Intake Months for International Schools

Published on 08 Jan 2025

Choosing an International School

Essential Information

Choosing the right school for your child is more than just ticking a box—it’s an adventure! And like any great journey, timing is everything. Familiarising yourself with the intake months for international schools can make all the difference in ensuring your child’s transition is smooth and stress-free. But here’s the twist: international school calendars can be as diverse as their curriculums, shaped by location, national affiliation, and cultural traditions. Get the timing wrong, and your child might miss out on valuable class time—or be left waiting for months to start their new academic year!

In December 2024, Education Destination Malaysia launched an insightful survey to spread awareness about the intakes of international schools in Malaysia. This survey uncovered key details such as:

✨ The number of intakes schools typically offer
✨ When the intakes occur?
✨ The education levels each school provides

How many intakes are there in a year?

International schools are celebrated for their adaptability, and their intake periods are no exception. While traditional schools often operate on a single annual intake schedule, many international schools in Malaysia cater to diverse family needs by offering multiple intakes throughout the year. Based on our recent survey, the intake offerings vary significantly among schools.

For instance, international schools such as Dwi Emas International School, IDRISSI International School, Sri Emas International School, and Soka International School offer two main intakes, ensuring families have an additional opportunity to enrol during the year. Meanwhile, schools like Epsom College Malaysia, HELP International School, Maple Leaf Kingsley International School, Nexus International School, Stonyhurst International School, and Westlake International School go a step further with three intakes, making it even easier for students to transition into their programs.

Moreover, some international schools embrace rolling admissions, allowing students to join at any time, subject to class availability. This model is particularly advantageous for expatriate families or those facing unique relocation timelines.

The number of intakes and their availability often depend on the curriculum a school follows and its administrative policies. For example, schools offering programs like the International Baccalaureate (IB) and A-Levels may adhere to stricter intake schedules due to the sequential nature of the coursework. An excellent example is Seri Botani International School, which provides rolling admissions for most year groups but excludes Year 11. This is because its academic year begins in September, aligning with the IGCSE schedule, and students will be having exams in May. In short, parents are encouraged to research thoroughly and plan ahead. Applying early not only improves the likelihood of securing a spot at the desired school but also helps ensure a seamless educational experience for their children.

Check out the number of intakes each of the schools below offers.

*Schools in blue have rolling admissions

When Do the Intakes Occur?

The timing of intake periods at international schools is primarily influenced by their academic calendar, which often reflects their curriculum and national affiliation. Based on the survey conducted, the two most common intake periods are January and August or September. January intakes usually align with the calendar year schedule, often found in schools offering the Australian or other international curriculums. Meanwhile, January intakes are particularly significant in Malaysia, as this might be a familiar schedule for many parents moving their children from government schools to international schools. This intake provides a seamless entry point for students switching systems at the start of a new academic year. On the other hand, August or September intakes correspond to the northern hemisphere academic calendar, aligning with British, American, or Canadian curriculums.

In addition to these primary intakes, many schools provide secondary options, such as mid-year enrolments in April. This second intake offers additional flexibility, catering to families relocating during the year or students needing a transition and unable to wait for a primary intake period. Beyond these set periods, some international schools provide rolling admissions, allowing students to join at any time, but it really depends on the availability of places in the school These include Alice Smith School, IDRISSI International School, Mutiara International Grammar School, Seri Botani International School, Seven Skies International School, Stonyhurst International School, Tanarata International School, TLS International School, Oasis International School, Stellar International School, Wesley Methodist School and Westlake International School.

Parents must also consider application deadlines, which typically occur several months before the actual intake. Planning ahead ensures a smoother enrolment process and increases the chances of securing a place at your preferred school. By understanding when intakes occur and preparing well in advance for them, parents can ensure their child’s education continues without interruptions, without being constrained by their relocation or transition timeline

Check out the full list of intakes months below.

*Schools in blue have rolling admissions

The education levels each school provides

Most international schools offer at least three levels of education. A vast majority of the schools that participated in the survey offer a combination of preschool, primary and secondary education or from preschool to pre-university or Sixth Form.

*Schools in blue have rolling admissions

Familiarising yourself with a school’s intake schedule is key to effective planning. Early applications are highly recommended, particularly for schools with limited spots or high-demand programs. By being informed about intake periods, you can ensure your child’s educational journey begins smoothly, reducing disruptions and optimising learning opportunities.

When exploring school options, always review their specific intake policies. This will help you find the perfect fit for your child’s needs and your family’s timeline, ensuring a seamless transition for your children into the international school system.

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Respondents

Education Destination Malaysia would like to thank the following schools for responding to the survey: