IDRISSI International School vs Mount Safa International School
IDRISSI International School and Mount Safa International School are both in Johor Bahru, about 20 km apart. Both schools offer Cambridge (Primary) programmes, and IDRISSI International School also offers Cambridge (Secondary) and Cambridge IGCSE. Published annual fees are close, at MYR 12,000 - 27,000 for IDRISSI International School and MYR 17,051 - 22,671 for Mount Safa International School. Both take pupils from 4 to 16. IDRISSI International School is the larger school, with around 500 pupils to Mount Safa International School's 210.
IDRISSI International School EduCity is located at Block A, EduCity Complex 2, Persiaran Canselor 1, EduCity Iskandar, 79200 Iskandar Puteri, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia. It is situated within the EduCity hub, a prominent education zone in southern Johor near the Malaysia–Singapore Second Link. The school is accessible via the EduCity free shuttle bus line (IP), with the nearest stop at Newcastle University of Medicine Malaysia, which is about a 6-minute walk from the school premises.
Location
The school is located in Bandar Dato’ Onn, a planned residential area in Johor Bahru known for its quiet neighbourhoods and community facilities. It is easily accessible via major highways such as the Pasir Gudang Highway and Eastern Dispersal Link.
The location is about a 30–45 minute drive from the Singapore-Johor Causeway, making it convenient for cross-border families.
Stages
Stages
The school caters to students from Preschool (Kindergarten 1–3) for ages 4 to 6, Primary (Years 1–6) for ages 7 to 12, and Secondary (Years 7–11) for ages 13 to 16.
Stages
The school is structured into three main levels: Early Childhood Education for ages 4 to 6, Primary School for ages 7 to 12, and Secondary School for ages 13 to 16. Each level follows the Cambridge International curriculum alongside Islamic studies, with the option to pursue the Malaysian National syllabus at the secondary level.
School type
School type
IDRISSI is a co-educational day and boarding school.
School type
The school is co-educational and does not offer boarding facilities. It provides day schooling for students from ages 4 to 16.
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
The school offers Personal Learning Assistant (PLA) services to students who need academic reinforcement. Additionally, the school also runs a Loving After-Care programme for children who remain on campus after school hours.
Additional learning support
The school offers dedicated support through its Special Needs Students Development Unit (SPDU), providing tailored learning assistance for students with additional learning needs. Support programs focus on helping students develop academic skills and confidence within an inclusive classroom environment.
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
The school is not affiliated with any country.
Country affiliation
The school does not have a formal affiliation with any particular country.
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
IDRISSI is an Islamic school.
Religious affiliation
The school has an Islamic affiliation and offers a comprehensive Islamic studies program integrated with its academic curriculum.
School day structure
School day structure
Preschool students attend from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Monday through Thursday, and 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Fridays.
Primary students have classes from 8:00 AM to 3:20 PM, Monday through Thursday, and 8:00 AM to 12:40 PM on Fridays.
Secondary students follow the longest schedule, from 8:00 AM to 3:50 PM, Monday through Thursday, and 8:00 AM to 12:40 PM on Fridays.
School day structure
The school day typically starts at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 3:30 p.m., with variations for younger age groups. Students have scheduled breaks for morning snacks and lunch, with dedicated time for midday prayers.
Bus service details
Bus service details
The school does not have a bus service.
Bus service details
A school bus service is available for students, with routes covering key residential areas in Johor Bahru. Transport arrangements are managed directly through the school, and parents can inquire about specific routes and fees during the admissions process. The service is optional and subject to availability based on demand.
