Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Johor Bahru
Summary: If you're moving to Johor Bahru with kids, choosing a school if often your first decisions and impacts where you'll live. Here are some popular bilingual and international schools in Johor Bahru
Johor Bahru, the southern gateway to Malaysia, is a bustling city that has become a hub for expatriates and digital nomads, thanks to its proximity to Singapore and its vibrant culture. While not as large as Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru offers a selection of international and bilingual schools catering to the expat community. Among the most popular are the Marlborough College Malaysia and Raffles American School, which are known for their high-quality education and diverse student bodies. Here is a list of recommended international and bilingual schools within a 40-minute drive from Johor Bahru.
Marlborough College Malaysia
Grades: Pre-school to Pre-university
Location(s): Iskandar Puteri
Website: www.marlboroughcollegemalaysia.org
Marlborough College Malaysia offers a British-style education and follows the English National Curriculum leading to IGCSEs and A-Levels. The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a 50m swimming pool, multiple sports fields, and a 600-seat theatre. With a strong emphasis on holistic education, the school provides a wide range of extracurricular activities.
Raffles American School
Grades: Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12
Location(s): Iskandar Puteri
Website: www.raffles-american-school.edu.my
Raffles American School offers an American-based curriculum with Advanced Placement (AP) courses for high school students. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including a performing arts center, innovation labs, and sports complexes. The school is committed to fostering a community of learners who are innovative, compassionate, and responsible global citizens.
Stellar International School
Grades: Kindergarten to Secondary
Location(s): Iskandar Puteri
Website: www.stellar.edu.my
Stellar International School provides a holistic education based on the Cambridge Curriculum. The school emphasizes personalized learning and character development. Facilities include science labs, music rooms, and sports areas. Stellar International School aims to nurture students to become critical thinkers and lifelong learners.
Sunway International School
Grades: Grade 7 to Grade 12
Location(s): Sunway Iskandar
Website: www.sunway.edu.my/sis/sunway-iskandar
Sunway International School offers the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). The school's facilities include a multipurpose hall, science and computer labs, and a visual arts studio. Sunway International School focuses on nurturing balanced, respectful, and globally minded individuals.
Sri Ara Schools
Grades: Primary to Secondary
Location(s): Johor Bahru
Website: www.sriara.edu.my
Sri Ara Schools offer both the British Curriculum and the Malaysian National Curriculum. The school provides a unique blend of eastern and western educational practices in a multicultural environment. Facilities include a library, science labs, and art rooms. Sri Ara Schools aim to develop students' intellectual and emotional growth.
Excelsior International School
Grades: Early Years to Secondary
Location(s): Permas Jaya
Website: www.excelsior.edu.my
Excelsior International School follows the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC), International Primary Curriculum (IPC), and Cambridge IGCSE for secondary students. The campus includes a swimming pool, auditorium, and sports fields. The school is dedicated to fostering a nurturing environment that encourages students to excel academically and personally.
Repton School Malaysia
Grades: Nursery to Year 13
Location(s): Iskandar Puteri
Website: www.repton.edu.my
Repton School Malaysia offers a British independent school education with a global perspective. The school follows the British National Curriculum leading to IGCSEs and A-Levels. With a focus on holistic development, Repton provides a broad range of extracurricular activities and state-of-the-art facilities, including a design and technology suite and sports complexes.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.