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If you're relocating to Malaysia with children, choosing the right international school is one of the first big decisions you’ll face. Whether you're looking at Kuala Lumpur, Penang, or Johor Bahru, parents tend to ask the same questions as they begin their search.
Top Questions Expats Ask About International Schools in Malaysia (Answered)
This guide answers the most common ones — based on thousands of parent conversations and searches on doris. doris is a free, impartial school discovery tool that matches families to international schools based on curriculum, fees, language support, and more.
Explore international schools in Malaysia
1. What curricula are available in Malaysia?
Malaysia offers a wide variety of curricula. Most schools follow:
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British curriculum (IGCSE and A-Level)
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International Baccalaureate (IB)
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American curriculum
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Cambridge International
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Bilingual or local hybrid models
The curriculum you choose should reflect your child’s learning style, future education plans, and your family's country of origin.
2. How much do international schools cost in Malaysia?
Annual tuition can range from MYR 15,000 to over MYR 100,000 depending on the school, city, and grade level. Some schools offer bundled pricing that includes meals, transport, or uniforms, while others separate these out.
doris allows you to filter schools by tuition band and view what's included.
3. Are there differences between schools in KL, Johor Bahru, and Penang?
Yes. Kuala Lumpur has the widest variety of international schools, including those with specialist support services and high-capacity campuses. Johor Bahru and Penang offer more community-focused schools with smaller class sizes.
doris includes filters for city, region, and school size to help narrow your search.
4. When should I apply?
While some schools in Malaysia offer rolling admissions, others have set application deadlines, particularly for popular year groups. It’s best to start researching 6–12 months before your desired start date.
doris shows application timelines as part of each school listing.
5. What support is available for language or SEN?
Many international schools offer English as an Additional Language (EAL) support, and some also provide resources for children with specific learning needs (SEN).
If language support or specialist services are a priority, you can filter for these in your doris search.
6. Can I schedule school visits through doris?
Yes. Once you’ve shortlisted a few schools, you can contact them directly via doris or schedule visits to get a better feel for each environment. Most schools are open to both in-person and virtual tours.
7. How do I compare schools without relying on rankings?
doris does not rank or promote schools. Instead, it gives families a way to compare based on what matters most to them — curriculum, support services, school values, and more.
Your shortlist is built entirely around your child’s profile, not marketing placements.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a school in Malaysia involves more than browsing websites or relying on Facebook threads. doris gives you a structured, impartial way to explore your options — all in one place, and always free.