Transitioning from a Vietnamese curriculum to an international high school program is a big leap. Many students start excited, but after a few weeks or months, parents begin to notice signs of exhaustion, loss of motivation, or even a desire to quit. This is not a failure—it’s a natural adjustment phase that every student may go through. The key is to recognize these signs early and provide the right support so their learning journey doesn’t get disrupted.
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Common Challenges in Adjusting to an International Curriculum
Students moving from the local education system to international high school programs often face three main challenges:
- Language barrier: Academic English in Math, Science, and Social Studies is vastly different from conversational English. Many students who can chat casually may struggle with reading materials or writing essays.
- New learning methods: No more rote memorization or test drilling. Students are now expected to work in teams, give presentations, write critical responses, and conduct independent research.
- Lack of self-learning skills: Students are unfamiliar with setting goals, making plans, and tracking their own learning—essential components of international education.
Without timely support, these issues can lead to low confidence, peer comparison, and psychological stress.
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Warning Signs That Signal a Need for Support
Parents should watch for the following signs after a child transitions to an international program:
- Grades are consistently dropping despite effort
- Reluctance to participate in class, avoiding group work or discussions
- Frequent anxiety, unwillingness to attend school, mood swings or withdrawal
- Negative self-talk like “I’m not good enough” or “I don’t fit in”
This is a sensitive period, but with the right guidance, students can not only adapt—but emerge stronger.
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How TAS Supports Students Through the Transition
At The American School (TAS), where many students enter Grades 10–11 from other systems, a comprehensive support structure is in place to ensure smooth academic and emotional integration:
- On-campus counseling services help students recognize and manage emotions, reduce stress, and build confidence
- Bridging classes review foundational concepts that students may have missed when switching systems
- Academic English & learning skills support led by native-speaking teachers and advisors
- 1:1 academic advising to help track progress, select courses, and adjust learning strategies
Most importantly, TAS provides a welcoming, encouraging, and inclusive environment—where every student feels understood, supported, and never alone in their international learning journey.
📍 Address: 6 Song Hành, Long Thành – Dầu Giây Expressway, An Phu Ward, Thu Duc City, HCMC
📞 Hotline: 0909 046 223
🌐 Website: https://www.tas.edu.vn
📘 Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/TheAmericanSchoolTAS
📧 Email: admissions@mytas.edu.vn
📝 Register for a transition consultation here: https://tas.edu.vn/vi/admissions-page/enrollment-form