Borneo International School vs St. Joseph’s International School Kuching
Borneo International School and St. Joseph’s International School Kuching are both in Sarawak, about 6 km apart. Both schools offer British, Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge International AS Levels programmes. Borneo International School also offers Cambridge (Primary), and St. Joseph’s International School Kuching also offers Cambridge A Levels and Malaysian. Published annual fees are MYR 9,680 - 33,300 at Borneo International School and MYR 14,800 - 21,400 at St. Joseph’s International School Kuching, which puts Borneo International School roughly 19% higher. Borneo International School takes pupils from 6 to 18, and St. Joseph’s International School Kuching from 13 to 18. St. Joseph’s International School Kuching is the larger school, with around 1,500 pupils to Borneo International School's 600. Both keep typical class sizes around 25.
British Curriculum, Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels
Curriculum
British Curriculum, Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels, Malaysian Curriculum
Pupils
Pupils
600
Pupils
1,500
Typical class size
Typical class size
25
Typical class size
25
Instruction language
Instruction language
English
Instruction language
English, Malay
Opened
Opened
2017
Opened
2017
Bus service
Bus service
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Bus service
Yes
Essentials
Essentials
Location
Location
Borneo International School is situated at Jalan Setia Raja in the Tabuan Laru area of Kuching. This is a well-developed suburban neighborhood that hosts a mix of residential, commercial, and educational facilities. The school’s campus is part of the Saradise development, a modern township with a focus on urban lifestyle, dining, and community spaces.
The location is approximately 10 minutes by car from Kuching International Airport and about 15 minutes from the Kuching city centre. It is also within reach of prominent areas like Tabuan Jaya and Stutong, both established residential zones.
Location
St. Joseph’s International School Kuching is situated at Lot 419, Section 58, KTLD, Jalan Tan Sri Datuk William Tan, 93450 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. The school occupies the former site of SK St. Teresa in the Padungan area, placing it within the central business district of Kuching. This central location offers convenient access to various parts of the city.
Stages
Stages
Borneo International School is divided into Primary School, Secondary School and Sixth Form.
Stages
St. Joseph’s International School Kuching is divide into Lower Secondary, Upper Secondary and A-Level.
School type
School type
Borneo International School is a co-educational day school. Boarding facilities are not offered.
School type
The school is a co-educational day school and it does not provide boarding facilities.
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
Students benefit from career counseling services and assistance with university applications through partnerships with organizations like MABECS and UCAS. A-Level students take part in a four-week work experience programme that provides exposure to professional environments. The school also runs masterclass seminars featuring guest speakers to connect classroom learning with real-world insights. Community service is a key part of student life, with regular activities promoting social awareness and civic responsibility. Small class sizes allow for individual attention, ensuring that students receive guidance tailored to their learning needs.
Additional learning support
St. Joseph’s International School Kuching provides several types of learning support to help students beyond the classroom. They offer English language support, extended school hours from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., giving students time for extra tutorials, homework help, and consultations with teachers. In addition to academics, the school supports students’ personal growth through creative arts activities like music, dance, and drama.
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
The school has no formal affiliation with any country.
Country affiliation
The school does not have a country affiliation.
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
Borneo International School is a secular institution. There is no any religious affiliation.
Religious affiliation
The school has a Roman Catholic religious affiliation, as it is managed by the Marist Brothers and operates under the guidance of the Archdiocese of Kuching.
School day structure
School day structure
General School Hours (by level and day):
Primary School
Monday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Extended for ECA) Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Extended for ECA) Friday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Secondary School (Years 7–9)
Monday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Extended for ECA) Thursday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Extended for ECA)
Years 10 & 11 (IGCSE)
Monday: 8:00 AM – 3:40 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 3:40 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Extended for ECA) Thursday: 8:00 AM – 3:40 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Extended for ECA)
Structure of the School Day:
Primary Level:
1.The day is divided into three sessions of approximately two hours each.
2.Includes scheduled morning breaks and a lunch break.
3.On two days per week, students can choose from a variety of activities or clubs, extending their day by one hour.
Secondary Level:
1.The regular day runs slightly longer than primary.
2.Two days per week include extended time for extracurricular activities (ECAs), adding 30 minutes to the day.
3.Students engage with teachers and coaches in settings beyond the classroom, fostering broader personal development.
School day structure
School Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Bus service details
Bus service details
The school does not offer a bus service.
Bus service details
The school does not offer a bus service
Fees
Fees
Fee details
Fee details
One-Time Fees
Application Fee: RM200 Non-refundable; payable upon submission of the student application form. Assessment Fee: RM150 Non-refundable; applicable to students required to sit for a written assessment before admission. Admission Fee (One-time, non-refundable):
Security Fee: RM3,000 per student Refundable only if a written notice of withdrawal is submitted at least one full term in advance.
