Forest City International School vs Raffles American School

	F Forest City International School Johor Bahru, Malaysia	R Raffles American School Johor Bahru, Malaysia
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year MYR 56,000 - 74,000	Fees / year MYR 40,500 - 106,503
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 17 years
Type	Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)	Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)
Curriculum	Curriculum Advanced Placement (AP), American Curriculum, Reggio Emilia Approach	Curriculum American Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 300	Pupils 300
Typical class size	Typical class size 20	Typical class size 20
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2018	Opened 2012
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Forest City International School is located in the Forest City development in Gelang Patah, Johor, Malaysia, close to the Second Link bridge connecting to Singapore. The school is approximately 40 minutes from Johor Bahru city center and about 15 minutes from the Tuas checkpoint. It is situated in a gated, coastal township with residential and resort developments, providing convenient access for families relocating to the region.	Location Raffles American School is located in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia, about 30 minutes from Singapore via the Tuas Second Link. The school sits within a residential and development zone popular with international families. It is accessible by private transport, and a school bus service covers routes across Johor and into Singapore. The surrounding area includes retail centres, healthcare, and international business hubs.
Stages	Stages The school offers a full K–12 program, structured into Early Childhood (ages 3–5), Lower School (Grades 1–5), Middle School (Grades 6–8), and Upper School (Grades 9–12). Students typically graduate at age 18, with opportunities to take Advanced Placement (AP) courses in high school.	Stages The school serves students from Pre-Kindergarten (age 3) to Grade 12 (age 18). It is organized into three divisions: Elementary School (Pre-K to Grade 5), Middle School (Grades 6–8), and High School (Grades 9–12).
School type	School type FCIS is a co-educational international school that accepts both day and boarding students. Boarding is available for students in the upper primary years and above. The school caters to both local and expatriate families.	School type It is a co-educational day and boarding school. Boarding is available to students from Grade 5 onwards, with weekday and full boarding options.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support The school states that it supports differentiated learning and offers guidance for students with diverse educational needs. However, it does not advertise a formal special education department or dedicated SEN facilities on its public platforms.	Additional learning support While specific programs for Additional Learning Needs are not detailed on the school's website, the Resource Hub offers a variety of resources and facilities to enhance the learning experience.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation The school is affiliated with the U.S. educational system and follows a curriculum aligned with the American Common Core Standards, including AP options. However, the school does not have a formal national or embassy affiliation.	Country affiliation The school follows an American curriculum and is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation FCIS is a secular school and does not have a religious affiliation.	Religious affiliation The school has no religious affiliation.
School day structure	School day structure The school day typically runs from around 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM, with short breaks between lessons and a designated lunch period. The exact schedule may vary by grade level. Extracurricular activities often take place after regular class hours.	School day structure The school day runs from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday to Friday. Breaks and lunch times are scheduled by grade level, with time allocated for academic lessons, specialist subjects, and physical activity. After-school activities generally take place from 3:45 PM to 5:00 PM.
Bus service details	Bus service details FCIS offers a school transport service for day students. The bus routes and coverage areas are arranged based on student locations, and services are managed by the school or a designated provider. Details on pick-up times, safety measures, and fees can be obtained directly from the admissions office.	Bus service details The school offers a bus service covering multiple areas in Johor and selected locations in Singapore, including Jurong East MRT. Transportation is managed by RAS staff drivers, with door-to-door service available upon request. Bus fees are charged per semester, and routes are adjusted based on student locations. The service includes safety protocols and regular communication with families.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and Enrolment Fees * A one-time application fee of MYR 1,000 applies to all levels. * A refundable deposit of MYR 5,200 is required for day students. Tuition and School Fees (Per Year) * Pre-K & Kindergarten (PreK3 – K5): MYR 56,000 tuition + MYR 9,500 additional fees = MYR 65,500 * Primary School (G1 – G6): MYR 60,000 tuition + MYR 9,500 additional fees = MYR 69,500 * Middle School (G7 – G9): MYR 68,000 tuition + MYR 9,500 additional fees = MYR 77,500 * High School (G10 – G12): MYR 74,000 tuition + MYR 9,500 additional fees = MYR 83,500 Additional fees include MYR 1,200 (activities), MYR 2,100 (learning resources), MYR 6,000 (day student catering), and MYR 200 (personal accident insurance). High school students also require a personal notebook (BYOD). Boarding Fees (Annual) * 4 students per room: MYR 30,000 (plus MYR 8,000 deposit) * 2 students per room: MYR 43,000 (plus MYR 8,000 deposit) * Catering is included in the boarding fee. English as an Additional Language (EAL) Fees * iEAL (Intensive): MYR 10,000 * aEAL (Advanced): MYR 7,000 * Standard EAL: MYR 4,000 Payment and Refunds Payment terms and billing schedules are typically annual, and parents are advised to confirm with admissions regarding installment options. Accepted payment methods include bank transfer; credit card availability should be verified with the school.	