Pelita International School vs Stonyhurst International School Penang
Pelita International School and Stonyhurst International School Penang are both in Penang, about 3 km apart. Both schools offer Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels and EYFS programmes, and Pelita International School also offers Cambridge (Primary) and Cambridge (Secondary). Published annual fees are MYR 9,360 - 33,810 at Pelita International School and MYR 18,975 - 63,249 at Stonyhurst International School Penang, which puts Stonyhurst International School Penang roughly 90% higher. Pelita International School takes pupils from 4 to 19, and Stonyhurst International School Penang from 3 to 18. Stonyhurst International School Penang is the larger school, with around 700 pupils to Pelita International School's 300. Typical class sizes are 22 at Pelita International School and 25 at Stonyhurst International School Penang.
Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels, EYFS (Early years foundation stage)
Curriculum
Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels, EYFS (Early years foundation stage)
Pupils
Pupils
300
Pupils
700
Typical class size
Typical class size
22
Typical class size
25
Instruction language
Instruction language
English
Instruction language
English
Opened
Opened
2013
Opened
2022
Bus service
Bus service
Yes
Bus service
Yes
Essentials
Essentials
Location
Location
Pelita International School is located in Tanjung Bungah, a coastal suburb of Penang, Malaysia. The school is situated between George Town and Batu Ferringhi, with nearby access to residential areas popular with expatriate families. The area is known for its proximity to beaches, international eateries, and housing options.
Location
The school is located in Tanjung Tokong, a coastal neighborhood on Penang Island, about 15 minutes by car from George Town. It is situated within a residential area known for its waterfront housing and amenities.
Stages
Stages
The school is structured into four main levels: Early Years (ages 4–6), Primary School (ages 7–12), Secondary School (ages 13–16), and Sixth Form (ages 17–18). Students follow the Cambridge curriculum, leading to IGCSEs and A-Levels.
Stages
The school caters to students aged 3 to 18 and is divided into several stages: Early Years (Nursery and Reception), Pre-Prep (Years 1–2), Prep and Elements (Years 3–6), Figures to Lower Grammar (Years 7–9), Grammar and Syntax (Years 10–11), and Sixth Form (Years 12–13). Each stage follows a British-based curriculum aligned to the student's age and developmental needs.
School type
School type
Pelita International is a private, co-educational day school.
School type
It is a co-educational day school, welcoming both local and international students.
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
While the school promotes inclusive education, there is limited publicly available detail on structured support for students with additional learning needs.
Additional learning support
While the school emphasizes personalized care, there is no specific mention of a dedicated SEN department or specialist learning support facilities in the current materials.
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
The school has no formal affiliation with any country.
Country affiliation
The school is affiliated with Stonyhurst College in the UK, but operates independently in Malaysia. Its curriculum is based on the British education system.
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
The school does not have a religious affiliation.
Religious affiliation
The school has a Jesuit Catholic heritage and values, though it welcomes students of all faiths and secular backgrounds.
School day structure
School day structure
Classes typically start around 8:00 AM and end between 2:30 PM and 3:30 PM, depending on the student’s year group. The day includes scheduled breaks for snacks and lunch. Co-curricular activities are often held after regular classes.
School day structure
The school day begins with gates opening at 7:35 AM, followed by student registration from 7:50 to 8:00 AM. For both Junior (Nursery to Year 6) and Senior School (Years 7 to 13), academic lessons run from 8:00 AM to 3:20 PM, including scheduled breaks and lunch.
After the academic day ends, Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs) are held from 3:20 to 4:20 PM for students in Year 1 and above. Nursery children finish at 1:00 PM, with an optional “Stay and Play” session available until 2:30 PM.
Bus service details
Bus service details
Pelita International School offers a school transport service through external bus providers. The service is available to students living in surrounding areas, and parents can arrange routes and fees directly with the operators. Availability may vary based on location, and safety protocols are managed jointly between the school and service providers.
