2018: 10 Most Expensive International Schools In The Klang Valley [Updated]
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To ensure their children remain competitive in an increasingly borderless world, more and more Malaysian parents are opting for international and private education for their children. However, these schools do not come cheap.
In 2012, the Malaysian government has eliminated the quota for Malaysian enrolment at international schools. Due to the quota and the lack of affordable options, only selected affluent Malaysians could afford to send their children to these schools previously.
The 2012 decision to remove the quota has opened the floodgates and more international schools are mushrooming all over the country. According to the latest data by the International School Consultancy Group (ISC), a UK-based organisation, there are currently 99 English-medium international schools in the country, with a total of 39,460 students.
The market has been growing at a rate of 19% per annum for the past five years, and it is showing no signs of stagnation. As of 2014, the fees are expected to rise another 8% to 15%.
Read this: Malaysian parents prefer overseas education for their children.
Based on latest findings, 40% of the students in these premium schools are local Malaysians, 9% British, 6% South Korean and 4% American.
How expensive are these premium schools really? We have collated the top 10 most expensive international schools in the country and this is how much you will have to fork out to send your child to these schools from nursery all the way till graduation:
1. Mont’Kiara International School (M’KIS)
Located in Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur, Mont’Kiara International School (M’KIS) offers North American curriculum from Pre-Kindergarten through Year 12. Balancing academics and life skills, M’KIS emphasises on the Expected School Wide Learning Results concept. There is a focus on vital academic skills such as communication, critical thinking, technological literacy, numerical literacy and independent learning.
The school is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and the International Baccalaureate Organization.
The school is also catered for students with mild learning disabilities, physiological conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), significant lags in an academic skill area, or other circumstance that results in the need for regular weekly support are supported through the auspices of their Learning Assistance programme for Grades 1-12.
How much do you need to pay to enroll your kids to this premium institution?
| Application fee, non-refundable | RM1,200.00 |
One-Time Registration Fee, Non-Refundable |
|
| Kindergarten Preparatory (KP) | RM3,000.00 |
| Kindergarten Preparatory Advanced (KPA) | RM4,000.00 |
| Kindergarten (KG) | RM8,000.00 |
| Grades 1 – 5 | RM25,000.00 |
| Grades 6 – 8 | RM25,000.00 |
| Grades 9 – 12 | RM25,000.00 |
| Level | Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Kindergarten Preparatory (KP) | RM23,500.00 | RM23,500.00 |
| Kindergarten Preparatory Advanced (KPA) | RM28,500.00 | RM28,500.00 |
| Kindergarten (KG) | RM36,500.00 | RM36,500.00 |
| Grades 1 – 5 | RM43,000.00 | RM43,000.00 |
| Grades 6 – 8 | RM48,633.50 | RM48,633.50 |
| Grades 9 – 12 | RM53,800.00 | RM53,800.00 |
| TOTAL FEES UNTIL GRADUATION | RM1,355,401.00 |
|
- The English as an Additional Language (EAL) Assessment Fee is RM1,000.00. This is only applicable to new students who do not meet the minimum English Proficiency level, which is objectively determined by the school.
- Students who need to do English as an Additional Language (EAL) need to pay an additional tuition fee of RM1,750.
- Academic Assessment Fees: Students who are returning will be assessed and the assessment fee is RM1,000.00 per year. This assessment fee is not refundable. School supplies from Kindergarten Preparatory to Grade 5 will be provided.
- Surcharge for Late Payment: A surcharge of five percent (5%) on unpaid tuition fees is applied for payments received fourteen (14) days after the semester has commenced.
Discounts
- Siblings Discount: Subsequent siblings of the first enrolled child will receive rebates.
| Sibling | Rebate |
|---|---|
| Second | 2% |
| Third | 3% |
| Fourth | 4% |
Facilities
| Academics | • 8 computer labs • Science laboratories for earth science, chemistry, biology, physics and physical science • 29 classrooms in the Elementary School wing • 5 English Language Learners (ELL) classrooms • 3 Learning Center classrooms • Library Media Center • 34 classrooms in the Middle School wing • 15 classrooms in the High School wing |
| Creative Arts | • Music rooms • Band room • Art rooms • Dance theater • Ceramics room • 440-seat theatre |
| Sports & Recreational | • Gymnasium • 2 fields • Fitness center • Climbing wall • Swimming pool |
| Others | • 24-hour security |
Other information
| Curricula & programme | International Baccalaureate (IB), American Curriculum and American High School Diploma |
| Number of students | 900 |
| Average class size | 16 - 21 |
| Levels of education offered | Pre-kindergarten to Grade 12 |
| Age | 4 to 18 years old |
| School year schedule | August to June |
| Contact information | 22 Jalan Kiara, Mon’t Kiara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Tel : 603 2093 8604 Email : info@mkis.edu.my Website: www.mkis.edu.my |
2. International School of Kuala Lumpur
International School of Kuala Lumpur (ISKL) has two campuses located in Ampang and Melawati. Established in 1965, it is the first international school that offers American-based curriculum and programme.
