In recent years, the demand for international elementary schools in Ho Chi Minh City has increased significantly, especially among families who want their children to learn in a modern environment, use academic English daily, and follow a clear international pathway starting from the elementary level.
However, with the wide variety of school systems and curricula available, many parents find themselves asking:
Which school is the right fit for my child? Which program is best? What is the real value behind the tuition fees?
The article below provides an overview of international elementary schools in Ho Chi Minh City and explains why The American School (TAS) is increasingly chosen by families seeking a long-term educational journey for their children.
Overview of International Elementary Schools in Ho Chi Minh City
International elementary schools in Ho Chi Minh City generally follow three main curriculum orientations:
First, the American curriculum, taught according to the Common Core Standards, focuses on Mathematics, Language Arts, Science, and the development of logical thinking and academic reading–writing skills. This option is commonly chosen by families planning for future study in the United States, Canada, or Australia.
Second, the British curriculum, often based on the English National Curriculum or IPC/Cambridge, features a highly structured academic framework with standardized learning outcomes at each level.
Third, the IB PYP curriculum, which emphasizes inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, presentation skills, and interdisciplinary connections. This approach is well suited for parents who prioritize modern learning competencies and global skills.
In addition, some schools adopt a blended model, maintaining a strong academic foundation (American or British) while integrating IB methodologies to balance knowledge acquisition and skill development.
The American School (TAS) - A Comprehensive American-Pathway International Elementary School in Ho Chi Minh City
Among international elementary schools in Ho Chi Minh City, The American School (TAS) stands out for its balanced educational model that combines U.S. academic standards with holistic student development.
A foundation built from ECC - developing the child before academics
From the Early Childhood Center (ECC), TAS applied the GELDS program, focusing on social–emotional development, life skills, and early cognitive growth. Children learn how to greet others, listen, collaborate, and care for those around them before formally entering the academic journey.
This foundation helps elementary students at TAS develop confidence, discipline, and a positive learning attitude.
The American School (TAS)
At the elementary level, TAS teaches according to the U.S. Common Core Standards, ensuring students build strong foundations in Mathematics, Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies aligned with American benchmarks.
At the same time, TAS is an IB PYP Authorized School, so the program is designed around inquiry-based, interdisciplinary, and project-based learning. Students do not learn simply to memorize, but to understand, present, and apply knowledge in real contexts.
Early technology exposure - a distinctive advantage of TAS
One major differentiator of the elementary program at TAS is that students are introduced to technology starting from Grade 1. They engage with coding, robotics, computational thinking, and use technology as a learning tool rather than a form of entertainment.
This approach helps students develop logical thinking, creativity, and readiness to adapt to the rapid changes of the technology-driven world.
Social-emotional education alongside academics
TAS places strong emphasis on Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). Teachers and emotional counselors work closely with students to help them understand their own emotions, resolve conflicts, and build positive relationships with peers.
With a low teacher-student ratio, each child receives close support both academically and emotionally.
British International School (BIS)
BIS is one of the most well-known international elementary schools in Ho Chi Minh City, particularly among families living in Thao Dien, Thu Duc City. The school follows the British curriculum, emphasizing a clear academic structure and strong academic English proficiency.
At the elementary level, BIS focuses on building solid foundations in reading, writing, and mathematics according to British standards, alongside arts and sports education. Its international environment and diverse student body help children become familiar with global cultures from an early age.
BIS tuition fees are among the higher range of international elementary schools in Ho Chi Minh City and are suitable for families committed to a British pathway from the beginning.
Saigon South International School (SSIS)
Located in Phu My Hung, District 7, SSIS is a popular choice for families living in the southern part of Ho Chi Minh City. The school follows an American-oriented curriculum, emphasizing academic development alongside extracurricular activities, sports, and the arts.
The elementary program at SSIS builds strong foundations in Mathematics, Language Arts, and Science, while encouraging students to participate in community activities, group projects, and personal development programs.
SSIS is suitable for parents seeking a large-scale international environment with a wide range of activities and a well-established school ecosystem.
International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC)
ISHCMC is one of the longest-established international schools in Ho Chi Minh City and is well known for its IB PYP program at the elementary level. The school emphasizes critical thinking, questioning skills, and experiential learning.
Elementary students at ISHCMC learn through interdisciplinary themes that connect academic knowledge to real-life contexts. This model suits parents who prioritize helping their children “learn how to learn” and develop self-directed learning skills from an early age.
ISHCMC is often chosen by families planning a long-term IB pathway from elementary through secondary education.
Why do many parents choose TAS when looking for an international elementary school in Ho Chi Minh City?
Parents choose TAS not only for its U.S.-standard curriculum, but for a clear, continuous pathway from early childhood through secondary school, where academic development, emotional growth, technology skills, and life skills are developed in parallel.
TAS does not pursue early academic pressure, but focuses on long-term goals: helping students become independent learners, confident individuals, global thinkers, and well-prepared for higher levels of education.
Among the many international elementary schools in Ho Chi Minh City, each offers its own strengths in curriculum and educational philosophy. The most important factor is that parents clearly understand their child’s needs and choose the most suitable environment.
With its U.S. academic foundation, IB PYP orientation, early technology integration, and strong emphasis on social–emotional education, The American School (TAS) is a compelling option for families seeking a deep, sustainable, and future-oriented international elementary school in Ho Chi Minh City.
For more information:
Art Nurtures the Soul: A Creative Journey at International Preschools
Elementary art education: Nurturing confidence and creativity in every child
-min.jpg)
.avif)