Excelsior International School vs Sunway International School - Sunway City Iskandar Puteri
Excelsior International School and Sunway International School - Sunway City Iskandar Puteri are both in Johor Bahru, about 40 km apart. Both schools offer IB programmes. Excelsior International School also offers Bespoke, British, Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary) and Cambridge IGCSE, and Sunway International School - Sunway City Iskandar Puteri also offers IBCP and Canadian. Published annual fees are MYR 25,800 - 64,000 at Excelsior International School and MYR 45,000 - 95,000 at Sunway International School - Sunway City Iskandar Puteri, which puts Sunway International School - Sunway City Iskandar Puteri roughly 56% higher. Excelsior International School takes pupils from 4 to 18, and Sunway International School - Sunway City Iskandar Puteri from 4 to 17.
IB (MYP), IB (DP), IBCP (International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme), Canadian Curriculum
Pupils
Pupils
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Pupils
500
Typical class size
Typical class size
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Typical class size
20
Instruction language
Instruction language
English
Instruction language
English
Opened
Opened
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Opened
2017
Bus service
Bus service
No
Bus service
Yes
Essentials
Essentials
Location
Location
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Location
Sunway International School Iskandar Puteri is located in Sunway City Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia. The area is part of the Iskandar Malaysia development zone and sits near the Malaysia–Singapore Second Link, making it accessible for families commuting between countries. The school is within close proximity to EduCity, Legoland, and residential townships like Medini and East Ledang.
Stages
Stages
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Stages
The school is structured into Early Years, Primary, Secondary, and Pre-University levels. Students begin at age 4 and can continue through to Grade 12, following a clear academic progression through IPC, OSSD, and IBDP programmes.
School type
School type
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School type
The school is a co-educational international day and boarding school serving students from Early Years through Grade 12. Boarding is available for secondary and pre-university students at SIS House, located a short distance from the main campus.
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
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Additional learning support
SIS Iskandar Puteri provides inclusive education tailored to individual student needs. While specific details about dedicated Special Educational Needs (SEN) staff or facilities are not publicly available, the school emphasizes personalized learning approaches to support diverse learners.
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
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Country affiliation
The school is affiliated with the Canadian education system, specifically the Ontario curriculum, and also offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program.
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation
The school has no religious affiliation and operates as a secular institution.
School day structure
School day structure
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School day structure
The school day typically begins at 8:00 AM and ends at 3:00 PM. Students have scheduled breaks for morning recess and lunch, with time allocated for both meals and recreation. After-school activities take place on selected weekdays.
Bus service details
Bus service details
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Bus service details
The school offers a private bus service operated by vetted third-party providers. Routes cover major residential areas in Iskandar Puteri and surrounding neighborhoods. Bus availability, pick-up/drop-off locations, and fees are confirmed during the enrolment process. The service is optional and coordinated through the school's administrative office.
Per‑term tuition (school operates two academic terms; per‑term amounts shown are the annual tuition divided by two) - Nursery / KG1 / KG2: RM 12,900 per term. - Grade 1 – 3: RM 17,500 per term. - Grade 4 – 5: RM 20,250 per term. - Grade 6 – 8: RM 23,375 per term. - Grade 9 – 10: RM 26,500 per term. - Grade 11 – 12: RM 32,000 per term.
Billing schedule & payment terms - Tuition is set and published as an annual amount and is billed on the school's academic cycle; per‑term invoices follow the school's term structure (the school operates a two‑term academic year). - Registration fee is payable to obtain the enrolment package; the enrolment (acceptance) fee is payable on acceptance of the offer and is non‑refundable. - Security deposit: an amount equal to 20% of the annual tuition, payable as a deposit. The security deposit is refundable when the student leaves provided at least one term's written notice of withdrawal is given; refund is subject to deductions for damage or outstanding charges. - Resource / stationery / meal charges and other annual ancillary charges are invoiced separately from base tuition and are payable according to the school's billing schedule. Specific ancillary charges (examples listed below) are billed in addition to tuition.
Boarding fees (where applicable) - Boarding is offered on campus. Indicative boarding charge quoted in local school listings: RM 26,000 per year (boarding charged in addition to tuition).
Other costs and recurring charges - Meal fee (Early Years): RM 1,750 per year (applies to Nursery, KG1 and KG2 as an annual charge; older students use a pay‑as‑you‑consume system using a student ID card deposit). - Stationery & resource / resource fee (annual, by year group): - Nursery – KG2: RM 500 (stationery/resource) — (school listing). - Grade 1 – 5: from RM 600. - Grade 6 – 8: from RM 650. - Grade 9 – 10: from RM 700. - Grade 11 – 12: from RM 850. - Additional resource charges (listed on some school summaries) may include textbook rental, laboratory/ICT fees, examination fees (IGCSE/IB) and optional yearbook/graduation charges; these are additional to tuition and ancillary charges. Examination and external assessment fees (IGCSE, IB) are not included in tuition.
Refund information - Registration and enrolment (acceptance) fees are stated as non‑refundable. - Security deposit is refundable subject to the condition that at least one term's written notice of withdrawal is given and after deductions (if any) for damage or outstanding charges.