Bus service details
The school offers a bus service in partnership with Lim Boon Kooi School Bus Service (LBK). This service is available for students from Reception onwards and includes bus monitors for attendance and safety. Routes and pickup times are arranged based on demand, and younger students are only dropped off if a caregiver is present.
Tuition Fees (Per Annum) * Nursery: MYR 9,360 * Reception: MYR 13,110 * Year 1–2: MYR 15,480 * Year 3–4: MYR 19,440 * Year 5–6: MYR 21,240 * Year 7: MYR 25,185 * Year 8: MYR 27,600 * Year 9: MYR 30,015 * Year 10: MYR 31,050 * Year 11: MYR 33,810 *Note: All fees are annual and subject to change without prior notice. *
Billing Schedule & Payment Terms * Tuition fees are billed annually. * Classes commence upon full payment of fees. * A refundable deposit equivalent to one term’s tuition fee is required upon enrollment.
Additional Costs * Uniforms, textbooks, and co-curricular activities may incur additional charges.
Refund Policy * A full term’s written notice is required for withdrawal. * The withdrawal form must be submitted by the last school day of the preceding term. * Failure to provide timely notice results in forfeiture of the deposit. * Refunds are processed within the last week of the student’s final term.
Payment Methods * Payments can be made via bank transfer.
Fee details
One-Time Fees * Application Fee: MYR 1,000 (non-refundable; applies to all year groups) * Enrolment Fee: * Nursery – Year 1: MYR 5,000 * Year 2 – Year 6: MYR 8,000 * Year 7 – Year 13: MYR 8,500 *(All enrolment fees are non-refundable)* * Security Deposit: MYR 5,000 (refundable with one term’s written notice)
Billing Schedule & Payment Terms * Fees are billed termly, with three terms per academic year. * A 3% early payment discount is available for full annual payment made upfront. * Payments can be made via bank transfer or cheque.
Additional Costs * Uniforms, meals, transportation, field trips, textbooks, student visas, and external exam fees are not included. * Learning Support Fee (if applicable): MYR 2,500 per year.
The school operates as an international day school and does not offer boarding.
Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement
Uniform is compulsory and the correct school uniform must be worn every day. Pupils in EYFS wear their PE kit on PE days (and on swimming days); pupils in Pre-Prep and above wear full uniform on swimming and non‑PE days, and from Pre-Prep 1 upwards all pupils must wear full uniform on Fridays for the weekly assembly. Uniform items are labelled, and there are detailed requirements for footwear, hijab alignment with the uniform, and rules around makeup, hair and jewellery.
Food options
Food options
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Food options
The Dining Hall provides meals with a varied and nutritious menu; a dedicated catering team accommodates dietary needs and the dining environment focuses on social dining with peers.
House system
House system
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House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership
The school is governed by a Board of Governors, whose role is to set strategy and direction for Stonyhurst Penang. The school is affiliated with Stonyhurst College in the United Kingdom.
Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
Pelita International School follows the Cambridge International Curriculum from Early Years through to A-Levels. In the Early Years and Primary School (Reception to Year 6), students follow the Cambridge Primary Program, which includes English, Mathematics, Science, and subjects such as Music, Art, ICT, Physical Education, and Emotional Intelligence. In Secondary School (Years 7 to 9), the curriculum transitions into the Cambridge Lower Secondary Program, continuing core subjects while introducing project-based learning and assessments. For Years 10 and 11, students prepare for the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), selecting subjects such as English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Business Studies, ICT, and Additional Mathematics. Sixth Form students (Years 12 and 13) undertake the Cambridge A-Level program with a choice of academic subjects for university preparation. Throughout, students also study Bahasa Malaysia and Mandarin as language subjects, and participate in co-curricular and enrichment programs.