Fee details Application and Registration Fees * Application Fee: MYR 1,000 (non-refundable) * Placement Fee: MYR 10,000 (non-refundable, due upon acceptance) * Registration Fee: MYR 7,500 for Pre-K3; MYR 15,000 for Pre-K4 and above (one-time, non-refundable per family) Annual Tuition Fees (2024/2025) * Pre-Kindergarten 3 (Age 3): MYR 40,500 * Pre-Kindergarten 4 (Age 4): MYR 66,500 * Kindergarten to Grade 4: MYR 74,500 * Grades 5 to 8: MYR 98,500 * Grades 9 to 12: MYR 106,500 Tuition includes morning snacks, lunch, and after-school snacks. Boarding Fees (Grades 5–12 only) * Double Occupancy: MYR 47,500 per year * Single Occupancy: MYR 49,500 per year * Boarding Deposit: MYR 3,000 (refundable, less deductions for medical/activities) Other Fees * Re-enrollment Fee (from 2nd year): MYR 3,000 per year Explore Week Fees: * Grade 6: MYR 1,000 * Grades 7–9: MYR 1,500 * Grades 10–12: MYR 2,300 Technology Fee: * Kindergarten to Grade 4: MYR 750 * Grades 5 to 8: MYR 1,250 * Uniforms: Costs vary; details provided after enrollment Billing Schedule and Payment Terms * Semester 1 (Aug–Dec): 60% of annual tuition, invoiced April 1, due April 30 * Semester 2 (Jan–Jun): 40% of annual tuition, invoiced October 1, due October 31 * Late payments incur a 1.5% monthly penalty * The school may withhold records or terminate enrollment for unpaid fees Payment Options * Bank transfer in MYR (bank charges to be borne by sender) * Flywire (accepts various currencies via local bank transfer, credit/debit card, etc.) Refund Policy * All fees are non-refundable and non-transferable
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements Boarding options include Full Boarding and Weekly Boarding. Full Boarders join students from many countries and participate in weekend trips around Johor and Singapore. Weekly Boarding runs five days with Friday home time and Sunday return by 6pm for study hall.	Boarding arrangements Boarding is available for students aged 12 years and older. The program provides 24/7 care in a secure, home-like environment. Boarding includes meals and laundry. Transportation to and from Senai airport is included, and students may leave the boarding house on weekends and long holidays.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement Uniforms include RAS polo tops in white or orange and a grey long-sleeve top, plus grey trousers or skirts; a grey hooded sweatshirt may be worn. The PE uniform is an orange or white T-shirt with grey shorts. Skirts and shorts must be tailored and reach no more than one hand-width above the knee. Footwear rules prohibit beach sandals; sandals must have a back strap; high heels are not allowed. House color T-shirts are worn on Color Days or Casual Fridays.
Food options	Food options —	Food options Day students receive two daily snacks and a full lunch. Boarding students receive three meals and two snacks daily, seven days a week. Meals are prepared by an in-house kitchen and feature a variety of cuisines, with themed events such as International Week.
House system	House system —	House system The school operates a house system. House color shirts are worn on Color Days or Casual Fridays.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Forest City International School operates as part of CATS Global Schools (CGS) since July 1, 2024.	Governance and ownership —
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Forest City International School offers an American-style curriculum based on the U.S. Common Core State Standards. Students in the Lower School (Grades 1–5) study core subjects including English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies, alongside classes in Art, Music, Physical Education, and World Languages. In Middle School (Grades 6–8), the curriculum expands to include more subject-specific learning such as Life Sciences, U.S. History, and introductory courses in STEM and technology. High School students (Grades 9–12) follow a credit-based system with required courses in core subjects and a range of electives, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses in subjects like Calculus, Biology, and English Literature. World Languages are offered throughout the school, with instruction tailored to language background and proficiency. The curriculum is designed to support university readiness, with guidance available for college admissions.	Curriculum details The school follows an American curriculum from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12. The program is aligned with U.S. Common Core, Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), and AERO frameworks. Elementary and Middle School emphasize foundational skills, while High School students follow a credit-based system leading to a U.S. High School Diploma. Advanced Placement (AP) courses are available in Grades 10 to 12. The curriculum also includes physical education, visual and performing arts, languages, and experiential learning through programs like Explore Week. English is the main language of instruction, with Mandarin and Bahasa Malaysia taught as additional languages.
