Application Process
GIS brings out the best in every student, in and beyond the classroom. We welcome children of all nationalities whose families value an international education based on the UK curriculum. We are committed to equal opportunity, admitting students who will benefit from and contribute to our curriculum, and complement the existing student body.
Admissions are open year-round, subject to the school calendar. Whether joining at the start or mid-year, every student receives a warm welcome from the GIS community.
For admissions information in Chinese, Korean or Japanese, click the links below.
Before applying, review the Application Checklist to ensure all required documents are prepared. Contact the Admissions Team if you need clarification.
Get started: your progress is saved at the end of each section, so you can complete the form at your convenience.
Year group placement follows UK National Curriculum cut-off dates. We recommend placement by age and assess each child for readiness for a challenging curriculum and integration with peers.
The 31 August cut-off supports students’ social, emotional and academic development. Exceptions to placement are rare to maintain an appropriate learning environment for all.
Nursery placement follows the same cut-off dates. Children turning three in the term of entry join Pre-Nursery for the remainder of the year. A flexible day programme is available for 3-year-olds, extendable to full-day on teacher recommendation and parent request. Where places are limited, only full-day programmes are offered. Reception students attend full-day, five days a week.
Final placement decisions rest with the school.
English is the language of instruction at GIS. Admissions are guided by each student’s ability to access the curriculum within a reasonable time and thrive in an English-language environment.
Students with mild to moderate learning differences will be considered based on our internal capacity to support the need in our mainstream setting.
Students with medical or physical needs are considered based on our capacity to support them in a mainstream setting. Those requiring a Medical Care Plan will receive a Provision Agreement with their offer. All students must be toilet independent.
GIS is a day school; boarding is not available. Students must live with a parent or legal guardian (court documentation required).
Non-Malaysian students must hold a valid visa, as must their parent(s) or legal guardian. If a student visa is required, the School will manage the application with Malaysian authorities. Students may join once approval is received, in line with the school’s timeline.
GIS is committed to safeguarding student welfare and expects full cooperation from families. In cases of separation or divorce, a Custody Agreement or Court Order is required. Without this, both parents are treated equally and the application is reviewed accordingly.
Assessment varies by year group and may include a meeting with academic staff, an online diagnostic, and in-class observation to build a holistic view of each applicant.
Applicants needing learning or language support are assessed to determine if the School can meet their needs. All assessments are confidential and remain the School’s property.
The process ensures placement best meets each child’s educational and personal needs.
- Early Years Centre – Children in Malaysia attend a Meet and Greet with a parent. Overseas applicants are screened and may receive a preliminary offer, followed by a Meet and Greet on arrival.
- Primary School – Applicants aged 6 years 6 months+ complete an online diagnostic. They may also be invited for in-class observation. Social readiness is key for younger students and those with additional needs.
- Secondary School – Applicants complete an online diagnostic. School records and a confidential reference are reviewed. Additional tests or interviews may be required. Overseas assessments may be administered at the applicant’s current school under supervision.
- Sixth Form – In addition to Secondary assessments, entry requires IGCSE (or equivalent) prerequisite grades. Some subjects have limited places and may fill early. Students must complete the GIS Sixth Form Diploma, developing skills such as research and leadership.
When eligible applicants exceed available places in a year group, EAL or Learning Support, students may be placed in a wait pool. Selection is based on factors including alternative school options, English level, academic proficiency, subject choices and exam levels, and the gender and nationality balance of classes and the wider school.
Offers are made when a child is expected to benefit from the curriculum and contribute positively to existing students. Some offers may include conditions via a Provisional Agreement.
Admission is at the School’s sole discretion, based on the child’s ability to access the curriculum with available support. Factors considered include age, academic ability, achievements relative to current students, personality, and prior educational and linguistic background. Current students’ rights take precedence, and the School seeks a diverse student body.
The School selectively admits students who meet required standards. Decisions are final and provided to parents in writing, without obligation to justify unsuccessful applications.
We aim to balance gender, abilities, and nationalities across the school. Year group and class placement is at the School’s sole discretion.
Acceptance of an offer is confirmed by paying the required fees by the date stated in the offer letter. Full payment secures the student’s place.