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If you’re planning a move to Southeast Asia with your family, one of your first steps will be applying to international schools. Each country — and each school — may follow a slightly different process, so knowing what to expect can save time and reduce stress.
This guide outlines the key parts of the international school admissions process in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Brunei, and explains how doris can help you stay on track.
doris is a free international school marketplace that helps parents compare schools, filter by admission timelines, and even contact schools directly — with no rankings or paid listings.
Step 1: Know When to Start
In general, it’s best to begin your search 6 to 12 months before your child’s intended start date. Some schools offer rolling admissions, while others have fixed deadlines — particularly for key intake years like Year 1, Year 7, or Grade 9.
Use doris to check application timelines for each school, so you don’t miss your window.
Step 2: Prepare the Paperwork
Most international schools will request:
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A completed application form
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Previous school reports
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A copy of your child’s passport or birth certificate
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Language assessments or entry tests (if applicable)
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A family profile or parent statement
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An application or registration fee
On doris, each school profile includes a section on admissions steps and required documents, so you can prepare in advance.
Step 3: Understand Assessment Requirements
Some schools require entrance tests or interviews, especially for older year groups. These assessments might evaluate:
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English or math proficiency
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Second-language fluency (e.g. Mandarin, French)
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Learning support needs
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School fit or readiness
If your child needs additional language or academic support, you can filter for schools that offer this on doris.
Step 4: Ask About Waitlists and Spaces
Popular schools in Singapore, KL, or Bangkok may operate waitlists during peak years. Schools in Brunei or Penang might have more flexibility. Some offer guaranteed places to corporate partners or siblings — others do not.
You can see which schools have space available now by starting a search on doris.
Step 5: Track Your Next Steps
It’s easy to miss key dates or lose track of communications, especially if you’re applying to multiple schools. doris helps families:
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Track which schools they’ve contacted
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View upcoming deadlines
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Save school profiles for quick access
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Message admissions teams directly
FAQs
Do all schools have the same admissions calendar?
No. Some offer rolling admissions year-round. Others have fixed dates for August or January entry.
Can I apply before arriving in Southeast Asia?
Yes. Most schools allow overseas applications, and many offer virtual assessments or interviews.
What happens if my child is waitlisted?
You may be offered a place later in the year or for a future term. It’s a good idea to apply to more than one school and keep options open.
Final Thoughts
The admissions process can feel different from what you’re used to at home — but with clear information and the right tools, it’s manageable. doris helps families plan, prepare, and stay organised while finding a school that truly fits.