Public Schools vs International Schools: Which Education Path is Right for Your Child?

Choosing a school is one of the biggest decisions a family makes, and it shapes both a child’s daily experience and their future options. In Vietnam, many parents weigh the same question: public schools vs international school. Which path fits my child best?

This guide explains what an international school actually is, how it differs from a public, private or “normal” school, and the practical pros and cons of each so you can decide with confidence. For background on the local system, see our overview of education in Vietnam.

Key Takeaways

• International schools typically feature diverse, globally recognised curricula (e.g., British, IB, American) with English as the primary language of instruction, preparing students for worldwide university pathways. Public schools follow national curricula, taught in local languages, focusing on national academic standards and local university entry.
• Public schools are government-funded, offering free or low-cost education based on geographical zoning, ensuring broad accessibility. International schools are privately funded through tuition fees, often requiring a competitive admissions process, and provide specialised resources and facilities.
• Class sizes are generally smaller in international schools, allowing for more personalised attention from often internationally qualified teachers. Public schools typically have larger class sizes with nationally certified teachers, prioritising standardised learning outcomes for a wider student population.
• International schools emphasise a holistic approach to development through extensive extracurricular activities and global experiences, fostering critical thinking and intercultural understanding. Public schools, while offering ECAs, typically maintain a strong primary focus on academic achievement within the national curriculum.
• The learning environment in international schools cultivates a diverse, multicultural community, promoting a global perspective. Public schools offer deep immersion in local culture, fostering a strong sense of national identity and community ties.

Public School vs International School: At a Glance

The table below summarises the main differences between public and international schools before we look at each area in detail.

International School vs Private School: Are They the Same?

This is one of the most common points of confusion. Both charge fees, so people assume they are identical, but there is a clear distinction.

• A private school is any school not funded by the government. In Vietnam, many private schools still teach the Vietnamese national curriculum, mainly in Vietnamese, with some added English lessons.
• An international school is a private school that goes further: it delivers a full international curriculum in English and holds international accreditation, preparing students for global qualifications and universities.

In short, every international school is private, but a private school is only “international” if it teaches a recognised international curriculum and is accredited to do so. If a global pathway matters to you, check the curriculum and accreditation rather than the fee level alone.

Curriculum and Language of Instruction

A school’s curriculum and language of instruction strongly shape a child’s learning experience. The curriculum sets what students learn and how progress is assessed, while the language of instruction affects daily communication and long-term language proficiency.

Public Schools: National Curriculum and Local Language

Public schools in Vietnam follow the government’s national curriculum. Key characteristics include:

• Lessons taught mainly in Vietnamese
• A strong focus on Vietnamese culture, history and social values
• A standardised framework used across the country
• Preparation for Vietnamese university entrance exams

This pathway helps students build strong Vietnamese language skills, develop a deep understanding of local culture, and integrate easily into the national education and career system. For families who prioritise local integration and cultural continuity, public schools can be a suitable option.

International Schools: Global Curriculum and English Immersion

International schools offer globally recognised academic programmes taught primarily in English. The most established route in Vietnam is the British curriculum, which leads to iGCSE and A Levels.

Typical features of international schools include:

• Classes taught primarily in English
• A focus on critical thinking and inquiry-based learning
• Internationally recognised qualifications
• Multicultural student communities

These environments often help students develop strong English fluency, gain global perspectives and prepare for universities overseas. The ABC International School (ABCIS), for example, follows the British curriculum from Early Years through A Levels.d.

Admissions, Funding, and Fees

Families often compare costs, funding models and entry requirements closely, since these affect both accessibility and long-term financial planning.

Public Schools: Government-Funded and Accessible

Public schools in Vietnam are mainly funded by the government, which keeps education free or very affordable for most residents.

Common characteristics include:

• Minimal or no tuition fees
• Admission based on residential zoning
• Guaranteed placement for children living in the area
• Standardised access to education nationwide

Families may still pay small additional costs, such as:

• School uniforms
• Textbooks and learning materials
• Optional extracurricular activities

Overall, public schools provide broad access to education and support community-based learning for local families.

