Charis International School vs Jesselton International School

	C Charis International School Sabah, Malaysia	J Jesselton International School Sabah, Malaysia
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year MYR 15,000 - 39,600	Fees / year MYR 14,190 - 37,500
Age range	Age range 4 - 16 years	Age range 4 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE	Curriculum British Curriculum, Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels
Pupils	Pupils 60	Pupils 250
Typical class size	Typical class size 5	Typical class size 14
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2014	Opened 2018
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service —
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Charis International School is situated in Tawau, a coastal town in Sabah, East Malaysia. The school occupies four floors within Calvary Crown, a ten-story multipurpose building located in the heart of Tawau. The campus is approximately a 35-minute drive (30 km) from Tawau Airport, offering convenient access for both local and international families.	Location Jesselton International School is situated at Lot 1, Jalan Kemajuan, Karamunsing, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. The school is located in a central area of Kota Kinabalu, providing convenient access to various parts of the city. This location offers ease of transportation for families residing in and around the city.
Stages	Stages Charis International School follows the Cambridge International Curriculum. The structure includes: Kindergarten: Ages 4–6 Primary: Years 1–6 (Ages 6–11) Lower Secondary: Years 7–9 (Ages 12–14) Upper Secondary: Years 10–11 (Ages 15–16)	Stages Jesselton International School follows the British curriculum, preparing students for IGCSE and A-Level examinations and is structured as follows: Kindergarten: Ages 4–6 Primary School: Years 1–6 Secondary School: Years 7–11 A-Level Programme: Years 12–13
School type	School type Charis International School is a co-educational and provides boarding facilities, known as "Charis Home," for outstation and international students. This boarding option is available to students from Year 7 onwards.	School type Jesselton International School is a co-educational day school. It does not offer boarding facilities.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Charis International School does not explicitly mention dedicated programs or facilities for students with Additional Learning Needs (ALN) or Special Educational Needs (SEN) on its official website.	Additional learning support The school provides support for students with additional learning needs, including those requiring special educational assistance.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Charis International School is a private Malaysian institution and is not affiliated with any foreign government or international national system.	Country affiliation Jesselton International School does not have a formal affiliation with any country.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Charis International School does not explicitly state any religious affiliation on its official website.	Religious affiliation The school is non-denominational and does not have any religious affiliation.
School day structure	School day structure At Charis International School, the school day usually operates from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM on weekdays, specific daily start and end times for classes are not detailed on the official website.	School day structure Specific details about the daily schedule, including start and end times, as well as break and lunch periods, are not publicly provided.
Bus service details	Bus service details Charis International School does not list a dedicated school bus or coach service on its official website.	Bus service details Jesselton International School does not publicly specify the provision of a school bus or transportation service.