Edited by Aziza Francienne · B2C Marketing Manager
Sabah sits on the northern tip of Borneo, with Kota Kinabalu as its growing capital city. Families here enjoy beaches, diving, and Mount Kinabalu on their doorstep, with a cost of living well below peninsula standards. International school fees are 20-40 percent lower than KL equivalents, and the small expat community means children settle in quickly.
Compare 4 international schools in Sabah, Malaysia. Filter by curriculum, fees (average MYR 32,198), location, and more to find the right international school now.
Imperium International Secondary School (IISS), located in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, offers a Cambridge-based education for students in Years 7 to 11. The school follows the Cambridge IGCSE curriculum, with subjects ranging from English, Mathematics, and Sciences to Business Studies, Global Perspectives, and ICT. Instruction is in English, and classes are supported by facilities such as science laboratories, ICT rooms, and creative arts spaces. A distinctive feature of IISS is its integration of character development into the academic program, supported by counselling services and pastoral care. The school holds up to four parent–teacher meetings each year, alongside real-time updates via its EMS system, helping families stay involved in their child’s progress. While it does not offer boarding, it caters to a diverse day-school community. IISS is part of the Edumaax Education Group, which also operates institutions in Kuala Lumpur. This connection supports consistent academic quality and access to group-level programs.
Charis International School, established in 2014, is the first registered international school in Tawau, Sabah, Malaysia. It offers the Cambridge International Curriculum from Kindergarten through Year 11, with instruction in English and additional language subjects including Mandarin and Malay. The school is housed within Calvary Crown, a ten-storey multipurpose building in central Tawau, with four dedicated floors for academic use. Facilities include science labs, computer rooms, and creative spaces that support project-based and STEAM learning. Charis is known for its small class sizes, which promote a focused, student-centered environment. A standout feature is “Charis Home,” its boarding facility designed to provide a secure, supportive environment for outstation and international students. Co-curricular opportunities range from futsal and robotics to community service through the Interact Club.
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.
Jesselton International School (JIS), established in 2018, is located in the Likas area of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. The school offers the British curriculum, catering to students aged 4 to 18, encompassing Kindergarten through A Levels. With an average class size of 14, JIS emphasizes personalized education. The campus is equipped with specialized facilities, including science laboratories, an ICT room, music and art rooms. JIS is known for its innovative programs like the Young Entrepreneur Programme (YEP) and the Jesselton International School Community Outreach Programme (JISCOP), which aim to develop students' leadership and community engagement skills. The school fosters a multicultural environment, welcoming both local and international students. While English is the primary medium of instruction, Malay, Mandarin, and French are also taught as language subjects.
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