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Top 5 International Schools in Malaysia You Need to Know

April 29, 2025
Five distinct school buildings

Malaysia, a Southeast Asian country known for its bustling cities, picturesque landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, is also home to some of the world’s most prestigious international schools. These schools offer an excellent standard of education, combining the best of local and international curricula to provide students with a well-rounded learning experience. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the top five international schools in Malaysia that you need to know about.

1. The International School of Kuala Lumpur (ISKL)

The International School of Kuala Lumpur, fondly known as ISKL, is one of the oldest and most respected international schools in Malaysia. Established in 1965, it has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence and a reputation for nurturing global citizens.

ISKL offers an American-based curriculum with an International Baccalaureate (IB) option in the final two years. This allows students to choose a path that best suits their future academic and career goals. The school also boasts a diverse student body, with pupils from over 60 different countries.

Aside from academics, ISKL places a strong emphasis on holistic development. Students are encouraged to participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and community service. This ensures they develop not just academically, but also socially and emotionally.

2. Garden International School (GIS)

Located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Garden International School (GIS) is another top-tier international school in Malaysia. It offers a British-based curriculum leading to IGCSEs and the A-Level programme, making it an ideal choice for those looking to pursue further studies in the UK.

GIS is known for its strong academic track record, consistently producing top-performing students in the IGCSE and A-Level examinations. The school also offers a comprehensive range of extracurricular activities, providing students with ample opportunities to explore their interests and talents outside the classroom.

One unique feature of GIS is its commitment to community service. The school runs several outreach programmes, allowing students to give back to the community and develop a sense of social responsibility.

3. Alice Smith School

Alice Smith School, established in 1946, is the oldest British international school in Malaysia. It offers a British-style education for students aged 3 to 18, leading to the IGCSE and A-Level qualifications.

The school prides itself on its small class sizes, which allow for personalised attention and support for each student. This, combined with a team of highly qualified and experienced teachers, ensures that students receive a high-quality education that caters to their individual needs.

Alice Smith School also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, from sports and arts to clubs and societies. This allows students to develop their interests and skills, and fosters a sense of community and belonging within the school.

4. Mont’Kiara International School

Mont’Kiara International School, located in the upscale neighbourhood of Mont’Kiara in Kuala Lumpur, offers an American-based curriculum for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school is known for its vibrant and inclusive learning environment, which encourages students to be active learners and critical thinkers.

The school’s curriculum is designed to prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century. It emphasises the development of skills such as creativity, problem-solving, and communication, which are essential for success in today’s globalised world.

Mont’Kiara International School also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and clubs. These provide students with opportunities to develop their talents, build friendships, and enhance their overall school experience.

5. Epsom College in Malaysia

Epsom College in Malaysia is a branch of the prestigious Epsom College in the UK. It offers a British-based curriculum, leading to the IGCSE and A-Level qualifications. The school is located on a sprawling 50-acre campus in Negeri Sembilan, just outside Kuala Lumpur.

Epsom College in Malaysia is known for its strong focus on academic achievement. The school provides a rigorous and challenging academic programme, designed to stretch students’ abilities and prepare them for success in their future studies and careers.

However, Epsom College in Malaysia is not just about academics. The school also offers a comprehensive range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and leadership opportunities. This ensures that students receive a well-rounded education that goes beyond the classroom.

Conclusion

Choosing the right school for your child is a crucial decision, and Malaysia offers a plethora of excellent international schools to choose from. The five schools listed above are just a snapshot of the high-quality education that Malaysia has to offer. Each school has its unique strengths and offerings, and it’s important to choose a school that aligns with your child’s needs and aspirations.

Whether it’s the American-based curriculum of ISKL and Mont’Kiara International School, the British-based curriculum of GIS, Alice Smith School, and Epsom College, or the strong emphasis on holistic development and community service, these schools offer a world-class education that prepares students for success in the global arena.

So, take your time, do your research, and rest assured that whichever school you choose, your child will be in good hands in Malaysia.

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