In Japan’s education system, the academic year begins in April.
Japanese elementary, junior high, and senior high schools generally start their new year in early April. This timing follows spring graduation ceremonies in March and enrollment ceremonies held near the beginning of April. The school year is commonly divided into two or three terms.
The Japanese calendar differs from the late-August or September starts familiar in many North American and European systems. Students typically have a short spring break between school years, a longer summer break, and a winter holiday around the New Year period.
April is also associated with important school traditions, including entrance ceremonies for new students and the beginning of new class groups. Universities often follow the same April-centered academic cycle, although their semester structures can differ from those of primary and secondary schools.