Fee payment options - Meal payments for Early Years and pay‑as‑you‑consume catering for older students are handled via funds deposited to the student ID card system. - The school issues invoices and manages fee collection through its finance office and the school's published billing cycle; parents should use the school's published payment channels when settling registration, enrolment, deposit and tuition invoices.
Notes on extra / conditional charges - Additional charges may apply for special programmes, learning support/EAL, external examination entries (IGCSE/IB), optional co‑curricular activities, school transport and medical/insurance for international students. These charges are billed separately from base tuition.
Fee details
Application and Registration Fees * A one-time, non-refundable registration fee applies: * Grades 1–5 and Kindergarten and Grades 1–5 : MYR 5,000 * Grades 6–10 : MYR 7,500 An initial payment of MYR 1,000 is required upon application; the balance is due upon acceptance.
Refundable Deposit * A MYR 5,000 deposit is payable upon enrolment. * This is refundable provided the school receives 6 months’ notice of withdrawal while the student is still enrolled, or upon completion of Grade 11 or IBDP Year 2.
Tuition Fees (Per Semester / Two Semesters Per Year) * Kindergarten: MYR 15,000 per semester (Total annual: MYR 30,000) * Grades 1–5: MYR 20,000 per semester (Total annual: MYR 40,000) * Grades 6–10: MYR 27,500 per semester (Total annual: MYR 55,000)
Additional Fees * International Admin Fee: MYR 750 per semester, applicable to international students only. * Student Visa Fee: MYR 400 (one-time, for international students, paid in cash). * Other Costs: School-regulated uniforms, laptops, textbooks, calculators, and external examination fees are not included in tuition and must be paid separately.
Boarding Fees * Boarding is available via SIS House, with fees not included in the academic fee documents. These are handled separately and vary based on room type and boarding duration.
Billing and Payment Terms * Fees are invoiced per semester and must be paid before the start of each semester. * Payments can be made by cheque, credit card, FPX online transfer, JomPAY, or telegraphic bank transfer.
Refund Policy * The deposit is refundable with one semester's notice. Registration fees and tuition are non-refundable.
For payments, detailed instructions including bank account info and JomPAY billing codes are included in each fee document.
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
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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
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Governance and ownership
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Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
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Curriculum details
Sunway International School Iskandar Puteri offers a structured progression through three internationally recognized programs. In the early years and primary levels, students follow the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), which combines thematic units with core literacy and numeracy skills. From Grade 6 to Grade 10, students transition into the Canadian curriculum leading to the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), which emphasizes continuous assessment and interdisciplinary learning. For Grades 11 and 12, students may opt for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program(IBDP), offering rigorous academic preparation for university. The curriculum is taught in English, with additional language subjects including Malay, Mandarin, and French.
The school integrates SEL into its curriculum through character education and advisory sessions. Guidance counsellors are available to support students' personal, academic, and social development. The school also offers workshops and sessions for parents to foster a collaborative approach to student well-being.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN)
SIS Iskandar Puteri adopts a student-centric approach, focusing on individual learning and development. While the school supports diverse learning needs, it is not a specialist SEN institution.
English as an additional language
English as an additional language
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English as an additional language
The school offers English Language Support programs for non-native speakers. These include English for Academic Purposes (EAP) for middle and high school students, and English as a Second Language (ESL) support for those needing additional assistance. Advisory sessions are also provided to enhance literacy skills.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing
SIS Iskandar Puteri prioritizes student well-being through its guidance and counselling services. Counsellors provide support for personal, academic, and social challenges, and the school conducts workshops and sessions for parents to promote a supportive community.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding
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Safeguarding
The school places a high priority on student safety and well-being. Comprehensive safety measures are in place, including health protocols and security systems, to ensure a secure learning environment.
Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy
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Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
Facilities overview
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Facilities overview
The Sunway City Iskandar Puteri campus sits on a seven-acre site in Medini, Sunway City Iskandar Puteri, Johor. The campus is part of Sunway Campus and can cater to more than 900 students, providing a vibrant learning environment for diverse learners to discover their full potential. Facilities available include a football field, a swimming pool, table-tennis facilities, badminton courts, a basketball court, and a netball court. A virtual campus tour is available for prospective families.
Sports facilities
Sports facilities
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Sports facilities
The sports facilities include a football field, swimming pool, table-tennis facilities, badminton courts, a basketball court, and a netball court.
Academic facilities
Academic facilities
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Academic facilities
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Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities
Extracurricular activities span arts, athletics, STEM, and other areas. They foster leadership, teamwork, and resilience.
Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
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History
Sunway International School (SIS) Iskandar Puteri was established in January 2017 as the second campus under the Sunway Education Group, following the success of its Kuala Lumpur counterpart founded in 2008. The school operates under the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation, a not-for-profit entity that reinvests all surpluses into education and community development . Located on a 7-acre purpose-built campus in Medini, Johor, SIS Iskandar Puteri offers a continuum of international education from Kindergarten to Grade 12.
