Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I use one of your services?: We offer a more cost and time-effective way to gain pertinent information about the international school/university scene and help narrow down your choices. We know a lot about the educational scene and so can point you in the right direction.

I do not speak English, only Japanese. Can I still use your services?: Yes, of course. Our website is in both English and Japanese, and all our documents and content come in both languages. We also have a Japanese lead as part of our ISA-Tokyo team, who will be happy to help you, if need be.

What is MAP testing?: MAP stands for Measures of Academic Progress, and is a standardised test used in many international schools for admission or whilst students are in attendance. For the younger years (up to Grade 2), the tests assess reading and mathematics, whilst from Grade 3 up, language usage is also assessed. It is a reactive online test which means that the more questions a child gets correct, the harder the questions become, with the opposite also happening.

Should my child do your academic assessment?: This is entirely up to you. You may already have a good idea of your child’s academic strengths and weaknesses from their current school, or it may be something that you wish to gain greater insight into. The academic assessment we use is a standardised assessment of aspects of the English language, such as reading and spelling, alongside Mathematics. English language ability may be a selection criterion in some international schools and so having knowledge of your child’s ability in relation to other children of a similar age, especially in this area, is advantageous when trying to narrow down your school choices. It may also be useful if contemplating some tutoring for your child. However, it is important to understand that these types of academic assessments should only be done two to three times a year.

How do I know your tutors will be able to help my child?: We have sourced our tutors from a range of places and some are personally known to us. As we aim to have the highest quality tutors, before they can actively start tutoring as part of our tutoring service, they will have gone through a recruitment process that involves an interview with our educational lead and the provision of references. Our tutors are also required to sign a formal agreement that outlines our expectations for a productive tutoring experience.

Can we choose a particular day and time?: Yes, let us know your preferences and we will try our best to accommodate them with your tutor.

Is it possible to temporarily change or reschedule the day of the week due to school events?: As long as you give us a suitable amount of notice and your tutor is happy with any changes, this should be fine.

Is it possible to tutor using materials used at school?: Yes, your tutor can support a particular curriculum; however, you will need to share any specific materials (textbooks, workbooks, etc.) in advance.

How often is tutoring required?: The amount of tutoring required usually varies according to age and necessity. Some younger students may only need 1 hour, once or twice a week, focusing on one or two areas; however, older students who are preparing for formal exams may prefer to work for 2 hours at a time, two or three times a week. We can help advise on a suitable schedule.

What is the difference between your free and premium content?: All our content is relevant to international schools and the field of education. In our free content, we have a range of ‘quick guides’ and some shorter pieces of writing which are helpful for those families exploring the idea of international school. For our more in-depth premium pieces, you will need to sign up for a paid membership. Here content is updated more frequently.

What happens at your monthly group online session?: This is an opportunity to discuss a variety of relevant international educational topics such as upcoming changes in curricula, timelines and admission procedures.

How much does the membership cost?: It depends on the membership level. Please check the Join Our Global Membership page for more details.

I can not log in to my membership page. What should I do?: Email us (member@isa-tokyo.com) and we will try to solve the problem.

I’ve forgotten my password. What should I do?: You will need to reset your password. Please click the link below and reset your password.
https://isa-tokyo.com/membership-login/password-reset/

I can no longer access the premium content. Why is this?: Email us (member@isa-tokyo.com) and we will try to solve the problem.

I wish to upgrade to a paid membership. What should I do?: Go to the membership page and register for one of our paid memberships. Your access will be updated upon completion of registration and payment.

I wish to terminate my paid membership. What should I do?: You can terminate your membership by email. Please note, that any money already paid will not be refunded.