Fees
Fees
Fee details
Fee details
One-Time Fees (Non-Refundable) Application Fee: RM 300 (payable upon submission of the application form) Registration Fee: RM 1,500 (due upon acceptance of placement offer)
Refundable Deposit Security Deposit: RM 5,000 (refundable upon withdrawal with required notice and without outstanding dues)
Annual Tuition Fees (Payable in full or in installments per term) Preschool (Kindergarten 1–2): RM 12,000 / year Primary (Grades 1–5): RM 22,800 / year Upper Primary (Grade 6): RM 24,000 / year Secondary (Grade 7–9): RM 25,800 / year Secondary (Grade 10–11 / IGCSE Level): RM 27,000 / year
Boarding (Optional for Secondary Students) Boarding Fee: RM 27,000 / year
Boarding Deposit: RM 2,000 (refundable)
Refund Policy The RM5,000 deposit is refundable only if a written withdrawal notice is given at least four (4) months in advance.
The deposit is refunded only if all school fees are fully paid and no outstanding dues exist.
If withdrawal notice is given after the term starts, no school fees will be refunded.
A RM200 administrative charge applies to all withdrawals.
Refunds (if eligible) are processed within two months via cheque
Payment Methods The school has no publicly information on payment methods.
Fee details
Application and Registration Fees: * A one-time registration fee of MYR 1,400 is required upon enrollment. * A refundable deposit of MYR 2,500 is also payable at the time of registration.
Tuition Fees: * Kindergarten 1 to Kindergarten 3 (Ages 3–5): MYR 17,051 per annum. * Grade 1 to Grade 3 (Ages 6–8): MYR 20,429 per annum. * Grade 4 to Grade 6 (Ages 9–11): MYR 22,671 per annum.
*Note: Tuition fees are billed termly, every three months.*
Billing Schedule and Payment Terms: * Invoices are issued on a termly basis, with each term spanning three months. * Payments are due upon receipt of the invoice.
Additional Costs: * Uniforms, textbooks, and other learning materials are not included in the tuition fees and are billed separately. * Extracurricular activities may incur additional charges, depending on the activity.
Refund Information: * The deposit is refundable upon withdrawal, provided that all accounts are settled, and a written notice is given as per the school's policy. * The registration fee is non-refundable.
Fee Payment Options: * Payments can be made via bank transfer or credit card. * Detailed payment instructions are provided on the invoice.
Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
Boarding facilities are available at the Johor Bahru campus in EduCity Iskandar Puteri.
Boarding arrangements
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Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
A school uniform is required; uniforms are not included in the base tuition.
Uniform requirement
The school has a uniform. A Uniform Sizing Chart is published on the site.
Food options
Food options
A rooftop cafeteria is available at the Bukit Jelutong campus; meals are not included in tuition.
Food options
The school has a canteen on site.
House system
House system
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House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
GAINS Education Group is the parent company of IDRISSI International School. IDRISSI is part of the GAINS family, which includes Genius Aulad, Sekolah Tinta and Genius Care. The school is Cambridge Assessment International Education accredited (Checkpoint for Primary, IGCSE for Secondary).
Governance and ownership
The school is governed by a Board of Governors and a Board of Directors. The Chairman of the Board of Governors is Tuan Haji Md Noor Haron, who is also the CEO of Mount Safa International School. The Board of Directors includes Prof. Dato' Sri Dr. Captain Razali Yaacob (Chairman), Datuk Dr. Mohd Farhan Razali, and Tuan Mohammad Irshad Razali; they are associated with Safa International Sdn Bhd (SISB).
Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
IDRISSI International School offers a blended curriculum that combines the Cambridge International Curriculum with Islamic education and eco-conscious learning.
Primary (Years 1–6) Subjects include English, Mathematics, Science, Global Perspectives, ICT, and Physical Education. The curriculum focuses on foundational academic skills, critical thinking, and inquiry-based learning.
Secondary (Years 7–9) This stage uses the Cambridge Lower Secondary Curriculum, which builds on primary knowledge and introduces more subject specialization. Subjects typically include English, Mathematics, Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), History, Geography, and ICT.