International Schools: Private Funding and Tuition Fees

International schools operate as privately funded institutions. Tuition fees are typically higher because they support:

• Modern facilities and specialised learning resources
• International curricula
• Smaller class sizes and lower student-to-teacher ratios
• Extracurricular programmes and enrichment activities

The admission process is usually more selective and may include:

• Application forms
• Entrance assessments
• Interviews
• Review of previous academic records

International schools often welcome both expatriate and local families who are looking for a globally focused education environment.

While tuition can be a significant investment, some schools may offer scholarships or financial support for selected students.

Teaching Staff, Qualifications, and Class Sizes

Teacher quality and classroom environment can strongly influence student engagement, academic progress, and personal development. Two key factors families often compare are:

• Teacher qualifications and experience
• Average class size and level of individual support

Public Schools: Nationally Qualified Teachers and Larger Classes

Teachers in public schools are typically trained and certified within Vietnam. Their expertise is closely aligned with the national curriculum and national assessments.

Common characteristics include:

• Teachers hold degrees and local teaching certifications
• Strong familiarity with the Vietnamese curriculum
• Focus on preparing students for national examinations

However, public schools often have larger class sizes due to high student enrollment.

This may mean:

• Teachers manage many students in one classroom
• Less time for individualised attention
• Learning often follows a standardised curriculum structure

Despite these challenges, public school teachers play an important role in helping students succeed within the national education system.

International Schools: Global Educators and Smaller Classes

International schools often recruit teachers with international qualifications and global teaching experience.

Key features may include:

• Teachers with international teaching licences
• Experience working with multicultural student communities
• Familiarity with global curricula such as the British, IB, or American systems

Class sizes are usually smaller, which can allow for:

• More individual attention
• Lessons adapted to different learning styles
• Closer monitoring of student progress and development

For example, The ABC International School (ABCIS) employs British-qualified teachers experienced in the British curriculum, supporting personalised learning and internationally recognised academic pathways.

Extracurricular Activities and Holistic Development

Education is not only about academic subjects. Extracurricular activities (ECAs) help children develop social skills, creativity, confidence, and personal interests.

Both public and international schools offer ECAs, but the variety, resources, and focus can differ.

Public Schools: Standard Activities and Academic Focus

Public schools usually offer basic extracurricular programmes, though the range can vary depending on the school’s resources and location.

Common activities may include:

• Sports teams and physical activities
• Art and music clubs
• Academic or subject-based clubs

Key characteristics:

• Academic learning remains the main priority
• ECA options may be limited or competitive
• Participation may depend on age groups or school capacity
• Access to specialised facilities can be more limited

While public schools recognise the value of holistic development, their main role is to help students meet national curriculum standards and academic benchmarks.

International Schools: Diverse ECAs and Holistic Approach

International schools often place a strong emphasis on holistic development, offering a broader range of extracurricular opportunities.

Typical programmes may include:

• Team and individual sports
• Performing arts such as music, drama, and dance
• Academic clubs like robotics or debate
• Community service and leadership programmes

Many international schools also invest in dedicated facilities, such as:

• Sports fields and gyms
• Theatres and performance spaces
• Art and design studios

For example, The ABC International School (ABCIS) provides a wide extracurricular programme that complements its academic curriculum.

These programmes help students develop important life skills, including:

• Leadership
• Teamwork
• Communication
• Critical thinking

Some schools also offer international competitions, cultural exchanges, and global projects, helping students gain broader perspectives and prepare for an increasingly interconnected world.

University Pathways and Global Opportunities

A school’s curriculum can influence where students apply for university and the types of career opportunities available later.

Both public schools and international schools prepare students for higher education, but the pathways and global exposure can differ.

Public Schools: National University Pathways

Public schools mainly prepare students for universities within Vietnam.

Key characteristics include:

• Curriculum aligned with national university entrance exams
• Strong focus on exam preparation and academic scores
• Career guidance often focused on local industries and job markets

This pathway can suit students who plan to:

• Study at Vietnamese universities
• Build careers within the local economy
• Follow a well-established national education route

Because the system is designed around national exams, applying to overseas universities may require additional preparation, such as international tests or independent application support.

International Schools: Global University Pathways

International schools typically prepare students for universities around the world.

