How Do I Know Which Syllabus Will Suit My Child?

There are 5 common international syllabi available in Malaysia currently: British, Australian, American, International Baccalaureate (IB), and Canadian Ontario.

British curriculum (from ages 3 - 18)

It offers a regulated educated system (GCSE, IGCSE, and A level), which is accepted at most international universities. The curriculum offers a broad range of subjects that students can choose from. If your child prefers academical and exam-oriented assessment, the pathway to A-Levels is the right choice. Since a majority of international schools in Malaysia adopt this curriculum, there are a vast range of options for students. The structured aspect of the curriculum can feel inflexible and restrictive (only allows 3 to 4 subjects).

Australian curriculum (from ages 4 - 17)

Based on the British curriculum with less rigorous exams because it focuses more on assignments and coursework.

There are limited choices in Malaysia, compared to the British system.

The accreditation is not as recognised as the British curriculum and IB so it is mostly recommended if students want to continue their studies in Australia.

American curriculum (from ages 5 - 18)

It offers and encourages students to choose from a broad range of subjects.

The curriculum is based on continuous assessments without major exams. it is safe to say that American curriculum is less stressful during the common exam period.

International Baccalaureate (IB) (from ages 3 - 16)

University-like learning which requires students to be disciplined in self-studying and the completion of assignments and projects.

Students will develop many lifelong personal skills, such as critical thinking, adaptability, interpersonal skills, problem-solving, and self-discipline.

Suited for students who are motivated to study with a strong work ethic and a curiosity for the world around them.

Canada Ontario curriculum (from ages 5 - 17)

This curriculum is the least available in Malaysia, with only one or two schools offering this system.

Centred around six C’s (Character, Communication, Critical thinking, Collaboration, Citizenship, Creativity)

The final grade is made up of 70% coursework and 30% exam.

Students are assessed daily by teachers and given feedback.

Suited for students who want to study in America or Canada.

We Pay A lot For International Education - Is It Worth It?

It is a known fact that international schools in Malaysia can be costly. However, we are not the most expensive in the region; places like China and Brunei are known to be even more expensive.

The general answer would be the facilities, such as swimming pools, ICT labs, theatres, and the sports field, however there are other factors that make up for the expensive fees.

International schools usually follow a globally-recognised curriculum, therefore they will not hire just any teachers. The teachers have to be certified or licensed by the curriculum standards. With such rigorous requirements, the teachers demand a competitive salary and benefit packages. Additionally, the teacher-student ratio is small compared to local schools, allowing teachers to teach and supervise students more effectively.

Graduating schools that adopt globally known curriculum also provide students with accessibility to renowned universities which can save potential costs from taking any external standardised tests required from the universities (IELTS for example).

International schools also provide the opportunity for cultural exchange beyond Malaysia.

Why Are There So Many Fees?

Deposit fee: The deposit is usually the tuition fee of one-term. Some schools will require the deposit fee to be topped up as the child progresses through the levels. This should be made clear by the school, and parents should be notified formally.

Application or Registration Fee: Schools charge an application fee because there are some resources that go towards processing your application, even if your child is not accepted into the school. Some schools take a more prudent approach and will ask to meet with you before you send in your application. Application fees can range between RM500-1,500 per child while registration fees range from RM2,000-RM20,000

In order to receive a refund for your deposit, parents should notify the school several months prior to withdrawal. Failure to do so may result in the forfeiture of the deposit.

The deposits and application fee differ according to the school, so when in doubt of anything, it’s best to ask the person you’re dealing with. Be sure to check what each fee is for; most schools will provide a breakdown of the cost incurred.

It’s important to remember that these deposits go a long way in the costly running of an international school. Maintenance and upkeep of the numerous facilities alone can be hefty, not to mention upgrading the technology needed in classrooms and labs. More importantly, a chunk of your payment goes towards the salaries of highly-qualified teachers who strive everyday to provide the best education for your child in and out of the classroom.

Entry Assessment Tests - How Do I Know If My Child Will Qualify?

As a rule of thumb, most schools will provide a detailed description on how to apply on their websites. Some also accept completely digital applications.

If you’re worried whether or not your child will qualify, it is best to have a chat with the Head of School first who will be able to ascertain if your child is prepared for his/her equivalent grade level. You can also consider sending your child for extra lessons to prepare. This is more important if the child has to learn a new language in their new school. As long as the child can communicate in the primary language used in their new school, there shouldn’t be an issue.

Early years (Preschool): These centres usually suggest the child come and join the class with other children. If you’re not able to do that, ask if you can come in for a trial first

Primary: The school will usually test for writing, reading, and mathematics for placement tests.

Secondary (e.g. IGCSE or GCSE): Standardised tests will be provided to ascertain your child’s level.

How To Get Into International Schools (Step-by-Step Application Process)

Visit the website or the school (if you’re able).

Prepare copies of the child’s most recent school report and passport/ IC. Some schools often require other test reports as well, such as psychological testing results, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), English as Additional Language (EAL), Speech and Language, and Occupational Therapy, Student Health Online form and parents’ identification.