Well-known and reputable internationally, the school programme covers age 3 to 17: Elementary School (Pre-reception through Grade 5), Middle School (Grade 6 through Grade 8) and High School (Grade 9 through Grade 12).
The school balances academics with co-curricular such as social, emotional and moral development.
Here is how much it cost to send your child to ISKL in 2018:
| Application fee, non-refundable | RM1,155.00 |
| Society Membership Admission Fee, non-refundable (One-time payment per family) | RM50.00 |
| Annual Society Membership Subscription, non-refundable (Annually per family) | RM20.00 |
| Family Registration Fee, partially refundable (One-time payment per family) | RM26,460.00 |
| Admission Confirmation and Student Registration Fees | |
| Grade: Prep Reception, Prep Jr. (Requires a payment of an annual Registration Fee) | RM3,500.00 |
| Prep Senior – Grade 12 (One- time payment per student) | RM39,630.00 |
| Level | Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Prep Reception | RM31,390.00 | RM16,900.00 |
| Prep Junior | RM42,230.00 | RM22,740.00 |
| Prep Senior, Grades 1 – 5 | RM50,200.00 | RM27,010.00 |
| Grades 6 – 8 | RM57,350.00 | RM30,880.00 |
| Grades 9 – 12 | RM63,500.00 | RM34,200.00 |
| TOTAL FEES UNTIL GRADUATION | RM1,263,475.00 |
|
Facilities
| Academics | • Air-conditioned and carpeted classrooms • Computer labs with Apple computers • Libraries • Science labs |
| Creative Arts | • Art studios (art rooms, darkroom, publication/graphics lab, outdoor batik area, ceramics studio) • Drama studio • Music rooms • Theatres |
| Sports & Recreational | • Climbing wall • Covered recreational areas for basketball, volleyball and badminton • Fitness centre • Swimming pools |
| Others | • Canteens • Clinics • Wi-Fi |
Other information
| Curricula & programme | International Baccalaureate (IB), American Curriculum, American High School Diploma, Advanced Placement Courses |
| Number of students | 1,500 |
| Average class size | 12 – 24 |
| Levels of education offered | Pre-reception to Grade 12 |
| Age | 3 to 17 years old |
| School year schedule | August to June |
| Contact information | EARLY CHILDHOOD AND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Melawati Campus PT3350 Jalan Melawati 3 Taman Melawati, 53100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Tel: +60 3 4104-3000 Fax: +60 3 4108-4166 Email: iskl@iskl.edu.my MIDDLE SCHOOL AND HIGH SCHOOL Ampang Campus (Main Campus) Jalan Kerja Ayer Lama, 68000 Ampang, Selangor Tel: +60 3 4259-5600 Fax: +60 3 4257-9044 Email: iskl@iskl.edu.my |
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3. The British International School of Kuala Lumpur (BSKL)
The British International School of Kuala Lumpur adopts the National Curriculum of England, also known as UK Curriculum. For parents, especially expatriates from the UK or other countries who adopt the same education system, this will be a good school to enrol your child.
In the British education system, year groups are divided into Early Years (Nursery and Reception) for age three to four, Primary (Years 1 to 6) for age five to 11, Secondary (Years 7 to 13) for age 11 to 17 and Sixth Form for age 18.
However, this school costs significantly more than other international schools in the country. Studying at the BSKL from the young age of three to Year 13 will easily amount to more than RM1 million.
Here is the breakdown of the fees, excluding Sixth Form:
| Application fee, non-refundable | RM1,500.00 |
| Parent membership fee, per family, non-refundable | RM17,050.00 |
| Level | Annual Tuition Fee | Yearly Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Nursery | RM48,270.00 | RM44,270.00 |
| Nursery | RM48,270.00 | RM44,270.00 |
| Reception – Year 1 | RM58,380.00 | RM53,560.00 |
| Years 2 – 6 | RM75,600.00 | RM70,120.00 |
| Years 7 – 9 | RM84,060.00 | RM79,910.00 |
| Years 10 – 11 | RM99,180.00 | RM94,470.00 |
| Years 12 – 13 | RM104,970.00 | RM99,970.00 |
| TOTAL FEES UNTIL GRADUATION | RM1,193,420.00 |
|
- Tuition Fees are paid termly. There are 3 terms in an academic year.
