EDUCATION

• The schooling years in the Japanese education system are segmented along the lines of 6-3-3-4: 6 years of primary or elementary school; 3 years of middle or junior high school; 3 years of high school; and 4 years of university. 

• Many private schools, however, offer a six year programme incorporating both junior high school and high school. Specialised schools may offer a five year programme comprising high school and two years of junior college. 

• There are two options for tertiary education: junior college (two years) and university (four years). 

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A school year has three terms: summer, winter and spring, which are each followed by a vacation period. The school year begins in April and ends in March of the following year.

• Many features of the Japanese educational system, are based on European models. 
 

• The Japanese school year begins in April and students attend school for three terms except for brief spring and winter breaks and a one month long summer holiday.