The Best International Schools in Saigon

Ho Chi Minh City, renowned for its vibrant cultural landmarks such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, is also a hub for education, home to a variety of prestigious international schools. According to the International Schools Database, the city boasts 35 International Schools in Saigon, including specialized institutions like 13 British schools, 11 IB schools, and 9 American schools. This diversity reflects the city’s commitment to providing high-quality international education.

The selection of the best International Schools in Ho Chi Minh City caters to families seeking an excellent education for their children in an environment that is safe and welcoming. Locals in the city are known for their friendliness, especially towards those making an effort to learn Vietnamese, which greatly enhances the international schooling experience. This article aims to guide parents through the top international schools in Saigon, highlighting key features, curricula, and the unique educational philosophies they offer.

International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC)

Established in 1993, International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC) holds the prestigious title of being the first International Baccalaureate (IB) World School in Ho Chi Minh City, offering a comprehensive IB curriculum to students aged 2 to 18. This co-educational institution is renowned for its diverse student body, comprising over 1,400 students from more than 59 nationalities, fostering a culturally rich learning environment. The school's curriculum spans from the Early Years to Secondary School, incorporating the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP), ensuring a well-rounded education.

Key Features:

• Curriculum: IB (PYP, MYP, DP)
• Language of Instruction: English
• Ages: 2 to 18 years
• Yearly Fees (2023/2024): From 255,400,000 ₫ to 923,600,000 ₫

ISHCMC is not just about academics; it emphasizes holistic development. The school's facilities are state-of-the-art, including Vietnam's first Innovation Centre, a 350-seat theatre, and a 25m competitive swimming pool. It offers a progressive approach to education with daily mindfulness classes, advisory classes, and a strong emphasis on wellness and information literacy. The diverse extracurricular activities, including choirs, bands, orchestras, sports teams, and regular field trips, ensure students engage beyond the traditional classroom setting. With an average score of 33.5 in the 2018 IBDP results, ISHCMC graduates are well-prepared, often advancing to prestigious universities in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Asia.

British International School (BIS)

The British International School Ho Chi Minh City (BIS) stands out as a beacon of British-style education within the vibrant international community of Ho Chi Minh City. With a commitment to first-class education, BIS boasts an array of facilities and a team of dedicated, highly skilled teachers. The school places a strong emphasis on the happiness and well-being of its students, fostering an environment where academic success is achieved through rigor, hard work, and discipline, all balanced with a robust pastoral care system.

Key Features and Offerings:

• Curriculum: A blend of the UK National Curriculum, International Baccalaureate (IB, IB DP), and International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), catering to a diverse student body.
• Facilities: Including a well-equipped library, learning support for students with minor learning difficulties, and a strong focus on STEAM subjects both in and outside the classroom.
• Extracurricular Activities: A comprehensive range of activities including a house system, educational visits, after-school activities, and events celebrating British culture.

BIS not only prides itself on its outstanding inspection ratings but also on its strong academic reputation, consistently achieving above-average results globally. With 92% of its teachers holding UK qualifications, the school ensures that each student receives a high-quality education, supported by teachers with extensive experience in the British curriculum. Spread across three campuses in Ho Chi Minh City, BIS offers specialized facilities designed to enhance learning, including services ranging from immigration and citizenship support to preparation for universities abroad.

Saigon South International School (SSIS)

Nestled in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Saigon South International School (SSIS) distinguishes itself with a comprehensive approach to education, blending American and International Baccalaureate (IB) curricula across all grade levels, from Early Childhood (EC) to Grade 12. This not-for-profit institution is celebrated for its expansive 6-hectare campus, the greenest and largest in the city, featuring 3 full soccer fields, 2 playgrounds, and lush gardens that provide a serene learning environment.

