Lanna International School Thailand vs Singapore International School - Chiangmai
Lanna International School Thailand and Singapore International School - Chiangmai are both in Chiang Mai, about 11 km apart. Both schools offer Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge International AS Levels programmes. Lanna International School Thailand also offers IEYC, IPC, British, Cambridge (Primary) and Reggio Emilia, and Singapore International School - Chiangmai also offers Cambridge A Levels, EYFS and Singapore. Published annual fees are THB 413,400 - 803,400 at Lanna International School Thailand and THB 324,300 - 564,300 at Singapore International School - Chiangmai, which puts Lanna International School Thailand roughly 37% higher. Both take pupils from 2 to 18. Lanna International School Thailand is the larger school, with around 978 pupils to Singapore International School - Chiangmai's 280. Both keep typical class sizes around 20.
IEYC (International Early Years Curriculum), IPC (International Primary Curriculum), British Curriculum, Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Reggio Emilia Approach
Curriculum
Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels, EYFS (Early years foundation stage), Singapore Curriculum
Pupils
Pupils
978
Pupils
280
Typical class size
Typical class size
20
Typical class size
20
Instruction language
Instruction language
English
Instruction language
English
Opened
Opened
1993
Opened
2017
Bus service
Bus service
Yes
Bus service
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Essentials
Essentials
Location
Location
Lanna International School is located in Hang Dong, a quiet suburb just south of Chiang Mai, Thailand. The school is set in a semi-rural area surrounded by greenery, about 20 minutes from the city centre. The campus is accessible by main roads and close to family-friendly residential neighbourhoods. The surrounding area is peaceful, with good transport links into central Chiang Mai.
Location
The school is located in Si Phum, the historic central district of Chiang Mai, roughly 400 m west of the Chang Phuak city gate, near Wat Lok Molee and Wat Pa Phrao Nai. It lies within walking distance of city-centre amenities and is accessible by local roads from the Old City.
Stages
Stages
The school is structured into three main sections: Early Years (ages 2–4), Primary (ages 5–11), and Secondary (Years 7–13). The curriculum transitions from the IEYC and IPC in the Early Years and Primary School to the Cambridge IGCSE and A-Level programme in the Secondary School.
Stages
The school serves children aged 2 to 18 years, structured into Nursery–Kindergarten (2 – 6 years), Primary School (6 – 12 years), Secondary School (12 – 16 years), and Sixth Form (16 – 18 years).
School type
School type
Lanna International School is a co-educational day school and does not offer boarding facilities.
School type
SISB Chiang Mai is a co‑educational day school.
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 learning support services tailored to students with mild to moderate additional learning needs. This includes support within mainstream classrooms and additional sessions when appropriate.
Additional learning support
Singapore International School Chiangmai offers structured support for students requiring additional help in language acquisition. The school provides Chinese Learning Support (CLS) and two levels of English Learning Support (ELS1 and ELS2). These services are designed to assist students who may need extra guidance to meet the school’s trilingual curriculum expectations in English, Chinese, and Thai.
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
Lanna International School is not formally affiliated with any single country.
Country affiliation
The school is part of the Singapore International School (SISB) group, following the Singapore and UK curricula, but operates independently in Thailand. There is no formal affiliation with the Singapore government.
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
The school is non-denominational and has no religious affiliation.
Religious affiliation
The school does not have a religious affiliation.
School day structure
School day structure
The typical school day runs from approximately 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Students have mid-morning and lunchtime breaks, with lunch available on campus. Exact timings may vary slightly by age group.
School day structure
At SISB Chiangmai, the school day runs from 8:00 am, with end times varying by level: 2:30 pm for Nursery to Kindergarten, 3:30 pm for Primary (P1–P6), and 4:00 pm for Secondary and Sixth Form (G7–G12).
Bus service details
Bus service details
The school offers a daily bus service for students.
Bus service details
The Chiang Mai campus does not clearly state the availability of a school bus service.
School Transport (Home to School, per year): Zone A: THB 37,800 Zone B: THB 50,400 Zone C: THB 56,700
English Support Levy (Non-refundable) Intensive English Support: THB 40,000 per year Intensive English + After School English Tutoring: THB 64,000 per year
Sibling Discounts 2nd child: 10% 3rd child: 15% Note: discounts are applied automatically and removed if accounts become delinquent.
Refund Policy 70% refund if withdrawal is before the semester begins 50% refund if within 1–20 days of semester start 20% refund if within 21–40 days No refund after 40 days into the semester
Payment Methods Payments are accepted via bank transfer.
