For expat families moving to Vietnam, navigating educational choices for your child can be a significant challenge. Understanding the local system, school options, and curriculum pathways is crucial for making informed decisions. This guide offers comprehensive insights into education in Vietnam, aiming to clarify its structure, cultural underpinnings, and the diverse schooling options available, including the growing presence of international schools. We provide clarity to help parents ensure their children thrive in their new environment.
Table of contents
- Key Takeaways
- Historical Context and Cultural Influences on Vietnamese Schooling
- Structure of the Vietnamese Education System: Stages and Levels
- Curriculum and Teaching Methodologies in Vietnam
- Public vs. Private Education Options in Vietnam
- What a School Day and School Year Look Like in Vietnam
- Schools in Vietnam for Expat Families
- The Rise of International Schools in Vietnam
- Navigating Educational Choices for Your Child in Vietnam
- Making the Best Educational Choice in Vietnam
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Education in Vietnam
Key Takeaways
- The Vietnamese education system is centrally managed and reflects a deep cultural value for learning. Adult literacy stands at 96.1% (World Bank, 2022).
- It is structured into five main levels. Primary and lower secondary are both compulsory, and ongoing reforms aim to modernise teaching methods.
- Parents in Vietnam have choices between state-run public schools, private local schools, and an increasing number of international schools offering diverse curricula.
- International schools in Vietnam provide global university pathways and holistic development, catering especially to expatriate and globally-minded local families.
- The ABC International School (ABCIS) offers a reputable British international education in Ho Chi Minh City, preparing students for strong academic results and worldwide university admissions.
- Public school tuition has been free for all students from preschool to upper secondary since the 2025 to 2026 school year.
- Public schools teach almost entirely in Vietnamese, which is the main reason most expat families look at international or bilingual schools.
Historical Context and Cultural Influences on Vietnamese Schooling
The educational culture in Vietnam boasts ancient roots, historically influenced by Chinese traditions and Confucianism. This belief system emphasised scholarship, respect for teachers, and academic rigor, values that continue to permeate Vietnamese society today. Education is profoundly seen as a critical path to upward mobility and personal development, holding high status and importance for families across the country.
Structure of the Vietnamese Education System: Stages and Levels
The national Vietnamese education system follows a clear, progressive structure, which is vital for parents to understand when comparing school options in Vietnam. The stages are:
- Early Childhood Education (ECE): For children aged 3 to 5 years, encompassing pre-primary and kindergarten. While not compulsory, it is widely attended and provides foundational social and cognitive development.
- Primary School: Grades 1 to 5, for ages 6 to 11. This five-year stage is compulsory for all children, focusing on core subjects like Vietnamese language, Mathematics, Science, History, and Geography.
- Lower Secondary School: Grades 6 to 9, for ages 11 to 15. Students delve into a broader range of subjects, preparing them for more advanced studies.
- Upper Secondary School: Grades 10 to 12, for ages 15 to 18. Students begin to choose specialised academic tracks, essential for preparing for the national university entrance examinations.
- Higher Education: Encompasses universities, colleges, and vocational institutions where students pursue bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.
Both primary and lower secondary education are compulsory, which means schooling is mandatory from age 6 to around age 15. Upper secondary is not compulsory, but the strong cultural emphasis on education means most students continue. Adult literacy stands at 96.1% according to World Bank and UNESCO figures for 2022.
The Vietnamese School System at a Glance [NEW]
| Stage | Grades | Ages | Compulsory? | Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Early childhood | — | 3 to 5 | No | 3 years |
| Primary | 1 to 5 | 6 to 11 | Yes | 5 years |
| Lower secondary | 6 to 9 | 11 to 15 | Yes | 4 years |
| Upper secondary | 10 to 12 | 15 to 18 | No | 3 years |
| Higher education | — | 18+ | No | Varies |
Counting only the compulsory stages, schooling in Vietnam runs for nine years. Counting from the first year of primary to the end of upper secondary, it runs for twelve.
Curriculum and Teaching Methodologies in Vietnam
- National curriculum: Vietnamese public schools follow a national curriculum set by the Ministry of Education and Training (MOET).
- Strong academic focus: Core subjects such as mathematics, literature, and science receive significant attention.
- Traditional classroom style: Teaching has often relied on teacher-led lessons and memorisation, with exam performance playing an important role.
