International Schools in Thao Dien (2025) — Fees, Reviews, Admissions & Activities Guide
At a glance
- Top schools featured: ISHCMC, BIS, AIS, EIS, TAS, EtonHouse
- Typical tuition range (popular schools): ~440M–925M VND/year
- Best for bilingual programs: BIS, EtonHouse
- Need help? We can arrange school tours & local guidance — see the contact CTA below.
Introduction
Thao Dien is a top choice for families in Ho Chi Minh City because of its cluster of international schools, safe neighbourhoods and strong parent communities. This guide gathers school reviews, tuition ranges, admissions timing, money-saving tips and the best extracurriculars by age group.
Related reading: Full HCMC schools guide by district and our neighbourhood profile for Exploring Thao Dien. Also see our main site: Living in Vietnam.
Why Choose Thao Dien for Schooling?
Leafy streets, strong expat networks, and multiple high-quality schools within a small radius make Thao Dien practical and comfortable for families relocating to HCMC.
Reviews: The Leading International Schools in Thao Dien
ISHCMC — International School Ho Chi Minh City
- Curriculum: IB (PYP, MYP, DP)
- Ages: 2–18
- Tuition: ~925M VND/year
- Highlights: Long-established, diverse staff, excellent facilities
British International School (BIS)
- Curriculum: UK, IGCSE, IB
- Tuition: ~550–840M VND/year
- Highlights: Strong bilingual options, arts & drama
Full addresses and contact details provided in the directory below.
How to Save Money as a School Parent in Thao Dien
- Corporate/relocation packages: Ask HR if your employer subsidizes fees.
- Sibling discounts: Often 5–10% for additional children.
- Scholarships & early payment: Request merit-based awards and upfront payment discounts.
- Housing strategy: Live outside Thao Dien and use school transport to save on rent.
The Most Important School Tour Questions for Parents
Use these to uncover the real value behind glossy brochures.
- Curriculum & delivery: How is learning adapted for international students?
- What’s included: Meals, trips, tech — ask for a cost breakdown.
- Language support: ESL/EAL or bilingual transition programs?
- Class sizes & faculty stability: Seniority and turnover rates?
- Security & health: Pick-up routines, emergency response, on-site medical support?
- Extracurricular breadth: Sports, arts, clubs and participation rates?
- Parent involvement: PTA, communication channels, onboarding?
Practical Admissions Tips and Timeline
- Start 9–12 months early for popular grades — waitlists are common.
- Prepare documents early: birth certificate, passport, past records, vaccine records.
- Book trial days and open houses. Speak with current parents in local groups.
Daily School Life, Activities, and Parent Communities
- Commute solutions: School shuttles make living outside Thao Dien feasible.
- Support networks: WhatsApp groups, PTAs, and local family events are active.
- Extracurriculars: Schools and nearby centers offer a wide range of classes.
Top 5 Extracurricular Activities for Kids in Thao Dien (By Age Group)
Kindergarten (2–5)
- Music & Movement — Locations: Kindermusik, Saigon Academy, EtonHouse. Stimulates early cognitive & social skills.
- Art & Craft Workshops — The Art Space, Vin Gallery kids’ programs. Encourages creativity & fine motor skills.
- Swimming Lessons — AIS, ISHCMC, EtonHouse pools, local swim schools. Essential safety skill.
- Play-Based Dance/Ballet — Ann’s Ballet Studio, local creative movement classes. Builds coordination and confidence.
- Multi-Language Playgroups — Bimbi Montessori, EtonHouse, parent meetups. Early language exposure (EN/VI/FR/CM).
Primary (6–10)
- Team Sports — Sports4Kids, ISHCMC, BIS courts. Teamwork & fitness.
- STEM & Robotics — ISHCMC, American STEM, TechStart Academy. Hands-on coding & robotics.
- Art & Drama — Saigon Academy, The Factory. Builds confidence & creativity.
- Swimming & Water Safety — AIS, local clubs. Skill progression and safety.
- Music Lessons (Piano/Violin) — Crescendo Music & private tutors. Discipline and performance skills.
Secondary (11–17)
- Debate & MUN — ISHCMC, BIS, EIS. Critical thinking & public speaking.
- STEM & Entrepreneurship — ISHCMC, TechStart. Advanced projects and startup exposure.
- Performing Arts — ISHCMC, Saigon Star Arts. Scholarships & stage experience.
- Competitive Sports — School leagues and local academies. High-level training.
- Community Service — School-led and local groups (e.g., Clean Up Saigon). Builds civic skills.
These activities are widely used by expat and local families and are available via schools or nearby specialised centres.
Directory: Schools and Key Contacts in Thao Dien
| School | Address | Website | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| ISHCMC | 28 Vo Truong Toan, An Phu | ishcmc.com | 028 3898 9100 |
| BIS | 225 Nguyen Van Huong | bisvietnam.com | 028 3744 2335 |
| AIS | 36 Thao Dien, D2 | aisvietnam.com | 028 3744 6960 |
| EIS | 730 Le Van Mien | eisvietnam.com | 028 7300 7257 |
| TAS | 172–180 Nguyen Van Huong | tasvietnam.edu.vn | 028 3519 2223 |
| EtonHouse | 42 Street 10, Thao Dien | etonhouse.vn | 028 3744 283 |
FAQ: Schooling in Thao Dien
Q: Are bilingual programs available? A: Yes — BIS and EtonHouse have strong bilingual tracks.
Q: Where can I read candid parent reviews? A: Join “Thao Dien Parents” on Facebook and local expat forums; ask in school WhatsApp groups.
Conclusion & contact
Thao Dien offers exceptional schooling choices and a strong parent community. If you want help comparing schools, arranging tours, or finding housing near a chosen school, we can support you — include a short contact CTA or a small form on the page to capture leads.