Sibling Discount 5% for the second child 10% for third child onward
Refund Policy A deposit refund requires 1 1-term written notice. Credited within 1 month after departure, subject to clearance of accounts. Tuition & Enrolment Fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Payment Methods Cash, Credit Card, Alipay/WeChat, and Bank Transfer.
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
LANNA publishes a monthly lunch menu featuring nutritious meals.
Food options
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House system
House system
The school has a House System with four houses. Students compete in events throughout the year to earn points for their house.
House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
The school is licensed by the Thai Ministry of Education and is a fully accredited international school. The LANNA Parent Teacher Organisation (PTO) has an elected Board; the PTO Board meets monthly, manages a budget, and has representation at the School's Executive Board Meetings.
Governance and ownership
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Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
Lanna International School offers a curriculum based on the English National Curriculum and Cambridge International framework. In the Early Years (ages 2–4), students follow the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC) with a focus on play-based learning. Primary School (Years 1–6) continues with the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) integrated with core subjects like English, mathematics, and science. From Years 7–9, students study a broad range of subjects in line with the Cambridge Lower Secondary curriculum. In Years 10–11, students prepare for the Cambridge IGCSE, selecting from over 20 subject options. Years 12–13 follow the Cambridge International AS and A Level programme, providing in-depth specialization in subjects required for university admission. English is the language of instruction, and additional languages include Thai, French, and Chinese. In addition to the core A-level studies, the school also offers preparatory courses for SAT (USA College Board) and IELTS (UK alternative to TOEFL), and, optionally, a UK-accredited Sports Leadership course and/or the opportunity to undertake the Duke of Edinburgh International Award.
Curriculum details
Singapore International School Chiangmai offers a trilingual curriculum with English as the primary language of instruction, and additional instruction in Chinese and Thai. In Early Years (Nursery to Kindergarten), students follow the UK’s EYFS framework. From Primary School, the Singapore Curriculum is used, emphasising core subjects including English, Mathematics, and Science. In Secondary School, students prepare for the Cambridge IGCSE examinations. In Years 11–12 (Sixth Form), students undertake Cambridge International AS and A Level courses. Across all stages, the curriculum is designed to build bilingual and bicultural competencies alongside academic progression.
Lanna International School supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through its counselling services and PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic) programme. Counsellors provide confidential one-on-one support and run initiatives that focus on self-image, resilience, empathy, and building healthy relationships. SEL is also integrated into the PSHE curriculum, which is delivered via weekly lessons, assemblies, workshops, and circle time. Topics include emotional regulation, friendships, and responsible decision-making. Guest speakers and external programmes occasionally supplement these efforts. Provision is coordinated through the school’s Student Support Services team.
Social & emotional learning
The school does not publicly disclose detailed information about Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) on its website. However, it does state that Pastoral Care and Career Guidance is part of the timetable for secondary students, aimed at building life skills and personal growth. Homeroom teachers support this by mentoring students individually.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
Learning Support at Lanna assists pupils with mild to moderate learning differences by creating Individualised Learning Plans delivered within mainstream classrooms. Support includes accommodations, occasional curriculum modifications, and access to Learning Support assistants as needed. The SEN Coordinator, Ms Gina, oversees the programme (Primary). The school reviews applicants on a case-by-case basis to ensure they can cater to individual needs, and does not present itself as a specialist SEN institution.
Special educational needs (SEN)
There is no publicly available information on the SISB Chiangmai site regarding support for Special Educational Needs on their website.
English as an additional language
English as an additional language
Lanna offers structured English support through small‑group programmes: Intensive English (Primary), Extra English (Secondary), and After School English Teaching (ASET). Secondary students may join a full‑day Accelerated English Programme (AEP) to fast‑track language acquisition before mainstream integration. The EAL Milepost 2 and AEP Coordinator Ms Victoria manages and monitors student progression. Placement is based on initial testing and reviewed termly, with progress reports shared with parents.
English as an additional language
SISB Chiangmai does not mention any dedicated English as an Additional Language (EAL) programming on its official website.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
Counselling services are available to all students, providing a confidential and personalised approach to mental wellbeing. Counsellors run both preventative programmes and interventions that promote self‑awareness, resilience and healthy coping strategies. PSHE is integral to the curriculum, supporting emotional health and wellbeing through lessons, assemblies, guest speakers and workshops. The team works to help students maintain balanced lives and resilience during transitions.