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 —	Academic calendar View document
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning FCIS incorporates social and emotional learning into its curriculum, particularly within the Lower School program. The school utilizes the Second Step program to support students in developing social-emotional skills. Additionally, the Early Childhood School emphasizes the importance of social-emotional development as a foundation for future learning.	Social & emotional learning The school emphasizes social and emotional growth, particularly in its Middle School program. Students participate in daily advisory meetings and receive support from counselors to foster self-esteem and a sense of belonging. The program also incorporates project-based learning, encouraging students to develop resilience and navigate academic and social challenges effectively.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) FCIS considers applications from students with additional learning needs and evaluates whether it has the resources to support each student's academic requirements. The school does not operate as a specialist SEN institution and may not be equipped to support all types of special educational needs.	Special educational needs (SEN) While Raffles American School offers educational assistance through its Learning & Resource Hub, specific details regarding support for Special Educational Needs (SEN) are not provided on the school's website.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language FCIS offers an English as an Additional Language (EAL) program to support students whose first language is not English. All applicants are assessed during the admissions process to determine if EAL support is necessary. The EAL program is designed to help students develop proficiency in English to access the full curriculum effectively.	English as an additional language The school offers English Language programs such as- English Immersion Program (EIP), English Language Learning (ELL), RAS Camp Program, aimed at fostering linguistic development in students whose primary language is not English. These programs are designed to enhance English language skills, providing a supportive environment for non-native speakers.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing The school prioritizes the health and academic success of its students. The Health Centre operates from Monday to Friday, 08:00 to 17:00, and on Saturday from 08:00 to 12:00, providing medical support as needed.	Mental wellbeing Raffles American School supports students' mental wellbeing through its Learning & Resource Hub, which offers resources and facilities to promote academic, social, and emotional growth. The school also provides Winter and Summer Camp programs that combine English language instruction with extracurricular activities, contributing to students' overall wellbeing.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding FCIS places importance on safeguarding and child protection, adhering to relevant policies and procedures to ensure student safety. The school complies with applicable regulations and standards to maintain a secure environment for all students.	Safeguarding The school's Child Protection Policy emphasizes creating a safe and supportive environment for all students. The policy outlines the school's commitment to student safety and wellbeing.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy View document
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The campus is on a green, peaceful island in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. The school teaches an American curriculum in English, with English as an Additional Language (EAL) support available as needed. Facilities include science laboratories meeting international standards, a STEM Innovation Center, a theatre that seats 850, an Olympic-sized outdoor swimming pool, an indoor golf practice hall with AI technology, access to a top 100 golf range, a professional-grade fitness center, multiple sports courts, separate libraries for primary and secondary students, and a culinary and baking classroom. Additional spaces include a soccer field, biology lab, smart classroom, auditorium, tennis court, and cafeteria.	Facilities overview The school is located in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia. The campus serves Pre-K through 12th grade. An American-style boarding school option is available at Raffles American School. The Learning & Resource Hub provides a welcoming space to support student learning. State-of-the-art facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, and sports facilities.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities FCIS provides extensive athletic facilities including a soccer field, indoor basketball court, badminton court, tennis court, and an Olympic-sized outdoor swimming pool, complemented by a professional fitness center and multiple sports venues.	Sports facilities Sports facilities are part of the state-of-the-art campus. The school offers sports programs as part of student life, including Visual & Performing Arts and Sports. The Raptors Tennis Academy and Golf Academy provide specialized athletic programs. Boarding students have access to athletic spaces as part of campus offerings. Facilities support sports and physical education.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Academic facilities include science laboratories (biology and general science), a STEM Innovation Center, smart classrooms, and separate libraries for primary and secondary students, supporting a broad range of core subjects and cross-curricular work.	Academic facilities Modern classrooms and science labs are part of the academic facilities. The Learning & Resource Hub supports student learning. A university preparation pathway, including DreamLab, is available. Advanced Placement courses are offered in High School. Prep Academy provides English language development and test preparation for younger learners.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities The ECA program offers sports and clubs such as MUN, Robotics, and Art, plus university fairs, art exhibitions, community service, leadership opportunities, and initiatives like Genius Hour projects and Junior Journalism.	Extra curricular facilities Extracurricular programs include the Tennis Academy and Golf Academy. Visual & Performing Arts and Sports are part of student life. The Learning & Resource Hub supports broader learning beyond the classroom. The school offers camps, including Winter and Summer Camp programs for ages 6-16. Strong college counseling helps guide higher education applications.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Forest City International School (FCIS) was established in September 2018 in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. The school was initially founded in partnership with Shattuck-St. Mary’s School in Minnesota, USA, bringing over 160 years of educational heritage to Southeast Asia. In 2024, the school rebranded as Forest City International School and became part of CATS Global Schools, a UK-based education group that operates several international schools worldwide. FCIS is located within Forest City, a large-scale urban development project in Johor, developed by Country Garden Holdings.	History Raffles American School (RAS) was established in 2012 in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia. It is part of the Raffles Education Group, a Singapore-based organization with a network of educational institutions across Asia. The school offers an American curriculum and is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). RAS caters to students from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12, providing a comprehensive educational experience.