- EAL Charge: RM5,000 per term for students who the school deems to require additional English support. This will continue each term until the school feels the student no longer needs the EAL support.
- School Lunches: RM3,040 (Termly payment available)
- Bus Service: RM5,020 per year (Termly payment available)
- School Uniform: To be purchased at the school shop.
- Early Notice Payback: The school will provide an Early Notice Payback of RM3,850 to every family that provides a three-month written notice before the child is to be withdrawn from the school, assuming that all outstanding fees are paid and all text/library books are returned.
Facilities
| Academics | • Air-conditioned classrooms • Science laboratories • Food technology room • Primary & secondary library • Early Years library • Physics laboratory |
| Creative Arts | • Auditorium theatre • Theatre • Music room • Gamelan room • Art room • Drama studio • Dance studio • TV recording studios |
| Sports & Recreational | • Multipurpose hall • 25-metre swimming pool • 2-storey Sports centre • Tennis court • Football field • Air-conditioned gymnasium • Early Years play area • Playground |
| Others | • Cafeteria |
Other information
| Curricula & programme | UK Curriculum, IGCSE, A Levels |
| Number of students | 1,072 |
| Average class size | 20 |
| Levels of education offered | Nursery to Sixth Form |
| Age | 3 to 18 years old |
| School year schedule | August to July |
| Contact information | No 1 Changkat Bukit Utama, Bandar Utama, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, 47800 Malaysia. Email: admissions@britishschool.edu.my Tel.: +60 3 7727 7775 |
4. Garden International School (GIS)
Garden International School (GIS), located in the suburb of Mont Kiara was established in 1951. Like BSKL, GIS adopts the British education system for expatriate and local community in Kuala Lumpur. The school has two campuses, one located in Kuala Lumpur and the other in Kuantan. In total, there are more than 2,200 students enrolled, representing over 60 nationalities.
Each campus has different fee structures. For this article, we consider the fee structure of the Kuala Lumpur campus.
Known as the largest private, co-educational, international school in Malaysia, the institution is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS). Education at GIS focuses on developing adaptable lifelong learner, active citizens, effective contributors, resilient individuals, independent enquirers and creative thinkers.
An all-rounder education doesn’t come for cheap. Here’s how much you will need to fork out to send your child to GIS:
| Application fee, non-refundable | RM1,300.00 |
|
| Deposit, refundable | RM13,830 – RM32,020 |
|
| Registration fee, non-refundable | RM10,000.00 | RM20,000.00 |
| Level | Annual Tuition Fee | Technology Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Nursery | RM41,490.00 | RM750.00 |
| Reception | RM47,640.00 | RM750.00 |
| Years 1 - 2 | RM65,160.00 | RM1,200.00 |
| Year 3 - 4 | RM67,290.00 | RM1,200.00 |
| Years 5 – 6 | RM75,780.00 | RM1,200.00 |
| Years 7 – 8 | RM83,310.00 | RM1,350.00 |
| Years 9 | RM87,330.00 | RM1,350.00 |
| Years 10 – 11 | RM89,310.00 | RM1,350.00 |
| Years 12 – 13 | RM90,630.00 | RM1,350.00 |
| TOTAL FEES UNTIL GRADUATION | RM1,148,870.00 |
|
- Deposit is equivalent to one semester of the school fee. The amount is to be topped up as school fees increase according to grade level. Security deposit is refundable provided the School receives at least one full academic semester notice of withdrawal of the child.
- Re-entry fee: RM2,000 for students who left and are re-admitted within a period of one Academic Year.
Facilities
| Academics | • 11 Science laboratories • 15 ICT suites • Design Technology workshops • Early Years library • Primary and Secondary library with e-research facilities • Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) suites |
| Creative Arts | • Art rooms • Drama rooms • Music rooms • Dance rooms • Multi-purpose performance hall • Specialist Design Technology laboratories |
| Sports & Recreational | • Sports hall • All-weather football field • All-weather tennis courts • 2 covered hard court areas • 25m 8-lane swimming pool • Gymnasium with weight training • Recreational and social areas |
| Others | • WiFi throughout the school • Laptops for all students • Health centre with 3 full time nurses • Cafeteria • School shop • Specialist counselling facilities |
Other information
| Curricula & programme | International Primary Curriculum, UK Curriculum, IGCSE, A Levels |
| Number of students | 2,200 |
| Average class size | 22 |
| Levels of education offered | Nursery to Sixth Form |
| Age | 3 to 18 years old |
| School year schedule | August to July |
| Contact information | 16 Jalan Kiara 3, Off Jalan Bukit Kiara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Email: admissions@gardenschool.edu.my Website: www.gardenschool.edu.my |
5. Alice Smith School
As British education achieved a worldwide reputation for quality, Alice Smith, established in 1946, has grown to become a prestigious British international school in Asia.
