Education and Schools in Hanoi

When it comes to education and schools in Hanoi, you’ll find that the city offers a solid range of education options, both public and private. Vietnam’s education system has earned recognition in international assessments like PISA, where it consistently outperforms many developed countries, including the UK. While the curriculum emphasises academic rigour and test performance, you can be confident that your children will receive quality education.

Despite the country’s strong public education standards, many expat families choose international schools where children can learn in English and often follow familiar curricula like the British, American, or International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes.

Public schools in Hanoi

Public schools in Hanoi follow Vietnam’s compulsory education system, requiring attendance from ages 6 to 15. This covers primary school (ages 6 to 11) and lower secondary school (ages 12 to 15), with primary education being completely free. Upper secondary education (ages 16 to 18) is optional, with school fees applying.

The academic year runs from early September to late May, structured around two semesters. Vietnamese schools are sometimes criticised for emphasising rote learning and exam performance over creative thinking and practical skills. Despite these concerns, many families appreciate the strong academic foundation, and those unable to meet international school costs find excellent value in well-regarded public schools.

Read more: Education and Schools in Vietnam

Useful links

• Ministry Of Education And Training

International schools in Hanoi

While Ho Chi Minh City leads with in terms of number of international schools, the over 25 international schools in Hanoi provide exceptional options spanning British, American, IB, and other international curricula. Vietnam ranks among the top five countries globally for fastest-growing international school networks, indicating the strong demand from expat families and affluent locals.

Popular programmes include the International Baccalaureate (IB), British (including IGCSE and A-Levels), and American high school diplomas. Most international schools in Hanoi face oversubscription issues, making early application essential – often as much as 12 to 18 months ahead of your desired start date. School fees vary significantly, so it’s wise to negotiate education allowances in your relocation package.

Best International Schools in Hanoi

Special educational needs in Hanoi

Special educational needs support in Hanoi has transformed dramatically over the past two decades. Historically, Vietnam separated children with disabilities from mainstream education. However, since the early 2000s, Vietnam has adopted a more progressive and inclusive approach to education for students with special needs, focusing on integration with mainstream schools and classes.

Public schools now provide basic special needs services, although private institutions and international schools typically offer more specialised programmes. There are several NGOs that support families, including Saigon Children’s Charity and Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation. Services range from learning support and speech therapy to autism spectrum disorder programmes, depending on your child’s specific requirements.

Useful links

• Saigon Children’s Charity
• Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation
• UNICEF Vietnam: Inclusive Education Resources

Tutors in Hanoi

Private tutoring in Hanoi reflects Vietnam’s education-focused culture, and around 30 percent of primary students and 50 percent of secondary students receive additional tuition. Academic pressure and competitive university entrance requirements drive demand for supplementary education support.

You’ll find extensive tutoring options covering subject-specific support, English language preparation, and international exam coaching. Many tutors help expat children bridge curriculum gaps when transitioning between educational systems.

Popular platforms include Preply and iTalki for online language tutoring, while established tutoring companies like Kumon operate centres in Hanoi. Local and international tutors are available depending on your child’s language needs and academic goals.

Useful links

• Preply
• iTalki
• Kumon: Academic Enrichment Centers