About Admissions

At NLCS Kobe, we are proud to offer a world-class education that combines the academic excellence of the NLCS family of schools with the cultural richness of Japan.

Our students benefit from small class sizes, individual attention, and a personalised learning experience designed to develop academic potential, resilience, and creativity. At the same time, we place great importance on nurturing a deep understanding and appreciation of Japanese values, ensuring students develop as well-rounded global citizens.

Our staff are committed to inspiring a love of learning, and our broad range of extra curricular activities ensures students can explore their passions outside the classroom—whether in the arts, sports, languages or community engagement.

The Junior School operates as a day school in the Asia One Building on Rokko Island, Kobe. In 2028, the Senior School campus will open on Rokko Mountain from grades 6 and above. The junior school for grades 1 to 5 will remain in Kobe.

The Junior School operates as a day school in the Asia One Building on Rokko Island, Kobe. In 2028, the Senior School campus will open on Rokko Mountain from grades 6 and above. The junior school for grades 1 to 5 will remain in Kobe.

The dates for Grades open at the school are listed below:

DateGrades Opening
August 2025Grades 1-6 (Rokko Island)
August 2026Grade 7 opening (Rokko Island)
August 2027Grade 8 opening (Rokko Island)
August 2028The Junior Campus on Rokko Island will be for Grades 1-5 and remain a day school following the opening of the Senior School.
August 2028New Senior School Campus on Rokko Mountain opens for:

Grades 6-12
Day students, weekly boarding, and full boarding

Meet Our Admissions Team

Left to right: Hideko Kaiami (Admissions Officer), Junho Doo (Head of Admissions), Junko Takata (Admissions Officer)

We encourage families to discover what makes NLCS Kobe a distinctive and inspiring learning community by exploring our website, connecting with a member of our Admissions Team, or arranging a visit to our campus.

Combining the ambition and breadth of a world class international education with the values, care, and sense of community inspired by Japan, NLCS Kobe offers an international school experience with a Japanese heart. Whether you are seeking a future focused academic education, exceptional pastoral care, or a vibrant enrichment programme, our school provides an environment where every child can thrive and grow into a confident global citizen.

Our Admissions Team is delighted to support you throughout every stage of the admissions journey. We are here to answer your questions, guide you through the application process, and help your family learn more about life at NLCS Kobe.

We are also pleased to offer support in a range of languages, including Japanese (日本語), English, Korean (한국어), Mandarin (中文), and Thai (ไทย). Please feel free to contact us at admissions@nlcskobe.jp or via the Admissions Enquiry button on our website.

We look forward to getting to know your family and warmly welcoming you to the NLCS Kobe.

NLCS Kobe Admissions Process

Below is an outline of our admissions process. Our Admissions Team is available to support you throughout the journey, so please do not hesitate to contact us if you need any help.

Applications may be submitted at any time.

Step 1 – Submit an Application

Complete the online application form available on our admissions page. We recommend using a desktop or laptop computer.

If you are applying for more than one child, a separate application must be submitted for each child.

Your application must include all required documents and the application fee of JPY ¥35,000. Applications will only be reviewed once the completed application, supporting documents, and payment have been received.

Step 2 – Interviews and Assessments

Once your application has been reviewed, your child will be invited to complete age-appropriate assessments and an interview. 

Assessments take place throughout the year, and our Admissions Team will advise you on the specific assessments required for your child.

For more information, please visit our Entrance Assessments page.

Step 3 – Review and Offer Decision

Following the assessments and interview, the Admissions Team and Principal will review your child’s application.

We may request additional information from parents or your child’s current school to help us better understand your child’s needs and strengths.

The Admissions Team will then contact you with the outcome of your application.

If your child is offered a place, you can accept the offer by completing the acceptance form sent by email and paying the enrolment fee of JPY ¥400,000 to secure your child’s place.

Step 4 – Preparing for Your Child’s First Day

After accepting your child’s place and completing the enrolment process, the NLCS Kobe team will provide guidance to help your child prepare for their first day.

This will include practical information such as school uniform, student registration, and other school services.

Further Information

If you have any questions, please contact our Admissions Team at Admissions@nlcskobe.jp.

Admissions Policy