By
·
2 minute read
Many families researching international schools in Southeast Asia haven’t arrived yet. Whether you're relocating to Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, or Brunei, the school decision often happens from abroad — sometimes months before the move.
This post outlines how expat parents approach the school search remotely, and how doris supports every step with clear, structured comparisons.
doris is a free, impartial school marketplace that helps you shortlist, compare, and contact schools — all from your home country.
Why Families Choose Schools Before They Arrive
In most cases, school choice shapes your entire relocation. Parents want to:
-
Secure a place ahead of time
-
Choose a home near school
-
Avoid waitlists or missed deadlines
-
Prepare children emotionally and academically
Using doris, you can explore schools by curriculum, fees, language support, and more — without needing to tour campuses in person.
What to Look for When You Can’t Visit
| Factor | Why It Matters | What to Check on doris |
|---|---|---|
| Curriculum Fit | Aligns with child’s learning style + future plans | IB, British, American, or bilingual pathways |
| Location & Commute | Impacts daily life once you arrive | School maps, city filters, housing proximity |
| Language Support | Critical if your child is learning in English for the first time | EAL, bilingual instruction, second-language options |
| School Values & Size | Helps predict your child’s social experience | Class size, co-curriculars, support services |
| Application Deadlines | Some schools close entry early | Admission timelines and intake filters |
Questions to Ask in Remote Conversations
When you can’t visit in person, virtual Q&As become key. Consider asking:
-
What does a typical day look like for my child’s age group?
-
How does the school support new international students?
-
Are there orientation programmes or buddy systems?
-
What support is available for language or SEN needs?
-
Can I schedule a virtual tour or speak to other parents?
On doris, you can message schools directly to ask these questions after shortlisting them.
How doris Helps You Search Remotely
With doris, families abroad can:
-
Filter schools by what actually matters
-
View school profiles with curriculum, fee range, and class size
-
Compare schools side by side without rankings
-
Track application deadlines
-
Save their shortlist and revisit it any time
FAQs
Can I apply to schools from overseas?
Yes. Most schools accept remote applications and offer online interviews or assessments.
Is it risky to choose a school I haven’t visited?
Not necessarily. With clear data, virtual tours, and structured comparison tools like doris, many families make confident choices before they move.
Can I change schools after relocating if needed?
Yes, but spaces may be limited mid-year. It’s helpful to begin with a school that matches your child’s immediate needs and adjust if necessary later.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to be on the ground to make an informed school decision. With doris, families can compare international schools across Southeast Asia remotely — and feel confident they’ve found the right fit.