The Expat Parent’s Guide to International Schools in Ho Chi Minh City
For any parent, your child’s education is a top priority. But when you’re moving across the world to Vietnam, the task of choosing the right school can feel like the most important decision you’ll make. It’s not just about academics; it’s about finding a community where your child will feel happy, supported, and inspired.
Ho Chi Minh City has become a major hub for expatriates, and thankfully, its educational landscape has grown to match. The city boasts a wide range of world-class international schools, each with its own unique curriculum, culture, and community.
This guide is designed to help you navigate this landscape. We’ll break down the top schools by district—the key expat hubs of District 2 and District 7, and other popular areas—to help you align your school choice with your housing choice.
Understanding the International School Scene in HCMC
Before diving into specific schools, here are a few key things to know:
- Curriculum Diversity: You’ll find a wide range of options, including the globally recognized International Baccalaureate (IB), the British (IGCSE & A-Levels), American (AP), and Australian curricula.
- Multicultural Environment: These schools have incredibly diverse student bodies, creating a rich learning environment that fosters global citizenship.
- Quality of Education: Standards are high, with modern facilities, well-qualified international teachers, and a strong emphasis on holistic development through sports, arts, and community service.
- Admissions & Cost: The process can be competitive, and the investment is significant. Tuition fees vary widely, and you should budget for additional costs like uniforms, bus services, and extracurriculars.
Now, let’s explore some of the best international schools in Saigon, district by district.
District 2 (Thao Dien & An Phu) – The Expat Family Hub
District 2 is the epicenter of expat family life, and its concentration of top-tier schools is a primary reason why.
International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC)
Our Take: As one of the original international schools in Saigon, ISHCMC is a pillar of the community. It’s the only school in HCMC authorized to offer all three International Baccalaureate programmes. It’s known for its strong sense of community and innovative approach to learning. Its prime location in the heart of Thao Dien makes it a top choice for families living in apartment complexes like Estella Heights or Gateway Thao Dien.
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- Founded: 1993
- Grade Range: Kindergarten through Grade 12
- Curriculum: Full IB Programme (PYP, MYP, DP)
- Accreditations: CIS, IBO, NEASC
- Tuition Fees: $12,775 to $32,860
- Address: 28 Vo Truong Toan Street (Primary), 1 Xuan Thuy Street (Secondary), Thao Dien Ward, District 2
- Website: ishcmc.com
British International School (BIS) – Thao Dien Campuses
Our Take: Part of the prestigious Nord Anglia Education group, BIS is renowned for its academic rigor and outstanding results. Following the British curriculum, it’s a top choice for families seeking a structured, high-achieving environment. Its impressive facilities and strong reputation make it one of the most sought-after schools in Vietnam.
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- Founded: 1997
- Grade Range: Kindergarten through Year 13
- Curriculum: National Curriculum for England, IGCSE, IBDP
- Accreditations: CIS, IBO
- Tuition Fees: $13,652 to $32,904
- Address: 225 & 246 Nguyen Van Huong, Thao Dien Ward, District 2
- Website: bisvietnam.com
European International School Ho Chi Minh City (EIS)
Our Take: EIS prides itself on its “village” feel. The beautiful, leafy campus is designed to foster a close-knit community atmosphere. Offering the full IB curriculum, it’s a fantastic option for families who want a world-class education in a nurturing, intimate environment where every student is known.
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- Founded: 2012
- Grade Range: Kindergarten through Grade 12
- Curriculum: Full IB Programme (PYP, MYP, DP)
- Accreditations: CIS, IBO
- Tuition Fees: $13,000 to $28,000
- Address: 730 F-G-K Le Van Mien, Thao Dien Ward, District 2
- Website: eishcmc.com
Australian International School (AIS Vietnam) – Thu Thiem Campus
Our Take: With a state-of-the-art campus in the rapidly developing Thu Thiem area, AIS offers a dynamic and modern learning environment. It’s known for its strong sports programs and a balanced approach to education, combining academic focus with holistic development. It’s a great choice for those living in Thu Thiem or the An Phu side of D2.
