In 2024 and 2025, the closure of several private international schools in Ho Chi Minh City highlights the inherent business risks within the private education sector. Specifically, Saigon Pearl International School (Binh Thanh District), Saigon Star International School (Thu Duc City), and the American International School (Nha Be District) have ceased operations, leaving many parents struggling to recover tuition fees and causing significant disruption to students’ education.

Private schools can go bankrupt like a business

This article provides an update on the list of international schools in Saigon.

01. British International School Ho Chi Minh City

The British International School Ho Chi Minh City (BIS HCMC) is a leading international school in Vietnam, providing a British-style education to a diverse student body ranging from 2 to 18 years old.

As part of Nord Anglia Education, BIS HCMC delivers a comprehensive curriculum that includes the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), the National Curriculum for England, the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP).

With multiple campuses across Ho Chi Minh City, BIS HCMC boasts state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to academic excellence, fostering a nurturing environment where students can thrive. The school emphasizes a holistic approach to education, focusing not only on academic achievement but also on personal development, well-being, and global citizenship. BIS HCMC is recognized for its highly qualified teachers, small class sizes, and a wide range of extracurricular activities.

For registration inquiries, parents can contact the BIS HCMC admissions team by completing the online enquiry form on the school’s website: https://www.nordangliaeducation.com/bis-hcmc/admissions. The admissions team is available to provide detailed information about the application process, entry requirements, and school tours.

02. Australian International School

The Australian International School (AIS) in Ho Chi Minh City provides a world-class education for students from 1.5 to 18 years old. AIS delivers the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Cambridge programs, including IGCSE, and is known for its strong academic focus and commitment to developing well-rounded global citizens.

AIS has multiple campuses in Ho Chi Minh City, featuring modern facilities that support a wide range of learning experiences. The school fosters a diverse and inclusive community with a student body representing over 40 nationalities. AIS emphasizes a holistic education, encouraging students to excel not only in academics but also in sports, arts, and extracurricular activities. With a majority of teachers coming from Australia and New Zealand, the school maintains a strong connection to its Australian heritage while embracing an international perspective.

For registration inquiries, parents can contact AIS via:

• Hotline: 1900 6940
• Email: info@aisvietnam.com

You can also find more information about the admissions process and begin the application by visiting the AIS website: https://www.aisvietnam.com/

03. Canadian International School

The Canadian International School (CIS) in Ho Chi Minh City is a prominent international school that offers a comprehensive education based on the Ontario (Canadian) curriculum, from Kindergarten to Grade 12. CIS is part of the Canadian International School System (CISS), which also includes other schools in the area. CIS is recognized for being the first school in Vietnam to offer the Ontario curriculum.

CIS aims to provide a holistic education, focusing on academic excellence, personal development, and the development of global citizens. The school also offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP).

For registration inquiries, parents can contact CIS through the following channels:

• Hotline: 1900 255 636 or (028) 54 123 456
• Email: enquiry@cis.edu.vn

For more information about admissions and to begin the application process, please visit the CIS website: https://cis.edu.vn/en

04. Saigon South International School

Saigon South International School (SSIS) is a well-regarded international school in Ho Chi Minh City, offering an American standards-based curriculum for students from Early Childhood (EC) through Grade 12. Established in 1997 by Phu My Hung Group, SSIS has grown into a leading educational institution, known for its commitment to providing a nurturing and academically challenging environment.

SSIS is a non-profit school and is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). In addition to the core American curriculum, SSIS offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program and Advanced Placement (AP) courses in the high school, providing students with pathways to higher education globally.

The school has a diverse student body, with learners coming from various nationalities. SSIS is located in the Phu My Hung area of District 7, and it boasts a large, green campus with modern facilities.

For registration inquiries, you can contact SSIS through:

• Telephone: (84-28) 3 622 0870
• Email: info@ssis.edu.vn

For further details about the school and the admissions process, please visit the SSIS website: https://www.ssis.edu.vn/

05. Renaissance International School Saigon

Renaissance International School Saigon is located in District 7, Ho Chi Minh City, and provides a comprehensive international education for students from Early Years to Year 13. The school is known for its diverse and inclusive community, offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) program.

Renaissance focuses on creating a vibrant learning environment where students are encouraged to excel academically and personally. They aim to develop students into global citizens with a passion for learning. The school prides itself on its experienced educators, modern facilities, and commitment to providing exceptional experiences for its students.

To apply for admission, parents can contact the Admissions Team to schedule a school tour and discuss the admissions process. The process includes submitting an application form with required documents, paying an application fee, and attending an interview and assessments.

For detailed information on how to apply, required documents, and the admissions process, please visit the school’s official website: https://renaissance.edu.vn/how-to-apply/

You can also contact the school directly for any inquiries.

06. European International School

The European International School (EIS) in Ho Chi Minh City offers a comprehensive International Baccalaureate (IB) education for students aged 2 to 18. EIS is known for its diverse student body, with over 40 nationalities represented, and its commitment to providing a nurturing and stimulating learning environment.

EIS emphasises a personalised approach to education with small class sizes, allowing for strong teacher-student interaction. The school boasts a lush, green campus with modern facilities, fostering a tranquil and conducive atmosphere for learning. EIS is part of Inspired Education, a global network of premium schools.

EIS provides a wide range of extracurricular activities. Graduates consistently achieve results above world averages and gain acceptance to prestigious universities.

To inquire about admissions, parents can visit the school’s website or contact the admissions office directly. The admissions process includes submitting an online application, student entrance exams, an interview, and payment of required fees.

For more information about the admissions process, please visit the school’s website: https://www.eishcmc.com/admissions/admissions-process