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

About Surabaya Intercultural School (SIS)

Surabaya Intercultural School (SIS) is one of the leading international schools in Surabaya, Indonesia’s second-largest city. The school has served the expatriate and local community for many years and typically offers IB Diploma and/or IGCSE in the senior years. SIS is known for a genuinely diverse student body, strong academic outcomes, and preparation for universities in Indonesia and abroad. The school attracts families who want a rigorous international curriculum in a Surabaya setting.

The school’s mission emphasises intercultural understanding, inquiry-based learning, and the development of responsible, globally minded citizens. Class sizes are kept reasonable, and the faculty includes experienced teachers who deliver the IB and/or IGCSE programmes. Parents often cite the breadth of subjects, the quality of facilities, and the strength of the community as key reasons for choosing SIS. The school welcomes families of many nationalities and backgrounds and supports students who need EAL (English as an Additional Language) or learning support.

Who This Guide Is For

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

Curriculum and Programmes

SIS typically offers IB Diploma and/or IGCSE in the senior years—confirm the exact pathways on the school website. In the lower and middle years, the focus is on inquiry-based learning, literacy, numeracy, and a broad exposure to the arts, sciences, and humanities. The school uses internationally aligned frameworks that prepare students for the rigours of the IB Diploma or IGCSE.

In the senior years, subject choice is wide: sciences, mathematics, languages, humanities, and the arts are well represented. Students can tailor their programme to their interests and university goals. Language options typically include English, Indonesian, and other languages—confirm current offerings on the school website. If your child needs extra support in specific IB or IGCSE subjects, Internal Assessments (IA), or exam technique, one-to-one tutoring aligned with those curricula can supplement school work effectively.

Location and Facilities

SIS is located in Surabaya (check the school website for the exact address and transport options). The campus typically includes well-stocked libraries, science laboratories, IT suites, sports halls, swimming pools, and dedicated spaces for music, drama, and art. Outdoor play and sports facilities are a priority. Location is important: Surabaya traffic can be heavy, so consider commute time, school bus routes, and your family’s routine when shortlisting. Many families choose to live within a reasonable distance of the campus to simplify the school run.

Fees and Costs: What Parents Should Budget

International school fees in Surabaya vary. SIS fees are typically in the mid to upper range—often USD 10,000–20,000+ per year depending on year level (indicative; always confirm on the school website). Fees usually cover tuition, most materials, and access to standard facilities. Additional costs that parents should budget for include:

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

Planning for these extras helps avoid surprises. Families who want to supplement school with targeted tutoring (e.g. for IB, IGCSE, or specific subjects) can do so at a fraction of the cost of a second school; flexible, one-to-one sessions can fit around the SIS timetable.

Admissions Process and Timeline

SIS has a structured admissions process. Typical steps (always confirm with the school):

1. Application – Complete the online application form and pay the application fee. Submit by the deadline for your intended start date.
2. Supporting documents – Previous school reports (often the last two years), passport/ID, and any relevant learning or medical information.
3. Assessment – Age-appropriate assessments, which may include English, mathematics, and reasoning. Format and length vary by year group.
4. Interview – Student and/or family interview. The school uses this to understand your child’s interests, strengths, and fit with the community.
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, especially in popular year groups. Preparing for entrance assessments (e.g. maths and English at the right level) can help your child feel confident on the day.

What to Look for When Visiting SIS

When you visit SIS, use the following as a checklist so you leave with a clear picture:

Factor	What to check
Curriculum	IB and/or IGCSE pathway, subject choice, and exam board for your child’s year.
Language	Language of instruction and additional language options (e.g. Indonesian, EAL).
Class size	Typical class size for your child’s year and student–teacher ratio.
Support	EAL, learning support, and pastoral care—how they are delivered and who to contact.
Location	Commute time, school bus routes, and transport options from your home.
Fees	Total cost per year including levies and typical extras.
Culture	Fit with your family’s values, your child’s personality, and the overall feel of the community.

Pros and Cons: A Balanced View

Pros: SIS has a strong reputation in Surabaya, clear IB and/or IGCSE pathways, modern facilities, and a track record of strong university placement. The community is diverse, with many co-curricular and service opportunities. Cons: Fees are in the mid to upper range for Surabaya, entry can be competitive, and the fixed location and timetable mean that families who need more flexibility (e.g. extra support in specific subjects or exam prep) often use external tutoring to supplement. Considering both sides helps you decide if SIS is the right fit and what additional support, if any, your child might need.

How Tutopiya Fits In

If your child needs extra help with IB DP subjects, IGCSE, Internal Assessments (IA), or exam technique, one-to-one tuition can supplement SIS without changing school. Flexible scheduling and online sessions mean no extra commute, and continuity if you relocate. Book a free trial or explore Tutopiya’s learning portal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Parents

Q: Does SIS offer A-Level or US curriculum?
A: SIS typically offers IB and/or IGCSE. For A-Level or US/AP support alongside SIS, or for exam preparation, one-to-one tutoring can align with those curricula.

Q: How do we prepare for SIS entrance tests?
A: Tutoring can help with maths and English at the right level for common international school entrance formats. Check with the school for the exact format and content.

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, which can be especially helpful during transitions.

Key Takeaways

Surabaya Intercultural School offers an international curriculum; confirm on the school website for IGCSE, IB, or other exam pathways. Budget for application fees, levies, uniform, and transport. Admissions involve application, documents, assessment, and interview—apply early. Visiting the campus and confirming curriculum and fees for your child’s year will help you decide if the school is the right fit. If your child needs extra support in exams or subjects, one-to-one tutoring can supplement the school timetable flexibly.

Next Steps for Parents

1. Visit the SIS website and, if possible, attend an open day or schedule a campus tour.
2. Confirm curriculum (IB, IGCSE, or both) and total fees for your child’s year, including levies and typical extras.
3. Apply in good time—places can be limited. Gather reports and prepare your child for assessments.
4. If you need extra support (e.g. entrance-test preparation or IB/IGCSE subject tutoring alongside SIS), consider one-to-one tuition that fits around the school timetable. Book a free trial to see how it fits your family.