Community
Community
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Community
SIS Iskandar Puteri fosters a vibrant and inclusive community comprising students, parents, teachers, and local residents. The school organizes various events throughout the year, such as the Open Day Carnival, which features student-led activities, performances, and showcases . Additionally, the school participates in community initiatives like the Sunway Charity Run, promoting social responsibility and engagement among students and staff .
Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association
SIS Iskandar Puteri has an active Parent Council that fosters strong partnerships between families and the school. Parents are invited to participate in regular engagement events such as Morning Coffee/Tea with the Principal, Meet the Teachers Night, and Curriculum Night, which provide opportunities to connect with teachers and administrators. The Parent Council also plays a key role in supporting school-wide events, including Open Days, Teachers' Day, International Day, and various cultural celebrations. These initiatives help create a collaborative atmosphere where parents are involved in shaping the school community and enhancing student wellbeing.
Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual
The school offers a rich array of extracurricular activities in the arts, athletics, STEM, and other areas of student interest. These experiences enhance personal growth and build essential life skills such as leadership, teamwork, and resilience. The campus presents itself as a vibrant community that supports holistic development outside the classroom.
Arts & creative
Arts & creative
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Arts & creative
The school provides extracurricular activities in the arts. These activities contribute to student growth and offer creative expression outside academic classes. They are part of a broader, active campus life that values artistic exploration.
Cultural & language
Cultural & language
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Cultural & language
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Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies
Extracurricular activities cover arts, athletics, STEM, and other areas of student interest, supporting social engagement and hobbies. Participation in clubs and societies enhances social interaction and personal interests. These activities foster leadership and teamwork.
Community & service
Community & service
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Community & service
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Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional
Extracurricular activities cultivate leadership and teamwork. The school frames these experiences as a core part of holistic education and partnership with families. They prepare students for future opportunities and, for Pre-U cohorts, entry into universities worldwide.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
Sports and athletics are part of the extracurricular program. These activities support physical well-being and fitness. The school emphasizes holistic development and resilience in its student community.
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
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Language provision
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Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching
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Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
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Awards
1. Reader’s Digest Trusted Brand Award – Platinum (2024) This award recognizes SIS as a highly trusted private/international school brand in Malaysia, based on consumer surveys assessing reliability and quality.
2. GreenRE Platinum Certification The school has been awarded the GreenRE Platinum Certification for its commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly building practices, making it one of the few schools in Malaysia with this distinction.
3. Business Leadership Award This accolade acknowledges SIS's excellence in educational leadership and management within the private education sector in Malaysia.
4. SKIPS 5-Star Rating Awarded by Malaysia's Ministry of Education, this rating reflects the school's high standards in educational quality, administration, and student services.
Accreditations
Accreditations
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Accreditations
1. International Baccalaureate (IB) World School SIS is authorized to offer the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP), the IB Career-related Programme (IBCP), and the Middle Years Programme (MYP). This accreditation ensures the school meets the rigorous standards set by the International Baccalaureate Organization for delivering high-quality international education.
2. Ontario Ministry of Education, Canada The school is licensed by the Ontario Ministry of Education to offer the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). This accreditation involves regular inspections to ensure adherence to the educational standards and practices of Ontario, Canada.
3. Ministry of Education, Malaysia SIS is registered with Malaysia's Ministry of Education and has received the highest 5-Star rating under the SKIPS (Standard Kualiti Institusi Pendidikan Swasta) assessment, reflecting excellence in private education standards.
4. Association of International Malaysian Schools (AIMS) Membership in AIMS connects SIS with a network of international schools in Malaysia, promoting collaboration and the sharing of best practices in international education.
5. Malaysia-Canada Business Council (MCBC) Affiliation with MCBC supports the school's Canadian curriculum and fosters educational and business ties between Malaysia and Canada.
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
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Admissions
1. Book a campus tour or attend an Open Day. Families are encouraged to visit the school to learn more about its curriculum, meet teachers, and view the facilities. Open Days are held periodically, and private campus tours can be arranged through the admissions office.
2. Submit the application form and supporting documents. These include the student’s birth certificate, passport, previous school reports, vaccination records, and any relevant learning support documentation. An application fee is payable at this stage.
3. Student assessment and interview. Depending on the age and grade level, students may be required to sit for a placement test in English and Mathematics. An interview with the principal or admissions team may also be scheduled to better understand the student's needs.
4. Offer and acceptance. If the application is successful, the school will issue an offer letter along with the terms and conditions. To confirm enrolment, parents must submit a signed acceptance form, pay the registration and deposit fees, and complete any final paperwork.
Scholarships
Scholarships
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Scholarships
The school offers scholarships for high-performing students, particularly at the secondary and pre-university levels. These are merit-based and typically consider academic achievement, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement.
Interested applicants are required to submit additional documentation and may need to attend an interview or scholarship test. Availability and award levels vary each year, and decisions are made by the scholarship committee. Full details are provided during the admissions consultation or upon request.
Waitlist
Waitlist
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Waitlist
Sunway International School Iskandar Puteri operates a waitlist system for year groups that reach capacity. When this occurs, completed applications are placed on the waitlist and reviewed on a rolling basis. Priority may be given based on the date of application, sibling enrolments, and suitability following assessment. Parents are notified as soon as a place becomes available.