Key Features:

• Curricula Offered: American standards-based curriculum, IB Diploma Programme (IBDP), and Advanced Placement (AP) Courses.
• Faculty: Boasts an average of 17 years of teaching experience, with over 70% holding master's or doctorate degrees.
• Student Support: A robust network including 8 counselors and a school psychologist, ensuring comprehensive social and emotional well-being.
• Extracurricular Opportunities: A wide array of athletic teams, clubs, and social offerings, fostering engagement beyond the classroom.
• Innovative Facilities: The upcoming STEAM-Design Center (2024) promises new opportunities for creative and scientific exploration.

SSIS's commitment to academic excellence, respect for all, and balance in life underpins its mission to empower students as compassionate, confident, and responsible global citizens. With a 100% university acceptance rate, SSIS graduates find themselves at prestigious institutions worldwide, testament to the school's dedicated service and the efficacy of its college preparatory program, including personalized college counseling. This vibrant educational community, coupled with its diverse course offerings and modern facilities, positions SSIS as a beacon of international education in Saigon.

European International School (EIS)

The European International School Ho Chi Minh City (EIS) offers a unique and enriching educational experience for students aged 2 to 18. As a boutique international private school, EIS provides a personalized, student-centered education in a tranquil, village-like atmosphere. Here are some key highlights:

• Curriculum and Programs:
• • International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum, including Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP).
  • Compulsory Vietnamese subjects for local students, as per the Ministry of Education and Training of Vietnam.
  • Specialist language support with intensive English tuition and multiple language options at the IB-level.
• Facilities and Community:
• • Spacious campus with expansive green areas and state-of-the-art facilities.
  • A diverse community of students, teachers, and parents from over 40 nationalities.
  • Over 100 extracurricular activities available, from sports to creative arts.
• Academic Excellence:
• • Low student-to-teacher ratio, particularly in middle-high school sections, allows for more direct teacher contact time.
  • Graduates achieve results above world averages, with a proven track record of top university admissions.
  • Full accreditation status with the Council of International Schools (CIS), ensuring a world-class education.

Australian International School (AIS)

At the Australian International School Saigon (AIS), the focus is not only on academic excellence but also on nurturing well-rounded individuals. This prestigious institution is known for its comprehensive education system that spans from Kindergarten to Senior Secondary levels. With a 100% pass rate for the IB Diploma in 2021, AIS stands out as a beacon of academic success in Vietnam. The school offers both IB and IGCSE curriculums, ensuring students receive internationally recognized qualifications.

Key Features at a Glance:

• Curriculums Offered: IB and IGCSE, leading to globally recognized qualifications.
• Boarding Facilities: Exclusive premium boarding options for Secondary School students.
• Teaching Staff: Highly qualified, largely expatriate staff from over 40 nations.
• Community and Culture: Emphasis on understanding, respecting, and celebrating diverse cultures.
• Language Support: Comprehensive EAL curriculum for non-native English speakers.
• Digital Learning and STEAM: Advanced programs supported by top-notch infrastructure.

Located in District 2 of Ho Chi Minh City, AIS is part of the global Inspired group, ensuring access to best practices in education. The school’s commitment to developing digital learning and STEAM programs within a dynamic and innovative environment sets it apart. With over 1200 students and a dedicated team of 95 teachers across four purpose-built campuses, AIS provides enriching opportunities for students to excel academically, socially, and creatively.

The ABC International School

The ABC International School Saigon stands as a distinguished institution in the realm of international education in Ho Chi Minh City, offering a British curriculum to students from three to 18 years old. Recognized for its excellence, the school has been deemed outstanding in its 'BSO Inspection 2024' report and is accredited by the British Schools Overseas (BSO), a testament to its high-quality education system.

Key Highlights:

• Curriculum: Focuses on the English National Curriculum, catering to Early Years, Primary, and Secondary students, and includes IGCSE and A Levels examinations.
• Campuses: Two campuses, Trung Son and Nha Be, serve different age groups with an emphasis on small class sizes for personalized attention.
• Student Body: A vibrant community of approximately 800 students representing over 34 nationalities, fostering a multicultural environment.
• Academic and Beyond: Besides academic rigor, the school offers an extensive Extra-Curricular Activities (ECA) programme to support holistic development.

