Shizuoka International School
静岡県静岡市葵区瀬名3-47-3
School Overview
Shizuoka International School offers a focused and supportive environment for international students aiming to pursue higher education in Japan. While specific details regarding its founding history and detailed philosophy are not available, the school's curriculum and features clearly emphasize preparing students for the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU) and ensuring a smooth transition into university life. The atmosphere likely prioritizes academic success, cultural immersion, and personalized support. The small capacity suggests a close-knit community where students receive individualized attention.
Location & Surroundings
Located in the Sena district of Aoi Ward in Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture, the school offers a setting away from the bustle of major metropolitan areas. Shizuoka is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including views of Mount Fuji and its proximity to the Pacific coast. While the provided data doesn't specify nearby amenities, it's likely that convenience stores and other essential services are within easy reach. Detailed information on specific transportation options and travel times from major stations isn't provided, but further research would be beneficial for prospective students. For example, researching the nearest JR train stations (e.g., Shizuoka Station) and bus lines from the school would provide a much better picture of convenience and commute times.
- Transportation Options:
- Walking: Time to be determined, depending on distance to bus stops/stations.
- Bus: Time to be determined, check local bus schedules.
- Train: Time to be determined, from the nearest train station.
Curriculum & Courses
Shizuoka International School offers two main courses designed to prepare students for university admission:
- University Preparatory 1.5-Year Course: Starts in October. (Original name: 大学進学1年半コース)
- University Preparatory 2-Year Course: Starts in April. (Original name: 大学進学2年コース)
The curriculum focuses on comprehensive Japanese language training, EJU preparation, and guidance for university selection. While details on specific curriculum levels are not provided, it's reasonable to assume the courses cover a range of proficiency levels, progressively building students' skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Conversational Japanese is emphasized, reflecting the school's commitment to practical language skills. Furthermore, EJU preparation likely involves intensive practice in the subjects required for the exam, such as Japanese as a Foreign Language, Mathematics, Science, and Japan and the World. Without more information, the inclusion of culture and business electives cannot be confirmed, though these could be important supplements to overall learning.
- Curriculum Levels (Estimated):
- Beginner: Develop basic Japanese language skills (grammar, vocabulary). Duration: 3-6 months. Focus: Hiragana, Katakana, basic grammar, simple conversations.
- Intermediate: Improve fluency, comprehension, and writing skills. Duration: 6-9 months. Focus: Kanji, more complex grammar, reading comprehension, essay writing.
- Advanced: Master advanced Japanese for academic purposes and EJU preparation. Duration: 6-12 months. Focus: Advanced grammar, academic writing, EJU practice, university application preparation.
Support for Higher Education & Employment
The primary goal of Shizuoka International School is to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in Japanese universities. While detailed information on university acceptance records and job hunting support is not available, the school's curriculum and emphasis on EJU preparation suggest a strong commitment to academic success. Prospective students should inquire directly about the school's track record in placing students in universities and the types of support services offered, such as university counseling, application assistance, and interview preparation. Given the emphasis on Japanese proficiency, graduates often possess a competitive edge in the Japanese job market, particularly in industries that require strong communication skills and cultural understanding.
Accommodation & Facilities
The school offers dormitory accommodation, a significant advantage for international students, especially those new to Japan. The availability of on-site housing simplifies the transition and provides a secure and supportive living environment. While specific details regarding dormitory types (single, double, etc.), amenities, and commute time to the school are not provided in the initial data, further research would be very beneficial.
- Dormitory Features (Details to be determined):
- Room Type: To be determined.
- Amenities: To be determined.
- Commute Time: Literally on-site.
- Cost (Monthly): Assumed to be included in the tuition fees.
Tuition & Scholarships
The tuition fees for the two available courses are as follows:
- University Preparatory 1.5-Year Course: ¥1,062,000
- University Preparatory 2-Year Course: ¥1,362,000
It's important to note that these are the total fees for the duration of the course. Prospective students should inquire about the breakdown of fees (e.g., tuition, accommodation, textbooks), installment payment options, and the availability of scholarships or financial aid. Information on specific scholarships offered by the school or external organizations isn't provided, and students are advised to research and apply for relevant funding opportunities.
- Fee Breakdown (Details Needed):
- Tuition: Amount to be determined. (Breakdown is needed.)
- Accommodation: Assumed to be included. (Need to confirm.)
- Textbooks/Materials: Amount to be determined. (Usually around ¥50,000 - ¥100,000 per year.)
- Other Fees: Amount to be determined. (Application fee, insurance, activities, etc.)
- Total: 1.5-Year Course: ¥1,062,000 / 2-Year Course: ¥1,362,000
Summary & Recommendation
Pros:
- Dormitory accommodation simplifies the transition for international students.
- Focused curriculum tailored for EJU preparation and university admission.
- Emphasis on conversational Japanese skills.
- Smaller capacity suggests a more personalized learning environment.
Cons:
- Limited information available on specific program details, university placement records, and support services.
- Location may be less convenient for those seeking a bustling urban environment. Specific public transportation data unavailable.
- Lack of detailed information regarding scholarship availability.
Who is this school for?
Shizuoka International School is best suited for international students who:
- Are serious about pursuing higher education in Japan.
- Value a supportive and focused learning environment.
- Prefer a smaller, close-knit community.
- Appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of Shizuoka Prefecture.
Prospective students are strongly encouraged to conduct further research, contact the school directly for detailed information, and visit the campus if possible to determine if Shizuoka International School is the right fit for their academic goals.