Curriculum details
Stonyhurst International School Penang follows a UK-based curriculum from Early Years through Sixth Form. Children in Nursery and Reception follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, with a focus on play-based learning and early literacy and numeracy. In Years 1 and 2 (Pre-Prep), students begin formal instruction in core subjects, supported by specialist teaching in music, physical education, swimming, and languages such as French, Bahasa Malaysia, and Mandarin. From Years 3 to 6 (Prep and Elements), students follow the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) alongside English, mathematics, and science. In Years 7 to 9 (Figures to Lower Grammar), the curriculum expands to include humanities, computing, and creative subjects, leading to the IGCSE program in Years 10 and 11. Sixth Form students (Years 12 and 13) follow the A-Level curriculum, selecting individual subjects based on interest and university pathways.
Pelita International School integrates Emotional Intelligence (EQ) as a dedicated subject from Early Years through to Key Stage 4. The program focuses on helping students build self-awareness, empathy, and interpersonal skills. Lessons are delivered by trained teaching staff and embedded into the school timetable alongside core academic subjects.
In addition to classroom activities, the school fosters SEL through its house system, peer collaboration, and student-led initiatives such as the student council. Co-curricular offerings in performing arts and service activities further support emotional expression and community engagement. Staff monitor students’ emotional development as part of regular pastoral care.
Social & emotional learning
The school incorporates social and emotional development through its Jesuit-inspired framework, known as the Jesuit Pupil Profile, which promotes values such as compassion, attentiveness, and discernment. Teachers integrate these themes into lessons and school life, encouraging reflective discussions and positive behavior. Each student is supported by form tutors and pastoral staff who monitor their personal growth and social interactions. In addition, co-curricular programs and service opportunities are designed to build resilience, empathy, and teamwork. Senior students are encouraged to take on leadership roles to foster responsibility and self-awareness.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
Pelita International School is not a specialist SEN institution but welcomes students with mild to moderate learning needs.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Stonyhurst Penang is not a specialist SEN institution, but it offers support for students with mild to moderate learning needs. A Learning Support Fee of MYR 2,500 per year applies if additional support is required. Support is coordinated in consultation with teachers and pastoral staff, focusing on classroom accommodations and individual monitoring.
English as an additional language
English as an additional language
The school does not have any dedicated EAL department.
English as an additional language
While there is no separate EAL department outlined in public materials, the school welcomes students from diverse language backgrounds and provides language support through its teaching teams.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing is supported through the school’s EQ curriculum, which includes weekly classes focused on emotional literacy and coping strategies. Teachers monitor student wellbeing and provide informal pastoral care as part of their daily interactions. The small school size enables closer relationships between staff and students.
Students also have access to a structured house system and leadership roles, which support peer connections and belonging. Although there is no dedicated school counsellor publicly listed, wellbeing is integrated into the school’s overall approach to education. Parents are encouraged to communicate openly with staff if additional support is required.
Mental wellbeing
Stonyhurst Penang provides mental wellbeing support through a structured counselling program and regular pastoral check-ins. A team of trained staff, including a Head of Pastoral, oversees emotional development and offers individual support as needed. The school’s emphasis on values-based education encourages a caring environment where students feel comfortable seeking help. Advisory and counselling services are accessible throughout a student’s time at the school. Activities that promote mindfulness, reflection, and peer support are embedded within the curriculum and extracurricular program.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding
Pelita International School does not publicly provide a detailed safeguarding or child protection policy on its website. However, as an institution offering the Cambridge International Curriculum, it is expected to adhere to Cambridge's safeguarding standards.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding is overseen by the Designated Safeguarding Lead (the Head of Pastoral), supported by school-wide policies and training. All staff involved with students undergo regular child protection training, including bus monitors and drivers. The school enforces secure pickup procedures, mandatory background checks, and standardized reporting for all safeguarding concerns. Protocols for absences, transportation, and adult authorization are documented and strictly followed. The school follows a structured safeguarding policy aligned with international school standards in Malaysia.
The school is located at Jalan Cengai, 11200 Tanjung Bungah, Penang, Malaysia. Hours are Monday to Friday 9am–5pm and Saturday 9am–12noon. The address and contact details are provided for inquiries.