Current Education Reforms
Vietnam is implementing major education reforms, with a nationwide rollout targeted by 2026. The updated approach aims to:
- Encourage critical thinking and problem-solving
- Create more student-centred classrooms
- Support learning approaches that align more closely with international education standards
These changes reflect Vietnam’s effort to modernise its education system while maintaining strong academic foundations.
Public vs. Private Education Options in Vietnam
Parents in Vietnam can choose from three main types of schools: public schools, private local schools, and international schools.
1. Public schools
- Funded and managed by the government
- Follow the national curriculum set by MOET
- Focus strongly on core academic subjects and national examinations
2. Private local schools
- Operate privately but still follow the Vietnamese national curriculum
- Often provide:
- Smaller class sizes
- Modern facilities
- Additional enrichment programmes
3. International schools
- Part of the private education sector
- Designed for expatriate families and globally minded local students
- Offer international curricula and different teaching approaches
| Public | Private local | International | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Curriculum | MOET national | MOET national | British, American, IB or similar |
| Language | Vietnamese | Vietnamese, some English | English, usually |
| Tuition | Free from 2025/26 | Paid | Paid |
| Best suited to | Vietnamese-fluent students | Local families wanting smaller classes | Expat and globally minded families |
How parents usually choose a school
Families often compare several factors before deciding:
- Budget and tuition fees
- Curriculum and university pathways
- Language of instruction
- Learning environment and teaching style
- Long-term education goals for their children
What a School Day and School Year Look Like in Vietnam
The rhythm of the school year is broadly consistent across public schools.
- The academic year runs from around late August or early September to late May.
- It is divided into two semesters, with a break for Tet, the lunar new year, which is the longest holiday of the year.
- Many public primary schools run a half-day timetable, morning or afternoon, although full-day provision has been expanding.
- Supplementary classes outside school hours are common and are a well-established part of the culture around education.
International schools in Vietnam generally run a full day on a Western academic calendar instead, which is one of the practical differences families notice first. Our guide to a typical school day sets out how that compares.
Schools in Vietnam for Expat Families
Expat families can enrol in public schools, and a small number do. In practice most do not, and the reason is language rather than quality: public schools teach almost entirely in Vietnamese and follow the MOET curriculum throughout.
That leaves three realistic routes.
- International schools, teaching a British, American or IB curriculum in English, with internationally recruited staff.
- Bilingual schools, teaching the Vietnamese curriculum alongside an international one, usually at a lower fee than a full international school.
- Public schools, which work well for children already fluent in Vietnamese, often in families with one Vietnamese parent.
What Expat Families Usually Need to Sort Out
- Fees, which are the largest recurring cost for most relocating families. Our international school fee guide sets out what is included and what is billed separately.
- Curriculum continuity, so a child moving mid-stage is not repeating or skipping a year. Moving to a new school covers the transition itself.
- Language support, if a child is joining an English-medium school without full fluency. See english language support.
- Timing and paperwork, since places in popular year groups fill early. The international school admissions process explains the usual sequence.
Most international schools in Vietnam are concentrated in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, so location within the city often decides the shortlist as much as curriculum does. Our guide to choosing an international school in Ho Chi Minh City works through that.
The Rise of International Schools in Vietnam
International schools have expanded rapidly in Vietnam, especially in major cities such as Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.
Several factors contribute to this growth:
- Increasing numbers of expatriate families
- Vietnam’s global economic integration
- Strong demand for international university pathways
While expatriate families often look for continuity with familiar education systems, many local families also choose international schools for their global opportunities.
Common international curricula offered in Vietnam include:
- British curriculum
- American curriculum
- International Baccalaureate (IB)
These schools typically focus on:
- Critical thinking
- Creativity and independent learning
- A wide range of extracurricular activities
This approach offers an alternative to more traditional classroom models.
The British Curriculum and Global University Pathways at ABCIS
For families seeking a globally recognised education, curriculum choice plays an important role. The ABC International School (ABCIS) in Ho Chi Minh City offers a British curriculum designed to prepare students for leading universities around the world.
A Clear Academic Pathway
ABCIS provides education from Early Years through to A-Levels, with campuses located in:
- Trung Son
- Nha Be
Students follow a structured progression that includes:
- IGCSEs in secondary school
- A-Levels in the final years
These internationally recognised qualifications are widely accepted by universities in the UK, Australia, the United States, Canada, and many other countries.