Mental wellbeing
The school does not publicly disclose structured mental wellbeing programmes. It refers to pastoral care provided by homeroom teachers as part of student support in secondary and Sixth Form years.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding
Lanna’s safeguarding framework is detailed in their Child Protection/Safeguarding Handbook, which aligns with Thai law and UK guidance (“Keeping Children Safe in Education” 2024; “Working Together” UK 2023; Thai Child Protection Act 2003). he policy highlights welfare, safety and child protection as top priorities and outlines roles and responsibilities for staff and leadership. Designated safeguarding procedures and staff training ensure a clear and robust response to concerns, with strong oversight from senior leaders.
Safeguarding
The school does not publicly disclose safeguarding or child protection policies on its official website.
The school has a spacious campus with state-of-the-art facilities for ages 2–18. It includes interactive learning spaces, indoor athletic facilities, and a range of spaces for co-curricular activities. The Early Years area has age-appropriate playgrounds; an Assembly and Performing Arts Hall supports creative work; and Academic Buildings house STEAM labs, robotics, science labs, music rooms, and art studios. The campus prioritizes safety and well-being with clean, well-ventilated learning spaces.
Facilities overview
The Chiang Mai campus is modern and well equipped with the latest educational resources. It features an eco-friendly campus designed to support personalised learning and progress. The environment supports well-rounded development, experiential learning, and student guidance. It offers activities that extend learning beyond the classroom, including taekwondo and hip-hop dancing. The school provides the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award as part of its programme offerings.
Sports facilities
Sports facilities
The school has an indoor air-conditioned gymnasium, a chemical-free swimming pool, and a splash pool to support physical education and swimming programmes. These facilities support physical education, athletic teams, and after-school activity programmes. Athletics are a core part of LANNA with a broad sports programme.
Sports facilities
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Academic facilities
Academic facilities
The Academic Buildings are designed for excellence and include state-of-the-art STEAM laboratories, robotics equipment, science laboratories, music rooms, and art studios.
Academic facilities
The campus is modern and equipped with contemporary resources to support learning across the curriculum. The school delivers the Singapore curriculum with a foundation in English, Chinese, and Thai languages. The Primary programme covers core subjects such as English, Math, Science, and Chinese, with ICT, Drama, Art, Social Studies, and Physical Education. The Secondary programme combines Singapore and Cambridge approaches, preparing students for Cambridge IGCSE in Grades 9–10 and Cambridge International AS and A Levels in the Sixth Form. Pastoral Care and Career Guidance are included as part of student support.
Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
The school offers extensive extracurricular opportunities, including a VEX robotics team and the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, along with leadership and service initiatives, sports, the arts, and clubs.
Extra curricular facilities
Well-rounded development activities include taekwondo and hip-hop dancing, open to learners from international kindergarten. Experiential learning is promoted through local and international trips. Students can participate in the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award as part of the school programmes.
Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
Lanna International School was founded in 1993 by Paul and Surin, initially beginning as a small homeschool group. After Paul’s passing in the same year, Surin continued to oversee the development of the school. The school is governed by an Executive Board in line with Thai private school regulations. Surin, as the licensee, remains involved in the school’s management.
History
SISB Chiangmai opened in 2017 as the first Singapore International School in Northern Thailand and is operated by SISB Public Company Limited, which founded its first campus (Ekkamai, Bangkok) in 2001 and now manages several branches across Thailand. The Chiang Mai campus was purpose‑built and completed in late 2016, with operations beginning the following year as part of SISB’s strategic expansion beyond Bangkok.
Community
Community
The school hosts a variety of community and cultural events throughout the year. Students regularly organise Model United Nations conferences, including the Chiang Mai MUN, which Lanna co-founded. Other school-wide activities include house events, drama productions, and arts showcases.
Community
The school community participates in events such as International Day, Chinese New Year, Songkran Festival, and Sports Day, which involve students, staff, and families in cultural celebration and school life. Community engagement also spans service-oriented activities like K1 students donating to local charities as part of Global Citizenship learning.
Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
Parents participate in school governance through representation on the Executive Board, including a designated Parent Representative and a member of the Parent Teacher Organisation. The PTA was involved in organising the school’s 30th Anniversary Gala, which included student performances, an art auction, and fundraising for local youth organisations. Details about parent engagement and expectations are outlined in the school’s handbooks. Regular communication between families and the school is maintained through these structures.
Parent teacher association
While the school describes strong parent‑school partnerships, the structure and specific functioning of a formal Parent Teacher Association (PTA) are not detailed on the site. Parents are actively involved in organizing events such as Sports Day, Christmas festivities, and International Week through volunteer support teams or similar collaborative roles. There is mention of regular parent‑teacher meetings, though formal PTA governance, elected groups, or scheduled activities are not documented publicly.
Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
LANNA provides a full British education for ages 2-18. The curriculum is rooted in the National Curriculum of England and the Cambridge pathway, with the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC) and the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) guiding learning in Early Years and Primary. In Secondary, students have access to a broad range of IGCSEs and A Levels. Close to 70% of graduates gain admission to Top 100 universities worldwide.
Academic & intellectual
The Chiang Mai campus offers Nursery to Sixth Form (2-18 years old).
Arts & creative
Arts & creative
Music plays a prominent role in the curriculum, supported by dedicated spaces including an Assembly Hall and music rooms for performing arts. The campus features facilities for the arts, with opportunities to participate in orchestras, rock bands, and other creative activities. Extracurricular arts and performing arts activities are integral to student life.
Arts & creative
The school provides activities and programmes that include drama and art as part of the curriculum and general development.
Cultural & language
Cultural & language
LANNA is a diverse community representing 31 nationalities with 17 languages spoken. In Primary, Thai language and culture are taught, and non-Thai nationals may choose to study French or Chinese; language study emphasizes speaking, listening, and cultural understanding. The Modern Foreign Languages curriculum focuses on listening, speaking, reading, and writing in the target language.
Cultural & language
In Nursery-Kindergarten (2-6 years), English, Chinese, and Thai are developed; Primary (6-12 years) includes English, Chinese, and other subjects; Secondary (12-16 years) and Sixth Form (16-18 years) follow a Singapore-Cambridge curriculum with multilingual aspects.
Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
LANNA uses a House System that promotes belonging, teamwork, and friendly competition across year levels. There are extensive opportunities for leadership and service, athletics, arts, and clubs, including participation in programs such as the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award and the VEX robotics team. These activities complement the academic program and encourage collaborative and extracurricular engagement.
Social & hobbies
Well-rounded development includes activities such as taekwondo and hip-hop dancing; experiential learning through local and international trips.
Community & service
Community & service
Caring Community and Community Service Learning are central to LANNA's ethos, with activities and initiatives that involve volunteering and social responsibility. Students are encouraged to contribute to the local and global community through service projects.
Community & service
The school participates in programmes like the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award.
Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
Leadership and professional development are embedded in school life, with student leadership opportunities and structured programs alongside academic work. Scholarships are available for Year 5 and higher, supporting talented or high-achieving students. The school provides pathways related to university and career preparation.
Leadership & professional
The principal is Daniel Maxwell; the school emphasises personalised guidance and leadership development.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
LANNA's campus offers state-of-the-art facilities, including an indoor gym, a chemical-free swimming pool, a splash pool, and dedicated spaces for learning and wellbeing. The environment emphasizes safety and well-being, with well-designed spaces and climate-controlled learning environments.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
The campus is described as eco-friendly with modern facilities designed to support students' growth and well-being.
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
LANNA delivers a British-style education based on the National Curriculum of England and Wales. In Primary (ages 5–10), English is the language of instruction, and English support programmes are available; Thai language and culture are taught. Modern Foreign Languages (French and Chinese) are offered in Primary; non-Thai nationals may choose French or Chinese, and Year 1–2 introduce MFL. Typically, this arrangement means one Thai lesson and four foreign-language lessons per week, with the option to continue five Thai language lessons if desired.
Language provision
Languages taught include English, Chinese, and Thai. In Nursery-Kindergarten, students develop a strong foundation in English, Chinese, and Thai. In Primary, English and Chinese are core subjects within the curriculum.
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
As of the most recent information published on the school’s official website, Lanna International School Thailand has not listed any school-level awards received in the past five years.
Awards
The school does not have publicly available information on their awards.
Accreditations
Accreditations
* Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) A U.S.-based accrediting body that ensures international schools meet rigorous standards of educational quality and institutional integrity. Accreditation supports global university recognition and continuous school improvement.
* Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) The school is a registered Cambridge examination centre, offering IGCSE and A-Level programmes that follow globally recognized academic standards.
* East Asia Regional Council of Overseas Schools (EARCOS) A regional organization that supports international schools in East Asia through collaboration, conferences, and professional development.
* Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA) A network of British international schools that promotes collaboration, competition, and support across member schools.
* International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) A national body that supports international schools operating in Thailand, including liaison with the Ministry of Education.
* ONEOSA Listed as a partner affiliation on the school’s site; limited public explanation provided.
Accreditations
Council of International Schools (CIS) SISB is fully accredited by CIS, validating its global academic standards and quality assurance processes.