Annual and Per-Term Tuition Fees
Malaysian Students Year 1: RM9,680 annually / RM2,420 per term Year 2: RM9,680 annually / RM2,420 per term Year 3: RM9,680 annually / RM2,420 per term Year 4: RM9,972 annually / RM2,493 per term Year 5: RM9,972 annually / RM2,493 per term Year 6: RM9,972 annually / RM2,493 per term Year 7: RM12,052 annually / RM3,013 per term Year 8: RM12,052 annually / RM3,013 per term Year 9: RM13,916 annually / RM3,479 per term Year 10: RM18,876 annually / RM4,719 per term Year 11: RM18,876 annually / RM4,719 per term A-Level (Years 12–13, 18 months): RM27,750 total / RM4,625 per term
Non-Malaysian Students Year 1: RM11,616 annually / RM2,904 per term Year 2: RM11,616 annually / RM2,904 per term Year 3: RM11,616 annually / RM2,904 per term Year 4: RM11,968 annually / RM2,992 per term Year 5: RM11,968 annually / RM2,992 per term Year 6: RM11,968 annually / RM2,992 per term Year 7: RM14,464 annually / RM3,616 per term Year 8: RM14,464 annually / RM3,616 per term Year 9: RM16,700 annually / RM4,175 per term Year 10: RM22,652 annually / RM5,663 per term Year 11: RM22,652 annually / RM5,663 per term A-Level (Years 12–13, 18 months): RM33,300 total / RM5,550 per term
Refund Policy 1.All fees are non-refundable unless explicitly stated otherwise.
2.The Security Fee (RM3,000) is refundable only when a student withdraws with a full term’s written notice.
3.Late payments will incur a surcharge as determined by the school.
Payment Methods All payments must be made to Borneo Covenant Sdn Bhd and can be processed through the following options:
Cheque Bank draft Direct bank deposit Online banking Telegraphic transfer Credit card (in person at the Finance Payment Counter)
Fee details
Application & Registration Fees Application Fee (one-time, non-refundable): RM 500 Assessment Test Fee: RM 100 per student
Registration Fee (one-time, non-refundable):
For Years 7–9: 1st child: RM 4,000 2nd child: RM 2,000 3rd child: RM 1,000 4th child: Free
Refund Policy For Secondary Students (Years 7–11) Parents must give 1 month’s written notice before withdrawing a student.
If no notice is given, an extra full term's fee will be charged.
Refunds:
Before mid-term: Eligible for 50% refund of that term’s fee. After mid-term: No refund given.
For Pre-University Students If a student does not complete the A-Level programme, the deposit (1 semester fee) will be forfeited.
If the withdrawal happens after the exam registration deadline, exam fees are non-refundable.
For students asked to withdraw by the school, unused deposits may be refunded, but exam fees will not be.
Payment Methods JomPAY (Online Bill Payment) Credit or Debit Card Payable in person at the school office. Cheque
Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements
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Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement
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Food options
Food options
Lunches are offered daily at a marginal cost; meals vary by day. Packed lunches are allowed with tables set aside in the refectory.
Food options
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House system
House system
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House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
The school is a private international educational institution established in 2017 and located in Kuching, Sarawak. It is governed by a Board of Governors.
Governance and ownership
The school is a Catholic institution managed by the Board of Directors, St. Joseph's Private School Management Berhad (Company No. 981967-X). It follows the Cambridge syllabus leading to Cambridge IGCSE and A Levels, with books sourced from the United Kingdom; English is the medium of instruction and Malaysian citizens study Bahasa Melayu, Pendidikan Moral or Pendidikan Islam (Muslim only). The school operates as a single-session, co-educational campus with classes from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and welcomes both foreign and local students, with special English classes available.
Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
Borneo International School offers a unified academic programme based on the Cambridge International Curriculum, providing a continuous educational journey from Year 1 through A-Level qualifications.
In the primary years (Years 1–6), the school follows the Cambridge Primary Programme, which emphasizes English, Mathematics, and Science, along with additional subjects such as Mandarin and Bahasa Melayu. This foundation prepares students for the structured progression into the Cambridge Lower Secondary Programme in Years 7 to 9.
For students in Years 10 and 11, the focus shifts to the Cambridge IGCSE, a globally recognized qualification assessing academic knowledge across a broad range of subjects. Following this, students may enroll in the Cambridge AS and A-Level programme (Years 12 and 13), which prepares them for university admission both in Malaysia and internationally.