Community	Community FCIS fosters a diverse and inclusive community, with students and families from various cultural backgrounds. The school organizes a range of events to celebrate this diversity and build community spirit. These include cultural celebrations, arts showcases, and academic events like STEM activities. Such events provide opportunities for students, parents, and staff to engage and collaborate outside the classroom.	Community The RAS community comprises students, parents, and staff from diverse cultural backgrounds. The school organizes various events to celebrate this diversity, such as the Sukan Rakyat Johor, which promotes cultural preservation and community engagement. These events provide students with opportunities to learn about and appreciate different traditions and values.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association FCIS has an active Parent Teacher Association that plays a vital role in enhancing the school experience for students and families. The PTA organizes various events and activities, including cultural celebrations, academic workshops, and social gatherings. These initiatives aim to foster strong relationships between parents, teachers, and the broader school community. The PTA also supports fundraising efforts to provide additional resources and opportunities for students.	Parent teacher association While specific details about the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) at RAS are not publicly available, the school emphasizes collaboration between parents and educators. Parents are encouraged to participate in school events and activities, fostering a supportive environment for students. The school maintains open communication channels with parents through newsletters and the Parent Portal, ensuring they are informed and involved in their children's education.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual —	Academic & intellectual Raffles American School follows an American education pathway that leads to a US-style diploma and university preparation. High School students may enroll in Advanced Placement (AP) courses as part of their pathway. DreamLab is a fee-based after-school program offering English language development, math Olympiad preparation, and college guidance. General Learning Outcomes (GLOs) guide learning and include Critical Thinking, Organization, Communication, and Character.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative —	Arts & creative The Visual and Performing Arts program provides opportunities in music, theatre, dance, and visual arts. The program includes a band with ensembles and pathways to advanced groups; performing arts facilities include an 800-seat performing arts center and a black box theater. Campus facilities also include dedicated spaces for visual arts, dance, and performing arts.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language —	Cultural & language English Language Programs aim to foster linguistic development in students whose primary language is not English. The Prep Academy offers an English-language program for learners aged 3 to 18, with flexibility for ongoing language development and test preparation. DreamLab also provides English language development as part of its after-school offerings.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies —	Social & hobbies Camps are offered for winter and summer for students aged 6–16, focusing on English language development and the international school experience. Explore Week is a campus feature that supports engagement with the school community. The school also provides athletics programs through Tennis and Golf Academies and a broader sports program.