New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) Accredited by NEASC, a U.S.-based agency that certifies the educational quality of international schools.
Cambridge International School Authorised to offer Cambridge IGCSE, AS, and A Levels.
Singapore Examinations and Assessment Board (SEAB) SISB is an official iPSLE exam centre authorised by SEAB since 2016.
Hanban (Confucius Institute Headquarters) Recognised as a certified test centre for Mandarin proficiency assessments.
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
1. Book a school tour (optional but recommended) Once your enquiry is received, the admissions team may invite you to visit the campus—either in person or online. Tours are scheduled by appointment and are a good way to become familiar with the facilities, meet staff, and ask specific questions.
2. Complete the online application form The admissions team will provide a link to the formal application form. Parents will need to submit student details, previous school reports in English, and other requested documentation. For Early Years applicants (ages 2–5), previous school reports are not required.
3. Interview and assessment The type and length of assessment depend on the applicant’s age:
* Early Years (2–5): a play-based session with the child and a short parent interview. * Years 1–3: a short 30-minute interview and basic assessment. * Year 4 and above: a more comprehensive 3-hour session including an essay, reading comprehension, cognitive ability testing, and an interview with a principal.
4. Decision and waitlist The school’s head, principals, and admissions team review each application considering academic performance, assessment results, interview performance, English level, and age placement. The school may contact the applicant’s previous school to check for any unresolved financial matters. Results are typically shared within 10 working days. If no space is currently available, the applicant may be placed on a waiting list.
5. Offer acceptance and submission of documents Accepted students will receive a formal offer by email along with a tuition invoice. Parents must submit additional documentation such as passports, birth certificates, Thai ID (if applicable), and details for transport or visa support. Offers expire if not accepted within ten working days.
6. Enrollment and start of school services Once the invoice is paid and documents submitted, the student is enrolled. The school then assists with uniforms, bus transport, and visa processes where required. The visa officer can guide families needing Non-Immigrant ED or Guardian-O visas.
Admissions
1. Get in Touch Contact the school by phone or submit an online inquiry to discuss your child’s educational needs. You can also book a school tour to visit the campus and speak with the admissions team in person.
2. Submit Application Form Complete the SISB application form and submit all required documents as advised by the Admissions Office. These typically include identification, past school reports, and health records.
3. Take an Assessment After the application is reviewed, SISB will schedule an assessment and an interview for your child. The format may vary depending on the year level, with younger students often assessed through observation.
4. Admission Decision Families will be informed of the admissions outcome by phone or email. If a place is offered, you will receive a formal letter of acceptance.
6. Payment of School Fees Pay the applicable tuition and enrolment fees according to the instructions provided by the Admissions Office.
7. Enrollment Once fees are settled and documents are complete, your child is officially enrolled.
Scholarships
Scholarships
Lanna International School offers scholarships with a focus on academic achievement, talent, and personal contribution to school life.
1. Academic and Talent Scholarships (Years 5–11) Open to new students applying for entry into Years 5 to 11. These scholarships cover up to 60% of tuition fees. Selection is based on academic performance or demonstrated talent in areas such as arts, sports, STEM, or humanities. Applicants must also show good character and a commitment to school life. Awards are renewable annually, subject to review.
2. Sixth Form Scholarships (Years 12–13) Available to current Lanna students entering Year 12. Scholarships are awarded in three tiers: Gold (60%), Silver (40%), and Bronze (20%). They are based on predicted IGCSE results, school involvement, and overall contribution. The scholarship continues through Year 13, pending a review during Semester 2 of Year 12.
Scholarships
SISB does not currently promote any active scholarship programs; however, SISB Chiang Mai has previously conducted secondary scholarship examinations offering up to 100% tuition scholarships for successful applicants in Grades 7–9 (Lower Secondary / IGCSE levels). These scholarship opportunities were campus-specific and not part of a regular annual program. They were typically promoted through open house events or regional education fairs, allowing selected students to receive partial or full tuition waivers based on academic performance and assessment outcomes.
Waitlist
Waitlist
Lanna International School operates a waitlist system when year-level spaces are full. Students may still go through the full admissions process, including assessment and interviews, even if a place is not immediately available. Those who meet the admissions criteria are placed on the waiting list.
If admission is not offered immediately, a retest may be scheduled in 3, 6, or 9 months depending on the applicant’s age and performance.
Waitlist
The school does not officially publish a waitlist policy, but admissions are clearly noted to be “subject to availability”, indicating that places may not always be open.