University Preparation and Student Support
ABCIS supports students with dedicated university counselling, helping them prepare for the next stage of their education. Guidance includes:
- University selection
- Application preparation
- Personal statements and interviews
Students learn in a supportive multicultural environment that encourages critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and confidence.
Through strong academics and personalised guidance, ABCIS helps students build the skills and knowledge needed to pursue global university opportunities and future careers.
Navigating Educational Choices for Your Child in Vietnam
Making the right educational choice for your child when relocating to Vietnam is paramount. Parents must consider numerous factors, including curriculum compatibility with future academic plans, the primary language of instruction, and established university pathways. The learning environment plays a vital role in a child’s adjustment and long-term success, as do the available support systems for students. Understanding your child’s individual needs, learning style, and aspirations is the essential first step in this important decision-making process.
Key Considerations for Parents Choosing a School
When evaluating school options in Vietnam, parents should carefully assess several critical elements:
- Curriculum Alignment: Does the curriculum align with your child’s previous education and your future academic goals, especially for international university applications? Look for international recognition.
- Language of Instruction: Ensure the school provides strong English language support, or aligns with your preferred language.
- University Placements: Investigate the school’s track record for university admissions, particularly to global institutions.
- Supportive Environment: A welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment is crucial for children to adapt and flourish in a new country.
- Facilities and Extracurriculars: Modern facilities, diverse sports programs, and creative arts opportunities enrich the overall learning experience and contribute to holistic development.
- Teacher Qualifications: Experienced and internationally qualified teachers are vital for delivering high-quality education.
If it helps to work through these in order, our parent checklist for choosing school turns them into a list you can take on a school visit.
Making the Best Educational Choice in Vietnam
Education in Vietnam is evolving, combining strong academic traditions with modern reforms and a growing number of international education options.
Key Points About Education in Vietnam
- The country places a strong value on learning and academic achievement
- Families can choose between public schools, private local schools, and international schools
- International schools often provide globally recognised curricula and university pathways
What Families Often Consider
When choosing a school in Vietnam, parents usually look at:
- Curriculum and qualifications
- Language of instruction
- Learning environment and teaching approach
- Long-term education goals
An International Education Option in Ho Chi Minh City
The ABC International School (ABCIS) offers a British curriculum from Early Years to A-Levels, supporting students as they prepare for universities and future opportunities worldwide.
Families who would like to learn more about ABCIS, our campuses, and our programmes can contact us for further information.
- Trung Son Campus: #152-158, Street No. 1, Trung Son, Binh Hung Commune, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Nha Be Campus: #2, Street No. 9, Tan An Huy, Nha Be Commune, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Phone: +84 (0)28 7308 1828
- Email: office@theabcis.com
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Education in Vietnam
Compulsory education in Vietnam covers nine years: primary school, Grades 1 to 5, and lower secondary school, Grades 6 to 9. That runs from around age 6 to age 15. Upper secondary is not compulsory but is widely attended.
Vietnamese public schools follow a national curriculum established and regulated by the Ministry of Education and Training (MOET), emphasising core subjects.
Yes, international schools are increasingly popular and readily available in major Vietnamese cities like Ho Chi Minh City, catering specifically to expatriate and local families seeking alternative curricula and global university pathways.
The ABC International School (ABCIS) offers a comprehensive educational journey from Early Years (kindergarten) through to A-Levels, covering a wide age range for students in Ho Chi Minh City.
Absolutely. ABCIS offers dedicated university guidance and counseling services to support students throughout their university application process, helping them secure placements at top global institutions.
The British curriculum, like that offered at ABCIS, is globally recognised for its academic rigor, balanced approach, and development of independent learning skills. It prepares students for internationally accepted qualifications (IGCSEs, A-Levels) and entry into universities worldwide.
The academic year runs from around late August to late May, split into two semesters with a long break for Tet. Many public primary schools run a half-day timetable, morning or afternoon, while international schools usually run a full day.
Yes, but lessons are taught almost entirely in Vietnamese and follow the national curriculum throughout. It works well for children already fluent in Vietnamese. Most expat families choose international or bilingual schools instead.
It performs strongly for its income level. Vietnam has scored above the OECD average in international assessments since first taking part in PISA in 2012, and adult literacy is 96.1%. The main criticisms are heavy reliance on memorisation, intense exam pressure, and wide variation in quality between urban and rural areas.
Yes. All public schools follow the national curriculum set by the Ministry of Education and Training. Private local schools follow it too. International schools do not, and instead offer curricula such as the British, American or IB programmes.
