District 2 is one of the areas with the highest concentration of international schools in Ho Chi Minh City. Parents have many choices, but to select the right school for their child, it is essential to understand the curriculum, educational philosophy, campus scale, teacher quality, and each school’s strengths. The following article provides detailed information, presented in an analytical format so parents can have a comprehensive view and easily compare.
The American School (TAS)
The American School is one of the largest international schools in District 2 with one of the clearest American-standard academic pathways. With a campus of nearly 3 hectares, TAS offers expansive facilities including an Innovation Lab, U.S.-standard science laboratories, a 400-seat theater, a multi-purpose sports complex, a swimming pool, and multiple sports fields for various disciplines.
The school offers continuous education from Early Childhood through Grade 12, suitable for families who want a consistent and unified academic system for their children.
TAS’s greatest strength lies in its curriculum. The entire academic program is built on the American education framework, helping students develop critical thinking, presentation skills, and academic research abilities.
At the secondary level, TAS implements the Advanced Placement (AP) Program, giving students the opportunity to access university-level content and earn college credits before graduation. Alongside AP, TAS is also an IBDP Candidate School introducing the option of IB for students aiming for deep academic development or a comprehensive international learning pathway.
Its 100% English-speaking faculty come from multiple countries and have extensive experience in American education. Thanks to this multicultural environment, students naturally improve their English proficiency and develop confidence in communication.
International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC)
ISHCMC is the first international school in Vietnam to implement the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme. The school operates two campuses in Thao Dien and An Phu with a total area of over 2 hectares, designed with a modern MakerSpace, innovation center, art studios, swimming pool, and sports hall - an active and exploratory learning environment.
ISHCMC offers a full IB continuum from PYP to MYP to DP. The inquiry-based learning philosophy encourages students to seek knowledge through questioning, research, and real-world experience. As a result, ISHCMC students develop critical thinking and self-management skills early on. Its faculty comes from diverse nationalities and are IB-certified, ensuring consistent and high-quality instruction.
European International School (EIS)
EIS stands out with its signature “village school” model, a campus made up of adjacent villas, creating a warm, intimate, and green environment. With an area of about 0.8 hectares, smaller than many other international schools, EIS provides a focused and nurturing learning experience. It is an ideal choice for parents who want an environment with less pressure and more personalized attention.
EIS also follows the full IB system: PYP, MYP, and DP. The school emphasizes social-emotional development alongside academics, helping students build confidence, empathy, and effective communication skills. Most teachers at EIS come from Europe, bringing an open, student-centered educational philosophy with high levels of interaction.
Australian International School (AIS)
AIS is one of the international schools in District 2 with the most diverse campus system, operating multiple locations in Thao Dien and Mai Chi Tho with a total size of 3.5 to 4 hectares. The school features two large swimming pools, sports halls, football fields, art rooms, and modern training facilities.
The curriculum at AIS combines the Cambridge framework at the secondary level with the IB DP for upper secondary. This provides flexibility for students who need academic reinforcement before entering the IB Diploma Programme. Aside from academics, AIS is particularly strong in sports and the arts, reflected in its wide range of extracurricular clubs and student achievements.
Teachers at AIS are primarily from Australia and New Zealand, suitable for families who prefer a practical, independence-focused teaching style.
British International School (BIS)
BIS is one of the largest British international schools in Vietnam. Part of the Nord Anglia Education group, BIS has three campuses covering more than 2 hectares. Its facilities meet high global standards, including MakerSpace, swimming pools, art studios, and a large sports hall.
The curriculum at BIS follows the British system: National Curriculum for England, IGCSE, and IB DP. This is a clear, structured academic model suitable for students planning to study in the U.K. or Europe. With its partnership with the Juilliard School, BIS offers students opportunities to access world-class arts education.
BIS has an experienced faculty primarily from the U.K. and Europe, offering a strong academic foundation and high learning expectations.
TOP INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS IN DISTRICT 2 - WHICH SCHOOL IS THE BEST CHOICE?
Choosing an international school in District 2 has no universal formula, because each family has different educational priorities: some focus on academic rigor, others want creative development, some value multicultural environments, and others need personalized learning support. The most important factor is finding a school whose philosophy aligns with the family’s goals and supports the child’s natural development.
The American School (TAS) is frequently considered by parents due to its clear, comprehensive, and practical educational model. TAS stands out in three key areas:
- A seamless American curriculum from Early Childhood to Grade 12, helping students build academic thinking aligned with international university standards.
- A flexible academic pathway combining AP and an IB-oriented direction, opening global university opportunities in the U.S., Canada, U.K., and many other countries.
- A multicultural environment with 100% English-medium instruction, providing strong foundations in language and global readiness from an early age.
For families seeking comprehensive development - academic excellence, confidence, independence, and adaptability in international environments, TAS is a compelling choice. With modern facilities, a student-centered educational philosophy, and strong teacher support, TAS provides a long-term, consistent learning journey aligned with the developmental needs of today’s global learners.
For more information:
Facilities vs. Curriculum – Which Matters Most When Choosing an International Preschool?
Art Nurtures the Soul: A Creative Journey at International Preschools
.webp)
.webp)
.webp)
.webp)
.webp)
.avif)