In recent years, the international monolingual school model has gained significant attention among Vietnamese parents. In this model, every subject and school activity is delivered entirely in English, allowing students to develop natural language proficiency and academic skills in a global-standard environment. For families planning an early pathway to overseas universities, studying in a monolingual international school offers a clear, long-term advantage.
1. How Monolingual International Schools Differ from Bilingual Schools
While bilingual schools combine the MOET curriculum with international elements, monolingual international schools teach 100% in English, across all subjects including academics, arts, STEM, sports, research projects, and extracurricular activities.
This model helps students:
• Absorb academic content naturally through an international language
• Think in English, rather than simply “learn English” as a subject
• Develop strong communication, presentation, critical thinking, and research skills
• Build confidence in multicultural and international environments
In a true monolingual international school, everyday interactions from the classroom to the playground encourage students to use English as their primary language. This provides a clear advantage over bilingual settings.
2. Key Benefits of Studying in a Monolingual International School
A Fully International Environment
Students study alongside peers from various nationalities, experiencing continuous English exposure and diverse cultural perspectives one of the biggest strengths of this model.
Stronger Academic Development
Western-style teaching encourages students to:
• Analyze data
• Solve problems
• Work through projects
• Think critically and creatively
These are core competencies valued worldwide.
A Competitive Advantage for University Admissions Abroad
Students adapt faster to international universities thanks to:
• Strong academic English
• Familiarity with global learning norms
• Independent learning skills
Holistic Development Beyond Academics
The monolingual international model places equal emphasis on:
• Arts and music
• Competitive sports
• Leadership and community service
These experiences strengthen university applications and shape well-rounded global citizens.
3. TAS - A Leading Monolingual International School in Ho Chi Minh City
The American School (TAS) is one of Vietnam’s few fully monolingual, American international schools, serving students from Early Childhood through Grade 12.
What Sets TAS Apart
• A full American curriculum taught 100% in English
• Highly qualified international teachers with professional training
• A diverse, multicultural student community
• Modern U.S.-standard facilities: theater, Innovation Lab, science labs, sports complex
TAS delivers a genuinely international monolingual experience, where students grow in language, academic ability, and global competencies.
4. AP Program - A Key Academic Strength of the Monolingual Model at TAS
As an American monolingual international school, TAS offers the Advanced Placement (AP) Program, recognized worldwide for academic rigor.
AP provides students with:
• college-level coursework in high school
• a competitive edge in university admissions
• opportunities to earn university credits in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and more
TAS continuously expands its AP offerings, ensuring students have access to advanced, future-ready subjects.
5. TAS Becomes an IBDP Candidate School - Expanding Global Pathways
TAS is officially an IBDP Candidate School, enhancing its international academic pathway in high school.
With the IB Diploma Programme framework, students gain access to:
• deeper inquiry-based learning
• stronger alignment with top global university expectations
• key IB skills: independent research, argumentation, analysis, extended essay writing
• increased flexibility in academic planning
AP + IB = A Unique Dual-Path Advantage at TAS
Students may choose:
• AP for subject specialization, OR
• IB for a more holistic academic profile
This flexible model allows students to personalize their learning based on strengths, interests, and long-term goals rare among monolingual international schools in Vietnam.
For families wanting an authentic, 100% English, globally aligned learning environment, The American School (TAS) stands out as a top choice. The monolingual international model at TAS acts as a powerful launchpad, giving students:
• strong academic foundations
• advanced global skills
• confidence in multicultural settings
• long-term readiness for international universities
Explore more:
What Makes an International Student Truly “Shine” in University Admissions?
Key Differences Between International and Vietnamese Students in Thinking and Learning Styles
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