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Finding the right international school can take months, sometimes longer. Whether you’re relocating to Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Brunei, or Hong Kong, the process involves researching, shortlisting, applying, and confirming, all while managing a major move.
The key? Start early. Families who begin their search 9–12 months ahead typically have more choice, less stress, and better placement options.
How Early Should You Start Looking?
| Stage | Ideal Timeline Before Start of School Year | What to Focus On |
|---|---|---|
| Research & Shortlist | 9–12 months | Compare countries, curricula, fees, and relocation logistics |
| Contact Schools | 6–8 months | Book tours, attend open days, check admission requirements |
| Submit Applications | 3–6 months | Prepare documents, assessments, and references |
| Confirm Enrolment | 1–3 months | Pay deposits, finalize housing near school |
| Orientation & Move | 1 month | Attend parent sessions, prepare uniforms, settle in |
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Why Timing Matters
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Popular schools fill up fast – especially for early years and primary levels.
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Visa and relocation logistics can delay enrollment.
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Curriculum continuity (e.g. IB, IGCSE) requires planning if switching mid-year.
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Assessment windows differ by curriculum and country.
Early planning gives families flexibility, and ensures smoother transitions for children moving between systems.
Regional Differences: When to Start Looking
| Country | Main Intake | When to Begin Research | Typical Deadlines |
|---|---|---|---|
| Singapore | August | 10–12 months before | Applications close Feb–Mar |
| Malaysia | August / September | 9–10 months before | Rolling, but top schools fill early |
| Thailand | August | 9–10 months before | March–April for main intake |
| Brunei | August | 8–9 months before | March–May |
| Hong Kong | August | 12 months before | November–January (competitive entry) |
What to Do If You’re Moving Mid-Year
Not all moves align with the school calendar. If your relocation happens mid-year:
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Look for schools offering rolling admissions (common in IB and American systems).
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Ask about credit transfer and academic placement flexibility.
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Consider temporary enrollment or hybrid options while waiting for the next term.
Checklist: How to Prepare Before Applying
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Define your priorities | Curriculum, budget, commute, extracurriculars |
| Gather school reports | Most schools require 2 years of transcripts |
| Prepare recommendation letters | From previous teachers or principals |
| Check language requirements | Some schools test English or Mandarin proficiency |
| Plan school visits | Virtual or in-person tours to compare culture and fit |
Tips from Parents Who’ve Used doris
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“We started our search 10 months before moving to Malaysia, doris helped us shortlist schools within a week.”
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“Our son’s year group was full, but doris put us in touch with the school's admissions team directly.”
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“Using doris saved us from endless spreadsheets and outdated forums.”
FAQ: Parents Also Ask
Can I apply to more than one international school at once?
Yes, most families apply to 2–3 schools to secure placement. doris helps track multiple applications easily.
Is there a best time of year to move?
Ideally between June and August, before the main intake. However, many schools now accept rolling entry.
How long does the application process take?
Usually 4–8 weeks, depending on interviews and assessments.
What if my child doesn’t speak English fluently?
Many schools offer EAL (English as an Additional Language) support. You can filter for this on doris.
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Starting early makes all the difference.
By beginning your international school search at least nine months before your planned move, you’ll have time to explore curricula, understand fee structures, and choose a school that truly fits your family’s needs.
With doris, you can compare schools across Asia, directly contact the schools admissions team, and even chat with an AI assistant to receive personalized recommendations, all in one place.
doris is a free, independent platform helping families compare international schools across Asia with AI-powered, impartial recommendations.