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Relocating to Kuala Lumpur (KL) as an expat family can feel exciting and overwhelming in equal measure. Compared to Singapore, KL offers more affordable housing and school fees, while still maintaining a wide choice of international schools. The real question isn’t whether you’ll find a school — it’s which school best suits your child, your commute, and your family’s lifestyle.
Here’s what expat parents should know when planning school choices in KL.
Step 1: Consider the Curriculum
KL schools cover a wide range of pathways.
| Curriculum | Common in KL? | Typical Next Step |
|---|---|---|
| British (IGCSE + A Levels) | Very common | UK, Australia, global universities |
| IB (PYP, MYP, Diploma) | Growing | Global university applications |
| American (with AP) | Available | U.S. + flexible pathways |
👉 Explore: All Malaysia international schools
Step 2: Think About Neighborhoods and Commutes
Traffic in KL can be unpredictable, so many expat families choose housing near their children’s schools.
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Mont Kiara: Expat hub with condos + easy access to Garden International School and Mont’Kiara International School.
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Desa ParkCity: Family-friendly gated community with The International School @ ParkCity.
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Bangsar & Damansara: Trendy but central, close to Alice Smith (Primary) and short drive to secondary options.
Step 3: School Examples
| School | Curriculum | Fee Range (MYR/year) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Alice Smith School | British | 30,000 – 80,000 | Longstanding KL institution |
| Garden International School | British | 40,000 – 90,000 | Large expat community |
| Mont’Kiara International School | American + AP | 50,000 – 100,000 | Strong U.S. pathway |
| Marlborough College Malaysia | British + IB | 90,000 – 130,000 | Premium boarding option in Johor |
Step 4: Practical Tips for Parents
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Plan housing and schools together: commute matters more than it looks on a map.
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Apply early: 6–12 months in advance for Year 1, Year 7, and Year 10.
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Budget for hidden costs: transport, uniforms, exam fees, and extracurriculars.
FAQs
Is KL more affordable than Singapore for international schools?
Yes, fees are significantly lower, though premium schools still approach Singapore levels.
Where do most expats live in KL?
Mont Kiara and Desa ParkCity are the most popular family neighborhoods.
Which curriculum dominates KL?
The British curriculum (IGCSE + A Levels) is the most common.
👉 Explore: All Malaysia international schools