Curriculum details
St. Joseph’s International School follows the Cambridge International Curriculum at both secondary and pre-university levels. Students typically enter at Year 7 and progress through to Year 11, preparing for the IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) examinations. The IGCSE curriculum covers core academic subjects such as English, Mathematics, the Sciences, and Humanities, along with options like Art and ICT. Malaysian students are also required to take Bahasa Melayu and Moral or Islamic Studies, in line with national regulations.
At the pre-university level, students can choose between two academic tracks: the Cambridge A-Level programme or the Australian Matriculation (AUSMAT). The A-Level is an 18-month programme split into Year 12 (12 months) and Year 13 (6 months), typically involving three to four subjects in the Sciences, Mathematics, or Humanities. The AUSMAT programme, delivered over 12 months, is assessed continuously through coursework and final exams and is based on standards set by the School Curriculum and Standards Authority of Western Australia. Both qualifications are widely accepted by universities in Malaysia and abroad.
The school incorporates social and emotional learning through character-building programmes that are designed in-house. These programmes aim to help students understand their roles and responsibilities within the school and wider community. It integrates key principles like empathy, cooperation, and ethical behavior into regular school life. For example, students are involved in school-organized community outreach and charity events, such as food drives and local fundraising activities. These allow them to engage directly with real social issues and reflect on their own actions and responsibilities.
In the classroom, teachers promote respectful communication, teamwork, and accountability through group-based learning activities and class discussions. Students are often encouraged to present ideas, work collaboratively, and take part in decision-making during projects. Leadership is also developed through student council participation and class representative roles, where students practice problem-solving, negotiation, and organizing school-related initiatives. These everyday practices support emotional development by helping students manage emotions, understand others’ perspectives, and work constructively in group settings.
Social & emotional learning
St. Joseph’s supports social and emotional learning mainly through activities that encourage group interaction and personal expression. For example, students regularly take part in drama, music, and dance activities, where they work together in rehearsals, performances, and presentations. These situations help students develop communication skills, manage anxiety (e.g., stage fright), and learn how to cooperate with others. Additionally, students are expected to participate in clubs and sports, where teamwork and self-discipline are built through group projects and competitions.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
The school does not have a dedicated SEN programme.
Special educational needs (SEN)
The school does not have any specialized support for students with special educational needs.
English as an additional language
English as an additional language
The school does not offer EAL.
English as an additional language
St. Joseph’s International School provides special English classes for students who require assistance in improving their English proficiency. This support is designed to help students integrate into the English-medium curriculum effectively.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
The school offers a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and clubs, providing students with opportunities to explore interests beyond academics allowing students to build confidence, develop social skills, and manage stress.
Mental wellbeing
Students participate in creative arts such as music, drama, and dance, which provide avenues for emotional expression and stress relief. Additionally, the school emphasizes the development of interpersonal skills and leadership qualities through co-curricular activities, fostering a supportive environment that contributes to students' overall well-being.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding
The school does not have publicly available information on their safeguarding policies.
Safeguarding
The school does not have their safeguarding policy publicly available.
Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy
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Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
Facilities overview
The school moved to a new all-purpose built campus at Saradise in 2022, located 3 km from Kuching International Airport. The campus houses ICT laboratories, science laboratories, and a comprehensive library. It includes an indoor Multipurpose Hall and a Performing Arts and Drama Academy Centre. The sporting facilities include an indoor badminton hall with four full-sized courts and outdoor courts for futsal, basketball, and volleyball; lockers are provided for secondary students and primary students have designated storage areas. The campus is protected by 24-hour in-house uniformed security guards and CCTV cameras, and transport can be arranged through a third-party school bus operator.
Facilities overview
The school has a laboratory, an examination hall, a reading room/library, a computer laboratory, and a basketball court.
Sports facilities
Sports facilities
The school has an indoor badminton hall with four full-sized courts and outdoor courts for futsal, basketball, and volleyball.
Sports facilities
The school has a basketball court.
Academic facilities
Academic facilities
The school provides ICT laboratories, science laboratories, and a comprehensive library.
Academic facilities
The Cambridge syllabus leads to IGCSE and A-level examinations. All subjects are taught in English. Books are sourced from the United Kingdom. Malaysian citizens study Bahasa Melayu and Moral Education, or Islamic Education for Muslim students. The school is a single-session, co-educational day school with lessons from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Special English classes are available for students who need help.
Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
Extra-Curricular Activities includes: Sports & Games (Badminton, Basketball, Brazilian Jiujitsu, Chess and Board Games, Football/Futsal, Netball, Table Tennis, Pickleball); Clubs & Societies (Animal Welfare, Arts and Crafts, Bible Reading, Cheerleading, Crocheting, Cookery, Debate, Eco-Club, Entrepreneur, Gardening, Geopark, Korean Culture, Music and Choir, Psychology, Quilling and Handicraft, Quilling and Papercraft, Young Doctor Club, Robotics); Uniform Groups (Boys' Brigade, Girls' Brigade, Red Crescent).
Extra curricular facilities
Soft skills development includes creative arts such as music, drama and dance. Leadership development is emphasized as part of the holistic education.
Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
Borneo International School was founded in 2017 in Kuching, Sarawak. It was established to provide quality international education using the Cambridge International Curriculum, covering Year 1 through A-Level qualifications. Initially based in a different location, the school moved to its current campus in Saradise in 2022. The new purpose-built facility supports a growing student population and expanded academic offerings.
The school is part of a larger Malaysian education group that also oversees other institutions like Nobel International and United International schools. While relatively young, Borneo International School has steadily expanded its programmes, student body, and infrastructure since its founding.
History
St. Joseph’s International School Kuching was established in 2017 by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Kuching. It is part of the St. Joseph’s Private Schools network, which includes primary and secondary schools. The international school operates from the former SK St. Teresa campus in Padungan and is managed by the Marist Brothers. It offers the Cambridge curriculum, providing education from lower secondary up to A-Level and AUSMAT programmes.
The origins of St. Joseph’s educational institutions in Kuching date back to 1882, when the Mill Hill Fathers established the first Catholic missionary school in Sarawak. Over the years, the school underwent several transformations, including administration by the La Salle Brothers from 1950. In the 1960s, the school became part of the Malaysian government-aided school system. Recognizing the need for holistic education, the Archdiocese initiated the establishment of private schools in 2012, leading to the formation of the current St. Joseph’s Private Schools network.
Community
Community
Borneo International School serves a growing community of over 600 students representing more than 20 nationalities. The school environment is designed to reflect this cultural variety, with a focus on global-mindedness and inclusion. Students participate in international day celebrations, charity drives, and cultural appreciation activities that highlight traditions from Malaysia and abroad. Parents are frequently invited to school events, where they engage with staff and other families, creating a collaborative atmosphere.
Community
St. Joseph’s International School Kuching fosters a community that celebrates Malaysia's rich cultural diversity. The school's Cultural Club exposes students to traditional dances from various Malaysian ethnic groups, such as Chinese New Year and Gawai Dayak celebrations, promoting cultural appreciation and unity among students. Additionally, the school organizes events like the production "A Story of Ours: Us & Them," which encourages students to explore themes of identity and belonging through the arts.
Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
The school does not have a Parent Teacher Association.
Parent teacher association
The school does not have PTA.
Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
The school offers a broad range of clubs and societies to develop academic inquiry and critical thinking. Students can join Robotics, Debate, Young Doctor Club, Geopark, and Entrepreneur to practice analytical collaboration and problem solving. These activities apply classroom knowledge to real-world contexts and foster teamwork.
Academic & intellectual
The Cambridge syllabus leads to Cambridge O-Levels and A-Levels. Books are sourced from the United Kingdom. AUSMAT is planned to be offered. All subjects are taught in English; Malaysian citizens study Bahasa Melayu, Pendidikan Islam or Pendidikan Moral, and Sejarah Malaysia.
Arts & creative
Arts & creative
Clubs and activities include Arts and Crafts, Music and Choir, Crocheting, Quilling and Handicraft, Quilling and Papercraft, and Cookery. Students pursue creative expression through these clubs and have opportunities to perform, exhibit, or share their work. The program supports craftsmanship and artistic development.
Arts & creative
Development of soft skills through the creative arts—music, drama and dance—is part of the holistic education. Dance & Drama and Musical Ensemble & Vocal are offered as ECAs, with Audio-Visual Production also available. The ECA program includes additional clubs and societies that support arts and media.
Cultural & language
Cultural & language
Korean Culture is offered as a cultural club. Bible Reading is available as a club. The school fosters cross-cultural understanding through diverse cultural activities and clubs.
Cultural & language
All subjects are taught in English. Malaysian citizens study Bahasa Melayu, Pendidikan Islam or Pendidikan Moral, and Sejarah Malaysia. The school offers a Language Club as part of ECAs and welcomes both foreign and local students.
Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
Animal Welfare, Eco-Club, Gardening, Crocheting, Quilling, Debates, and Cookery provide hobby and interest-based groups. Chess and Board Games, Table Tennis, and other leisure activities are offered as part of after-school options. The range supports social interaction and personal interests beyond the classroom.