These reports depend on the school you are applying to so be sure to check carefully.

Prepare recent passport-size photographs with white background of the child. In some cases, they will ask for the same with parents.

Pay the non-refundable application fee.

After application is submitted, there will usually be an interview arranged with the parents. It’s always good to be able to meet the people in charge of the school before you make a final decision.

How Is The Quality Of Mathematics Being Taught At International Schools?

The academic quality of international schools is standardised as it follows globally recognised curriculums. It ensures students receive an education through systems that have been tested across countries and has been developed over years.

The best way to determine the academic quality at international schools is to refer to the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), and check the scores attained by the origin country’s syllabus that your child’s school is following. For example, if your child is at an Australian school, it is best to refer to Australian’s PISA scores to get an idea of what to expect.

The main highlight of international education is the continuous assessment of the child’s understanding. Even though, for example, with the British system, there are major exams, the teachers are trained to give and receive feedback on a regular basis.

While the classroom delivery will differ from school to school, teachers are held accountable because they report to the Head of Departments, who are responsible for approving the lesson plans. International school teachers also get observed at least twice a term in most schools.

What Do I Need To Prepare? My Child Is Transitioning From A Vernacular School to International School

Preparing the child to communicate in English as the primary language is crucial as everything will be taught in English.

English in an academic context can be challenging but children will get used to it eventually, nevertheless preparation, such as taking English courses, can help children to adapt to the environment.

Aside from language, there are entry assessments for secondary and higher. Children should prepare themselves to face standardised tests for entrance assessment (tests depend on the school).

Some schools offer additional assistance to help make the transition easier. It’s worth speaking to the Admissions Officer to inquire about this. In the context of academics, children should not have a problem assimilating to their new classroom settings. The teachers are adept at assisting the child to adapt to their new surroundings.

When it comes to the social and emotional context, it’s important that the child feels like they fit in. Most international schools are very welcoming and will offer assistance by way of looking out for the new child and ensuring they have a buddy to pair up with until they’re more comfortable.

The biggest transition would be in the classroom. Your child will need to get used to speaking up in class as that is what is expected. Don’t worry too much if they can’t do this right away. With time and practice, they will be on par or better than their peers.

As a parent, offering your emotional support while they transition will go a long way.

Would My Child Have Issues Transitioning From Public To International School?

Since the Ministry of Education introduced the Malaysian Education blueprint in 2013 - 2025 to reduce the focus on examinations and rote-learning, public schools have been transitioning to a teaching system that attempts to be more similar to private and international schools.

Transitioning from public to international school is manageable as long as the child can adapt to the primary language. If you’re not confident in your child’s ability in getting used to instructions in English, sending them for extra classes beforehand is definitely an option.

Some schools offer additional assistance to help make the transition easier. It’s worth speaking to the Admissions Officer to inquire about this. In the context of academics, children should not have a problem assimilating to their new classroom settings. The teachers are adept at assisting the child to adapt to their new surroundings.

When it comes to the social and emotional context, it’s important that the child feels like they fit in. Most international schools are very welcoming and will offer assistance by way of looking out for the new child and ensuring they have a buddy to pair up with until they’re more comfortable.

The biggest transition would be in the classroom. Your child will need to get used to speaking up in class as that is what is expected. Don’t worry too much if they can’t do this right away. With time and practice, they will be on par or better than their peers.

As a parent, offering your emotional support while they transition will go a long way.

I’m Worried We Can’t Afford International School Anymore - What Are My Options?

An alternative is to enrol into public school, however it depends on the public school. They will usually ask for placement tests to determine what year to put the child in. Your child may lose a year or have to play catch-up initially but they should be able to assimilate.

Public schools primarily deliver their instructions in Bahasa Melayu. If this is not something you prefer, you can also consider a private school that practices the Dual-Language Program (DLP).

Homeschooling centres are another option as most of them are based on international curriculums. Parents can opt to look for homeschooling centres that match the curriculum of the international school your child attended.

Finally, there is the option to homeschool your child. You don’t have to do this completely by yourself. There are plenty of co-ops and tutors that can help you come up with lesson plans, activities and ideas to guide your child accordingly.

I Want My Child To Experience Diversity and Multiculturalism - Is This Possible in An International School Setting?

Multiculturalism is actually a highlight of international schools.

The opportunity to meet international students is higher, allowing students to socialise and study with students from other countries. Students will have the platform to converse with peers that come from different backgrounds.

International schools often have multicultural events. This lets children experience other cultural events, such as holidays. Occasionally, students are allowed to hold communal activities with the school's facilities.

For parents who are worried that their kids are losing out on local culture, statistics show that there are a significantly higher number of Malaysian children who are enrolled in international schools.

It’s important for parents to also instill this sense of diversity at home. Talk to your child about different ethnicities, cultures and festivals. This will help to open their eyes to a world that is different from what they know.