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- Founded: 2007
- Grade Range: Kindergarten through Year 13
- Curriculum: Cambridge IGCSE, IBDP
- Accreditations: IBO, CIE
- Tuition Fees: $5,539 to $27,870
- Address: 264 Mai Chi Tho (East-West Highway), An Phu Ward, District 2
- Website: aisvietnam.com
German School Ho Chi Minh City (Deutsche Schule – DSHCM)
Our Take: A fantastic option for German-speaking families or those seeking a truly bilingual education. DSHCM offers a rigorous German curriculum alongside the IBDP, preparing students for university entry worldwide. Its reputation for excellence makes it a top choice for the German expat community.
- Founded: 2012
- Grade Range: Kindergarten through Grade 12
- Curriculum: German National Curriculum, IBDP
- Accreditations: “Excellent German School Abroad,” IBO
- Languages: German and English
- Tuition Fees: Vary by grade
- Address: 12 Vo Truong Toan, An Phu Ward, District 2
- Website: dshcm.org
French & Primary Options in District 2
For younger children or French families, Thao Dien also offers excellent smaller schools like Anne Hill International School (IPC Curriculum), La Petite Ecole (French Curriculum), and Saint Ange French International School (French Curriculum).
District 7 (Phu My Hung) – The Planned Community
District 7 offers a different vibe—a well-organized, spacious urban area with wide streets and excellent amenities, making it another popular choice for families.
Saigon South International School (SSIS)
Our Take: SSIS is the anchor of the Phu My Hung community. As a non-profit school, it’s known for reinvesting heavily in its programs and facilities. It offers a strong American curriculum, including AP courses, and has a fantastic reputation for student support and college counseling.
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- Founded: 1997
- Grade Range: Kindergarten through Grade 12
- Curriculum: American Curriculum, AP, IBDP
- Accreditations: WASC, IBO, AP
- Tuition Fees: $18,000 to $33,000
- Address: 78 Nguyen Duc Canh, Tan Phong Ward, District 7
- Website: ssis.edu.vn
Renaissance International School Saigon (RISS)
Our Take: RISS is the only school in HCMC to offer the full suite of the National Curriculum for England, IPC, IGCSE, and the IBDP. This provides a very structured pathway for students. It’s a smaller school than SSIS, fostering a close community feel within District 7.
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- Founded: 2007
- Grade Range: Kindergarten through Year 13
- Curriculum: English National Curriculum, IPC, IGCSE, IBDP
- Accreditations: CIS, IBO, CIE
- Tuition Fees: $7,524 to $30,827
- Address: 74 Nguyen Thi Thap Street, Binh Thuan Ward, District 7
- Website: renaissance.edu.vn
Other Districts
While D2 and D7 are the main hubs, excellent schools are located across the city.
American International School (AIS) – Multiple Campuses
Our Take: With a sprawling main campus in Nha Be and an elementary campus in District 1, AIS provides a comprehensive American-style education culminating in the IBDP. Its impressive facilities and strong academic program make it a top contender, especially for those living south of the city.
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- Founded: 2006
- Curriculum: American Curriculum, AP, IBDP
- Accreditations: CIS, WASC, IBO
- Tuition Fees: $18,754 to $27,308
- Locations: District 1 (Elementary), Nha Be (Main Campus)
- Website: ais.edu.vn
ABC International School (ABCIS) – Nha Be Campus
Our Take: A highly respected British curriculum school with a strong community feel. ABCIS follows the English National Curriculum through to A-Levels, offering a different pathway than the IB-focused schools. It’s known for its excellent pastoral care and supportive learning environment.
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- Founded: 1995
- Grade Range: Year 3 to Year 13 (at Nha Be Campus)
- Curriculum: English National Curriculum, IGCSE, A-Levels
- Accreditations: COBIS, FOBISIA, CAIE
- Tuition Fees: $7,705 to $28,775
- Address: No. 2, Street No. 9, Phuoc Kien, Nha Be
- Website: theabcis.com
Making Your Final Decision
Choosing a school is deeply personal. We always recommend touring your top choices to get a feel for the campus culture and community. Think about your child’s personality, your family’s educational values, and, just as importantly, your daily commute.
Your choice of school will heavily influence your choice of home. Our team understands this relationship better than anyone. We don’t just find you an apartment; we help you find a home in a neighborhood that puts you in the perfect position for a happy and convenient school life.
Let us help you find a home that fits your family’s new life in Vietnam.