Social & hobbies
Uniform groups and sports form part of the activity program, including Student leaders & monitors, Fire Cadet, St John Ambulance, Taekwondo, and Wushu, plus Futsal, Badminton, Basketball, Netball, Table Tennis, and Chess. Clubs & societies include A Level Club, Audio-Visual Production, Business & Career Club, Creative & Innovative Club, Dance & Drama, Duke of Edinburgh Award, Drone & Photography Club, Environment Club, Interact Club, Language Club, Librarian Club, ISCF, Legion of Mary, Confirmation Class, Musical Ensemble & Vocal, STEM, and Young Christian Students.
Community & service
Community & service
Community Service is an established part of the school's holistic education. Students participate in charity work and community events, helping others while developing gratitude and personal growth.
Community & service
Interacts Club; St John Ambulance; Environment Club; Duke of Edinburgh Award; Legion of Mary; ISCF; Young Christian Students; Confirmation Class.
Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
Entrepreneur and Debate clubs develop leadership, communication, and enterprise skills. Uniform Groups such as Boys' Brigade, Girls' Brigade, and Red Crescent offer youth leadership experiences and service opportunities.
Leadership & professional
Student leaders and monitors participate in uniform groups. The school offers clubs such as A Level Club and Duke of Edinburgh Award to support leadership and career development. Interact Club and Language Club provide further leadership opportunities.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Sports and Games include badminton, basketball, Brazilian Jiujitsu, chess and board games, football/futsal, netball, table tennis, and pickleball. Nutritious lunches are provided daily, with packed lunches accommodated as needed. Extracurricular activities extend the school day on two days each week, supporting students' wellbeing and balance between academics and activities.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
St. Joseph's International School runs a single-session day from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sports include Futsal, Badminton, Basketball, Netball, Table Tennis and Chess. The program focuses on interpersonal skills and leadership as part of holistic education.
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Malay and Mandarin are the languages taught. English is the medium of instruction for all other subjects. Malay and Mandarin appear as language subjects across Cambridge Primary, Cambridge Secondary and IGCSE curricula. Language learning is integrated within the Cambridge framework.
Language provision
English is the medium of instruction for all subjects. Malaysian citizens are required to study Bahasa Melayu, Pendidikan Moral or Pendidikan Islam (Muslim only). The school also offers special English classes for students who needs help.
Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
The school uses English as the language of instruction for the majority of subjects. Malay and Mandarin are taught as language classes. Malay and Mandarin are listed as language offerings in the Cambridge Primary and Cambridge Secondary curricula.
Bilingual teaching
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Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
Eco-Schools Bronze Certificate: The school received a Bronze Certificate from the Green Growth Asia Foundation for its efforts in promoting environmental sustainability within the school and the broader community.
Awards
The school does not have publicly available information on their awards.
Accreditations
Accreditations
Cambridge International Examination Centre: Borneo International School is accredited by Cambridge International Education (CIE), allowing it to offer Cambridge Primary, Secondary, IGCSE, and A-Level programmes.
Accreditations
Licensed by the Malaysian Ministry of Education to offer the Cambridge International curriculum, including IGCSE and A-Level programmes.
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
1. Application Submission. Download and complete the school’s Application Form. Attach a copy of your child’s most recent school report card and exam results when submitting the form.
2. Entrance Assessment. Schedule an appointment for your child to sit for the school’s entrance assessment examination.
3. Assessment Outcome. Within one week of the assessment, the school will notify you of the results and recommend an appropriate Year Group placement for your child.
4. Offer and Enrollment. If your child is successful, the school will issue an Offer of Acceptance letter. You will then be asked to complete and submit the Admission Form to finalize the enrollment process.
Admissions
1. Download and complete the relevant registration form from the school's website. Submit the completed form along with the required documents, which include: Two copies of the student's most recent academic report A copy of the student's birth certificate A copy of the student's MyKad or passport Two recent passport-sized photographs A copy of the parent's MyKad or passport
2. Prospective students may be required to sit for an entrance assessment to determine their suitability for the school's curriculum.
3. An interview with the student and parents may be conducted to discuss the student's educational background and expectations.
4. Successful applicants will receive an offer letter. Acceptance of the offer requires payment of the necessary fees.
5. Upon acceptance, the student will be officially enrolled, and further details regarding orientation and class placement will be provided.
Scholarships
Scholarships
Borneo International School offers scholarships for its A-Level programme.
Scholarships
The school does not have publicly available information on scholarships.