Upper Secondary (Years 10–11) Students prepare for the Cambridge IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education). At this level, students take core and elective subjects based on their interests and strengths. These will include English as a First or Second Language, Mathematics, Additional Mathematics, Sciences, and elective options like Business Studies, Accounting, and Global Perspectives.
Curriculum details
The school follows the Cambridge International curriculum across all levels, combined with the Malaysian National KSSR/KSSM syllabus and a dedicated Islamic studies program.
Early Childhood Education (ages 4–6) uses the Cambridge Early Years curriculum, focusing on foundational literacy, numeracy, and Quranic studies. Primary School (ages 7–12) continues with the Cambridge Primary curriculum, offering core subjects like English, Mathematics, Science, and ICT, alongside Islamic subjects and Arabic language studies. Secondary School (ages 13–16) prepares students for the Cambridge IGCSE examinations and offers the option to pursue the Malaysian SPM qualification.
Throughout all levels, students participate in the Jilul Quran Program, which focuses on Quran memorization and understanding. English is the main language of instruction, with Arabic and Malay taught as additional languages.
The school implements the Value Education Programme (VEP), a character-building initiative emphasizing social-emotional skills. Through activities like organizing charity bake sales and visiting charitable homes, students cultivate empathy, self-awareness, and meaningful connections with others.
Social & emotional learning
Mount Safa International Islamic School integrates SEL into its curriculum through programs like the Tarbiyah Module, which emphasizes character development, moral values, and spiritual growth.
Additionally, the school offers individual psychotherapy sessions to help students understand themselves better, work through behavioral patterns, and provide a safe space to de-stress and address personal challenges.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
The school currently does not offer any services for special needs children.
Special educational needs (SEN)
The school provides support for students with special educational needs through its Special Needs Students Development Unit (SPDU). This unit offers tailored learning assistance, focusing on helping students develop academic skills and confidence within an inclusive classroom environment.
While the school supports various learning needs, it is not a specialist SEN institution.
English as an additional language
English as an additional language
The school does not have any publicly available information on EAL
English as an additional language
Mount Safa International Islamic School offers an Intensive English Program (IEP) designed to support students for whom English is an additional language. This program aims to enhance English language proficiency, ensuring students can access the broader curriculum effectively.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
IDRISSI's emphasis on a nurturing environment, combined with its nature-based learning approach, suggests a commitment to students' mental well-being. The school's eco-friendly setting and holistic educational philosophy aim to provide a calming and supportive atmosphere conducive to mental health.
Mental wellbeing
The school emphasizes mental wellbeing by providing individual therapy sessions, allowing students to explore their thoughts and feelings in a supportive environment. These sessions aim to help students gain clarity on their values, manage stress, and work through personal challenges.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding
The school does not have publicly available information on their latest safeguarding policies.
Safeguarding
While specific safeguarding policies are not detailed in the available information, the school's mission includes preparing students to be morally and socially responsible citizens guided by the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah.
Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy
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Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
Facilities overview
IDRISSI International School operates across two campuses: Setia Alam, Selangor, and EduCity Iskandar Puteri, Johor, with boarding facilities at EduCity. The Setia Alam campus sits in a green, eco-friendly area and provides an Islamic, homely learning environment. The Johor campus is part of a larger eco-learning ecosystem and includes world-class boarding facilities. Cambridge Assessment International Education is integrated into the school's framework, with learning infused with moral and environmental values.
Facilities overview
Mount Safa International School has STEAM robotics facilities, a canteen, and transportation services. Books and uniforms are available via Tekbookmart. The campus is located at Mount Safa International School Kompleks Mutiara Johor Land Taman Bukit Mutiara Bandar Dato' Onn 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia.
Sports facilities
Sports facilities
The Setia Alam campus offers basketball, netball and futsal courts, a dedicated archery area, and a multipurpose hall for various sports. The Bukit Jelutong campus features an archery range and multiple courts for netball, futsal and volleyball. The Johor Bahru EduCity campus shares EduCity's facilities for sports and recreation, including campus-level recreational spaces. Extracurricular spaces emphasize practical, outdoor physical activities as part of the learning environment.
