---
title: When to Start Looking for an International School | Parent Timeline | doris
description: Planning a move to Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, or Brunei? Here's when to start looking at international schools and how doris helps you stay on track.
image: https://blog.doris.school/hubfs/happy-family-with-kids-moving-their-new-home.jpg
---

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 September 10, 2025

# When Should You Start Looking for an International School? A Timeline for Expat Families

![Picture of Rupert Gedde](https://blog.doris.school/hubfs/public%20(2).avif) By   Rupert Gedde  ·   2 minute read

If you’re moving to a new country with children, choosing the right school will be one of your first major decisions. But how early do you need to start? And what does the timeline look like — from first search to final enrolment?

This guide walks you through the process and helps you avoid common pitfalls. Whether you're moving to Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, or Brunei, doris helps families find schools based on their needs, not paid listings or rankings.

> [Search international schools with doris](https://www.doris.school/find-international-schools)

---

### A Typical Timeline for International School Search

| Stage | Timing | What to Do |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 12–18 months before | Define priorities | Research curricula, fees, support needs. Use doris to build a shortlist. |
| 9–12 months before | Begin enquiries | Contact schools, ask about admissions, book virtual tours. |
| 6–9 months before | Apply to top schools | Prepare paperwork, complete forms, schedule assessments. |
| 3–6 months before | Confirm enrolment | Accept offers, secure housing near school, finalise transition plans. |
| 0–3 months before | Prepare for start | Attend orientations, gather uniforms, arrange transport. |

 

Timelines vary by country and school. Some offer rolling admissions. Others close applications months in advance.

![happy-family-with-kids-moving-their-new-home](https://blog.doris.school/hs-fs/hubfs/happy-family-with-kids-moving-their-new-home.jpg?width=5084&height=3383&name=happy-family-with-kids-moving-their-new-home.jpg)

---

### Start Early — Even If You're Not Sure Where You're Moving Yet

Many families wait until relocation details are final before starting the school search. But schools can fill up quickly, especially in major cities like:

- Singapore (Term starts in January or August)
- Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru (Rolling admissions, but early is better)
- Bangkok (Most intake happens in August)
- Brunei (January and September start options)

doris helps you stay ahead by showing which schools have availability by term or grade level.

---

### Common Delays to Avoid

- Waiting until after a move to start searching
- Applying to only one school and relying on it
- Assuming schools offer year-round rolling entry
- Underestimating time needed for assessments and paperwork

With doris, you can explore schools early, save your shortlist, and revisit it when you’re ready to apply.

> [Create your school shortlist with doris](https://www.doris.school/find-international-schools)

---

### FAQs

**How far in advance do I need to apply?**  
Some schools recommend starting 9–12 months before your desired intake. For competitive year levels, earlier is better.

**Can I use doris before I know exactly where I’m moving?**  
Yes. You can explore schools in multiple countries or cities at once, using filters for curriculum, fees, and support services.

**What if we’re moving on short notice?**  
Use doris to find schools with rolling admissions or current availability. Some families apply after arrival, but options may be more limited.

---

### Final Thoughts

Starting your international school search early gives your family more choice, more clarity, and less stress. doris helps families every step of the way — from early research to enrolment — with personalised, impartial recommendations that match your needs.

> [Plan your school search timeline with doris](https://www.doris.school/find-international-schools)

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