Compensation at ISAK reflects a simple commitment:
Pay that is transparent, sustainable, and worthy of the work our team does every day.
This simple commitment reflects compensation at ISAK. We believe candidates should be able to see what an offer looks like before they apply, which is why this page exists.
Base salary is the same for both international and local hires. Some benefits differ, and the detail below applies to international-hire packages.
ISAK benchmarks its salary and benefits regularly against other international schools in Japan and across Asia. Our salary scale has 12 steps. Rather than basing salary scale placement solely on years of experience and academic qualifications, we take a broader view of professional expertise. Relevant careers and trades outside of education, as well as service as an IBEN member or accreditation visiting team member, are recognised within our placement process. We value these experiences because they strengthen our community, enrich learning, and bring diverse experiences and expertise to our school.
All compensation is paid in Japanese Yen.
Initial contracts for international-hire faculty are normally offered for a two-year period, running from 1 August to 31 July. Subsequent contracts are typically two-year terms, communicated through the school’s renewal process. The Head of School may offer shorter contracts at their discretion.
International-hire faculty receive a benefits package designed to support relocation, daily life in Karuizawa, health and professional growth.
All ISAK employees are enrolled in Shigaku Kyosai (PMAC), Japan’s pension and medical insurance system for private school employees, effective from 1 August of the year they join. Contributions from both the employee and the school are deducted monthly from payroll based on base salary. Japan’s national healthcare system is well regarded, with accessible, modern facilities.
International-hire employees receive a shipping and relocation allowance towards the costs of moving to Karuizawa. The allowance covers door-to-door costs for used household effects, including packing and basic insurance, from the employee’s current location to Karuizawa. It applies to both international and domestic moves within Japan.
Maximum allowance: 350,000 JPY, paid against receipts. One payment per household. Customs duties are not covered.
In the first year, ISAK reimburses the cost of economy class travel to Japan for the employee and any dependents, up to the benefit limit. From the second year, international-hire faculty and their families receive an annual flight allowance for round-trip travel during the summer, or the option to receive this as a lump-sum payment in December (taxable).
Maximum annual flight allowance: 200,000 JPY (single) / 400,000 JPY (couple or family).
On-campus housing is available only for faculty with residential duties. Due to capacity limits, not all faculty can live on campus. Faculty interested in a residential role should note this in their application.
Off-campus international-hire faculty are eligible for:
ISAK also assists in finding and contracting suitable housing near the campus and provides basic furnishings (sofa, table and chairs, kitchen equipment) and major appliances (refrigerator, stove, microwave/oven, washer/dryer).
Any costs above the allowance limits are the employee’s responsibility.
Full details of personnel policies are shared with candidates after an offer of employment is made.
At UWC ISAK Japan, we strive to create an environment where talented professionals can thrive, grow, and make a meaningful impact on the lives of young leaders from around the world.
Compensation varies depending on the role and level of responsibility. Detailed information regarding salary and benefits will be shared during the recruitment process.
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