Sports facilities
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Academic facilities
Academic facilities
The Setia Alam campus provides Science Lab, Library, Art Lab and Computer Lab, along with a Rooftop Cafeteria, Garden and Petting Farm that support a nature-based approach to study. The Setia Alam campus uses an environment designed to blend Islamic values with modern academic spaces. The Johor Bahru EduCity campus offers air‑conditioned classrooms, auditoriums, a multipurpose hall, dining area, Art Studio, Science Lab, Computer Lab, Library, Garden and Mini Farm, with access to EduCity facilities. IDRISSI is Cambridge Assessment International Education accredited.
Academic facilities
Mount Safa International School offers three curricula: International Curriculum, Malaysian Curriculum, and Islamic Studies. The International Curriculum includes International Primary Programme, International Lower Secondary, International Level Examinations, International Recognition, and University Pathways Worldwide. The Malaysian Curriculum comprises KSSR and KSSM, Bahasa Malaysia Excellence, National Identity & Heritage, and MOE Compliance. The Islamic Studies program includes Quran & Tajweed Mastery, Arabic Language (Fusha), Islamic Tarbiyah & Akhlaq, Sirah & Islamic History, and Fiqh & Aqidah Fundamentals. Jilul Quran Tahfiz Program provides Quran memorization with Tajweed, and Arabic is taught by native speakers. The STEAM Robotics program uses state-of-the-art facilities for science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.
Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
Extracurricular activities include the Junior Award Scheme for Schools (JASS) and Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE), Hiking and Camping Club, Futsal Club, Graphic Design & Creative Club, Archery, Mandarin classes and Little Tahfiz, among others.
Extra curricular facilities
Co-curricular activities include Karate, Swimming, and Kadet Remaja Sekolah (KRS). The program has three core activities, with over 200 active participants and 100% student engagement. Activities focus on leadership, discipline, and teamwork. Most CCA sessions run after school hours, typically once or twice per week.
Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
IDRISSI International School was established in 2015 by a group of parents who envisioned an educational environment where students could learn joyfully beyond traditional classroom confines. Emphasizing a nature-based, eco-Islamic approach, the school integrates Cambridge International Curriculum with Islamic values and environmental consciousness. Following the success of its Setia Alam campus, IDRISSI expanded to EduCity, Iskandar Puteri, Johor, in September 2022.
History
Mount Safa International Islamic School was co-founded in 2012 by Singaporean Asmadi Ahmad, an alumnus of Raffles Institution and Nanyang Technological University. He served as the school's principal until September 2022. The school is owned and operated by Safa International Schools Berhad, with plans to expand to Iskandar Puteri by 2026.
Community
Community
The IDRISSI community is built on shared Islamic values such as compassion, humility, and environmental stewardship. Activities like caring for farm animals, engaging in recycling programs, and supporting underprivileged groups are core parts of school life. These not only build student character but also contribute to a sense of collective responsibility and kindness within the school.
Community
The school community comprises students from Malaysia, Singapore, and other countries, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. Community events include cultural celebrations like Eid gatherings and food festivals, promoting cultural exchange and unity among students and families.
Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
IDRISSI does not formally operate a Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), however it emphasizes strong school-home communication. Parents are regularly invited to participate in school activities such as open days, workshops, and celebrations.
Parent teacher association
While specific details about Mount Safa's PTA are not publicly available, the school emphasizes strong collaboration between parents and teachers.
Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
The school is accredited by Cambridge Assessment International Education. Cambridge Checkpoint is offered for Primary School students and Cambridge IGCSE is offered for Secondary School students.
