Find Schools Events My shortlist My account Ask doris
Parent Guide Community Transparency Charter About For Schools
Currency
Search & filter all 22 schools Compare 22 schools in Penang

International Schools in Penang, Malaysia

Edited by · B2C Marketing Manager

About international schools in Penang, Malaysia

International schools in Penang operate across the island (George Town and coastal suburbs) and on the mainland (Seberang Perai), serving a mix of expatriate and local families and offering both day and some longer-term boarding options. The most common curricula you will find are British-based programmes (Cambridge IGCSE and A levels) and the International Baccalaureate at some schools, with a few schools blending international and Malaysian national elements; English is the usual language of instruction while Bahasa Malaysia and Mandarin are frequently taught or offered as additional languages. Annual tuition fees vary widely by school and year group, typically spanning roughly from the mid-five figures in ringgit to around the high-five or low-six figures for senior years, so expect a broad range across providers. Admissions are often handled year-round with online applications, entrance assessments or taster days, and schools normally sponsor the student pass for foreign pupils - factor in extra weeks for immigration processing when you plan your move.

Compare 22 international schools in Penang, Malaysia. Filter by curriculum, fees (average MYR 36,035), location, and more to find the right international school now.

At a glance 22 schools · avg fee MYR 36,035
Schools listed
22
Curricula
16
Average annual fee
MYR 36,035
Fee range
MYR 5,000 – 84,636
Most common curriculum
Cambridge IGCSE (8 schools)
Average school size
567 pupils
Largest by enrolment
Straits International School Penang
Oldest
The International School of Penang (Uplands) (1955)
With boarding
3
View by curriculum (5)
Explore more — related searches, map view, upcoming events

FAQs for Malaysia

What curricula are offered by international schools in Penang and how do they differ?
Most international schools in Penang follow either British programmes (progressing to Cambridge IGCSE and often A levels) or the International Baccalaureate at certain campuses; some schools also offer a Malaysian national curriculum delivered in English or a hybrid model. The British pathway emphasises subject-based GCSE/IGCSE and A-level specialisation, while the IB focuses on broader, inquiry-based international learning and a diploma programme for pre-university students.
How much should I budget for tuition and extra costs?
Tuition fees vary considerably by school and by age, so budget conservatively and check each school’s published schedule; annual fees across Penang schools typically span a broad range and can rise substantially in senior years. In addition to tuition, factor in deposits, uniform and activity costs, examination and registration fees, school transport or private transport, and the cost and timing of any required student pass.
When should we apply and what does the admissions process look like?
Many schools in Penang operate rolling admissions and accept applications year-round, though popular intakes are at the start of the school year or term; the usual process is an online application, submission of records, an assessment or taster visit, an offer and a deposit to secure the place. For overseas children, schools typically sponsor the student pass after enrolment, so allow additional time for immigration processing when scheduling your relocation.
What is the language of instruction and will my child learn Malay or Mandarin?
English is the primary language of instruction at international schools, and most schools also teach Bahasa Malaysia as a subject; many offer Mandarin lessons or additional language options, with depth and frequency varying by school. If you want stronger bilingual or Mandarin provision, check each school’s language programme, native-speaker staffing and whether mother-tongue or immersion options are available.
What should we look for when visiting schools in Penang?
Ask about curricular continuity and post-16 pathways, the school’s approach to English as an additional language and learning support, pastoral care and safeguarding policies, class sizes and teacher qualifications, and university or career guidance for older pupils. Also inspect facilities for science, sports and the arts, review recent inspection or accreditation information where available, and speak to existing parents about daily routines and transport arrangements to make sure the practical logistics fit your family.

Read our blog

doris
linked-in-logo facebook-logo instagram-logo
© 2026 doris Worldwide Ltd. All rights reserved.