Jesselton International School Sabah
Founded 2018
Updated July 2026
National Curriculum (England)
IGCSEJesselton International School is an innovative international school in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, providing British curriculum education for students aged 4 to 18. Established in 2018, it focuses on academic excellence, critical thinking, and the development of future leaders through a blend of traditional instruction and modern, tech-driven learning.
Term structure
Teaching approach
Jesselton International School is built on the core values of greatness, humanity, leadership, innovation, and enthusiasm. It aims to cultivate elite, independent students who possess a global mindset and a strong sense of moral and social responsibility. The school utilizes a unique methodology that combines rigorous academic curricula with project-based learning, such as social entrepreneurship, to prepare students for real-world challenges.
Programmes
The school offers a British-based curriculum spanning from kindergarten through to Year 11 IGCSE and Year 12–13 A Levels. The academic programme is designed to engage students through the Key Stage curriculum, with a strong emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and scholastic success. Students are prepared for international examinations while participating in a diverse, multicultural learning environment.
Student support
Learning support
The school emphasizes individualized care and maintains a low teacher-student ratio to foster closer interactions. Teachers are regularly sent to Cambridge professional development courses to ensure they can provide targeted support and help students develop deeper conceptual understanding.
Frequently asked questions(4)
- What curriculum does Jesselton International School Sabah offer?
- Jesselton International School Sabah offers National Curriculum (England), IGCSE and Cambridge A-Level.
- How much is tuition at Jesselton International School Sabah?
- Annual tuition at Jesselton International School Sabah is RM 21.3k–RM 27.4k. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What ages does Jesselton International School Sabah teach?
- Jesselton International School Sabah enrolls students aged 4 to 18.
- Where is Jesselton International School Sabah located?
- Jesselton International School Sabah is an international school in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2025-2026| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Primary 1 | — | RM 21.3k |
| Primary 2 | — | RM 21.3k |
| Primary 3 | — | RM 25.2k |
| Primary 4 | — | RM 25.2k |
| Primary 5 | — | RM 27.4k |
| Primary 6 | — | RM 27.4k |
Other fees(10)
| Application fee· All enrolments, non-refundable | RM 100 |
|---|---|
| Enrolment fee· On entry to Primary 1 (with RM 4,500 payable before entry to Primary 2, total RM 6,500) | RM 2k |
| Enrolment fee· On entry to Primary 2 - Primary 6 | RM 6.5k |
| Deposit· All enrolments, refundable | RM 2k |
| Placement test· All students, credited upon enrolment | RM 200 |
| Meals· Meal Plans (breakfast and lunch): supply your own food or purchase as per the schedule and prices issued by the caterer(s) | — |
| Materialsterm· Supplies and equipment fee per term for Primary 1 - 4 | RM 195 |
| Materialsterm· Supplies and equipment fee per term for Primary 5 - 6 | RM 420 |
| Materials· Textbooks: purchase from school (refer to book list for each year) | — |
| Uniform· Uniform: purchase from school | — |
Discounts
- Sibling discount: 5% - 15%
- Full-payment discount: 100% discount on Supplies and Equipment Fees
- Early-bird discount: Price lock
Admissions
The school accepts applications for students from kindergarten through to A Levels. The enrolment process requires a placement test, and the school acts as a visa agent for international students requiring documentation. Prospective families are encouraged to contact the school directly to begin the enrolment journey.
Calendar
The school operates on a three-term academic schedule. Fees are invoiced termly, with due dates typically falling in July, November, and March.
Facilities
About the campus
Located in Karamunsing, Kota Kinabalu, the campus features a modern, tech-driven learning environment. Facilities include science laboratories, technology resources, and dedicated spaces for art and craft. The school also provides meal plans and maintains organized, flexible classrooms to support collaborative learning.
Co-curriculars
The school offers a variety of extracurricular options and sports designed to develop flexibility, responsibility, and social interaction. Activities include basketball, student prefect presentations, and various after-school programmes. The school also promotes environmental awareness, supporting initiatives for a plastic-free environment in Sabah.
- Madam Lim Ean HeowFounder
As the founder of Jesselton International School, she emphasizes a unique education methodology focused on inner strengths, soft skills, and project-based learning through social entrepreneurship. She aims to build an institution that blends academic rigor with human values to produce outstanding future generations.