Academic & intellectual
The school uses a triple-integrated curriculum, combining International Curriculum, Malaysian Curriculum, and Islamic Studies. The International Curriculum includes International Primary Programme, International Lower Secondary, International Level Examinations, International Recognition, and University Pathways Worldwide. The Malaysian Curriculum covers KSSR (Primary) and KSSM (Secondary), Bahasa Malaysia Excellence, National Identity & Heritage, and MOE Compliance. Islamic Studies cover Quran & Tajweed Mastery, Arabic Language (Fusha), Islamic Tarbiyah & Akhlaq, Sirah & Islamic History, and Fiqh & Aqidah Fundamentals. The Jilul Quran Tahfiz Program is a core offering. The school presents itself as a premier Islamic international school in Johor Bahru with a focus on holistic development.
Arts & creative
Arts & creative
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Arts & creative
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Cultural & language
Cultural & language
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Cultural & language
The school provides Trilingual Education with fluency in English, Arabic, and Bahasa Malaysia, supporting international opportunities and cultural understanding.
Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies
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Community & service
Community & service
IDRISSI emphasizes sustainability and environmental values, with features such as an eco garden and mini farm. The school was recognized with the PEKA Eco Primary Education Award in 2016.
Community & service
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Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
The school offers the Junior Award Scheme for Schools (JASS) and The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award.
Leadership & professional
The Principal is Madam Nur Akmal. The school highlights a holistic development approach and invites partnerships with external organizations to support learning.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Johor Bahru offers Nature-based Preschool, Primary, and Secondary programs with Learning Outside the Classroom (LOTC). The Johor Bahru campus provides boarding facilities and has a 10:1 student–teacher ratio. Shuttle service is available, with pickups from Setia Alam and Bukit Jelutong. The EduCity Iskandar Johor Bahru campus is located in EduCity Iskandar, Iskandar Puteri, Johor.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
The campus emphasizes a balanced environment with Islamic practices and character formation as part of daily life, including a musollah for daily prayer and Tarbiyah modules within the Islamic education framework.
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
English is the primary language of instruction. Malay, Arabic, and Mandarin are available as language options. IDRISSI International School is Cambridge Assessment International Education accredited.
Language provision
The school teaches English, Arabic, and Bahasa Malaysia as core languages. Arabic language studies and Quran-focused instruction are integrated into the Islamic studies program. Bahasa Malaysia is taught as a core language within the Malaysian curriculum. In Early Childhood Education, children communicate effectively in English and Bahasa Melayu.
Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
The school uses English, Malay, Arabic, and Mandarin in instruction.
Bilingual teaching
Trilingual education in English, Arabic, and Bahasa Malaysia.
Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
PEEAM EduAwards 2024: IDRISSI was honored as the Elite Winner for Best International School of the Year by the Private Education Entrepreneurs Association of Malaysia.
Motherhood Choice Awards 2023: The school received the Best Private International School award, acknowledging its positive contributions to the motherhood community.
Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards 2022: Recognized in the Corporate Excellence Category for the Education & Training Industry.
The BrandLaureate SME’s Best Brands Awards 2019–2020: Awarded in the Education – International School category.
5-Star Recognition for Quality Standard: Received from the Ministry of Education in 2018 for Private Education Institutions.
Best Islamic International School: Awarded by BabyTalk MamaPapa Magazine in 2015, 2016, and 2018.
The Best 10 International Schools in Malaysia 2018: Recognized by The Knowledge Review Magazine.
Awards
As of now, there are no publicly documented awards for Mount Safa International Islamic School in the past five years.
Accreditations
Accreditations
Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE): IDRISSI is an accredited Cambridge International School, offering the Cambridge curriculum from Primary Checkpoint to IGCSE levels. IDRISSI International School
Junior Award Scheme for Schools (JASS): The school implements the JASS program, a progressive learning initiative designed to develop students' personal growth and achievement.
Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award: IDRISSI offers this globally recognized youth development program, encouraging students aged 14–24 to engage in personal and social development activities.