Common features include:

• Internationally recognised qualifications, such as A-Levels or the IB Diploma
• Dedicated university counselling teams
• Guidance with applications, essays, and recommendation letters
• Support for standardised tests like the SAT or AP

For example, The ABC International School focuses on preparing students for universities in countries such as:

• United Kingdom
• United States
• Canada
• Australia
• Korea
• And across the world

These pathways can give students access to a wider range of universities and global career opportunities, while also helping them develop the skills needed to study and work in international environments.

Learning Environment and Community

A school’s environment and community play an important role in a child’s well-being, social development, and sense of belonging.

The people students interact with each day and the culture of the school can shape how they learn, communicate, and understand the world.

Public Schools: Local Community and Cultural Immersion

Public schools usually reflect the local community and national culture.

Typical features include:

• Students mainly from local Vietnamese families
• Daily interaction in the Vietnamese language
• Strong exposure to local traditions and cultural values

This environment can help children:

• Develop a strong sense of national identity
• Build friendships within their local neighbourhood
• Gain a deeper understanding of Vietnamese culture and society

For families who value local integration and cultural connection, public schools can provide a familiar and community-focused setting.

International Schools: Diverse Community and Global Perspective

International schools often have a multicultural student body, with families from different countries and backgrounds.

Common characteristics include:

• Students from multiple nationalities and cultures
• Daily communication in English or other international languages
• Exposure to different perspectives and global issues

For example, The ABC International School provides an international learning environment where students learn alongside peers from many cultural backgrounds.

This type of environment can help children:

• Develop intercultural understanding
• Build communication skills across cultures
• Form international friendships and networks
• Gain broader perspectives on global topics

For many families, this diverse community supports the development of global awareness and international-mindedness.

Weighing the Pros and Cons

There is no single “better” option. The right choice depends on your child and your family’s goals. Here is a balanced summary of the benefits and drawbacks of each.

International School: Pros and Cons

• Pros: English-medium teaching, globally recognised qualifications, smaller classes, broad extracurriculars, and strong preparation for overseas universities.
• Cons: Higher tuition fees, a competitive admissions process, and less immersion in the local language and national curriculum.

Public School: Pros and Cons

• Pros: Free or low-cost, deep local cultural and language immersion, and straightforward entry through residential zoning.
• Cons: Larger classes, less individual attention, mainly Vietnamese-medium teaching, and extra steps needed for overseas university applications.

The ABCIS Difference: A British International School 

The ABC International School (ABCIS) is a British international school in Ho Chi Minh City serving both expatriate and local families, with education from Early Years through A Levels following the British curriculum.

The school holds four consecutive British Schools Overseas BSO accreditation Outstanding inspection grades (most recently January 2024), is accredited by Cambridge International and AQA, and reports 95%+ university progression. It is a member of COBIS and FOBISIA and is dually registered with the Vietnamese Government and the UK Department for Education.

Two Campuses in Ho Chi Minh City

ABCIS operates two campuses, Trung Son and Nha Be, serving families across different areas of the city.

British Curriculum with Global Pathways

The school follows the British education system, including the Early Years Foundation Stage, primary and secondary education, and iGCSE and A Level qualifications that prepare students for universities worldwide.

A Supportive International Learning Environment

ABCIS focuses on an environment where students grow academically and personally, with British-qualified teachers, small supportive classes, an international community, and a wide extracurricular programme. To understand what sets the school apart, read why choose ABCIS International School.

Making Your Informed Decision

Choosing between public schools and international schools is a personal decision. There is no single option that suits every family.

The right choice often depends on several factors, including:

• Your child’s learning style and personality
• Your family’s long-term education goals
• Budget and tuition considerations
• Location and daily travel
• Preferred curriculum and language of instruction
• The type of school community you value

Because every child and family is different, it can be helpful to visit schools and gather more information before deciding.

You may want to:

• Tour the school campus
• Speak with teachers or administrators
• Talk with current parents or students
• Observe the learning environment

These steps can help you better understand which school setting may suit your child.

Exploring International Education Options

If you are interested in a British international education in Ho Chi Minh City, The ABCIS offers programmes from Early Years through A-Levels, preparing students for global university pathways.

Families who would like to learn more can contact the school’s admissions team for further information or to arrange a campus visit.

• 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

FAQ Section: Public vs International Schools