Despite its many strengths, it's noted that the school has received mixed reviews and does not have dedicated programs for students with special learning needs. However, its commitment to supporting gifted, able, and talented students shines through. With a waiting list in place, it's clear that The ABC International School Saigon is a sought-after choice for parents prioritizing a British education in the heart of Vietnam.

Renaissance International School Saigon

Renaissance International School Saigon (RISS) is a beacon of educational excellence in Ho Chi Minh City, established in 2007. This medium-sized, vibrant institution is known for its robust curriculum that seamlessly integrates English, IB, IGCSE, PYP, MYP, and IBDP, catering to a diverse student body of over 500 from more than 23 different nationalities. The school's ethos is centered around a close-knit community, where experienced teachers drive great academic results, fostering a multi-cultural learning environment that celebrates diversity in language and culture.

Key Features:

• Curriculum: Offers a comprehensive program including the UK National Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, and the IB Diploma, complemented by the International Primary Curriculum.
• Facilities: Boasts a well-equipped library, a 300+ seater theater, various science labs, a Makerspace, music rooms, a Black Box theatre, a 25m indoor salt-water pool, and extensive sports fields.
• Extracurricular Activities: A wide range of activities including sports, arts, Model United Nations, Round Square conferences, and coding, among others, enriches student life.

RISS stands out not just for its academic prowess but also for its commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals. The school emphasizes the development of life skills such as compassion, responsibility, and the pursuit of truth, aiming for its students to make a positive difference in the world. With a future focused on growth and new learning initiatives, RISS is indeed shaping global citizens ready to thrive in the 21st century.

The Best International Schools in Saigon

Exploring the diverse educational landscape of international schools in Saigon reveals a rich tapestry of curricula, languages of instruction, and age ranges catered to, ensuring that every family can find a fitting educational environment for their children. Here's a closer look at the variety offered:

• Curricula Diversity: International schools in Saigon offer a broad range of curricula including IB, American, Australian, British, International, Montessori, and even the Reggio Emilia Approach. This diversity caters to a global community, ensuring that students can continue their education seamlessly, whether they are staying in Vietnam or moving abroad.
• Languages of Instruction: English remains the primary language of instruction across most schools, but the presence of languages such as Vietnamese and German highlights the multicultural environment that students are immersed in. This multilingual approach not only aids in the development of language skills but also prepares students for a globalized world.
• Age Range and Fees: Catering to ages from as young as 1 to 18 years old, these schools offer flexibility for families with children of different ages. Yearly fees for the academic year 2023/2024 range from 108,075,000 ₫ to 689,000,550 ₫, reflecting the premium facilities, diverse extracurricular activities, and high-quality education provided.

This detailed breakdown showcases the commitment of international schools in Saigon to offering comprehensive, high-quality education that prepares students not just academically, but also culturally and socially, for their future endeavors.

FAQs

What are the tuition fees for the most expensive international school in Vietnam?

The most expensive international school in Vietnam varies in tuition fees, reflecting the high-quality education and facilities they offer. For specific fee structures, it's recommended to contact the schools directly as they can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Which school is considered the top international school in Vietnam?

The top international schools in Vietnam include a prestigious list:

• International School Saigon Pearl (ISSP)
• International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC)
• International School Ho Chi Minh City – American Academy (ISHCMC – AA)
• European International School Ho Chi Minh City (EIS)
• Saigon South International School (SSIS)
  These schools are highly regarded for their educational standards, facilities, and international curriculums.

Which international school holds the highest prestige globally?

Identifying the most prestigious international school globally can be subjective and depends on various factors including academic achievements, extracurricular opportunities, and global recognition. Many schools worldwide are renowned for their excellence and prestige.

How many international schools are available in Ho Chi Minh City?

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, is home to 33 international schools. These schools offer a wide range of curriculums, extracurricular activities, and facilities, catering to the diverse needs of the expatriate and local communities. Each school has its unique features, including the availability of native teachers, class sizes, and school bus services.