Guide to Choosing the Best School
for Your Expat Child in Vietnam

Vietnam, a dynamic destination for expats, boasts a diverse range of schooling options for your children. This guide empowers you to navigate the Vietnamese education system and find the perfect fit for your family’s unique needs.

Public vs. International Schools: Tailoring Your Choice

Public Schools:

• The public system offers subsidized education for Vietnamese citizens.
• Primary education is compulsory and theoretically free. However, additional costs for uniforms, textbooks, and activities can arise. Secondary education in public schools incurs minimal tuition fees for Vietnamese citizens.
• Vietnamese language proficiency is essential for success.

Private Schools:  

• Private schools in Vietnam offer an alternative to the public system. They typically have smaller class sizes and may incorporate some English language instruction alongside the Vietnamese curriculum. 
• These schools are not government-funded, so they charge tuition fees which are generally lower than international schools. They can be a good option for families seeking a more focused learning environment with some exposure to English.

International Schools:

• International schools in Vietnam provide a completely different educational experience. 
• They follow foreign curriculums, primarily in English, and prepare students for admission to universities around the world.  
• These schools are not subsidized and have higher tuition fees compared to private schools. They offer a multicultural environment and attract students from various nationalities.

Curriculum Choices

International schools in Vietnam cater to various educational backgrounds. Here’s a glimpse into some popular curriculums:

• British: Emphasizes a well-rounded education with strong core subjects and a vibrant extracurricular program.
• American: Focuses on critical thinking, creativity, and fostering independent learners.
• French: Renowned for its rigorous emphasis on language and literature.
• IB (International Baccalaureate): Provides a globally recognized diploma program for university entrance.

Cost Considerations: Understanding the Investment

International schools typically have higher tuition fees compared to public schools.

Prepare for expenses like:

• Application fees
• Registration fees
• Annual tuition
• School lunches
• Uniforms
• Extracurricular activities

Understanding Primary School Costs

Here’s a breakdown of potential costs for primary education (grades 1-5) in Vietnam:

• Public Schools: Officially free for Vietnamese citizens, public primary schools might require additional fees for:
  • Uniforms and Supplies: Costs can range from $50 to $100 per year.
  • Activities and Field Trips: Optional activities and field trips might involve additional fees.
• Private Schools: Costs vary depending on location, reputation, and curriculum. Here’s a general range:
  • Low-Cost Private Schools: $1,000 – $3,000 USD per year
  • Mid-Range Private Schools: $3,000 – $8,000 USD per year
  • High-End Private Schools: $8,000 USD or more per year

Secondary School Fee

The cost structure for secondary education (grades 6-12) in Vietnam follows a similar pattern:

• Public Schools: Secondary education in public schools incurs minimal tuition fees for Vietnamese citizens, typically ranging from $30 to $100 USD per year. Additional costs for uniforms, textbooks, and activities might apply.
• Private Schools: Tuition fees for private secondary schools can be substantial:
  • Low-Cost Private Schools: $2,000 – $5,000 USD per year
  • Mid-Range Private Schools: $5,000 – $10,000 USD per year
  • High-End Private Schools: $10,000 USD or more per year

International Schools: A Different Cost Structure

For expats seeking an international education for their children, these schools come with a premium price tag. General range $15,000 – $35,000 USD per year (tuition only)

Beyond the Basics: Important Considerations

• School Schedule and Holidays: The Vietnamese school year runs from September to May. Public schools often have split-day schedules, while international schools follow a more traditional format. Both systems have breaks for Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) and other national holidays.
• School Transportation: Many international schools offer school bus services for an additional fee, while public schools may not provide transportation.
• Special Needs Education: Resources for special needs students are expanding. Research individual schools to understand their support programs.
• Tutoring: Tutoring, especially for Vietnamese language skills, can be a valuable resource for expat children in public schools.

How to Find Schools Near You

Local Resources:

• Expat forums and communities: Connecting with other expats in your city through online forums or Facebook groups can be a great way to get firsthand recommendations.
• Real estate agents: If you’re working with a realtor to find housing, they might have insights into schools within your desired neighborhoods.