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Raffles American School

Malaysia, Johor Bahru

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees MYR 40,500 - 106,503
Ages 3 - 17 years
Pupil numbers 300
Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)
Opened 2012
Bus Service Yes
Academic offering
Curriculum American Curriculum
Taught languages Malay
Typical class size 20
Strengths Sport, Performing Arts, Visual and Creative Arts, STEM, Academic Enrichment, Service and Sustainability, Languages
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language, Community and Service, Lifestyle and Wellbeing
Stages Preschool, Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle School, High School
Introduction

Raffles American School (RAS) is a U.S.-accredited international school in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia—about 30 minutes by car from Singapore. It serves students aged 3 to 18 and follows an American curriculum aligned with Common Core, AERO, and NGSS standards, with Advanced Placement (AP) courses offered in high school. The school has a 19-hectare campus featuring an Olympic-sized swimming pool, two gymnasiums, multiple sports fields, tennis courts, and a fine arts center with an 800-seat auditorium and black-box theater. English is the primary language of instruction, with Mandarin and Bahasa Malaysia offered as additional languages. RAS has boarding facilities for students in Grades 5–12 and keeps class sizes between 15 and 22.

Jalan Raffles, 79050, Iskandar Puteri, Johor Darul Takzim, Malaysia

The Essentials

Raffles American School has 300 pupils, typical class sizes of 20, instruction in English.

Location

Raffles American School is located in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia, about 30 minutes from Singapore via the Tuas Second Link. The school sits within a residential and development zone popular with international families. It is accessible by private transport, and a school bus service covers routes across Johor and into Singapore. The surrounding area includes retail centres, healthcare, and international business hubs.

Stages

The school serves students from Pre-Kindergarten (age 3) to Grade 12 (age 18). It is organized into three divisions: Elementary School (Pre-K to Grade 5), Middle School (Grades 6–8), and High School (Grades 9–12).

Type

It is a co-educational day and boarding school. Boarding is available to students from Grade 5 onwards, with weekday and full boarding options.

Additional learning support

While specific programs for Additional Learning Needs are not detailed on the school's website, the Resource Hub offers a variety of resources and facilities to enhance the learning experience.

Country affiliation

The school follows an American curriculum and is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

Religious affiliation

The school has no religious affiliation.

School day structure

The school day runs from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday to Friday. Breaks and lunch times are scheduled by grade level, with time allocated for academic lessons, specialist subjects, and physical activity. After-school activities generally take place from 3:45 PM to 5:00 PM.

Bus service

The school offers a bus service covering multiple areas in Johor and selected locations in Singapore, including Jurong East MRT. Transportation is managed by RAS staff drivers, with door-to-door service available upon request.

Bus fees are charged per semester, and routes are adjusted based on student locations. The service includes safety protocols and regular communication with families.
Diving Deeper

Boarding Arrangements

Boarding is available for students aged 12 years and older. The program provides 24/7 care in a secure, home-like environment. Boarding includes meals and laundry. Transportation to and from Senai airport is included, and students may leave the boarding house on weekends and long holidays.

Uniform Requirement

Uniforms include RAS polo tops in white or orange and a grey long-sleeve top, plus grey trousers or skirts; a grey hooded sweatshirt may be worn. The PE uniform is an orange or white T-shirt with grey shorts. Skirts and shorts must be tailored and reach no more than one hand-width above the knee. Footwear rules prohibit beach sandals; sandals must have a back strap; high heels are not allowed. House color T-shirts are worn on Color Days or Casual Fridays.

Food Options

Day students receive two daily snacks and a full lunch. Boarding students receive three meals and two snacks daily, seven days a week. Meals are prepared by an in-house kitchen and feature a variety of cuisines, with themed events such as International Week.

House System

The school operates a house system. House color shirts are worn on Color Days or Casual Fridays.
Fees

Annual tuition at Raffles American School ranges from MYR 40,500 to MYR 106,503 for 2026/27.

Application and Registration Fees
* Application Fee: MYR 1,000 (non-refundable)
* Placement Fee: MYR 10,000 (non-refundable, due upon acceptance)
* Registration Fee: MYR 7,500 for Pre-K3; MYR 15,000 for Pre-K4 and above (one-time, non-refundable per family)

Annual Tuition Fees (2024/2025)
* Pre-Kindergarten 3 (Age 3): MYR 40,500
* Pre-Kindergarten 4 (Age 4): MYR 66,500
* Kindergarten to Grade 4: MYR 74,500
* Grades 5 to 8: MYR 98,500
* Grades 9 to 12: MYR 106,500

Tuition includes morning snacks, lunch, and after-school snacks.

