Special Educational Needs (SEN) in International Schools: What Support Exists in Malaysia?

For families relocating to Malaysia with a child who has learning differences or special educational needs (SEN), finding the right international school is a key part of the transition. This article outlines the types of SEN support available in Malaysia's international schools and how Doris helps parents identify schools that match their child’s needs.

Relocating as a family is complex enough—but when your child requires extra support at school, the stakes feel even higher. In Malaysia, international schools vary in how they approach inclusion and SEN support. Some schools have dedicated departments or on-site specialists. Others may refer families to external therapists or clinics.

This guide outlines how SEN support typically looks in Malaysian international schools, what questions to ask, and how Doris can help you find the right environment for your child.

🎒 Looking for a school that meets your child’s specific learning or support needs? Doris makes it easier to compare options clearly and confidentially.

What Does “SEN” Mean in an International School Context?

“SEN” is a broad term used to describe students who require additional support in order to access the curriculum or participate fully in school life. This can include:

• Specific learning difficulties (e.g. dyslexia, ADHD, dyscalculia)

• Developmental delays

• Speech and language needs

• Autism spectrum conditions

• Emotional and behavioural support

• Physical or sensory impairments

Each international school defines and supports SEN in slightly different ways. Some offer in-house services, while others may work in partnership with external specialists.

Types of SEN Support Found in Malaysian International Schools

Support offerings vary from school to school. Some of the most common include:

1. Learning Support Departments

• One-on-one or small-group academic assistance

• Pull-out sessions during class time

• In-class co-teaching in some cases

2. Individual Education Plans (IEPs)

• Documented support plans tailored to the student

• Usually created in collaboration with teachers, parents, and specialists

3. Counselling and Emotional Support

• School counsellors or wellbeing teams

• Social-emotional learning programs

• Peer mentoring or transition support

4. Speech and Occupational Therapy

• Some schools have therapists on staff

• Others may allow in-school sessions with external providers

5. Admissions and Placement Support

• Some schools conduct pre-entry assessments

• Others ask for documentation or educational evaluations

📌 Want to know which schools provide IEPs or allow external therapists on campus? Doris flags this info inside each school profile.

How Inclusive Are International Schools in Malaysia?

Inclusion looks different at each school. While many schools aim to support a range of learners, not all are equipped to meet moderate or high levels of need.

Things to check during your research:

• Does the school have a dedicated SEN coordinator or team?

• What type of training do classroom teachers receive on inclusion?

• How does the school collaborate with families on progress and planning?

• Are additional fees charged for learning support services?

Some schools may have full-time learning support teachers, while others may only offer general classroom accommodations.

Questions to Ask During School Tours

When speaking with admissions teams or SEN coordinators, consider asking:

• What kinds of support do you currently provide for students with learning differences?

• Are services included in tuition, or charged separately?

• How many students receive learning support at the school today?

• Do you offer transition planning or support for children new to international education?

• How do you track student progress and communicate with parents?

🎒 Read our full guide: Top 10 Questions to Ask on a School Tour

How Doris Helps Parents Find Inclusive School Options

Doris is a free, independent and impartial tool that helps families compare international schools in Malaysia based on their unique needs. For parents navigating SEN support, Doris can:

• Filter schools by learning support availability

• Highlight schools that offer IEPs, in-house therapy, or classroom accommodations

• Provide clarity on whether support is integrated or external

• Avoid hidden surprises about fees or availability

🧠 Built with input from educators and families, Doris helps take the pressure off the school search—especially for parents seeking specialised support.

Final Thoughts

International schools in Malaysia offer a growing range of SEN services. But availability and capacity can vary widely. The best approach is to start early, ask direct questions, and be open about your child’s needs. Many schools welcome this transparency and aim to partner with families from the start.

You don’t have to navigate it alone.

🎓 Let Doris support your family’s move by helping you find international schools that meet your child’s learning profile and wellbeing needs.
🎒 Search inclusive schools in Malaysia