One of the first schools in Malaysia, and earliest in Southeast Asia to be accredited as a British School Overseas by the Department for Education in London, Alice Smith School is also a member of Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA) and Council of International Schools (CIS).
With two campuses – the Primary Campus located at Jalan Bellamy, Kuala Lumpur, caters for Pre-School to Year 6, while the Secondary Campus at Equine Park caters for Year 7 to Year 13.
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Equipped with the latest technology, such as interactive whiteboards for every classroom, the price tag can be astounding. Here is the breakdown of fees for each level:
| Application fee, non-refundable | RM1,200 |
||
| Parent membership fee, per family, non-refundable | RM20.00 |
||
| Enrolment fee, non-refundable | RM5,000.00 | RM25,000.00 | RM15,000.00 |
Preschool to Reception | Year 1 to Year 13 | ||
| Building fund contribution, non-refundable | Nil | RM10,000.00 | |
| Parent deposit, refundable | RM10,620 – RM24,790 |
||
| Level | Annual Tuition Fee | Building Fund Levy |
|---|---|---|
| Preschool | RM36,630.00 | RM6,000.00 |
| Reception | RM50,340.00 | RM6,000.00 |
| Years 1 – 2 | RM55,290.00 | RM6,000.00 |
| Years 3 – 6 | RM56,880.00 | RM6,000.00 |
| Years 7 – 9 | RM71,220.00 | RM6,000.00 |
| Years 10 – 11 | RM82,350.00 | RM6,000.00 |
| Years 12 – 13 | RM85,500.00 | RM6,000.00 |
| TOTAL FEES UNTIL GRADUATION | RM1,100,650.00 |
|
- Deposit is equivalent to a term’s tuition fees and is refundable when the child leaves the school with sufficient notification (one full term’s notice). This amount is ‘topped-up’ as the tuition fee increases in accordance with year level.
- Subsequently upon entering Year 1, the building fund contribution for Year 1 at the rate then applicable for the academic year must be paid).
- Subsequently upon entering Reception, the difference between the Enrolment Fee paid and the Enrolment Fee for Reception at the rate then applicable for the academic year must be paid.
- The Tuition Fees are payable termly – three terms per year. Tuition fees are inclusive of all books, materials and resources.
Discounts
- Sibling Discount:
| Sibling | Tuition Fee Discount | Enrolment Fee Discount |
|---|---|---|
| Third | 6% | 25% |
| Fourth & subsequent | 10% | 50% |
- This discount is only applicable to a child who has siblings studying in the Alice Smith School at the time when the child joins the academic year.
- Long Staying Discount:
| Duration | Nett Tuition Fee Discount |
|---|---|
| 5 consecutive years | 6% |
| 7 consecutive years | 7% |
| 9 consecutive years | 8% |
Facilities
| Academics | • Air-conditioned classrooms • IT resource centre • Science laboratories • Library |
| Creative Arts | • Auditorium • Theatre • Audio/visual room • Art room • Music room |
| Sports & Recreational | • Swimming pool • 2-storey Sports centre • Sports field • Tennis court • Basketball court • Badminton court • Gymnasium • Playground • Discovery garden • Nature trail |
| Others | • Canteens/cafeterias • One-stop parent centre, includes uniform shop, bus office, PTA office |
Other information
| Curricula & programme | UK Curriculum, IGCSE, A Levels |
| Number of students | 1,500 |
| Average class size | 20 – 22 |
| Levels of education offered | • Preschool • Primary • Secondary • A Levels |
| Age | 3 to 18 years old |
| School year schedule | September to July |
| Contact information | Primary Campus 2, Jalan Bellamy, Bukit Petaling, 50460 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Tel.: +60 3-2148 3674 Email: admissions.jb@alice-smith.edu.my Secondary Campus 3 Jalan Equine, Taman Equine, 43300 Sri Kembangan, Selangor, Malaysia. Tel.: +603 9543 3688 Email: admissions.ep@alice-smith.edu.my |
6. IGB International School (IGBIS)
Located in Sierramas and Valencia, Sungai Buloh, IGB International School (IGBIS) is one of the few premier co-educational international school that is authorised to offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program for Grades 11 and 12.
The school also offers IB Primary Years Program for three-year-olds through to Grade 5, and IB Middle Years Program for Grades 6 to 10, and the IB Career-related Certificate for Grades 11 and 12.
