What Is The Difference Between Private School & International School?

What Is The Difference Between Private School & International School?

As a parent, it's understandable that you want your child's educational journey to start right. And it begins by choosing the right school for them. With more private and international schools in Malaysia gaining traction, it is probably an avenue worth exploring to ensure your child gets the best education by understanding what both private and international schools in Malaysia can offer. This guide may shed some light on where to start.
 

Understanding Private Schools in Malaysia 

A private school in Malaysia offers quality education. It is on the same level of what an international school has to offer, but here are three key points that make a private school unique. They are as follows: 

1. Private schools in Malaysia follow the Malaysian National Standard Curriculum which applies to primary (Kurikulum Standard Sekolah Rendah) and secondary levels (Kurikulum Standard Sekolah Menengah). These schools primarily use Bahasa Malaysia as the main language of instruction. Most students are Malaysians, but international students are more than welcome to apply.
2. Required by the Education Act 1996, private schools must adhere to the Malaysian National Standard Curriculum. This curriculum includes Bahasa Malaysia, English, Mathematics and Science which have been approved by the Ministry of Education. The curriculum also prepares students for national examinations such as SPM or STPM.
3. When visiting a private school, prepare key questions that you personally want to know. To start off, you can ask about the school's curriculum, facilities available, the fee structure and other enrichment programmes available. But more importantly, these questions should align with your child's academic needs.

Understanding International Schools in Malaysia 

An international school in Malaysia offers high-quality education as well, but there are three key distinguishing features. They are as follows: 

1. An international school is also a private school, but it follows the International Primary Curriculum (IPC). The school prepares students for careers and higher education beyond Malaysia. English is the primary medium of instruction. Students here are mostly from many countries, but Malaysians are more than welcome to apply.
2. The types of curricula offered include the International Baccalaureate (IB), Cambridge International Examination (IGCSE) and the American curriculum. These curricula are globally recognised and open up doors for students to pursue higher education around the world.
3. Some of the key questions that you can ask could range from finding out the measurement of academic performance, the teachers' qualifications, the facilities and technology available, the fee structure and hidden costs, and methods of preparing students for university admissions. These questions are a good starting point, but remember to align them with your child's academic needs.

The differences between a Private School and an International School: 

To see the difference in summary, here’s a chart that would give you a wider view.
 

Choosing the right school 

Moving forward, here are some tips to assist you in choosing the school for your child. While it's a good starting point, other factors will contribute to your final decision.

1. Make a list of questions 

Before you head out and visit either a private or international school, ask key questions that will determine your decision like the school fee, educational goals, university aspirations, etc. The more questions, the better.

2. Matching your child's educational goals and school offerings 

Review your child's educational goals and be flexible. If they match with the school's offerings, the better it is. Understand your child's learning style and personality as well.

3. Manage the budget

Whether you choose a private school or an international school, research thoroughly what the fee entails and if it fits with your budget. Consider whether the school fees and other costs cover enrolment, uniforms and extracurricular activities. Even the distance of the school might directly or indirectly affect your budget. If needed, inquire about financial aid options.

4. Resources and support

If you need more information about private or international schools in Malaysia, you can seek advice from other parents and education experts. Finding information online helps, but it can be overwhelming. So, visit the school and compile all the vital points that you need. Alternatively, you can click this link and this link as a start. 

In summary 

Private and international schools in Malaysia have distinct differences. Your choice should align with your child's academic needs as well as their continuous personal growth. These factors need to align to ensure a successful future for them is established. Quality education will always play a vital role. 

As more parents send their children to either private or international schools, we expect to see future students becoming globally competent, socially active and self-motivated individuals. 

At REAL School, we are committed to providing quality education and an excellent curriculum – whether it's for private or international school. Our approach balances academic and holistic development, so students excel and grow in the modern world. 

Discover more about REAL Schools and how we can help your child begin their education. Visit REAL Schools to book a visit for a trial class today.