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Singapore vs. Malaysia: Which Country Is Better for International Schooling?

Picture of Tom Shacks By  Tom Shacks  ·  2 minute read

If you're an expat family relocating to Southeast Asia, deciding between international schools in Singapore or Malaysia can feel overwhelming. Both countries offer excellent options for education, yet the differences in cost, curriculum style and admissions can significantly impact your experience.

This guide helps you compare them side by side so you can make an informed decision that fits your child's learning needs and your family’s priorities.

💬 Not sure where to start? Chat with Doris and get matched with schools in Singapore and Malaysia that align with your values and lifestyle

1. Curriculum Diversity and Global Recognition

Both countries offer internationally respected curricula, but their availability and delivery vary.

Singapore

  • Strong presence of British (IGCSE and A Levels) and IB (PYP, MYP, DP)

  • Some American, French and Indian international schools

  • Structured, academic-focused environment

Malaysia

  • Offers a wider mix including British, IB, American, Australian, and hybrid models

  • Greater variation in school culture and teaching philosophies

  • Generally more flexibility in teaching style and curriculum integration

📖 Related reading: Complete Guide to International School Curriculums in Johor Bahru

🎯 Filter schools by curriculum with Doris and compare across both countries

wiss-shanghai-SVr4K7r-TOw-unsplash2. Tuition Fees and Value for Money

Singapore

  • Among the highest school fees in Asia

  • Annual tuition typically ranges from SGD 25,000 to SGD 50,000

  • Premium facilities and highly qualified staff, but often with extra fees for transport, meals or uniforms

Malaysia

  • Significantly more affordable

  • Annual tuition typically ranges between RM 25,000 and RM 70,000

  • Some schools include meals, co-curriculars or language support in the fee

If your budget is a key concern, Malaysia offers high-quality options at lower price points.

💸 Related blog posts:

📊 Use Doris to compare tuition fees and hidden costs with ease

3. Admissions Process and Flexibility

Singapore

  • Admissions are often competitive, especially for top-tier schools

  • Limited mid-year entry availability

  • Common to encounter waitlists, even at the kindergarten level

Malaysia

  • Typically more flexible

  • Easier to find open slots throughout the school year

  • Entrance assessments are often lighter or optional

Malaysia may suit families who are relocating on shorter timelines or outside the academic calendar.

🧭 Doris shows you which schools currently have availability based on your timeframe

4. Support for Expat Families

Singapore

  • Highly established infrastructure for expat families

  • Strong communication between schools and parents

  • Many schools offer PTAs, social events and transition programmes

Malaysia

  • Support systems vary by school but are improving

  • Some campuses in Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru offer excellent orientation and integration for international families

  • Bilingual and multicultural staff help ease transitions

💬 See also: Using AI to Find the Perfect International School

Doris helps you identify schools with strong emotional support, buddy systems and parent communities.

5. Which Country is Right for Your Family?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on what you value most.

Singapore may be the right fit if you:

  • Prefer a highly structured, academically focused environment

  • Are prepared for higher tuition costs

  • Need proximity to multinational company hubs or high-end urban infrastructure

Malaysia may be a better fit if you:

  • Want high-quality education with lower costs

  • Are looking for a wider range of teaching styles and smaller class sizes

  • Prefer more flexible admissions and a slightly slower pace of life

Cities like Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and Penang are increasingly popular for families balancing affordability with quality education.

📍 Learn more:

Final Word: Choose the Country That Aligns With Your Child, Not Just the Brochure

There is no right or wrong answer in the Singapore vs Malaysia schools debate. The best international school is the one that fits your child’s learning style, supports their emotional development and complements your family’s lifestyle.

Doris makes that decision easier.
It is a free, intelligent tool that asks the right questions and matches you with the schools that make sense — no marketing noise, no sponsored listings, no guesswork.

👉 Chat with Doris today and get personalised school matches in Singapore and Malaysia