Established in 2014, the impressive institution offers state-of-the-art facilities for students that not only cater to them academically but also to fulfil their co-curricular needs.
How big a hole will this school burn in your pocket?
| Application fee, non-refundable | RM1,000 |
| Deposit, refundable | RM10,000 (EY1 – EY2) – RM20,000.00 (K – 12) |
| Fireflies | RM1,000.00 |
| Early Years 1 - 2 | RM5,000.00 |
| Grade 10 | RM12,500.00 |
| Grades 11 - 12 | RM7,500 |
| Level | Annual Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| Fireflies | RM20,000.00 (Half-day) |
| Early Years 1 | RM39,000.00 |
| Early Years 2 | RM45,500.00 |
| Kindergarten | RM53,500.00 |
| Grades 1 – 5 | RM64,800.00 |
| Grade 6 | RM69,000.00 |
| Grades 7 – 8 | RM76,700.00 |
| Grades 9 | RM84,900.00 |
| Grade 10 | RM85,900.00 |
| Grades 11 – 12 | RM88,600.00 |
| TOTAL FEES UNTIL GRADUATION | RM1,070,900.00 |
- The Enrolment Fee of RM10,000 applies to students entering Early Years 1 and Early Years 2. However, this Fee will need to be topped up to RM25,000 when those students enter Kindergarten.
- Any Deposit paid by the student will only be refunded when a minimum of three months’ notice in writing from the parent/guardian is given to the Admissions Office informing the student’s intended withdrawal from IGBIS.
- Miscellaneous Charges include school uniforms, information technology and software support, school camps and trips, some after school activities, IB examination fees (Grade 12), personal laptop computers (Grade 6 to 12), calculators, meals, transportation, and additional English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) or Learning Support.
- Tuition Fee is invoiced twice a year, approximately two months prior to the beginning of the next semester. There are two semesters per academic year, beginning in August and January.
- ESOL or Learning Support Fee of RM5,000 per semester is chargeable to those students requiring ESOL support.
Discounts
- Advance Payment: 5% discount of the total annual tuition fee for students enrolled for the entire academic year. The above fees reflect annual fee payment.
- Family (Sibling) Discount:
| Sibling | Tuition Fee Discount | Registration Fee Discount |
|---|---|---|
| Second | 5% | 50% |
| Third & subsequent | 10% | 50% |
Facilities
| Academics | • Air-conditioned classrooms • IT resource centre • Touch-enabled devices for students • One-to-one laptop • Science labs • Design and food technology facilities • Libraries |
| Creative Arts | • Auditorium • Audio/visual room • 540-seat theatre • Art room • Music rooms • Drama and dance studios |
| Sports & Recreational | • 50-metre competition swimming pool • 25-metre learning to swim pool • Artificial turf sports field • Air-conditioned gymnasium • Running track • Playgrounds • Tennis courts • Basketball courts • Badminton courts • Fitness and weights room |
| Others | • Canteens/cafeterias • Café for parents • Retail and uniform shop • Medical centre |
Other information
| Curricula & programme | International Baccalaureate (IB) |
| Number of students | 200 |
| Average class size | 20 |
| Levels of education offered | Kindergarten to Grade 12 |
| Age | 3 to 18 years old |
| School year schedule | August to June |
| Contact information | Jalan Sierramas Utama, Sierramas, 47000 Sungai Buloh, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia. Email: enquiries@igbis.edu.my Tel.: +6(03) 6145 4688 |
7. St. Joseph’s Institution International School Malaysia
St. Joseph’s Institution International (SJII) School Malaysia is originally part of Singapore’s 7 Lasallian schools with roots dating back to 1852. It is also one of the oldest and most prestigious schools in Singapore. It’s one of the three schools in Singapore that is licensed to educate both Singaporean and international students.
They have since expanded to Malaysia in 2012, with its campus located in Petaling Jaya and have commenced its first term in August 2016.
The school comes with spacious classrooms and laboratories as well as an auditorium. There are also two libraries; one that caters to the students in elementary school while another for high schoolers.
