Students from the United States and Japan were surveyed with regard to their levels of satisfaction with school and factors that might facilitate or impede school satisfaction. Results indicated that females and younger students from both countries expressed greater satisfaction with school, with overall satisfaction declining in a linear fashion according to age in the Japanese sample. Among U.S. students, school satisfaction declined significantly in middle school but rebounded, to some extent, in later grades. For both samples, a positive school climate featuring positive peer relationships, high levels of nurturance and support, and opportunities for autonomy predicted school satisfaction. Results of the study are discussed in terms of implications for enhancing motivation and engagement among students from various cultural backgrounds. (Contains 2 tables.)