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Kinabalu International School

Malaysia, Sabah

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees MYR 16,041 - 56,250
Ages 3 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 432
Type Co-educational
Opened 1973
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels
Taught languages English, French, Malay, Mandarin
Typical class size 17
Strengths Sport, Performing Arts, Visual and Creative Arts, Academic Enrichment
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Social and Hobbies, Lifestyle and Wellbeing
Stages Early Years, Primary School, Secondary School, Sixth Form
Introduction

Kinabalu International School (KIS), established in 1973, is located in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. The school offers the British National Curriculum, culminating in Cambridge IGCSE and A Level examinations, catering to students aged 3 to 18. The campus features modern facilities, including science laboratories, art studios, and sports amenities. With a small class size, students receive personalized attention to support their learning journey. KIS is a member of the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA). The school emphasizes global citizenship, encouraging students to engage in community service and environmental initiatives. Notably, KIS is recognized as a Green Flag Eco-School, highlighting its dedication to sustainability and environmental education. The diverse student body and experienced faculty create a vibrant learning community that prepares students for success in a global context.

Off Jalan Khidmat, Bukit Padang, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

The Essentials

Kinabalu International School has 432 pupils, typical class sizes of 17, instruction in English.

Location
Kinabalu International School is located in Bukit Padang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, on the island of Borneo in East Malaysia. The school sits in a quiet, leafy suburb approximately 15 minutes’ drive from the city centre. It is accessible by car and taxi, and located near local amenities and residential neighbourhoods. The surrounding area offers a calm environment for families while remaining close to urban conveniences.

Stages
Kinabalu International School is structured into Early Years, Primary School (Years 1–6), Secondary School (Years 7–13), and A Levels in Year 13.

Type
Kinabalu International School is a co-educational, non-boarding day school. It welcomes both Malaysian and international students and operates on a not-for-profit model governed by a Board of Governors elected by the parents.

Additional learning support
The school offers support for students with mild to moderate additional learning needs. Provision is coordinated through its Learning Support Team, who work in partnership with teachers and families. Support may include differentiated instruction, classroom assistance, and Individual Education Plans (IEPs) as required.

Country affiliation
KIS does not have a formal affiliation with any one country.

Religious affiliation
Kinabalu International School is secular and has no religious affiliation.

School day structure
The school day typically begins at 7:45 AM and ends at 2:00 PM for Early Years and Primary, and 3:00 PM for Secondary classes. There are designated morning breaks and a lunch period. After-school clubs and extracurricular activities run on selected afternoons until around 3:00 PM for Primary and 4:00 PM for Secondary students.

Bus service
The school does not run a transport service.
Diving Deeper

Uniform Requirement
Uniform is required for all students. Pupils are assigned to a School House (Gaya, Sulug, or Sapi). Shoes must be black or white with white ankle socks; no coloured shoe laces. Jewellery is limited to a single pair of stud earrings for girls; nail polish and makeup are not permitted; hair colouring must be natural. Most uniform items can be purchased from the KIS Shop in the School Hall, with online orders via shop.kis.edu.my.

Food Options
Catered lunches are available from the on-site Colour Meal canteen, and students may also bring their own lunches. Lunches can be pre-ordered on a weekly basis; payments are made to Colour Meals and orders must be submitted by Friday 3pm for the following week.

House System
Pupils are placed in a School House: Gaya, Sulug or Sapi.

Governance and Ownership
KIS is a not-for-profit school owned and operated by parents. Governance is through a Board of Governors elected annually by parents. The school is accredited by the Council International Schools (CIS) and is a founding member of FOBISIA.
Fees

Annual tuition at Kinabalu International School ranges from MYR 16,041 to MYR 56,250 for 2026/27.

One Time Only Fees
Application Fee: A non-refundable MYR 800 is payable upon application.
Registration Fee: Upon acceptance, a MYR 2,500 non-refundable registration fee is charged.
Capital Fee (Reception - Foundation 2): a non-refundable MYR 2,000 to be paid before the student is enrolled in the school. Transferable upon entry to Year 1.
Capital Fee (Year 1 - Year 13): a non-refundable MYR 8,000 to be paid before the student is enrolled in the school.
Refundable Deposit: A deposit equal to MYR 2,500 is payable and refundable with written notice of withdrawal. Six school weeks notice is required.

Annual Tuition Fees
Reception & Foundation 1 (1) Finish at 11.20 AM: MYR 16,041
Reception & Foundation 1 (2) Finish at 2 PM: MYR 22,239
Foundation 2: MYR 26,109
Years 1 - 2: MYR 33,474
Years 3 - 5: MYR 35,352
Year 6: MYR 37,209
Years 7 - 8: MYR 42,750
Year 9: MYR 44,589
Year 10: MYR 54,315
Year 11: MYR 45,612
Year 12: MYR 56,250
Year 13: MYR 47,225

Individual Needs Fee (per term)
English as an Additional Language or Special Educational Needs: MYR 1,860
Both English as an Additional Language and Special Educational Needs: MYR 2,790

Additional Fees
Annual Student Accident Insurance: a non-refundable insurance fee of MYR 32 payable before the date of admission or annually before the first day of the academic year.
Public Exams Fees: IGCSE and A Level exam fees are set each year by the Exam Boards. Fees will depend on the subjects taken.
Field / Residential / Social / Class Trips: Fees are charged on an individual basis, based on quoted costs incurred for the trip concerned.
Catered Lunches: Additional costs apply.
School Uniforms: Additional costs apply.