Here’s how much it costs to enrol your child in 2018:
| Application fee, non-refundable | RM1,500.00 |
||
| LaSallian Fund Contribution (annual) | RM300.00 |
||
| Security deposit, refundable | RM12,500.00 – RM22,500.00 |
||
Nursery – Year 1 | Grade 2 – Grade 11 | Grade 12 – Grade 13 |
|
| Enrolment Fee | RM5,000.00 | RM24,000.00 | RM15,000.00 |
| Level | Annual Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| Nursery | RM38,640.00 |
| Reception – Year 1 | RM48,825.00 |
| Year 2-3 | RM55,755.00 |
| Year 4 | RM58,338.00 |
| Year 5-6 | RM60,195.00 |
| Year 7 | RM63,945.00 |
| Year 8-9 | RM72,105.00 |
| Year 10 | RM76,545.00 |
| Year 11 | RM82,845.00 |
| Year 12-13 | RM85,995.00 |
| TOTAL FEES UNTIL GRADUATION | RM1,018,563.00 |
Discounts
- Sibling discounts:
| Sibling | Tuition Fee Discount | Enrolment Fee Discount |
|---|---|---|
| Second | 3% | 20% |
| Third | 5% | 30% |
| Fourth & subsequent | 8% | 40% |
Facilities
| Academics | • Classrooms • Laboratories • Elementary and High School Libraries |
| Creative Arts | • Art room |
| Sports & Recreational | • Tennis court • Junior Pool • FA-Qualified Soccer Field with Spectator Gallery |
| Others | • Campus-wide security system • Underground car park • Nurses’ station |
Other information
| Curricula & programme | International Baccalaureate, IGCSE, International Primary Curriculum |
| Number of students | Over 1,500 |
| Average class size | 20-25 |
| Levels of education offered | Nursery to Year 13 |
| Age | 3 to 19 years old |
| School year schedule | August to July |
| Contact information | Main Campus No, 1, Jalan PJU 3/13, 47410 Petaling Jaya Selangor Darul Ehsan Tel: +603-8605 3605 Email: enquiries@sji-international.edu.my |
8. Australian International School Malaysia (AISM)
According to UNESCO’s data, Australia is the fourth most popular destination in the world for tertiary education. It is also the most popular destination for Malaysian students, with many private colleges offering twinning courses with Australian universities.
If you are one of the parents who wish to send their children to Australia for further education, it makes sense to start early by enrolling them to the Australian curriculum from the beginning.
The Australian International School Malaysia (AISM), established in 2000, is the first and only international school in Malaysian offering an Australian Curriculum, delivered by Australian teachers, and following Australian school year.
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Students of AISM will graduate with the New South Wales Higher School Certificate (HSC), enabling them to apply competitively to universities worldwide.
Here’s the fee breakdown for AISM:
| Application fee, non-refundable | RM1,300.00 |
| Admission fee, non-refundable Admission fee will be waived for new students who are eligible for direct entry into Year 12. | RM20,000.00 |
| Deposit, refundable | RM9,750 – RM25,733 |
| Level | Annual Tuition Fee | Technology Fee | Camp Fee* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nursery & Preparation | RM39,000.00 | RM660.00 | N/A |
| Foundation | RM46,200.00 | RM1,760.00 | N/A |
| Year 1 | RM48,800.00 | RM1,760.00 | N/A |
| Year 2 | RM50,400.00 | RM1,760.00 | N/A |
| Year 3 | RM53,000.00 | RM1,760.00 | RM700.00 |
| Year 4 | RM55,100.00 | RM1,760.00 | RM800.00 |
| Year 5 | RM59,300.00 | RM1,760.00 | RM1,200.00 |
| Year 6 | RM63,000.00 | RM1,760.00 | RM1,600.00 |
| Year 7 | RM65,100.00 | RM1,760.00 | RM1,800.00 |
| Year 8 | RM67,200.00 | RM1,760.00 | RM3,200.00 |
| Year 9 | RM72,500.00 | RM1,760.00 | RM2,900.00 |
| Year 10 | RM75,600.00 | RM1,760.00 | RM3,900.00 |
| Years 11 | RM77,200.00 | RM1,760.00 | RM4,900.00 |
| Years 12 | RM77,199.00 | RM1,341.00 | RM8,800.00 |
| TOTAL FEES UNTIL GRADUATION | RM949,553.00 |
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* Camp fee for the year 2018 has not been released. Current fees are based on 2017 fee structure.
-
- Tuition Fees and Technology Fees are payable termly. There are four terms in an academic year, except for Year 12 (three terms).
- Deposit amount is to be topped up as the tuition fee increases according to year level. Deposit is only refundable if a full three months written notice of withdrawal is given prior to the end of the term from which the child will be withdrawn.
- Cost of textbook hire, exam fee and a basic stationery pack are included in the tuition fee. The cost of the uniform is not included.
- English as an Additional Language (EAL) Fee of RM975.00 per term is chargeable to those students requiring EAL support.
- Late payment surcharge: A 5% flat rate will be charged for fees paid on the first day of term and after.
- Year Book cost of RM110.00 is compulsory per family and it is payable in Term 4.