Boarding Fees (Grades 5–12 only)
* Double Occupancy: MYR 47,500 per year
* Single Occupancy: MYR 49,500 per year
* Boarding Deposit: MYR 3,000 (refundable, less deductions for medical/activities)

Other Fees
* Re-enrollment Fee (from 2nd year): MYR 3,000 per year

Explore Week Fees:
* Grade 6: MYR 1,000
* Grades 7–9: MYR 1,500
* Grades 10–12: MYR 2,300

Technology Fee:
* Kindergarten to Grade 4: MYR 750
* Grades 5 to 8: MYR 1,250
* Uniforms: Costs vary; details provided after enrollment

Billing Schedule and Payment Terms
* Semester 1 (Aug–Dec): 60% of annual tuition, invoiced April 1, due April 30
* Semester 2 (Jan–Jun): 40% of annual tuition, invoiced October 1, due October 31
* Late payments incur a 1.5% monthly penalty
* The school may withhold records or terminate enrollment for unpaid fees

Payment Options
* Bank transfer in MYR (bank charges to be borne by sender)
* Flywire (accepts various currencies via local bank transfer, credit/debit card, etc.)

Refund Policy
* All fees are non-refundable and non-transferable
Academics

Raffles American School teaches American Curriculum for students aged 3 to 17.

Curriculum

The school follows an American curriculum from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12. The program is aligned with U.S. Common Core, Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), and AERO frameworks.

Elementary and Middle School emphasize foundational skills, while High School students follow a credit-based system leading to a U.S. High School Diploma. Advanced Placement (AP) courses are available in Grades 10 to 12.

The curriculum also includes physical education, visual and performing arts, languages, and experiential learning through programs like Explore Week. English is the main language of instruction, with Mandarin and Bahasa Malaysia taught as additional languages.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The school emphasizes social and emotional growth, particularly in its Middle School program. Students participate in daily advisory meetings and receive support from counselors to foster self-esteem and a sense of belonging. The program also incorporates project-based learning, encouraging students to develop resilience and navigate academic and social challenges effectively.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

While Raffles American School offers educational assistance through its Learning & Resource Hub, specific details regarding support for Special Educational Needs (SEN) are not provided on the school's website.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

The school offers English Language programs such as- English Immersion Program (EIP), English Language Learning (ELL), RAS Camp Program, aimed at fostering linguistic development in students whose primary language is not English.

These programs are designed to enhance English language skills, providing a supportive environment for non-native speakers.

Mental Wellbeing

Raffles American School supports students' mental wellbeing through its Learning & Resource Hub, which offers resources and facilities to promote academic, social, and emotional growth. The school also provides Winter and Summer Camp programs that combine English language instruction with extracurricular activities, contributing to students' overall wellbeing.

Safeguarding

The school's Child Protection Policy emphasizes creating a safe and supportive environment for all students. The policy outlines the school's commitment to student safety and wellbeing.
Parent Experience

History

Raffles American School (RAS) was established in 2012 in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia. It is part of the Raffles Education Group, a Singapore-based organization with a network of educational institutions across Asia. The school offers an American curriculum and is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). RAS caters to students from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12, providing a comprehensive educational experience.

Community

The RAS community comprises students, parents, and staff from diverse cultural backgrounds. The school organizes various events to celebrate this diversity, such as the Sukan Rakyat Johor, which promotes cultural preservation and community engagement. These events provide students with opportunities to learn about and appreciate different traditions and values.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

While specific details about the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) at RAS are not publicly available, the school emphasizes collaboration between parents and educators. Parents are encouraged to participate in school events and activities, fostering a supportive environment for students.

The school maintains open communication channels with parents through newsletters and the Parent Portal, ensuring they are informed and involved in their children's education.
Gallery
Facilities

Facilities Overview

The school is located in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia. The campus serves Pre-K through 12th grade. An American-style boarding school option is available at Raffles American School. The Learning & Resource Hub provides a welcoming space to support student learning. State-of-the-art facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, and sports facilities.

Sports Facilities

Sports facilities are part of the state-of-the-art campus. The school offers sports programs as part of student life, including Visual & Performing Arts and Sports. The Raptors Tennis Academy and Golf Academy provide specialized athletic programs. Boarding students have access to athletic spaces as part of campus offerings. Facilities support sports and physical education.