Payment of Fees
Tuition fees are billed termly in advance. There are 3 terms per academic year. You may choose to pay it:
- In monthly instalments ( premium applies)
- On a termly basis
- A full year’s fee in advance

Refund Policy
Tuition fees are non-refundable unless a withdrawal notice is submitted in writing in accordance with school policy. The refundable deposit is returned when the notice conditions are met.
Academics

Kinabalu International School teaches British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels for students aged 3 to 18.

Curriculum
Kinabalu International School follows the English National Curriculum from Early Years to Secondary. In Early Years (ages 3–5), the focus is on structured play, communication, and foundational skills across seven areas of learning. The Primary School (Years 1–6) builds core competencies in English (including Drama), Mathematics, Science, Computing, Humanities, and the Arts (Music and Design Technology), along with weekly lessons in Bahasa Malaysia, Mandarin, French and PE. In Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9), students continue with a broad curriculum including ICT, Personal, Social, Economic and Health Education. At Key Stage 4 (Years 10–11), students work toward the Cambridge IGCSE, selecting subjects alongside core requirements in English, Language, Mathematics, and Sciences. Post-16 students (Years 12–13) follow the Cambridge A Level programme, typically choosing 3–4 subjects based on their university goals.

Academic calendar
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
Kinabalu International School integrates social and emotional development into its curriculum through a Personal, Social, and Health Education (PSHE) programme. This programme equips students with the knowledge and skills to manage their lives and thrive as individuals and community members. In Early Years and Primary, the school emphasizes social skills such as turn-taking, sharing, and independence, fostering trust and mutual respect.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Kinabalu International School is an inclusive school that supports students with mild to moderate learning and behavioural needs. The school employs specialized staff, including SEN and learning support teachers, who provide assistance both within and outside the classroom. However, due to physical limitations of the school site, KIS is unable to accommodate students requiring specialist physical provisions, such as wheelchair access.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
For students whose first language is not English, KIS offers EAL support through dedicated teachers who work alongside classroom teachers. Support is provided within mainstream classes and may include additional sessions as needed. An Individual Needs Support Fee applies for students assessed as requiring EAL assistance, which is reviewed each term.

Mental Wellbeing
Kinabalu International School prioritizes students' mental wellbeing by providing access to a full-time school counsellor who offers guidance and emotional support. The counsellor collaborates closely with the Safeguarding Team to ensure a supportive environment.

Safeguarding
Kinabalu International School maintains safeguarding and child protection policies in line with international standards. All staff members undergo annual safeguarding training to uphold these standards. The school has a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), Ms. Roberta Young, who can be contacted for any safeguarding concerns.
Parent Experience

History
Kinabalu International School was founded in 1973 to serve the educational needs of both local and expatriate families in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. It began with a small number of students and moved through several temporary locations in Kota Kinabalu during its early years. Over the years, the school expanded and eventually moved to its current purpose-built campus in Bukit Padang. The school is a not-for-profit association, governed by a Board of Governors elected by the parent community. Its mission and governance structure continue to reflect the inclusive, community-driven ethos on which it was established.

Community
KIS hosts a diverse international community, with students and families from over 30 nationalities. The school organizes various events to celebrate this diversity, including International Day, where students and parents showcase their cultures through traditional attire, food, and performances. Other community events include the annual KISMAS Fair and collaborations with local organizations, such as culinary events with Hilton Kota Kinabalu.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
The KIS Parent Teacher Association (PTA) comprises all parents and teachers and is governed by a constitution with a Steering Committee elected during the Annual General Meeting. The PTA holds monthly meetings and encourages active participation from its members. It organizes social events, such as the KISMAS Fair and International Day, to foster community spirit. Additionally, the PTA raises funds to support school projects and initiatives, with members and students able to apply for funding for specific events or items.
Gallery
Facilities

Facilities Overview
Kinabalu International School is a K-12 campus in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, delivering education based on the English National Curriculum. The campus includes an EYFS Outdoor Area and a Primary Library for learning and study. On-site facilities include the Colour Meal canteen for break snacks and lunches, and the KIS Shop for uniforms and stationery, located in the School Hall. The school is located off Jalan Khidmat in Bukit Padang, Kota Kinabalu.

Academic Facilities
The Primary Library supports study and research for students.