Facilities overview
The campus is purpose-built in Penang. There are 48 purpose-designed classroom spaces. Senior School Library and Junior School Library are on site. The campus includes a 500-seat auditorium, plus drama rooms, music rooms and music practice rooms. ICT rooms, art studios and an art gallery are on site, together with a dedicated Sixth Form Centre.
Sports facilities
Sports facilities
The school offers a range of sports and fitness activities as part of its co-curricular program, including football, badminton, swimming, and table tennis. It also features dance and Taekwondo as part of its sports offerings.
Sports facilities
The school provides athletics facilities including an Astroturf playing field. There is a 25 metre, 8-lane swimming pool and a learner pool, with additional spaces for sports such as badminton, basketball and football. A multipurpose hall and multiple playgrounds support physical education and activity programs.
Academic facilities
Academic facilities
The curriculum combines the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) for the preschool level with the Cambridge curriculum for primary and secondary, including IGCSE and A-Levels, alongside a broad set of ICT and artistic facilities to support academics.
Academic facilities
There are 48 classrooms. Senior School Library and Junior School Library serve both campuses. Nine science laboratories support practical science work. ICT rooms, art studios and an art gallery support a broad range of subjects and creative work. The Sixth Form Centre consolidates facilities for higher-level study.
Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
Co-curricular activities include sports (dance, Taekwondo, swimming, football, badminton, table tennis), STEM (astronomy), arts (chess, creative arts, choir), and social activities (World Scholar's Cup).
Extra curricular facilities
Co-curricular activities cover Sports & Physical Activities, Arts & Creative Expression, Music & Performing Arts, Languages & Communication, Academic & Skill Development, and Leadership & Community. Examples include Badminton, Basketball, Football, Swimming, Art Club, Creative Writing, Choir, Drama, English Speaking Club, French and Mandarin language activities, Maths and Robotics clubs, Eco Committee, Pupil Council and many other options.
Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
Pelita International School was established in 2013 as part of the Pelita Schools group, which also includes Pelita Private School. Located in Tanjung Bungah, Penang, the school was founded to provide an international education based on the British curriculum.
History
Stonyhurst International School Penang was established in September 2022 as the first overseas sister school of the 430-year-old Stonyhurst College in the UK. The school operates as a coeducational day school, offering a British curriculum to students aged 3 to 18. It is situated on a 4.3-acre campus in Tanjung Tokong, Penang, featuring modern facilities designed for contemporary teaching and learning.
Community
Community
The school community actively participates in various events throughout the year, including cultural celebrations like Chinese New Year, Christmas, and Mother's Day. Students engage in activities such as field trips, science exhibitions, and performing arts events, fostering a vibrant school culture.
Community
The school community comprises students, staff, parents, and local organizations. Stonyhurst Penang celebrates its diverse community through various events, including cultural festivals and school-wide gatherings. These events foster a sense of belonging and provide opportunities for students to engage with different cultures and traditions.
Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
Pelita International School maintains an active Parent-Teacher Association that collaborates with the school to organize events and support student activities. The PTA plays a role in coordinating events such as school concerts and cultural celebrations, enhancing the school's community engagement.
Parent teacher association
Stonyhurst Penang has an active Parent Teacher Association that collaborates with the school to support student learning and well-being. The PTA organizes events such as parent-teacher conferences, workshops, and community service initiatives. These activities aim to strengthen the partnership between parents and the school, enhancing the educational experience for students.
Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
Pelita International School follows the Cambridge Assessment International Education Curriculum for Primary and Secondary. In Primary (Years 1–6), the curriculum uses Cambridge Primary and, at the end of Year 6, students take Cambridge Primary Checkpoint in English, Mathematics, and Science. In Secondary (Years 7–11), students undertake Cambridge Secondary 1 Checkpoint in Year 9 and progress to Cambridge IGCSE in Years 10–11, followed by Cambridge A-Levels in Years 12–13. The Cambridge curriculum emphasizes English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities, and Modern Languages, with Bahasa Malaysia and Mandarin as part of the modern-language offering.
