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With a thriving and continuously growing expat population, there are plenty of options when it comes to choosing an international school in Ho Chi Minh City. Whether expat parents prefer the American, British or International Baccalaureate curriculum, they're sure to find an excellent international school to fit their needs.
International schools are a practical way to smooth a child's transition into life in Ho Chi Minh City. Continuing with a familiar curriculum in a child's home language provides a sense of stability. It's also a great way to meet other expat children and families who understand the unique challenges that come with being globally mobile.
Many of Ho Chi Minh City's international schools are prestigious, offering top-notch education in modern, purpose-built facilities, led by highly competent teachers and principals. Admissions are generally accepted year-round but are often dependent on whether there's space available, so it's well worth it to apply early to secure a spot.
Below is a list of recommended international schools in Ho Chi Minh City.
International schools in Ho Chi Minh City
The American School of Vietnam
The American School of Vietnam (TAS) provides a world-class American-based curriculum. The school promotes high standards of academic excellence by enhancing student learning for leadership in a global world. Over 25 nationalities are represented in the school's faculty and student body.
A wide range of extra-curricular activities is available, allowing students to make use of the excellent facilities at TAS. There are dedicated rooms for art, music, drama, dance and IT, as well as sporting facilities such as a soccer field, basketball courts and a swimming pool. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: American
Ages: 1.5 to 18
Australian International School Saigon
With over 1,150 students from 40 countries, Australian International School Saigon (AIS) is a truly international community. The school offers a high-quality, fully accredited international education across all year levels. There are three AIS campuses in Ho Chi Minh City, all in District 2.
AIS prides itself on facilitating the growth of students as global citizens and there are frequent excursions, camps and sporting competitions both regionally and internationally. In addition to the school's high-quality curriculum, AIS offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities to encourage well-rounded development in students. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate and Cambridge International Primary, Lower Secondary and IGCSE
Ages: 1.5 to 18
British International School Ho Chi Minh City
Selective, independent and co-educational, the British International School Ho Chi Minh City (BIS HCMC) is a day school that provides a diverse international education measured by British standards. The student body is made up of more than 2,300 pupils of over 50 different nationalities.
As the largest international school in Vietnam, BIS HCMC holds a prestigious position. With three sprawling campuses in District 2, facilities are ample and of high quality. There are plenty of opportunities for a range of activities such as community service, co-curricular activities and global excursions. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: English National Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE and International Baccalaureate
Ages: 2 to 18
European International School Ho Chi Minh City
The European International School (EIS) Ho Chi Minh City focuses on academic excellence, multiculturalism and treating each child as an individual. The school follows the International Baccalaureate Programme and welcomes families of all languages and nationalities. More than 45 different countries are represented in the student body.
A low student-to-teacher ratio allows each child to receive personal attention and guidance. The school aims to provide a safe learning environment where children feel free to be themselves. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate
Ages: 2 to 18
International School of Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC)
Founded in 1993, ISHCMC was established to provide high-quality education to expat children in Vietnam aged between two and 18 years. As the first IB World School in Ho Chi Minh City, ISHCMC has been innovating through a mix of pedagogy, curriculum, facilities and opportunities beyond the classroom for over 30 years.
The school's community represents a culturally diverse group of families and teachers from over 60 countries and is brought together by a common purpose, to inspire wellbeing and learning so that the school's diverse, internationally-minded community flourishes as energised, engaged and empowered learners. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate
Ages: 2 to 18
International School Saigon Pearl
International School Saigon Pearl (ISSP) is a purpose-built elementary school affiliated with ISHCMC American Academy. The ISSP campus has integrated technology elements such as iPads, interactive whiteboards and ICT labs. The school is conveniently located a short distance from the city centre, between Districts 2 and 3.
The ISSP campus includes a well-resourced library and media centre, specialised rooms for art, music and dance, age-appropriate play areas, a gym and a swimming pool. Options for after-school activities are diverse, ranging from taekwondo to ballet to cooking and more. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: American
Ages: 1.5 to 11
ISHCMC American Academy
A purpose-built school with excellent facilities set in a five-storey building, ISHCMC American Academy is a middle and high school associated with the International School Saigon Pearl.
Their rigorous American curriculum includes Advanced Placement (AP) options and is designed to inspire students to become successful lifelong learners and responsible global citizens. Upon graduation, students are awarded an American High School Diploma which opens up the possibility of attending university in the USA. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: American
Ages: 11 to 18
Saigon South International School
A top-tier multicultural American school with excellent facilities, Saigon South International School has a strong academic programme, and past graduates have entered competitive universities worldwide. Students can study towards the American High School Diploma (including Advanced Placement subjects) or the International Baccalaureate Diploma.
The school's six-hectare campus consists of three buildings with spacious classrooms as well as dedicated rooms for art, music, dance, aquatics and ICT. There is a shared cafeteria and auditorium, while elementary, middle and high school students each have their own library and break-time area. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: American and International Baccalaureate
Ages: 3 to 18
Saigon Star International School
Saigon Star International School (SSIS) is a pre-primary, primary and middle school in District 2 following a British and international curriculum. SSIS holds the distinction of being the first school in Vietnam authorised to offer the International Primary Curriculum.
Small class sizes ensure that each student receives personalised attention. Students are encouraged to learn at their own pace and according to their own strengths, talents and abilities. All teachers are native English speakers and university graduates with recognised teaching degrees. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: English National Curriculum, International Early Years Curriculum, International Primary Curriculum and International Middle Years Curriculum
Ages: 2 to 14
Saint Ange French International School
Saint Ange School is a private international school offering the French curriculum. The school's curriculum is in strict compliance with the requirements of the Ministry of French Education, making it easy for children to transfer to or from any French school, whether in France or another location. Classes are kept to a maximum of 15, ensuring that each child is given individualised attention.
Technology is integrated into learning, and students will get to enjoy exciting activities such as 3D printing and working with robots. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: French
Ages: 2 to 11
Download the free Expat Arrivals Ho Chi Minh City Schools Guide for an overview of what expat parents can expect from the school system in Ho Chi Minh City. Read about a typical school day, the difference between public and private schools, and everything you need to know about the admissions process.
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Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Ho Chi Minh City. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
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