Doris Blog | Expert Tips & Guides for International Schools

Best International Schools in Johor Bahru (2025) – A Guide for Parents

Written by Madeleine Lee | Jun 24, 2025 8:47:40 AM

Looking across the border for quality education? Johor Bahru might surprise you.

Why Look at Johor Bahru for International Schooling? Whether you’re a JB local or a Singapore-based commuter, more and more families are choosing Johor Bahru (JB) for international schooling. The draw?
✅ Lower fees
✅ Strong global curricula
✅ Newer facilities
✅ A growing list of respected schools

But with so many options, how do you know what’s right for your child? That’s where Doris comes in—helping you find a school based on your child’s learning style, your budget, and your family’s goals. No stress. No guesswork.

📍 Related: International School Fees in Singapore Explained

Top International Schools in Johor Bahru (2025)

Marlborough College Malaysia

Curriculum: British (IGCSE, A Levels)
Location: Iskandar Puteri
Sister to Marlborough UK, this premium school brings heritage, holistic education, and world-class facilities to Southeast Asia. Families love the pastoral care and values-led environment.
🟣 Best for: Parents seeking day or boarding in a traditional British model.

Raffles American School

Curriculum: American (K–12, AP Capstone)
Location: Nusajaya
Spacious campus, strong extracurriculars, and an American learning ethos make Raffles popular with expat families.
🟣 Best for: U.S. families or those seeking a holistic, creativity-first approach.

Sunway International School (SIS)

Curriculum: Canadian (Ontario) + IB Diploma
Location: Medini
SIS offers a hybrid curriculum that blends academic rigour with inquiry-based learning. University preparation is a strong suit.
🟣 Best for: Families wanting flexibility beyond British or American pathways.

Tenby Schools Setia Eco Gardens

Curriculum: British (IGCSE, A Levels) + Malaysian National Curriculum
Location: Gelang Patah
Tenby runs a dual-stream model and is part of the ISP network. The international stream focuses on character, global citizenship, and community.
🟣 Best for: Malaysian families looking for an international experience without losing cultural connection.

Austin Heights International School

Curriculum: British (IGCSE, A Levels)
Location: Taman Mount Austin
Known for its community vibe, strong leadership, and smaller class sizes. Location is convenient for families closer to JB central.
🟣 Best for: Families who value accessibility, relationships, and academic consistency.

Seri Omega Private & International School

Curriculum: British (Cambridge)
Location: Skudai
A strong value-for-money option offering solid academic outcomes. No-frills but trusted.
🟣 Best for: Budget-conscious families prioritising academic track record.

Why Families Are Choosing JB Over Singapore

  • Tuition is 30–50% lower on average

  • Options span British, American, IB, and Canadian systems

  • Many schools offer full K–12 progression

  • Commutes from Singapore (especially via Tuas Second Link) are feasible for some

Still, every family’s priorities differ. That’s why Doris focuses on what actually matters to you—be it bilingualism, special education support, campus culture, or curriculum familiarity.

📍 Related: How to Choose the Right International School in Singapore

Budget Matters—But Fit Matters More

International school fees in JB range from RM 20,000 to RM 100,000 per year. Doris helps you look beyond the numbers and weigh:

  • What’s included in fees?

  • How stable are the costs over time?

  • Will the school actually support how your child learns?

If you’re weighing your options vs. Singapore, Doris can simplify the comparison—without bias.

Final Word: JB Has Options. Doris Makes Them Clear.

Choosing an international school in Johor Bahru isn’t a compromise anymore. It’s a smart move for many families seeking affordability, academic rigour, and global-ready credentials.

Whether you’re relocating, commuting, or planning ahead for 2025, Doris helps you find JB schools that suit your child’s personality, learning needs, and your long-term plans.

A Quick Note on How Doris Works

We work with a number of schools to help them understand what parents are looking for—that allows us to keep Doris free for families. But commercial relationships never influence which schools we recommend or how they appear.
We never sell rankings. We never accept paid placement. Your child’s needs come first, always.
Want to learn more? Read our Transparency Charter.