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details One-Time Payment Application Fee: MYR 200 (non-refundable), payable upon application. Enrollment Fee: MYR 2,000 (non-refundable) Capital Contribution: First child: MYR 5,000 Second child: MYR 4,000 Subsequent siblings: MYR 3,000 each Refundable Deposit: Equivalent to one term’s tuition fee, refundable with appropriate notice. Annual Tuition Fees (Malaysians) Kindergarten (K1 & K2): MYR 14,400 Year 1: MYR 18,750 Year 2: MYR 19,320 Year 3: MYR 19,890 Year 4: MYR 20,460 Year 5: MYR 21,030 Year 6: MYR 21,600 Year 7: MYR 24,525 Year 8: MYR 25,950 Year 9: MYR 27,375 Year 10: MYR 30,300 Year 11: MYR 31,725 Annual Tuition Fees (non-Malaysians) Kindergarten (K1 & K2): MYR 15,000 Year 1: MYR 23,400 Year 2: MYR 24,120 Year 3: MYR 24,840 Year 4: MYR 25,560 Year 5: MYR 26,280 Year 6: MYR 27,000 Year 7: MYR 30,600 Year 8: MYR 32,400 Year 9: MYR 34,200 Year 10: MYR 37,800 Year 11: MYR 39,600 This fee structure includes miscellaneous fees and meals (optional). Payment Methods* Fees can be paid through several methods: Cheques / Banker's Draft (in MYR): Payable to Charis Education Sdn. Bhd. Cash in Ringgit Malaysia (MYR): While cash payments are not encouraged for security reasons, they can be made at the Admissions Office from Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM. Telegraphic Transfer in Foreign Currency: Account Name: Charis Education Sdn. Bhd. Account Number: 1002 00000 72718 Bank Name: Bank Muamalat Malaysia Berhad (Tawau Branch) Bank Address: Lot 69 & 70, Ground & 1st Floor, Kubota Square, Jalan Kubota, 91000 Tawau, Sabah, Malaysia Bank Telephone: +60-89-771 488 / 489 / 490 Bank Fax: +60-89-771 494 SWIFT Code: BMMBMYKL XXX *Important Note: A copy of the bank transaction report must be forwarded to the School’s Fee Collection Office via: Fax: +60-89-762487 Email: charistawau@outlook.com WhatsApp: +60-17-2178830	Fee details One-Time Payment Fees Enrolment Fee: MYR 6,500 (non-refundable) Deposit: MYR 2,000 (refundable) Annual Tuition Fees Kindergarten (1–2): MYR 14,190 Year 1–2: MYR 21,270 Year 3–4: MYR 25,230 Year 5–6: MYR 27,390 Year 7–8: MYR 31,350 Year 9: MYR 32,000 Year 10–11: MYR 36,840 Year 12–13: MYR 37,500 Other Fees Supplies and Equipment: Primary 1–4: MYR 180 per term Primary 5–6: MYR 320 per term Secondary: MYR 320 per term A-Level: MYR 500 per term Sports Activities: Kindergarten: MYR 100 per term Primary 1–4: MYR 200 per term Primary 5–6 and Secondary: MYR 480 per term Kindergarten Afternoon Care: MYR 490 every month After-School Activities: MYR 50 registration fee per activity per term, additional fees may apply for specialist coaches. Graduation Fees: Kindergarten 2: MYR 80 Primary 6: MYR 150 Year 11: MYR 300 A-Level: MYR 1,500 Examination Fees: IGCSE: MYR 500–700 per subject A-Level: as per examination board rates. Uniform: Available for purchase from the school. Textbooks: Primary: Purchase from the school Secondary and A-Level: Purchase as per the book list. Visa Application (if applicable): MYR 500. Sibling Discounts Second child: 5% discount Third child: 10% discount Fourth and subsequent children: 15% discount Billing Schedule and Payment Terms The school operates on a three-term academic year. Payments are due within 28 days from the date the invoice is issued. Early annual payment of tuition fees (all three terms in one payment) attracts a 100% discount on Supplies and Equipment Fees for the academic year. Refund Information The enrolment fee is non-refundable. The deposit is refundable upon withdrawal, subject to the school's terms and conditions.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements The school offers boarding for outstation and international students, with Charis Home available as a home-away-from-home option. A boarding form is required for boarding applicants.	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Secondary students are required to wear full formal uniform. After assembly, the blazer and the waistcoat may be removed, but the tie must be worn all day.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options —	Food options —
House system	House system —	House system The school has a house system with three houses named Titan, Spartan and Trojan. Regular house days are held and involve social, academic, creative, and sporting events to foster a sense of belonging among students.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is governed by a Board of Governors. The Chairman is Radaha Krishnan; the Treasurer is Soon Yee Fun; Board Members are Teh Yung Huat, Tan Kian Chong and Tay Ming Yih. The school is MOE-approved and a Cambridge International Examination Centre offering Cambridge IGCSE.	Governance and ownership The school is owned by Golden Bornoe Hope Sdn. Bhd. (Company registration number 1279130-K).