Eco-Schools Programme: IDRISSI is recognized as the world’s first Islamic International School registered with the WWF Eco-Schools organization, promoting environmental and sustainable education.
Accreditations
Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE): Mount Safa International Islamic School is authorized by CAIE to offer the Cambridge curriculum, including Early Years, Primary, Secondary, and IGCSE programs. This accreditation ensures the school meets international standards for academic excellence and provides students with globally recognized qualifications.
Malaysian Ministry of Education (MOE): The school is registered with the MOE, allowing it to offer the Malaysian National Curriculum (KSSR/KSSM) alongside its international programs. This accreditation ensures compliance with national educational standards and enables students to sit for national examinations like the SPM.
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
1.Campus Tour or Open Week Participation Prospective families are encouraged to schedule a personalized school tour or participate in the school's Open Week events. These visits offer a firsthand experience of IDRISSI's eco-friendly campus, nature-based learning environments, and boarding facilities.
2.Application Submission To formally apply, submit the completed application form along with the required documents, which typically include:
Child’s passport copy Birth certificate Academic reports Vaccination records A recent passport-sized photograph
This documentation assists the admissions team in assessing eligibility and determining appropriate placement, especially for students transitioning from different educational systems.
3.Assessment and Trial Classes Preschool Applicants (Ages 4–6): Children are invited to participate in a trial class at the Nature-Based Preschool, where their social, emotional, communication, and motor skills are observed. It's important to note that all preschoolers must be toilet-trained before joining the school.
Primary and Secondary Applicants: Students undergo an entry assessment tailored to their age group. This assessment evaluates academic readiness and helps in appropriate class placement. The admissions team will provide details about the assessment schedule and format.
4.Curriculum Consultation After assessments, the admissions team will discuss the Cambridge International Curriculum pathway with you, ensuring it aligns with your child's academic background and future aspirations. They will also explain how Islamic studies and eco-values are integrated into the curriculum.
5.Fee Structure and Enrollment Confirmation Review the detailed fee structure, which includes tuition fees, registration fees, deposits, and any additional costs. Once you agree to the terms, you'll be guided through the payment process to secure your child's enrollment. The admissions team will also provide information on uniforms, transportation options, and other logistical details.
6.Final Enrollment and Orientation Upon successful completion of the above steps, your child's enrollment will be confirmed. The school will share orientation schedules, academic calendars, and other essential information to ensure a smooth transition into the IDRISSI community.
Admissions
1. Submit an Online Application Once you've connected with the admissions team, complete the online admission form to reserve a seat for your child. Ensure that all information provided is accurate to avoid any delays in the admission process.
2. Entry Assessment After submitting the application, an admissions officer will contact you within two days to schedule an entry assessment. For Primary and Secondary applicants, this includes the Cambridge Placement Test (English and Mathematics) and the AIQ Interview (Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Quran). Early Childhood applicants will undergo an Academic Interview.
3. Receive Assessment Results and Finalize Enrollment Results are typically communicated within two days of the assessment. If successful, you'll be invited to complete the enrollment process by signing the agreement and fulfilling any remaining formalities.
4. Join the Mount Safa Community Upon completion of the enrollment process, your child will be welcomed into the Mount Safa community and invited to participate in the school's onboarding program.
Scholarships
Scholarships
The school does not have any publicly available information on this.
Scholarships
As of now, Mount Safa International Islamic School does not publicly advertise any scholarship programs.
Waitlist
Waitlist
IDRISSI International School operates on a first-come, first-served basis. However, due to high demand, especially in certain grade levels, a waitlist may be implemented when classes reach capacity. Families on the waitlist are prioritized based on the date of application submission and are notified promptly when a spot becomes available. It's advisable to apply early and maintain regular communication with the admissions team to stay informed about your application status.
Waitlist
Mount Safa International Islamic School does not publicly specify a waitlist or pool system. Admissions are processed on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to seat availability.