Extra Curricular Facilities
The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities beyond the classroom. The House System (Sapi, Sulug, Gaya) fosters teamwork and leadership. PASS Club provides after-school supervision in the EYFS Outdoor Area and the Primary Library. Enrichments Beyond the Classroom and Field Trips & Residentials expand learning opportunities.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
The school provides a K–12 education based on the UK English National Curriculum. It prepares students for IGCSE and A-level examinations. English is the language of instruction, supported by over 80% native English-speaking staff. The school is CIS-accredited and a FOBISIA member.

Arts & Creative
Arts and creative activities are embedded in student life. The school participates in FOBISIA Music & Drama activities and offers music and drama productions. A talent competition and year-group performances showcase student creativity. Music & Drama productions and related performances are part of the arts program.

Cultural & Language
Model United Nations is part of enrichments beyond the classroom. The Global Citizenship Award recognizes student engagement with global issues. The enrichment program also includes other global awareness initiatives and cultural activities.

Social & Hobbies
The House System builds team spirit and leadership. Students belong to three houses—Sapi, Sulug, and Gaya—named after local islands and endangered species. House challenges drive teamwork through competitions and community initiatives. The extracurricular program includes FOBISIA sports, swimming galas, and maths challenges.

Community & Service
Community Service is included in enrichments and student life. Students participate in community service activities and global citizenship initiatives. Day trips, residential trips, and outdoor education camps also form part of the life beyond class.

Leadership & Professional
Primary and Secondary Student Councils provide leadership opportunities. The House System fosters leadership roles and responsibility in teams and events. Student leadership and professional skill development are supported through various student initiatives.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Student wellbeing is prioritised with a full-time counsellor. The Saf safeguarding team supports students, and staff undergo annual safeguarding training to uphold international standards. The school aims to provide a safe and secure environment where every student can thrive.
Languages

Language Provision
The school teaches English as the language of instruction and delivers the English National Curriculum. Mandarin is taught from Early Years through secondary, including Year 7–8 and as an IGCSE language option. Bahasa Malaysia is taught in Primary and is offered as an IGCSE option alongside French and Mandarin. French is taught in Key Stage 2 for non-Malaysian citizens and is available as an IGCSE option.
Reputation

Awards
KIS does not have any publicly available information on awards.

Accreditations
Council of International Schools (CIS)
KIS is accredited by the Council of International Schools, an organization that evaluates schools against internationally recognized standards for educational quality, governance, and student wellbeing. This accreditation signifies that KIS meets rigorous benchmarks across all areas of school operations and is committed to continuous improvement.

Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA)
As a founding member of FOBISIA, KIS is part of a network of British international schools in Asia. Membership provides students with opportunities to participate in regional events such as sports competitions, arts festivals, and academic challenges, fostering collaboration and cultural exchange.

Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE)
KIS is a certified examination center for Cambridge IGCSE and A-Level qualifications. This affiliation allows the school to offer internationally recognized curricula and assessments, preparing students for higher education and global opportunities.
Admissions

Admissions
1. Application
To submit an application to the school, you will need to complete the Application Form and pay a non-refundable application fee of RM 800 per child.
Application may be made online/ via email, or physically submitted.
*Please note that this is not a commitment from you to accept a place, nor does it confirm that your child will be offered a place.

2. Assessment
Assessments are conducted in school (by appointment), based on age and year group. For families based overseas, it is possible for the assessment to be taken in your country of residence.

3. Placement Offer
Following the assessment stage, the Heads of School and the Principal review the assessment results and confirm their recommendation regarding a place at the school. This process typically takes between 7 to 14 school days. A verbal confirmation is provided as soon as a decision is made. Additionally, a written confirmation follows, detailing the offer of a place, class placement, and admission date.

4. Acceptance of a Place
A confirmation of acceptance is required within 7 days of the placement offer letter being issued. Upon receipt of the signed acceptance, the school will finalise the student’s class placement, raise the invoice for fees, and provide all relevant information for the start of school.
*If a student does not begin attending within two weeks of the agreed start date, their name will be removed from the admissions list, and the application fee will be forfeited.

Scholarships
Kinabalu International School offers a Scholarship Programme for Year 12 students entering the A-Level programme. Scholarships are merit-based and awarded to students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance along with active involvement in extracurricular or community service activities.

The scholarship applies to the two-year A-Level programme and may cover a portion of the tuition fees. Applicants must complete a scholarship application form, submit academic records, and participate in an interview and assessment process.

Scholarships are limited and subject to annual availability and funding decisions by the school’s Board.

Waitlist
Parents will be informed if a class is full. If they still wish to continue with the application procedure, they will be advised that the student will be placed on a waiting list in the appropriate pool. The pools are as follows:
- Pool A - Students who have a parent employed by the school. - Pool B - Students whose siblings are studying at KIS.
- Pool C- Students for whom English is their first language.
- Pool D - Students with English as an additional language but who are fluent in English.
- Pool E - Students with English as an additional language who are not fluent in English.
School Events
The school has not added events
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