Compare Australian Curriculum International Schools in Malaysia

Australian International School Malaysia

The whole school community comes together for the Swimming Carinval, a day of races topped off by a BBQ put on by the Year 12s.

Year 1 students lead the Junior Assembly with songs and dances to celebrate Hari Raya.

Year 7 students learning the saxophone during music lessons

Instructs in English

Ages 3 - 18 years

Fees MYR 45,760 - 97,599

Pupils 650

Type Co-educational

Australian International School Malaysia (AISM) serves students from ages 3 to 18. The school delivers the Australian Curriculum, with Year 12 students completing the Higher School Certificate (HSC). Notable facilities include a dedicated Performing Arts Centre with a black box theatre and soundproofed music rooms, well-equipped science laboratories, a Design & Technology workshop, and extensive sports facilities including a 25-meter swimming pool and large playing fields for various sports. AISM is notably the world's first certified Visible Learning™ school, a unique approach that transparently focuses on how students learn best, guiding teaching practices to enhance student outcomes.

Location

The school is situated in Seri Kembangan, a green suburb located south of Kuala Lumpur. This area offers a relatively calm environment and is approximately 20 kilometers from the city center.

It benefits from good transport links, with access to major highways, facilitating commutes from surrounding residential neighborhoods. The Serdang KTM Station is also located nearby.

Stages

The school is structured into: Early Learning Centre, Junior School, Middle & Senior School, and Pre-University.

Type

AISM is a co-educational day school.

Additional learning support

AISM provides learning support through its Learning Enrichment team, who collaborate with classroom teachers. This support focuses on areas such as literacy, numeracy, and social development.

Country affiliation

The school has a direct affiliation with Australia, as it follows the Australian Curriculum, specifically based on the New South Wales (NSW) curriculum, and is registered and accredited by the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA).

Religious affiliation

The school does not have an affiliation with any particular religion. It operates as a non-denominational international school.

School day structure

The school day generally begins around 8:50 AM for all students. School finishes at 3:20 PM and co-curricular activities conclude at 4:20 PM.

Bus service

The school offers a bus service that covers major residential areas within Klang Valley, including Mont Kiara, Ampang, Bangsar, and Puchong. More than half of the student population utilizes this service. Buses depart after the school day and also for students participating in co-curricular activities, ensuring transport after extended hours. For safety, all buses are equipped with CCTV and seatbelts, and an additional bus monitor is present on board.

Initial Enrollment Fees

Application fee:
- Nursery and Preparation: RM 1,000
- Foundation to Year 12: RM 1,300

One-off payment:
- RM 20,000: Waived for new students eligible for direct entry into Year 12

Deposit:
- Equivalent to one term's tuition fee (varies by year level, see tuition fees below)
- Refundable with one term's written notice of withdrawal given in advance

Annual Tuition Fees

Early Years
- Nursery: RM 11,440 per term (RM 45,760 per year)
- Preparation: RM 11,440 per term (RM 45,760 per year)

Primary Years
- Foundation: RM 14,760 per term (RM 59,040 per year)
- Year 1: RM 15,660 per term (RM 62,640 per year)
- Year 2: RM 16,310 per term (RM 65,240 per year)
- Year 3: RM 17,110 per term (RM 68,440 per year)
- Year 4: RM 17,760 per term (RM 71,040 per year)
- Year 5: RM 18,910 per term (RM 75,640 per year)
- Year 6: RM 19,960 per term (RM 79,840 per year)

Secondary Years
- Year 7: RM 20,610 per term (RM 82,440 per year)
- Year 8: RM 21,260 per term (RM 85,040 per year)
- Year 9: RM 22,760 per term (RM 91,040 per year)
- Year 10: RM 23,610 per term (RM 94,440 per year)
- Year 11: RM 24,400 per term (RM 97,600 per year)
- Year 12: RM 32,533 per term (RM 97,599 per year)

Additional Support Fees
- English as Additional Language (EAL) for Foundation to Year 5: RM 1,750 per term
- Intensive English Support Class (IESC) for Year 6-9: RM 1,750 per term

Billing Schedule and Payment Terms

Academic year runs from January to December with 4 terms
- Nursery to Year 11: Fees invoiced quarterly and payable on or before first day of each term
- Year 12: Total tuition fees invoiced over 3 installments before beginning of Terms 1, 2, and 3
- All fees are non-refundable once term starts and not prorated

Discounts Available

- Early payment discount: 3% rebate on Terms 2, 3, and 4 tuition fees if annual tuition fee paid in full by first day of Term 1
- Sibling discounts available on admission fees and tuition fees (specific amounts not detailed in source)

Fee Payment Options

- Bank transfer
- Flywire online payment system for overseas payments
- Credit or debit card via online Cashless System for annual payments
- Cheque, bank draft, or money order (Malaysian banks only, Malaysian currency)

Boarding Arrangements

The school is a day school with no boarding facilities.

