International Schools in Ho Chi Minh City 2026: Guide for Expat Families

Choosing a School in HCMC — Where to Start

Ho Chi Minh City has one of the most developed international school markets in Southeast Asia, with options ranging from globally recognised institutions to smaller community schools catering to specific nationalities. For expat families relocating to HCMC, the school decision is often made before or alongside the apartment search — and rightly so, since school location significantly influences which neighbourhood makes the most sense for your family. This guide covers the major options, curricula, fees, and what to expect from admissions in 2026.

A key point before starting: popular international schools in HCMC often have waiting lists, particularly for younger year groups. Begin the application process as early as possible — ideally 6–12 months before your intended start date if your timeline allows.

British Curriculum Schools

British International School Ho Chi Minh City (BIS HCMC) is one of the most established and well-regarded British curriculum schools in the city. It offers the National Curriculum of England from Early Years through to A Levels (Year 13) and holds accreditation from the Council of British International Schools (COBIS). BIS HCMC has two campuses — in District 2 (Thu Duc) and District 7 (Phu My Hung). Class sizes are managed, facilities are strong, and the school has a substantial British and international expat community. Annual fees range from approximately $15,000–$25,000 USD depending on year group.

Renaissance International School Saigon is another British curriculum option, located in District 2. It is smaller than BIS, which some families prefer for the community feel. It covers Early Years through to IGCSE and A Levels. Fees are broadly comparable to BIS HCMC.

American Curriculum Schools

American International School Vietnam (AIS) is the leading American curriculum school in HCMC, offering a US-aligned programme from Pre-K through Grade 12 and culminating in a US High School Diploma. It is located in Binh Thanh District and serves a large and diverse expat community. AP (Advanced Placement) courses are available for college-bound seniors. Annual fees range from $15,000–$22,000 USD.

Saigon South International School (SSIS) is situated in Phu My Hung, District 7 — one of the most popular expat family areas in HCMC — and offers the US curriculum with a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities and community. It is particularly popular with families living in the District 7 corridor.

International Baccalaureate (IB) Schools

International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC) is one of the oldest and most respected international schools in Vietnam, offering the full IB continuum from PYP (Primary Years Programme) through MYP (Middle Years Programme) to the IB Diploma. It is located in Binh Thanh District and has a diverse international student body. ISHCMC is consistently ranked among the top IB schools in Southeast Asia. Annual fees range from $17,000–$28,000 USD.

ISHCMC-American Academy is an affiliated school offering the US curriculum alongside the IB framework for families seeking American-style education with an international outlook.

Indochina International School (IIS) is a newer addition offering the IB curriculum at a slightly lower price point, aimed at families looking for IB quality at a more accessible fee level.

French and Other National Curriculum Schools

Lycée Français International Marguerite Duras is the primary French curriculum school in HCMC, accredited by the French Ministry of Education. It is the natural choice for French-speaking expat families and those wanting a French Baccalauréat pathway. Located in District 3, it serves a large French and Francophone community. Fees are generally lower than British or American schools.

For Korean, Japanese, and Taiwanese expat families, dedicated national schools are also available in HCMC, typically serving the large communities of those nationalities based in District 7 and surrounding areas.

School Fees Overview 2026

International school fees in HCMC are significant but generally lower than equivalent schools in Singapore or Hong Kong. Annual fees (excluding one-time capital levies and enrolment fees) typically fall in the following ranges: Early Years / Kindergarten $8,000–$15,000 USD, Primary $12,000–$22,000 USD, Secondary $15,000–$28,000 USD. Most schools charge a non-refundable enrolment or capital levy of $2,000–$8,000 USD upon admission. Many multinational employers covering expat packages will include an education allowance — confirm this with your HR department before finalising school choices.

School Locations and Neighbourhood Planning

School location should directly inform your apartment search. The main school clusters in HCMC are District 2 / Thu Duc City (BIS, Renaissance, several other schools), District 7 / Phu My Hung (SSIS, BIS District 7, several Korean and Japanese schools), and Binh Thanh / District 3 (ISHCMC, AIS, Lycée Français). Families consistently recommend living within 20–30 minutes of your chosen school to manage the morning commute on HCMC's busy roads.

If your children will be attending a school in District 2 or District 7, those areas offer the highest concentration of family-friendly apartment complexes with appropriate space, amenities, and international community. Browse family apartments in District 2 and family apartments in District 7 to find options that suit your school commute and lifestyle needs.

Admissions Process — What to Expect

Most HCMC international schools follow a similar admissions process: an online application with family and student information, submission of the most recent school reports and teacher references, an assessment (age-dependent — usually informal for young children, more structured for secondary students), and a family interview or school visit. Some schools require English language assessments for non-native English speakers. Processing time is typically 2–6 weeks, though this can be faster if places are available at short notice.

It is strongly advisable to apply to multiple schools simultaneously, particularly if you are relocating within a specific timeframe. School places at popular institutions in HCMC can be limited, and having a backup option ensures your child's education is not delayed by a single school's availability.

After-School Activities and School Support

HCMC's international schools generally offer strong extracurricular programmes — sports, arts, music, drama, and community service. Many schools are members of regional sports leagues (SEASAC) and participate in inter-school competitions across Southeast Asia. Support services including learning support, counselling, and English as an Additional Language (EAL) programmes are available at most major schools, which is important for families where English is not the first language at home.