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Charis International School offers the Cambridge International Curriculum from Kindergarten through Year 11. In the Kindergarten years (ages 4–6), students engage in foundational learning across communication, literacy, numeracy, science, art, music, and physical development, with exposure to English, Malay, and Chinese. Primary students (Years 1–6) follow the Cambridge Primary Programme, studying English, Mathematics, Science, and Global Perspectives, alongside computing, PE, moral/religious education, and additional languages. Lower Secondary (Years 7–9) continues with the Cambridge Lower Secondary Programme and introduces subjects such as Social Studies, Art, Music, and ICT. In Upper Secondary (Years 10–11), students prepare for the IGCSE exams and can choose between science or commerce streams, with subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Business Studies, Accounting, ICT, and languages. Instruction is in English, and the curriculum is supported by co-curricular activities and project-based learning.	Curriculum details Jesselton International School offers a British-based curriculum from Early Years through to A Levels. In the Kindergarten stage (ages 4–6), the school follows a play-based learning approach aligned with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). The Primary School curriculum (Years 1–6) includes English, Maths, Science, Humanities, Art, Music, PE, and Languages (Malay and Mandarin). At the Secondary level (Years 7–11), students follow the Cambridge curriculum, preparing for IGCSE examinations in a range of core and elective subjects. In Years 12 and 13, students pursue Cambridge International A Levels, selecting from academic subjects in sciences, humanities, and mathematics. English is the medium of instruction, with additional support for non-native speakers.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar View document	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning Charis International School emphasizes a nurturing environment, particularly in its Kindergarten program, where children are individually guided through a holistic development program. The school's commitment to a supportive atmosphere is evident in its efforts to provide a "home away from home" for students.	Social & emotional learning JIS emphasizes the development of students' social and emotional competencies through its educational practices. Teachers are encouraged to consider each child's individual needs, fostering deeper understanding and problem-solving skills.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The school does not explicitly mention specialized programs or facilities for students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) on its official website.	Special educational needs (SEN) While JIS is not a specialist SEN institution, it strives to support students with diverse learning needs.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language Charis International School offers English as a Second Language (ESL) programs, particularly at the Lower Secondary level. This provision supports students who are not fluent in English, helping them to develop the necessary language skills to access the broader curriculum effectively.	English as an additional language JIS recognizes the importance of supporting students for whom English is an additional language. The school's teaching staff employs strategies to assist EAL students in developing their English proficiency, enabling them to access the curriculum effectively and participate fully in school life.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing While the school emphasizes a caring and supportive environment, specific programs or initiatives targeting mental wellbeing are not detailed on the official website.	Mental wellbeing The school acknowledges the significance of mental health and wellbeing in the educational journey. JIS fosters a caring community where teachers are dedicated to the holistic development of students, including their emotional wellbeing.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Charis International School has established rules and disciplinary procedures to maintain a safe and respectful learning environment. The school has a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying, with immediate parental involvement and formal warnings issued in such cases. These measures underscore the school's commitment to safeguarding and child protection.	Safeguarding JIS is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all students. The school implements safeguarding measures aligned with best practices to protect students' welfare. Staff members are trained to recognize and respond to child protection concerns, ensuring that the wellbeing of students remains a top priority.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Charis International School provides purpose-built facilities to support modern learning. The school uses ICT-enabled classrooms and a Resource Room. It hosts a Computing Lab, Science Labs, a Library, an Auditorium, and a Multi-Purpose Hall. Additional spaces include a Health & Fitness Centre, a Dance & Music Studio, and a Music Room.	Facilities overview The Jesselton International School (JIS) is located in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. The address is Lot 1, Jalan Kemajuan, Karamunsing 88000 Kota Kinabalu; the contact number is +6011-1779 9843 and the email is info@jisgroup.edu.my.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The school has a Health & Fitness Centre for physical education. It also offers co-curricular sports through Sports Club, Swimming Club, Track & Field Club, and Archery Club.	Sports facilities N/A
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Academic facilities include ICT-enabled classrooms and a Resource Room to support learning, plus a Computing Lab, Science Labs, and a Library. Cambridge Pathway education is provided through the Cambridge Primary, Lower Secondary, and Upper Secondary routes, and Charis is a Cambridge International School. English is the main medium of instruction with Chinese and Malay offered as second languages. The school is MOE-approved and located in Tawau, Sabah, Malaysia. Blended classroom learning and ongoing faculty development are part of the approach.	Academic facilities N/A
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Groups and clubs cover academics, arts, language and sport, including Little Professors Club, Story-telling Club, Dream Makers Club, Interact Club, Leaderonomics Club, Chess Club, English Club, Chinese Club, Science Club, Suru Club, Sports Club, Swimming Club, Table-tennis Club, Badminton Club, Hiking Club, Cooking & Baking Club, Dancing Club, Drama Club, Movies Club, Photography Club, Track & Field Club, and Archery Club.	Extra curricular facilities JIS offers co-curricular and extra-curricular programs including the Jesselton International School Community Outreach Programme (JISCOP) and the Young Entrepreneur Programme (YEP). The school also runs a house system with Titan, Spartan and Trojan houses to support leadership and teamwork. There are more than 30 after-school activities and clubs, and a range of on-campus and off-campus opportunities linked to sports, arts and academics.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Charis International School was established on August 24, 2014, making it the first registered international school in Tawau and the third in the East Malaysian state of Sabah. Charis International School is located within Calvary Crown, a ten-story multipurpose building strategically situated in the heart of Tawau town. The school offers the Cambridge International Curriculum from Kindergarten through Upper Secondary levels.	History Jesselton International School (JIS) was established in 2018 in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, with the aim of providing international education options for local families. The school offers a comprehensive British curriculum, catering to students aged 4 to 18, encompassing Kindergarten through A Levels. JIS is part of the Jesselton International Group, which has a history of involvement in educational initiatives. The school's founding vision focuses on delivering high-quality education with a commitment to innovation and integrity.