Discounts
Family (Sibling) Discount:
| Sibling | Tuition Fee Discount | Registration Fee Discount |
|---|---|---|
| Second | 5% | 5% |
| Third | 5% | 10% |
| Fourth | 5% | 15% |
No discount will be given for 5th child onwards.
- Advance Payment Discount: 3% rebate on Term 2, Term 3 and Term 4 tuition fees is applicable for advance payment of annual tuition fees paid on the first day of Term 1. Advance payment of tuition fees will be refunded upon withdrawal of a child.
Facilities
| Academics | • 5 Science laboratories • Computer laboratories with MACs • Early Learning Centre with its own lavatory, play and eating areas • Classrooms with smartboards & mobile ICT resources • Library with smartboards and LCD screens, a mini-amphitheatre and power learning areas • Design & Technology workshop • Learning • Support rooms for different age groups |
| Creative Arts | • Multipurpose hall • 600-seat auditorium • Dance studios • Drama room • Music (including band, orchestra and instrument practice) rooms • Black Box Theatre • Visual art rooms • Junior music and art room |
| Sports & Recreational | • Gymnasium (with weight training) • 25-metre swimming pool • Play areas • Sand pit • Sports hall • Basketball court • Sports field • Playgrounds |
| Others | • A Careers & Senior Study Centre • Student Counsellor room • Cafeteria • Parents room |
Other information
| Curricula & programme | Australian Curriculum |
| Number of students | Over 650 |
| Average class size | 18 – 25 |
| Levels of education offered | Preschool to Year 12 |
| Age | 3 to 18 years old |
| School year schedule | January to December |
| Contact information | 22 Jalan Anggerik, The Mines Resort City, 43300 Sri Kembangan, Malaysia. Tel.: 603 8943 0622 Email: admin@aism.edu.my Website: www.aism.edu.my |
9. Nexus International School, Putrajaya (NISP)
The first international school in Putrajaya, Nexus International School, Putrajaya (NISP) is a member of Taylor’s Education Group (TEG) which has already established its reputation in education for more than 60 years.
Educating its students to remain competitive in the global market, NISP places great importance on technology, and ICT is fully integrated into the curriculum. Younger children are given access to iPads to enhance learning, primary students have access to laptops in trolleys, and learners from Years 6 to 13 have their own MacBook Pro laptops which are used across the curriculum.
NISP is a member of Council of International Schools (CIS) and is authorised by International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) and Assessment and Qualifications Alliance (AQA) as an examination centre.
State-of-the-art education usually comes with a significant price. Here is how much NISP will cost from age 3 till graduation:
| Application fee, non-refundable | RM1,000.00 |
|
| Deposit, refundable | RM13,505 – RM26,363 |
|
Early Years | Years 1-13 |
|
| Registration fee, non-refundable | RM10,000.00 | RM20,000.00 |
| Level | Annual Tuition Fee | Technology Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Nursery | RM40,515.00 | RM900.00 |
| Reception | RM42,270.00 | RM900.00 |
| Years 1 – 2 | RM47,733.00 | RM1,350.00 |
| Years 3 – 4 | RM53,943.00 | RM1,350.00 |
| Years 5 – 6 | RM57,828.00 | RM1,350.00 |
| Years 7 – 9 | RM65,310.00 | RM1,500.00 |
| Years 10 – 11 | RM73,584.00 | RM1,500.00 |
| Years 12 – 13 | RM79,855.00 | RM1,500.00 |
| TOTAL FEES UNTIL GRADUATION | RM944,469.00 |
|
- Registration Fee: Upon entering Year 1, an additional Registration Fee of RM10,000 is applicable.
- Re-Entry Fee (Non-Refundable) of RM2,000 is applicable for students who have left NISP and are re-admitted within a period of 1 academic year from the date they left school.
- Deposit is equivalent to one term’s tuition fee, which is to be topped up as tuition fees increases according to year level. It is refundable provided one term’s written notice of withdrawal is given.
- Tuition Fee and Technology Fee are invoiced per term and are payable upon commencement of each term (3 terms per academic year).
- Curriculum day trips are included in the Tuition Fees, but the cost of textbooks, uniform and overnight trips are excluded.
Discounts
- Sibling Discount:
| Sibling | Tuition Fee Discount | Registration Fee Discount |
|---|---|---|
| Second | 5% | 10% |
| Third & subsequent | 5% | 30% |
- Advance Payment Discount: 3% discount on the tuition fees for Term 2 and Term 3 of Academic Year 2015-2016, if the annual tuition fees (Term 1, 2 and 3) are paid in one lump sum on or before August 19, 2015.