Community & service	Community & service —	Community & service The school maintains a community framework including a Child Protection Policy, testimonials, a Parent Portal, and opportunities for engagement and caregiver involvement. The community emphasis is to create a welcoming environment where students feel supported and connected.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional —	Leadership & professional Strong college counseling is available to guide students through the college application process and to help identify suitable paths for higher education. The school emphasizes UC-level preparation and provides pathways that include AP and SAT opportunities to support university readiness.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing —	Lifestyle & wellbeing The campus features a senior boarding program with five boarding facilities, and facilities include two indoor gymnasiums, an Olympic-size swimming pool, a shallow training pool, outdoor tennis and basketball courts, a soccer field, and a stadium with a second full-size soccer field, plus running tracks. Boarding includes meals, laundry, and transportation to Senai airport; the program supports students with pastoral care in a residential setting.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision FCIS uses English as the language of instruction across the curriculum. World Languages program offers Mandarin, Malay, and Spanish for Grades 5 and above. EAL is integrated into the curriculum rather than a separate program, with three levels—iEAL, aEAL, and EAL—and delivery modes including Push-In Sessions, Sheltered Instruction, and Pull-Out Sessions. EAL supports Lower School (G1–G6) and Upper School (G7–G12); JumpStart is a 4-week program for new students with limited English, and EAL uses the WIDA framework with CAT4 and MAP assessments to inform placement and progress.	Language provision English is the official language of Raffles American School and is the language of instruction across the curriculum. The campus serves pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, with English-language programs designed to develop students' English proficiency for academic success.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs English Language Programs include the English Immersion Program (EIP) for Grades 3–10 and the English Language Learning (ELL) program for Kindergarten through Grade 10. EIP provides intensive, immersive English instruction in a school community where mainstream subjects are taught in English by native English-speaking teachers. ELL offers additional English support with certified English Language Learning teachers, and new students undergo an initial placement assessment; progress is tracked through formal assessments such as DRA, WIDA placement tests, and MAP tests.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards As of now, there are no publicly documented awards received by Forest City International School in the past five years.	Awards As of now, there is no publicly available information regarding specific awards received by Raffles American School in the past five years.
Accreditations	Accreditations New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) : Forest City International School is accredited by NEASC, a U.S.-based accreditation body recognized for its rigorous standards in education. This accreditation ensures that the school meets international benchmarks for quality and engages in continuous improvement processes. East Asia Regional Council of Schools (EARCOS) : FCIS is a member of EARCOS, a regional organization of international schools committed to professional development, collaboration, and shared educational practices. Membership provides access to training, conferences, and cross-school learning opportunities. College Board (Advanced Placement – AP) : FCIS is authorized to offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses by the College Board. These courses follow a standardized U.S. college-level curriculum and provide students with the opportunity to earn college credit based on exam performance.	Accreditations Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Raffles American School (RAS) is fully accredited by WASC, a U.S.-based accrediting body recognized for evaluating and certifying the quality of schools worldwide. This accreditation signifies that RAS meets established standards of educational quality and institutional integrity. * East Asia Regional Council of Schools (EARCOS) RAS is a full member of EARCOS, an organization comprising international schools in East Asia. Membership provides access to professional development opportunities and fosters collaboration among member schools.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Book a school tour or open house Families are encouraged to schedule a campus tour or attend an open house event. These visits provide an opportunity to view facilities, speak with staff, and understand the school environment. Appointments can be arranged through the admissions team. 2. Submit an application Complete the application form and submit the required documents, including a copy of the student’s passport or MyKid, previous school reports, and any relevant academic or behavioral records. A non-refundable application fee of MYR 1,000 is payable at this stage. 3. Assessment and interview Applicants may be required to complete an entrance assessment to determine academic and language readiness. This may include an English proficiency test, especially for students whose first language is not English. An interview with the student and/or parents may also be scheduled. 4. Offer and placement If the application is successful, the school will issue an offer letter. To confirm the place, parents must pay the enrolment deposit of MYR 5,200 (for day students) or the relevant boarding deposit. Orientation information will be provided ahead of the start date.	Admissions 1. Schedule a campus visit or attend an admissions event. While not mandatory, visiting the campus or participating in an admissions event can provide valuable insights into the school's environment and offerings. 2. Complete the online application form. Submit the application through the school's online system, ensuring all required information and documents are provided. 3. Submit required documents. Provide necessary documents, which may include academic records, recommendation letters, and other relevant materials as specified by the admissions office. 4. Participate in an admissions evaluation and interview. Once all documents are received, the admissions team will process the application and may schedule an evaluation or interview to assess the applicant's suitability. 5. Receive the admissions decision. After the evaluation process, the school will inform you of the admissions decision and provide further instructions for enrollment if accepted.
Scholarships	Scholarships The school does not publicly advertise a formal scholarship program. Any merit-based or financial assistance opportunities are subject to internal review and are typically considered on a case-by-case basis. Families interested in this should discuss directly with the admissions team during the application process.	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist Forest City International School does not currently operate a waitlist or pool system. Admissions are considered on a rolling basis, subject to availability of places in each year group. Parents are encouraged to apply early, especially for mid-year entries or high-demand levels.	Waitlist Raffles American School accepts applications year-round, subject to availability. In cases where a grade level is at capacity, applicants may be placed on a waitlist. The admissions team will notify families if this applies and provide updates as openings become available.
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