Community	Community Charis International School fosters a diverse and inclusive community, celebrating various cultures and traditions. An example of this is the annual International Day event, which showcases a kaleidoscope of color, music, and culture. The event features performances such as the Kindy Dance, Seni Maharatu Dance, Chinese Dance, shadow play, and choir. Students, teachers, and parents participate in a national costume competition, and parents actively assist in decorating booths and preparing desserts from different countries.	Community JIS fosters a diverse and inclusive community, celebrating various cultural events that reflect the multicultural fabric of Sabah. The school organizes annual celebrations such as the Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, and the Kaamatan Festival, providing students with opportunities to engage with different cultural traditions. These events are integral to the school's efforts to promote cultural understanding and community engagement among students, staff, and families.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association Charis International School has an active Parent-Teacher Association that plays a significant role in the school's community. The PTA organizes meetings and events that encourage collaboration between parents and teachers. These gatherings provide a platform for discussing students' progress and school activities. The PTA's involvement enhances the school's environment by fostering strong relationships among parents, teachers, and students.	Parent teacher association While specific details about JIS's PTA activities are not publicly disclosed, the school emphasizes the importance of parental involvement in the educational process. Parents are encouraged to participate in school events and activities, fostering a collaborative environment between the school and families.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Charis International School follows the Cambridge International curriculum for its primary and secondary programmes. The school is MOE-approved and serves kindergarten to Year 11. Charis is a Cambridge International examination centre for IGCSE. The IGCSE qualification is widely recognized as an entrance standard to many colleges and universities worldwide.	Academic & intellectual Jesselton International School provides a British international foundation for ages 4 to 18, offering IGCSE and A Levels. The Primary curriculum is based on the National Standards of England with Cambridge learning targets, while the Secondary program leads to IGCSE and A Levels under Cambridge CAIE and Edexcel boards. A Levels include a mentor-mentee system to guide progress and university applications, and there are more than 60 subject specialists with small class sizes to support individualized learning.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Diverse co-curricular activities provide a creative platform to nurture holistic growth. Character First education is incorporated to develop leadership qualities. The program supports engagement in a broad range of co-curricular activities as part of its holistic development approach.	Arts & creative Creative classes in the Primary curriculum include Music, Arts, ICT, and PE. Secondary also includes Music and Art as part of core subjects. Extracurricular arts offerings include the JIS Band, Da Vinci Club, Singing Club, Dancing Club, and Rhythmic Gymnastics among more than 30 options.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language The English language is the main medium of instruction, with Chinese and Malay offered as second languages. The curriculum supports multilingual international culture. International staff and students from diverse backgrounds enrich the learning environment.	Cultural & language Foreign languages in the Primary curriculum include Malay, Mandarin, and French. In Secondary, Mandarin and Malay are taught as languages.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Charis offers diverse co-curricular activities including recreational clubs and hobby groups. These activities complement classroom learning and promote teamwork and communication. The school emphasizes holistic development through an active student-centered approach.	Social & hobbies The school offers an extensive, learning-beyond-the-classroom program with on-campus and off-campus activities and more than 30 options. There is a House System to develop leadership and teamwork through regular house days with a mix of events. Extracurricular options include Mad Scientist, Chess and Go, Tae Kwon Do and MMA, JIS Band, Da Vinci Club, Singing Club, Dancing Club, Yoga Club, Architectural Engineering Club, Chinese Club, E-Sport Club, Magazine Club, Book Club, Rhythmic Gymnastics, and more.