Facilities
| Academics | • Air-conditioned classrooms • Science laboratories • Food technology room • Primary & secondary library • Early Years library • Physics laboratory |
| Creative Arts | • Auditorium theatre • Theatre • Music room • Gamelan room • Art room • Drama studio • Dance studio • TV recording studios • Multipurpose hall |
| Sports & Recreational | • 25-metre swimming pool • 2-storey Sports centre • Tennis court • Football field • Air-conditioned gymnasium • Early Years play area • Playground |
| Others | • Cafeteria |
Other information
| Curricula & programme | International Primary Curriculum, UK Curriculum, IGCSE, International Baccalaureate (IB) |
| Number of students | 700 |
| Average class size | 20 |
| Levels of education offered | • Nursery • Reception • Primary • Secondary • IB Diploma Program |
| Age | 3 to 18 years old |
| School year schedule | August to June |
| Contact information | No. 1 Jalan Diplomatik 3/6 Presint 15 62050, Putrajaya Wilayah Persekutuan Tel: 03-8889 3868 Fax: 03-8889 4828 Email: enquiry@nexus.edu.my badri.m@nexus.edu.my |
Boarding fees are calculated separately. For more information on boarding fee structure, refer here.
10. The International School @ ParkCity (ISP)
Another viable option for parents who wish to enrol their children in a school that adopts the UK Curriculum is The International School @ ParkCity (ISP). This provides a slightly more affordable option compared to the above international schools that offer the National Curriculum of England.
ISP was founded in 2011 and operated by ParkCity-Brighton Education Sdn Bhd, a joint venture between Perdana ParkCity Sdn Bhd and Brighton Education Group Sdn Bhd. The school uses a House System of which there are four houses, named after famous animals of Malaysia, “Gajah”, “Penyu”, “Harimau” and “Badak”. Inter-house competitions are held to develop the self-esteem and social skills of students such as teamwork.
From academics to co-curricular activities, and nutritional meals, ISP has all aspects covered for your child.
Here is how much it costs:
| Application fee, non-refundable | RM1,500.00 |
|
| Deposit, refundable | RM12,800 - RM25,200 |
|
Nursery, Reception, Year 12 & Year 13 | Years 1 to 11 |
|
| Registration, non-refundable | RM10,000.00 | RM20,000.00 |
| Level | Annual Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| Nursery | RM37,250.00 |
| Reception | RM38,850.00 |
| Years 1 – 2 | RM44,380.00 |
| Years 3 – 4 | RM50,500.00 |
| Years 5 – 6 | RM51,220.00 |
| Years 7 – 9 | RM60,980.00 |
| Years 10 – 11 | RM65,920.00 |
| Years 12 – 13 | RM73,350.00 |
| TOTAL FEES UNTIL GRADUATION | RM851,280.00 |
- Deposit is refundable provided one term’s written notice of withdrawal is given in advance while the student is in the school.
- Registration Fee: Reception students upon entering Year 1, pay an additional Registration fee of RM10,000.
- English as an Additional Language (EAL) is RM3,250 per term. Applicable to all students deemed by the school who need additional English support.
- Tuition Fees are payable upon commencement of each term. There are three terms per academic year.
- Cost of stationery and uniform are not included in the Tuition Fees payable.
Discount
- Sibling Discount:
| Sibling | Tuition Fee Discount | Registration Fee Discount |
|---|---|---|
| Third | 5% | 25% |
| Fourth & subsequent | 10% | 50% |
Facilities
| Academics | • Library |
| Creative Arts | • Multi-purpose hall* |
| Sports & Recreational | • Sky view study pods* • Badminton courts* • Lap pool and fun pool* • FIFA-size football field* • 2 basketball courts* |
| Others | • 700-bay 6-storey car park • WiFi throughout the school |
Other information
| Curricula & programme | International Primary Curriculum, UK Curriculum, IGCSE, A Levels, AQA Baccalaureate |
| Number of students | 1,000 |
| Average class size | • Nursery: 16 • Reception: 20 • Years 1 to 11: 24 |
| Levels of education offered | Early Years to A Levels with AQA Baccalaureate GCE |
| School year schedule | September to July |
| Contact information | No.1 Jalan Intisari, Desa ParkCity, 52200 Kuala Lumpur Telephone: +603 6280 8880 Fax: +603 6280 8749 Email: info@isp.edu.my |
There you have it, the top 10 most expensive international schools in the Klang Valley. Is it worth paying more than half a million for education before your child even hit university? That really depends on how much you can afford, and how much you value international education.
If you are thinking of enrolling your child to any of the above, our advice to you is, start saving and growing your money!
NOTE: All total fees until graduation includes one-time fees like Application, Registration, and others.
Is it worth it to send your child to an international school? Find out here.
