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2 minute read
Applying for an international school can feel like a full-time job, especially when every country, and sometimes every school, follows a different admissions calendar.
If you’re relocating to Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Brunei, or Hong Kong, knowing when to start the application process can save time, stress, and even secure your child’s place ahead of your move.
Typical Application Timelines Across Asia
Most international schools operate on an academic year starting in August or September, but some follow January or April intakes.
Here’s a quick overview of when to begin your research and applications by country:
| Country | Main Intake | Application Period | Secondary Intake | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Singapore | August | October – February | January | Many top-tier schools close by March. Rolling admissions possible for mid-tier schools. |
| Malaysia | August / September | November – April | January / April | Some schools (e.g. British) accept rolling entry year-round. |
| Thailand | August | December – March | January | U.S. and IB schools often accept ongoing applications. |
| Brunei | August | January – April | January | Smaller number of international schools; apply early for primary years. |
| Hong Kong | August | September – December | January / April | High competition; many schools conduct assessments months ahead. |
Step 1: Start Researching 9–12 Months in Advance
Even if your relocation date isn’t final, it’s best to begin exploring schools a year before you move.
This allows time to:
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Compare curricula (IB, British, American, or national systems).
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Understand language or placement test requirements.
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Schedule virtual or in-person campus tours.
Step 2: Contact Schools 6–8 Months Before Relocation
By this point, shortlist your top schools and reach out to admissions teams.
Many schools:
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Require documents like school reports, recommendation letters, and language assessments.
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Schedule interviews or online testing.
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Offer priority consideration to early applicants, especially for popular year groups.
Tip: Use doris to directly contact the admissions teams to make enquiries about spaces
Step 3: Submit Applications 3–6 Months Before the School Year
Most schools review applications in waves. Early submission increases your chance of placement, especially in competitive cities like Singapore and Hong Kong.
Late applications are sometimes possible, but options narrow, particularly for Reception and Year 1.
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Step 4: Plan for Assessments and Offers
After submitting, schools may invite your child for:
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Entrance assessments (academic or language).
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Family interviews (often informal, but important).
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Campus tours or virtual orientation sessions.
This stage often happens 2–4 months before term starts, so flexibility helps.
Step 5: Confirm and Prepare for Enrollment
Once an offer arrives, families usually have 7–14 days to confirm and pay deposits.
Checklist:
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Arrange student passes or dependent visas.
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Secure housing near your chosen school.
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Prepare uniforms and orientation materials.
Application Tips from Families on doris
| Tip | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Start early | Spots for early years fill first, especially in popular IB schools. |
| Apply to 2–3 schools | Keeps options open if your first choice is full. |
| Ask about rolling admissions | Some schools accept mid-year transfers. |
| Use one platform for comparison | doris lets you filter by location, fees, and entry year. |
FAQ: Parents Also Ask
Can I apply to multiple schools at once?
Yes, in fact, it’s recommended. doris helps you to create a shortlist so you can contact your top school choices.
Do I need to visit the school before applying?
No, but many schools offer virtual tours. You can book visits directly through doris.
What if I move mid-year?
Many international schools have flexible entry, especially those with American or IB systems.
How do I know if a school still has space?
Use doris to directly contact the Admissions team to find out if the international school has spaces.
Every family’s situation is different, but starting early is always the best strategy.
By beginning your search 9–12 months ahead, you’ll have time to explore schools, understand their requirements, and make confident decisions before your move.
doris helps you see application windows, compare curricula, and connect with schools directly, all in one place, saving you time, stress, and uncertainty.
doris is a free, independent platform helping families compare international schools across Asia with AI-powered, impartial recommendations.
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