Community & service	Community & service —	Community & service The Duke of Edinburgh International Award Program is offered to develop global citizenship outside the classroom. The school also runs JISCOP (Jesselton International School Community Outreach Programme) where Year 10 students volunteer in workplaces and Year 9 students volunteer in non-profit organizations.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Character First education develops leadership qualities and is integrated into the co-curricular program. The school aims to cultivate lifelong learners with global perspectives and essential generic learning skills such as research, analysis, collaboration and communication.	Leadership & professional Leadership development is supported by the House System, with regular house activities that foster teamwork and leadership. The school offers the Duke of Edinburgh International Award, the Young Entrepreneur Program (YEP), and JISCOP to cultivate leadership, enterprise, and social responsibility. For A Levels, a mentor-mentee system guides students through academic progress and university applications.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing —	Lifestyle & wellbeing Pastoral care is described as excellent. The curriculum integrates physical education and sports, including a broad range of activities through the House System and extracurricular offerings. The KK Wetlands and a Nature Club feature support for environmental awareness and well-being.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English is the main medium of instruction. Mandarin and Malay are offered as second-language subjects. English First Language (EFL) and English as Second Language (ESL) are part of the English curriculum. Mandarin and Malay are taught across primary and secondary levels as part of the Cambridge pathway.	Language provision English is a core subject in Primary. In Secondary, English is taught as a first and second language. Foreign languages include Malay, Mandarin, and French. Malay is taught from Kindergarten.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching English is the main medium of instruction. Mandarin and Malay are taught as second languages within the curriculum.	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards 2022 Asia International Book of Records – Malaysia Top 100 Schools Award Recognized as one of Malaysia's top 100 schools by the Asia International Book of Records, highlighting the school's commitment to excellence. charis.edu.my Duke of Edinburgh International Awards (2023) On 18 November 2023, 24 secondary students from Charis International School received the Duke of Edinburgh International Awards at bronze and silver levels, acknowledging their achievements in personal development and community service.	Awards Duke of Edinburgh's International Award – Gold Level Participation (2021) JIS students achieved the Gold Level in the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, reflecting their commitment to personal development, community service, and outdoor challenges.
Accreditations	Accreditations Ministry of Education (Malaysia) Charis International School is fully accredited by the Malaysian Ministry of Education, ensuring compliance with national educational standards. Cambridge International Examination Centre The school is a registered Cambridge International Examination Centre, authorized to administer the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) examinations.	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Schedule a School Tour or Trial Class (Optional) Families can book a school tour, admissions test, or trial class by downloading and submitting the enquiry form available on the school's website. This provides an opportunity to experience the school's environment and facilities firsthand. Complete and Submit the Application Form Download and fill out the Admissions Form. Along with the form, prepare the following documents: Four recent passport-sized photos of the student. A copy of the student's birth certificate, MyKid, or passport. Copies of parents' MyKads or passports, and visas. The student's most recent school report. Boarding applicants must complete the boarding application form. Pay the Application Fee* A non-refundable application fee of MYR 200 is required. Payments can be made by cash, cheque, online transfer, or telegraphic transfer. Await Application Review and Notification The admissions team will review the application and send a notification of the outcome via email. If successful, further instructions regarding enrollment and orientation will be provided. For International Students: Visa Application and Arrival Preparations Upon receiving an offer, international students should apply for a student visa through the appropriate visa center. After obtaining the visa, arrange travel to Tawau, Malaysia, and prepare for the start of the academic term. International students should note the following steps: Apply for a student Visa with the Visa Centre Book a flight ticket and arrive at school Pay school and misc. fees Buy and collect your books and uniforms from the school office Collect the Academic Calendar, timetable, name tag and Club activity form Download the school2me app	Admissions Schedule a School Visit or Attend an Open House Parents are encouraged to visit the campus to meet with staff and understand the school's environment. Complete the Application Form Students must submit a registration form and ensure that all the required documents, such as previous school reports and identification, are included. Assessment and Interview Depending on the year group, students may be required to undergo assessments or interviews to determine appropriate placement and support needs. Offer and Acceptance Successful applicants will receive an offer letter. To secure the place, parents must confirm acceptance and pay the enrolment fee of MYR 6500 and a deposit of MYR 2000 due at registration. Orientation and Commencement Before the academic year begins, new students may attend orientation sessions to familiarize themselves with the school community and routines.
Scholarships	Scholarships Charis International School offers scholarships to high-achieving students. Top-performing students are encouraged to sit for an assessment exam, and scholarships are awarded based on the results.	Scholarships As of the current information available, Jesselton International School does not publicly advertise any scholarship programs.
Waitlist	Waitlist Charis International School does not explicitly mention the operation of a waitlist or pool system on its official website. Admissions are processed on a rolling basis, subject to availability.	Waitlist Jesselton International School does not publicly specify the use of a waitlist or pool system. Admissions are processed on a rolling basis, and placements are subject to availability in the desired year group.
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