Academic Facilities

Modern classrooms and science labs are part of the academic facilities. The Learning & Resource Hub supports student learning. A university preparation pathway, including DreamLab, is available. Advanced Placement courses are offered in High School. Prep Academy provides English language development and test preparation for younger learners.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Extracurricular programs include the Tennis Academy and Golf Academy. Visual & Performing Arts and Sports are part of student life. The Learning & Resource Hub supports broader learning beyond the classroom. The school offers camps, including Winter and Summer Camp programs for ages 6-16. Strong college counseling helps guide higher education applications.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual

Raffles American School follows an American education pathway that leads to a US-style diploma and university preparation. High School students may enroll in Advanced Placement (AP) courses as part of their pathway. DreamLab is a fee-based after-school program offering English language development, math Olympiad preparation, and college guidance. General Learning Outcomes (GLOs) guide learning and include Critical Thinking, Organization, Communication, and Character.

Arts & Creative

The Visual and Performing Arts program provides opportunities in music, theatre, dance, and visual arts. The program includes a band with ensembles and pathways to advanced groups; performing arts facilities include an 800-seat performing arts center and a black box theater. Campus facilities also include dedicated spaces for visual arts, dance, and performing arts.

Cultural & Language

English Language Programs aim to foster linguistic development in students whose primary language is not English. The Prep Academy offers an English-language program for learners aged 3 to 18, with flexibility for ongoing language development and test preparation. DreamLab also provides English language development as part of its after-school offerings.

Social & Hobbies

Camps are offered for winter and summer for students aged 6–16, focusing on English language development and the international school experience. Explore Week is a campus feature that supports engagement with the school community. The school also provides athletics programs through Tennis and Golf Academies and a broader sports program.

Community & Service

The school maintains a community framework including a Child Protection Policy, testimonials, a Parent Portal, and opportunities for engagement and caregiver involvement. The community emphasis is to create a welcoming environment where students feel supported and connected.

Leadership & Professional

Strong college counseling is available to guide students through the college application process and to help identify suitable paths for higher education. The school emphasizes UC-level preparation and provides pathways that include AP and SAT opportunities to support university readiness.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

The campus features a senior boarding program with five boarding facilities, and facilities include two indoor gymnasiums, an Olympic-size swimming pool, a shallow training pool, outdoor tennis and basketball courts, a soccer field, and a stadium with a second full-size soccer field, plus running tracks. Boarding includes meals, laundry, and transportation to Senai airport; the program supports students with pastoral care in a residential setting.
Languages

Language Provision

English is the official language of Raffles American School and is the language of instruction across the curriculum. The campus serves pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, with English-language programs designed to develop students' English proficiency for academic success.

Immersion Programs

English Language Programs include the English Immersion Program (EIP) for Grades 3–10 and the English Language Learning (ELL) program for Kindergarten through Grade 10. EIP provides intensive, immersive English instruction in a school community where mainstream subjects are taught in English by native English-speaking teachers. ELL offers additional English support with certified English Language Learning teachers, and new students undergo an initial placement assessment; progress is tracked through formal assessments such as DRA, WIDA placement tests, and MAP tests.
Reputation

Awards

As of now, there is no publicly available information regarding specific awards received by Raffles American School in the past five years.

Accreditations

Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
Raffles American School (RAS) is fully accredited by WASC, a U.S.-based accrediting body recognized for evaluating and certifying the quality of schools worldwide. This accreditation signifies that RAS meets established standards of educational quality and institutional integrity.

* East Asia Regional Council of Schools (EARCOS)
RAS is a full member of EARCOS, an organization comprising international schools in East Asia. Membership provides access to professional development opportunities and fosters collaboration among member schools.
Admissions

Admissions

1. Schedule a campus visit or attend an admissions event.
While not mandatory, visiting the campus or participating in an admissions event can provide valuable insights into the school's environment and offerings.

2. Complete the online application form.
Submit the application through the school's online system, ensuring all required information and documents are provided.

3. Submit required documents.
Provide necessary documents, which may include academic records, recommendation letters, and other relevant materials as specified by the admissions office.

4. Participate in an admissions evaluation and interview.
Once all documents are received, the admissions team will process the application and may schedule an evaluation or interview to assess the applicant's suitability.

5. Receive the admissions decision.
After the evaluation process, the school will inform you of the admissions decision and provide further instructions for enrollment if accepted.

Waitlist

Raffles American School accepts applications year-round, subject to availability. In cases where a grade level is at capacity, applicants may be placed on a waitlist. The admissions team will notify families if this applies and provide updates as openings become available.
School Events
The school has not added events