Translation guide
In Japan, senior high school refers to the three years of upper secondary education (grades 10–12), typically for students aged 15–18. It is not compulsory but widely attended. The term is used in official and everyday contexts.
Referring to senior high school as a school or educational stage
The standard, everyday term for senior high school. Used in most contexts.
私は高校に通っています。
I go to senior high school.
高校の友達と遊んだ。
I hung out with my high school friends.
The formal, full name. Used in official documents, school names, and formal speech.
この高等学校は創立100年です。
This senior high school was founded 100 years ago.
Naming or referring to a particular school
Attach 高校 to the school's name. This is the most common way to refer to a specific high school.
彼は桜高校の生徒です。
He is a student at Sakura High School.
The formal version, used in official contexts or when the full name is required.
東京都立青山高等学校
Tokyo Metropolitan Aoyama Senior High School
Referring to a person who attends senior high school
The standard term for a high school student.
高校生の時、アルバイトをしていました。
When I was a high school student, I had a part-time job.
Talking about experiences, events, or daily life in high school
Means 'high school life'. Commonly used to discuss the overall experience.
高校生活はとても楽しかったです。
My high school life was really fun.
Refers to one's high school days or period, often used in reminiscing.
高校時代の思い出
memories from my high school days
Describing the start or end of high school
To enter high school.
来年、高校に入学します。
I will enter senior high school next year.
To graduate from high school.
彼は去年高校を卒業した。
He graduated from senior high school last year.
高校 is the everyday abbreviation, while 高等学校 is the formal full name. Use 高校 in conversation and informal writing; use 高等学校 in official documents, school names, or very formal contexts.
Senior high school in Japan is not compulsory, but over 98% of students attend. It consists of three years (grades 10–12). There are academic, vocational, and specialized high schools.