Uniform Requirement

The school has a uniform policy. Uniforms are worn as part of daily school life, and students have discussed improving uniform comfort.

Food Options

There is an on-campus cafeteria providing meals; cafeteria meals are available and not included in tuition fees.

House System

The school operates a house system with student leadership, including House Captains; CCAs and Thursday Sports are part of house activities.

Governance and Ownership

The school is owned and operated by Australian International School Sdn. Bhd.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The school actively supports students' social and emotional well-being through various initiatives and dedicated staff. This includes a full-time student counsellor available during school hours for confidential support regarding mental or emotional health. AISM also promotes emotional well-being through programs like "RUOK Day" to encourage open conversations about mental health and the "Just15" initiative, which encourages students to dedicate 15 minutes daily to enjoyable activities. The "Care:Mvmt." further instils principles of caring for self, others, and the world.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

AISM supports students with mild learning needs through its Learning Enrichment teachers. The school notes that it does not have a specialist SEN department, and opportunities for support are subject to the school's capacity and individual student needs. Entrance assessments for Years 1-11 test literacy and numeracy, which can help identify special needs requiring support.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

AISM provides targeted support for students requiring English as an Additional Language (EAL). This is delivered through an Intensive English Support Class (IESC) designed for new students with limited English proficiency, helping them quickly integrate into the mainstream curriculum. EAL teachers also work with students to develop their academic English skills, supporting them in various subjects. The program aims to bridge language gaps, ensuring students can access the Australian Curriculum effectively and participate confidently in school life.

Mental Wellbeing

The school places importance on students' mental wellbeing through dedicated services and proactive initiatives. A full-time student counsellor is available during school hours, offering confidential support for emotional and mental health concerns to students across all age groups. Beyond individual counselling, AISM promotes positive mental health through school-wide programs like "RUOK Day," which encourages open dialogue about mental health. The "Just15" initiative also supports mental well-being by encouraging students to dedicate 15 minutes daily to enjoyable activities, promoting balance in their lives.

Safeguarding

AISM is committed to ensuring the safety and welfare of all students through robust safeguarding and child protection policies. The school's Child Protection Policy is implemented to create a secure learning environment and protect students from harm. All staff members are trained in child protection procedures and are aware of their responsibilities. Access to the campus is controlled, and visitors are required to follow sign-in procedures to maintain security.

History

The Australian International School Malaysia was founded in 2000 as the first international school in Malaysia offering an Australian curriculum. It was established under the Taylor's Education Group, a prominent education provider in Malaysia. Over its history, the school has developed its campus to include a range of facilities supporting its educational programs.

Community

The school fosters a diverse and inclusive community, with over 30 nationalities represented among its students. This contributes to a multicultural environment where students learn alongside peers from various backgrounds. Community events such as the annual International Fair celebrate the diverse cultures within the school. These gatherings provide opportunities for families to connect and engage with the broader school life outside of the regular academic schedule.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

The Parent Teacher and Community (PTC) group at the Australian International School Malaysia (AISM) actively connects families, staff, and the wider school community. This group organizes various events throughout the year, such as bake sales, Mother's Day stalls, Father's Day breakfasts, and International Day celebrations, all designed to encourage participation and cultural exchange. PTC meetings are held each term, offering a platform for parents to discuss community matters directly with school management.

Class Parents and Year Level Representatives assist with event reminders and arranging social gatherings for families. Area Link Parents help new families settle in, especially those relocating from abroad, ensuring a smooth transition into the community.

Gallery

The newest families to AISM are welcomed at the New Parent & Student Orientation day (credit AISM)

The PTC organised a Mother's Day breakfast and assembly to celebrate the family event at school. (credit AISM Facebook)

Year 11 and 12 students visit Monash University, a partner of AISM, to gain insights and experience of the academic opportunities of higher education. (credit AISM Facebook)

Students discussing their learning progress with parents and teachers during the PTS conferences. (credit AISM Facebook)

A school photo of the first cohort when the school opened in 2000. (credit AISM)

Facilities Overview

The school has a 7.5-acre green campus in Mines Resort City, 25 minutes from central Kuala Lumpur. Purpose-built facilities with specialist areas support critical thinking, collaboration and creativity. On campus are large sports fields, a 25-metre swimming pool and vibrant social and play spaces.

Sports Facilities

Indoor facilities include an air-conditioned gymnasium and an all-weather multipurpose court. The 25-metre pool is used for lessons, water safety and competitions. An outdoor sports field supports football, athletics and events.

