Choosing the right international school can feel like an impossible task — especially when you're staring at dozens of school websites, curriculum acronyms and fee structures.
Whether you're relocating to Singapore, exploring options in Malaysia or planning a family move to Brunei, the search process often leads to stress, confusion and decision fatigue.
This guide gives you a simple, step-by-step framework to cut through the overwhelm and find a school that fits. And if you'd rather not do it alone, Doris is here to help. It’s a free tool that matches families with schools based on what actually matters.
A glossy website or a top-tier reputation might look impressive, but it doesn't guarantee the right environment for your child.
Start by asking:
What kind of environment helps your child thrive?
Do they prefer structure or flexibility?
Are they academic, artistic, active — or a mix?
How do they handle change, pressure or large groups?
🎯 Use Doris to assess your child’s learning style and match it to school culture
Curriculum shapes how your child learns and prepares for future pathways.
In Singapore, the British and IB programmes dominate. In Malaysia, you’ll find a wider range — from American and Australian to Montessori. Brunei offers a smaller selection but includes bilingual and community-led international models.
Key curriculum types include:
British (IGCSE and A Levels): Structured, exam-focused
IB (PYP, MYP, DP): Inquiry-based and holistic
American: Broad, flexible, with continuous assessment
Australian and Canadian: Balanced and increasingly present in Southeast Asia
Montessori: Ideal for younger, self-paced learners
📖 Related reading: Complete Guide to International School Curriculums in Johor Bahru
🧭 Filter schools by curriculum with Doris across Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei
Cost is a major factor — and so is convenience. Some international schools in Kuala Lumpur or Singapore offer incredible facilities but come with high tuition fees. Others in places like Johor Bahru or Penang strike a better balance between affordability and value.
Ask yourself:
What is your annual school budget?
Do you need transport, meals or uniforms included?
How far are you willing to commute daily?
Doris allows you to set filters for:
Tuition range
Commute limits
Inclusion of extras like meals and language support
💸 Compare international school fees and what they include using Doris
📚 Related: Top 5 Affordable International Schools in Johor Bahru
Your child’s wellbeing matters just as much as their academic progress. Consider:
Emotional support services and counsellors
Student-teacher ratios
Availability of co-curricular and after-school activities
Transition support for new students
Many families relocating to Brunei or smaller towns in Malaysia worry about their child settling in socially. That’s why culture fit and onboarding support should factor into your decision.
💬 Read how Doris highlights schools with strong wellbeing and emotional care programmes
The truth is, you don’t need to figure this out alone. Doris is designed specifically for overwhelmed parents navigating the international school maze.
Here’s how it works:
Answer a few quick questions about your child
Set your budget, preferred curriculum and location
Get a curated list of schools that make sense — no rankings, no ads, just clarity
Save schools, compare them and get talking points for school tours
Whether you're in Singapore, Brunei, or anywhere in Malaysia, Doris helps remove the stress and second-guessing.
There is no single best international school — only the best one for your child.
It’s not about prestige or popularity. It’s about alignment with your child’s personality, your family goals and the rhythm of your everyday life.
Doris makes that easier.
It takes your priorities and turns them into a shortlist that works — whether you're exploring schools in bustling Singapore, flexible Malaysia, or tight-knit Brunei communities.
👉 Chat with Doris today and get matched with international schools that actually fit