additional language are expertly supported as they develop their spoken and written English. The curriculum also offers Japanese and Chinese language study, with a substantial portion of time devoted to language learning. The admissions process outlines a formal EAL programme and CEFR/GSE levels corresponding to English proficiency across year groups. English instruction is the default for lessons and examinations, with EAL support designed to help students reach target English levels throughout their time at the school.
Mental Wellbeing
A 24/7 on-campus Medical Centre provides continuous care, staffed by qualified nurses, many of whom are bilingual. Each boarding House has two dedicated nurses who know the students personally and work with House Masters and local clinics to address health and wellbeing needs. The Houses describe themselves as places where students are supported academically, socially, and emotionally, contributing to a sense of belonging. Wellbeing is embedded in daily life through medical and pastoral collaboration and safeguarding practices. The school emphasises 360° personalised support, ensuring access to staff beyond the classroom and fostering a safe, caring learning environment.
Safeguarding
Harrow Appi maintains a safeguarding policy with a Child Safeguarding Policy published in July 2022, reviewed annually. The A Safe School section confirms that safeguarding is central to the school ethos, and all staff and visitors are expected to comply with safeguarding policies and procedures. All staff are carefully screened and undergo safeguarding training on joining, with ongoing training as needed. Safeguarding arrangements are audited regularly by the International Child Protection Advisors (ICPA), who also provide staff training. Families can download the safeguarding policy for detailed procedures and practices.
Admissions
Admissions
1. Admissions Process. Step 1 – Submit the Online Application. Harrow Appi uses OpenApply to accept applications. Create your account and view the required documents you must upload; the portal provides guidance on which documents are needed. Submit the online application with the requested information and documents. This step establishes your child's eligibility to move to the next stage.
2. Admissions Process. Step 2 – Join the Online Test. After you submit the application, your child will be invited to take an online test that lasts two hours. The test has two parts: a 90-minute online assessment of Mathematics, English, and Non-Verbal Reasoning, and a 20-minute English writing task. No specific preparation is required for the online test, and it is externally moderated.
3. Admissions Process. Step 3 – Have an Online Interview. If the online assessment is passed, your child will be invited to an interview with the Head Master or another Senior Harrow Educator, conducted online or in person. The interview assesses suitability for Harrow Appi's program and community.
4. Admissions Process. Step 4 – Receiving an Offer. Following successful assessments and the interview, you will receive an offer from the school. You will have one week to decide whether to accept the offer.
5. Admissions Process. Step 5 – Paying the School Deposit and Enrolment Fee. After accepting the offer, you must pay a school deposit and an enrolment fee to secure the place. The 2025-26 examples include an enrolment fee of 772,000 JPY and a school deposit of 440,000 JPY for applicants not requiring visa support, or 880,000 JPY for applicants requiring visa support.
6. Admissions Process. Step 6 – Beginning the Enrolment Procedures. Once the deposit and enrolment fee are paid, enrolment procedures begin. This includes purchasing uniforms and equipment, and completing visa procedures if needed, along with other steps to prepare for the first day. If you have questions, admissions can provide guidance.
Scholarships
2. Scholarships. Harrow Appi offers a Scholarships, Bursaries, and Awards program. Three types of awards are available: Scholarships (financial), Bursaries (financial support to prevent fees from being a barrier), and Awards (non-financial recognition). Regular financial awards generally cover up to 30% of tuition, with exceptional cases for Year 12 potentially increasing this share up to 100%.
Categories for Harrow Appi Scholarships are Academic, Sports, and Performing Arts. The categories are designed to reflect a combination of intellectual merit, talent, leadership, and contribution to the school community.
Application Process (Prospective Students). Prospective applicants complete the standard Harrow Appi application on OpenApply, then complete the separate Harrow Appi Scholarship Application Form. They then undergo the regular admissions test and interview; if eligible, they proceed to further scholarship assessment. Timing includes a scholarship assessment test held in January (results announced in March) if applied before December, or held in May with results in June if applied before April. Fees paid with the deposit and enrolment fee are required before the scholarship assessments.
Application Process (Existing Students). Existing students' families submit the Scholarship application through the Parent Portal by Term 1's end; assessments for scholarships are held in January alongside prospective students, with results announced in March and scholarships starting the next academic year.
Academic Scholarships. Academic Scholars are selected for intellectual curiosity, commitment to learning, leadership, and strong English, with expectations to contribute to the school community and aspire to top universities. Financial awards typically cover up to 30% of tuition; duration is usually two years for some scholarships and may be annual for others.
Sports Scholarships. Sports Scholars demonstrate high-level performance in alpine sports, tennis, or golf, and are expected to lead and contribute to the school's athletic community. Financial awards are up to 30% in typical cases, subject to suitability and ongoing performance.
Performing Arts Scholarships. Performing Arts Scholars show outstanding talent in music or drama and contribute to the school community, with leadership and collaboration expectations. Financial awards are up to 30% in typical cases, subject to ongoing performance.
Bursaries. Bursaries are available to existing students to help continue study when financial circumstances change. The policy outlines a means‑tested approach and requires an updated request to admissions with supporting documentation.
Head Master's Award. The Head Master's Award aims to encourage diversity and inclusion. It can be offered via two routes: (1) based on student background and potential to be a peer leader, or (2) English language proficiency as a non-native speaker. The award is issued with the offer and requires the deposit and enrolment fee to be paid by the deadline.
Waitlist
Waitlist/Pool. There are no published deadlines for applications; applications are accepted year‑round. Places are extremely limited to maintain a suitable student‑to‑teacher ratio, and advisors in admissions can offer guidance if you worry about joining late in the year. The site does not publish a formal waitlist or pool process.
FAQs
What curriculum does Harrow Appi follow?
Harrow Appi follows a bespoke Harrow International Curriculum leading to IGCSE and A Level examinations. All core subjects are taught in English with language support in Japanese and Chinese.
What age range does the school serve?
The school enrols students aged 11 to 18, covering Years 7 to 13 from Prep School through Sixth Form.
Is the school fully boarding?
Yes. Harrow Appi is a full-boarding school with a house system and 24/7 pastoral teams. A Medical Centre is on-site staffed by qualified, often bilingual nurses.
What are the tuition fees?
Fees range from approximately JPY 9,767,360 to JPY 10,606,830 per year, reflecting the full-boarding provision including accommodation, meals, and all activities.
Where is the school located?
In Appi Kogen, Hachimantai City, Iwate Prefecture, in the Japanese mountains. The campus sits adjacent to JR Appi-Kogen Station with access to year-round outdoor activities.
How large is the school?
Approximately 300 students in a fully boarding community, with dedicated house teams providing 360-degree personalised support.
What is the house system?
Students belong to a house with dedicated housemasters and pastoral teams providing 24/7 support, mentoring, and community building throughout the boarding experience.
What outdoor activities are available?
The Appi Kogen mountain location provides skiing, snowboarding, and year-round outdoor adventure activities integrated into the school programme.
What languages are taught?
English is the language of instruction for all core subjects. Japanese and Chinese are offered as language subjects with dedicated support.
When was the school founded?
Harrow Appi opened in 2022 as part of the Harrow family of schools, bringing the Harrow tradition to Japan's mountain region.
Is there a medical centre?
Yes. A 24/7 on-site Medical Centre is staffed by qualified, often bilingual nurses providing healthcare and wellbeing support for all boarding students.
What examination results does the school achieve?
As a recently opened school (2022), Harrow Appi follows the proven Harrow International Curriculum leading to internationally recognised IGCSE and A Level qualifications.