Academic Facilities

Fully equipped science and technology laboratories support biology, chemistry and physics, including coding and robotics with industry-standard tools. The library offers over 8,000 books, reading corners and research zones. The Design & Technology Centre includes CAD, 3D printing, laser cutting and textile workshops. A Middle and Senior School provides tech-rich classrooms and shared hubs; a Senior Study Centre assists Year 11–12 students.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Arts and Music spaces include two art studios, textile facilities and dedicated music rooms. Performance spaces include a Blackbox Theatre and a 450-seat auditorium.

Awards

MABC Excellence Award in Education (2024): Awarded by the Malaysia Australia Business Council, this recognizes AISM's commitment to educational excellence and its role in strengthening educational ties between Malaysia and Australia.

No. 1 Australian International School in the World (HSC, 2021): AISM achieved the top ranking globally among Australian international schools for its Higher School Certificate (HSC) examination results in 2021, marking its best academic performance in the school's history.

Ranked in Top 100 of New South Wales Schools (HSC, 2021): In 2021, the school's HSC results placed it within the top 100 schools in New South Wales, Australia, a significant achievement for an international school.

Accreditations

NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA): This accreditation signifies that AISM is registered and authorized to deliver the Australian (New South Wales) curriculum, ensuring adherence to the quality teaching, learning, assessment, and school standards set by the NSW government.

Council of International Schools (CIS): As a CIS-accredited school, AISM demonstrates its commitment to high-quality international education and continuous improvement. CIS is a global non-profit organization recognized worldwide for evaluating and accrediting international schools based on rigorous standards.

Visible Learning School: AISM is recognized as the world's first certified Visible Learning school, indicating its commitment to an evidence-based approach to teaching and learning, based on research by Professor John Hattie, focusing on what works best to improve student outcomes.

Ministry of Education 5-Star Award: This award reflects the school's performance based on 15 criteria, including curriculum, teaching and learning, teacher development, health services, and discipline, showcasing recognition from the Malaysian Ministry of Education for excellence.

Duke of Edinburgh's International Award: The school offers this internationally recognized program, which inspires young people to develop skills for life, grow in confidence, and explore their potential through various challenges and activities.

Eco-Schools Programme: Participation in this programme demonstrates the school's commitment to environmental education and sustainability, fostering green practices and community engagement.

Admissions

doris recommends that you start by speaking to admissions. This connects you directly to the school's admissions team who can respond with answers, more information, and next steps.

Consider a school visit. Families are encouraged to book a school tour or attend an Open Day to experience the campus environment firsthand. This provides an opportunity to see the facilities, observe classes, and meet key staff members.

Submit the application form and required documents. This step involves completing the official online application form and submitting all necessary supporting documents. These typically include copies of the student's birth certificate, passport, vaccination records, and academic reports from the past two years.

Complete the admissions assessment and interview. For students applying to Years 1-11, an entrance assessment is required to evaluate literacy and numeracy skills. Nursery, Preparation, and Foundation students are exempt from this assessment but require a School Readiness Checklist and an interview. These assessments help the school determine suitability and identify any potential learning support needs.

Receive the offer letter and confirm enrolment. If the application is successful, the school will issue an offer letter. To secure the child's place, parents must confirm acceptance and make the required payment of the admission fee and any other stipulated fees by the deadline indicated in the offer letter.

Scholarships

AISM does not publicly detail any specific scholarship programs for prospective students.

Waitlist

The school operates a waitlist system for year groups where places are not immediately available. If an applicant is successful but there are no current openings, their application will be placed on the waiting list. Applications on the waitlist are automatically transferred to subsequent terms or academic years if a place does not become available in the initially requested term, unless the application is withdrawn by the parents.

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CanRidge Penang

Ages 1 - 6 years

Type Co-educational

CanRidge Penang is a preschool and enrichment centre in Bayan Lepas, Penang, offering programs for children aged 6 months to 6 years. Its curriculum blends UK, Australian, and Singaporean content—such as Jolly Phonics, Singapore Maths, and Fitzroy Readers—with Mandarin and Bahasa taught from age four. The centre includes an indoor playgym with imported equipment and a dedicated art and music lab. A distinctive feature is its **Right‑Brain Development Program**, which uses flashcards, music, and sensory activities to support memory and early learning in infants as young as 6 months. CanRidge operates from Wednesday to Sunday and emphasizes small-group, play-based learning tailored to early developmental stages.

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Peninsula International School Australia

Instructs in English

Ages 4 - 18 years

Fees MYR 16,800 - 75,000

Pupils 290

Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)

Located in Setia Alam, Shah Alam, this school offers the Australian Victorian Curriculum for students from Kindergarten (aged 4-5) through to Year 12 (aged 18). Graduates earn the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE). The campus features specialized facilities including science and computer laboratories, a library, a football field, a gymnasium, a swimming pool, an auditorium, three theatres, and two tennis courts. A distinctive program includes an annual cultural exchange where Year 8 students from its Australian partner school visit the Malaysian campus for immersive cultural and academic experiences.