The International School of Penang (Uplands)
Secular, Founded 1955
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
IB PYP
IGCSEAccreditations
CISLanguages
EnglishThe International School of Penang (Uplands) is a long-standing international school in Malaysia that provides a globally connected education for students. It is a fully accredited member of the Council of International Schools and an IB World School.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
The school is guided by the motto 'Respect for Self. Respect for Others' and core values of respect, inquiry, collaboration, resilience, and diversity. It aims to nurture internationally minded citizens through an inquiry-based learning approach that encourages creativity, reflection, and active engagement with both local and global communities.
Programmes
The school offers an International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum, including the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), and the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP). Secondary students also pursue IGCSE and GCSE qualifications, with the school reporting high achievement in subjects such as English, Mathematics, Sciences, and various languages. The curriculum is designed to develop intellectual, personal, emotional, and social skills, preparing students for university and career paths.
Student support
Learning support
The school maintains a Student Support Unit, which includes counsellors and an English as an Additional Language (EAL) department. These services are designed to support student wellbeing and academic development within an inclusive environment.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- What curriculum does The International School of Penang (Uplands) offer?
- The International School of Penang (Uplands) offers IB PYP, IB MYP, IB Diploma and IGCSE.
- How much is tuition at The International School of Penang (Uplands)?
- Annual tuition at The International School of Penang (Uplands) is RM 26k–RM 74.4k. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- Is The International School of Penang (Uplands) a day or boarding school?
- The International School of Penang (Uplands) is a day and boarding school.
- What accreditations does The International School of Penang (Uplands) hold?
- The International School of Penang (Uplands) holds accreditations including CIS, IB and Cambridge International.
- Where is The International School of Penang (Uplands) located?
- The International School of Penang (Uplands) is an international school in Paya Terubong, Malaysia.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2026/2027| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Reception | 4–4 | RM 26k |
| Year 1 | 5–5 | RM 31.8k |
| Year 2 | 6–6 | RM 39.2k |
| Year 3 to 4 | 7–8 | RM 46.4k |
| Year 5 to 6 | 9–10 | RM 55.8k |
| Year 7 to 11 | 11–15 | RM 71.4k |
| Years 12 to 13 (IB Diploma) | 16–17 | RM 74.4k |
Other fees(7)
| Application fee· Primary (Reception to Year 6) - subject to 6% SST from 1st Sept 2025 | RM 800 |
|---|---|
| Application fee· Secondary (Year 7 to Year 13) - subject to 6% SST from 1st Sept 2025 | RM 848 |
| Registration fee· Entrance Fee (non-refundable) - subject to 6% SST from 1st Sept 2025 | RM 7k |
| Enrolment fee· The I.S.P. Schools Association Membership Fee (one parent only) | RM 1k |
| Deposit· Enrolment Deposit (Refundable) against breakage or loss of property | RM 5k |
| Registration fee· School Development Fund (annual charge per student) - subject to 6% SST from 1st Sept 2025 | RM 2.5k |
| Insurance· Personal Accident Insurance (compulsory, yearly) | RM 40 |
Discounts
- Sibling discount: 10% - 20%
- Early-bird discount: 5%
Admissions
The school requires an application fee and an entrance fee, both of which are subject to a 6% Sales and Service Tax (SST) as of September 2025. Families must also pay an enrolment deposit to confirm an offer of a place, which is refundable against loss or damage of property but non-refundable if the place is not taken up. Prospective families are encouraged to submit an inquiry form or request an appointment for a school tour via the admissions office.
Calendar
The school operates on a termly basis, with tuition fees invoiced twice yearly in August and December. Families can subscribe to digital calendars for school holidays and specific school events to stay updated on the academic schedule.
Facilities
About the campus
Located in a purpose-built campus in Batu Feringgi, the school features a medical room staffed by a qualified nurse during school hours. The campus includes a Uniform Outlet located on the ground floor of F Block and provides a school bus service for students. The school is situated within a five-minute drive of a local clinic and approximately 30 minutes from private hospitals.
- Dr. Marc MesichPrincipal
Dr. Marc Mesich serves as the Principal of The International School of Penang (Uplands). He welcomes prospective and current families to the school, emphasizing the institution's commitment to warmth, care, and inquiry-based learning.