Academic & intellectual
Stonyhurst Penang offers a broad range of co-curricular opportunities that support academic and intellectual development. Activities include Maths Competition Training, Robotics, STEM Club, and Science Club, which complement classroom learning and develop problem-solving, collaboration and inquiry. Students engage in competitions and projects to apply concepts across disciplines and deepen analytical thinking beyond the formal curriculum. These experiences foster intellectual curiosity and independent inquiry.
Arts & creative
Arts & creative
Arts offerings include Art & Design, Drama, Guitar, and Creative Arts as part of Cambridge topics and co-curricular activities. The Holistic Focus includes Music and Movement, Art & Design, and Design & Technology, integrating creative work with broader learning. A range of arts-based co-curricular activities is available, including Chess, Media Club, and Choir in addition to drama and performing arts.
Arts & creative
Co-curricular offerings in the arts and creative fields include Art Club, Creative Writing, Digital Animation, Digital Art, Group Vocal Training, Mural Painting, Music Technology & Production, Origami, Photography, and Storycraft. In music and performing arts, students can participate in Ballet, Choir, Drama, Orchestra/Ensemble, Piano, Ukulele/Guitar Lessons, and related groups. These activities cultivate creativity across visual arts, performance, and digital media.
Cultural & language
Cultural & language
Modern Languages – Bahasa Malaysia and Mandarin are offered as part of the Cambridge curriculum. In Cambridge IGCSE, Mandarin is listed as a Foreign/Second Language and Bahasa Malaysia is offered as a subject. English is a focus within the Cambridge curriculum. Global Perspectives is listed as a Cambridge subject.
Cultural & language
Languages and communication are supported through English Speaking Club, ESL Club, French Language Lessons, German Language Lessons, Mandarin Speaking Club, and Phonics Practice. The program includes opportunities to develop reading, writing and spoken language skills across multiple languages. Language clubs promote intercultural communication and linguistic proficiency.
Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
Co-curricular activities include sports such as Dance, Taekwondo, Swimming, Football, Badminton, and Table Tennis. STEM offerings include Astronomy. Arts offerings include Chess, Drama, Creative Arts, Choir, and Guitar, plus the Media Club. The school participates in the World Scholar's Cup as a recurring competition.
Social & hobbies
Social and hobbies opportunities include Book Club, Eco Committee, Library Club, Peer Buddy, Pupil Council, School Yearbook, and Scouts. These activities encourage teamwork, community involvement and personal interests beyond academics.
Community & service
Community & service
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Community & service
Leadership-oriented and service-linked activities include Eco Committee and Pupil Council, which promote environmental stewardship, governance, and community involvement. Peer Buddy supports peer mentoring and social inclusion, while the School Yearbook and Library Club help strengthen school community life. Participation reinforces a sense of responsibility and belonging within the school.
Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional
Leadership and professional development are embedded in student life through the Pupil Council and other student-led initiatives. Sixth Form emphasises leadership, service and academic excellence, with opportunities that prepare pupils to pursue leading universities and contribute to the school community. The Sixth Form information highlights a pathway that integrates leadership and scholarship as core aims.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
The school provides a holistic program with Music and Movement and Personal, Social & Health Education. The Holistic Focus also covers Art & Design, Design & Technology, ICT, and Physical Education. A range of sports and clubs is available, including Badminton, Football, Basketball, Swimming, and Table Tennis, along with additional STEM and arts activities.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Stonyhurst Penang offers a wide range of sports and physical activities to support wellbeing, including badminton, basketball, football, fitness club, gymnastics, karate, muay thai, netball, swimming, table tennis, taekwondo, volleyball, and wushu. The campus features extensive facilities such as 48 purpose-designed classrooms, a 500-seat auditorium, multiple music and drama spaces, libraries, science labs, a 25m x 8-lane swimming pool, a learners pool, a dedicated sports area and other amenities that support physical and mental wellbeing. The school is an international day school for ages 3–18, situated on a purpose-built campus in Penang.
