Choosing an international school in Jakarta is a big decision. If you are a parent considering British School Jakarta (BSJ) for your child, this guide is for you. We cover the school’s British curriculum (IGCSE and A-Level), location and facilities, fees and costs, admissions process, what to look for when visiting, and practical next steps—so you can decide whether BSJ is the right fit and how to prepare.

About British School Jakarta (BSJ)

British School Jakarta (BSJ) is one of Jakarta’s leading international schools, offering a British curriculum with Cambridge or Edexcel IGCSE and A-Level in the senior years. The school has a long history of serving the expatriate and local community and is known for academic rigour, strong pastoral care, and excellent university placement in the UK, Australia, and beyond. BSJ serves students from early years through to sixth form, with a focus on developing well-rounded, independent learners.

The school’s ethos emphasises high expectations, respect, and a supportive community. Class sizes are kept manageable, and the faculty includes many experienced British-curriculum teachers. Parents often cite the clarity of the IGCSE and A-Level pathway, the quality of facilities, and the strength of the community as key reasons for choosing BSJ. The school welcomes families who value a British-style education and clear exam-based progression.

Who This Guide Is For

This guide is for parents who are researching BSJ, comparing it with other Jakarta international schools, or looking for detailed information on curriculum, fees, admissions, and what to expect. Whether your child is entering primary or secondary, you will find here a structured overview and practical checklists to support your decision.

Curriculum and Programmes

BSJ follows the British curriculum from the early years through to graduation. In the senior years, students typically take IGCSE (Cambridge or Edexcel—confirm the exam board on the school website) in a range of subjects, followed by A-Level in their chosen subjects. Subject choice is wide: sciences, mathematics, humanities, languages, and the arts are all well represented. The school supports students in choosing IGCSE and A-Level combinations that suit their interests and university goals.

Exam board (Cambridge vs Edexcel) can affect syllabus and exam dates—confirm with the school. If your child needs extra support in specific IGCSE or A-Level subjects, or in exam technique, one-to-one tutoring aligned with the same exam board can supplement school work effectively.

Location and Facilities

BSJ is located in Jakarta (check the school website for the current address and transport options). Facilities typically include well-stocked libraries, science laboratories, IT suites, sports halls, swimming pools, and dedicated spaces for music, drama, and art. Location matters: Jakarta traffic can be heavy, so consider commute time and school bus routes when shortlisting. Many families choose to live within a reasonable distance to simplify the school run.

Fees and Costs: What Parents Should Budget

BSJ fees are typically in the upper range for Jakarta—often USD 18,000–28,000+ per year depending on year level (indicative; confirm on the school website). Additional costs that parents should budget for include:

• Application and assessment fees (non-refundable)
• Capital levy or building fund (if applicable)
• Uniform, PE kit, and optional materials
• Transport (school bus or private transport)
• Optional activities (trips, after-school clubs, exam fees)

Families who want to supplement school with targeted tutoring (e.g. for IGCSE or A-Level subjects) can do so with flexible, one-to-one sessions that fit around the BSJ timetable.

Admissions Process and Timeline

Typical steps for BSJ (confirm with the school):

1. Application – Complete the online form and pay the application fee. Submit by the deadline for your intended start date.
2. Supporting documents – Previous school reports, passport/ID, and any relevant learning or medical information.
3. Assessment – Age-appropriate assessments (e.g. English, maths). Format varies by year group.
4. Interview – Student and/or family interview.
5. Offer and acceptance – If successful, you will receive an offer, often with a deadline to accept and pay a deposit.

Apply well in advance; places can be limited. Preparing for entrance assessments can help your child feel confident on the day.

What to Look for When Visiting BSJ

Factor	What to check
Curriculum	Exam board (Cambridge/Edexcel), IGCSE and A-Level subject choice.
Class size	Typical class size for your child’s year.
Support	EAL, learning support, and pastoral care.
Location	Commute time and school bus routes.
Fees	Total cost per year including levies and typical extras.
Culture	Fit with your family’s values and your child’s needs.

Pros and Cons: A Balanced View

Pros: BSJ has a strong reputation, a clear British curriculum (IGCSE, A-Level), and good university placement. The community is supportive and academically focused. Cons: Fees are in the upper range for Jakarta, and entry can be competitive. Families who need extra support in specific subjects or exam prep often use external tutoring to supplement. Considering both sides helps you decide if BSJ is the right fit.

How Tutopiya Fits In

If your child needs extra help with IGCSE or A-Level subjects or exam technique, one-to-one tuition can supplement BSJ without changing school. Flexible scheduling and online sessions mean no extra commute. Book a free trial or explore Tutopiya’s learning portal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Parents

Q: Which exam board does BSJ use for IGCSE and A-Level?
A: Confirm on the school website—often Cambridge or Edexcel. One-to-one tutoring can align with the same board.

Q: How do we prepare for BSJ entrance tests?
A: Tutoring can help with maths and English at the right level for the school’s entrance format.

Q: Can our child continue learning if we travel or relocate?
A: Yes. Online one-to-one tuition allows your child to continue with the same tutor from anywhere.

Key Takeaways

BSJ offers a British curriculum (IGCSE and A-Level). Fees are in the upper range for Jakarta; budget for application fees, levies, uniform, and transport. Admissions involve application, documents, assessment, and interview—apply early. Visiting the campus and confirming exam board and fees for your child’s year will help you decide if BSJ is the right fit. If your child needs extra support in IGCSE or A-Level, one-to-one tutoring can supplement the school timetable flexibly.

Next Steps for Parents

1. Visit the BSJ website and, if possible, attend an open day or schedule a campus tour.
2. Confirm curriculum (exam board, subject choice) and total fees for your child’s year.
3. Apply in good time and prepare your child for assessments.
4. If you need extra support (e.g. entrance-test preparation or IGCSE/A-Level tutoring), consider one-to-one tuition that fits around the school timetable. Book a free trial to see how it fits your family.