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Pelita International School follows the Cambridge Assessment International Education Curriculum for primary and secondary education, with Cambridge Primary Checkpoint exams at the end of Year 6, Cambridge IGCSE in Years 10–11, and Cambridge A-Levels in Years 12–13. English is taught as a core language, listed as First/Second Language for IGCSE and A-Levels. Malay (Bahasa Malaysia) and Mandarin are offered as modern/foreign language options within the Cambridge framework. In Early Years, the school uses the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.
Language provision
The school teaches English-language curricula with a focus on languages as subjects. Languages taught in Key Stage 1 and 2 are French, Mandarin and Bahasa. IPC (International Primary Curriculum) is used for cross-curricular learning in KS1–KS2. These languages are delivered by specialist teachers.
Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching
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Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
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Awards
As of now, Stonyhurst International School Penang has not publicly announced any institutional awards since its establishment in 2022.
Accreditations
Accreditations
* Cambridge International School: Pelita International School is registered with Cambridge Assessment International Education, enabling it to offer Cambridge programs and qualifications such as IGCSE and A-Levels.
Accreditations
FOBISIA Membership: Stonyhurst Penang became a full member of the Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA) in April 2024. This membership connects the school to a network of British international schools across Asia, facilitating shared resources, student events, and professional development opportunities
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
1. Book a school tour or visit. Parents are encouraged to visit the school in person to see the campus and meet staff. School tours can usually be arranged during the school week by contacting the administrative office. This step is optional but helpful for families unfamiliar with the school or area.
2. Submit the application form and supporting documents. Parents need to complete the official application form and submit documents including the child’s birth certificate, passport, academic records, and a recent passport-sized photo. A non-refundable application fee of MYR 300 is required at this stage.
3. Attend an interview and placement test. Students may be invited for an academic assessment or interview depending on their age and year group. This helps the school assess English proficiency and academic readiness. In some cases, this may be conducted online.
4. Receive an offer letter and confirm placement. Successful applicants will receive an official offer letter outlining the year group, fee structure, and terms of admission. To confirm a place, parents must pay the registration fee and deposit. The school will then provide start dates, orientation information, and class placement details.
Admissions
1. Book a campus visit or attend an open house. Families are encouraged to visit the school to better understand the learning environment and facilities. Open houses or private tours can typically be arranged through the admissions team.
2. Submit an application form and required documents. To begin the formal admissions process, parents need to complete the application form and provide documents such as a copy of the student’s passport, birth certificate, previous school reports, and any relevant medical or learning support documentation. A non-refundable application fee of MYR 1,000 applies.
3. Assessment and interview. Applicants may be invited to take an age-appropriate assessment. Depending on the year level, students may also attend a short interview with the academic or pastoral team, either in person or online.
4. Offer of place and acceptance. If successful, families will receive a formal offer letter. To secure the place, parents must sign the acceptance documents and pay the required enrolment and security deposit fees.
5. Orientation and start of school. Once enrolled, students and families are invited to attend orientation sessions to become familiar with school routines, uniforms, and timetables. The admissions and pastoral teams provide support to ensure a smooth transition into school life.
Scholarships
Scholarships
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Scholarships
The school offers a limited number of merit- and means-tested scholarships for academically strong students. Applicants who meet both academic and financial eligibility may apply for funding of up to 100% of school fees. Full scholarship recipients entering Sixth Form (Years 12–13) receive comprehensive support covering tuition, uniform, meals, books, equipment, residential and day trip fees, transportation, and—if applicable—boarding and insurance costs. These scholarships are awarded for the full two-year Sixth Form term and are subject to ongoing review.
In addition, the school previously offered Honorary Scholarships for high-achieving students who did not qualify for financial support. However, this category has now closed, as all honorary scholarships have been fully awarded.
Waitlist
Waitlist
Pelita International School does not publicly indicate the use of a waitlist or pool system.
Waitlist
Stonyhurst International School Penang does not publicly state whether it operates a waitlist or pooled admissions system. However, admissions are subject to availability in each year group.