Australian International School Saigon - Thao Dien Campus vs Saigon South International School (SSIS)

	A Australian International School Saigon - Thao Dien Campus Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam	S Saigon South International School (SSIS) Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year ₫295,600,000 - 693,000,000	Fees / year ₫479,212,000 - 882,200,000
Age range	Age range 1½ - 11 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), Cambridge (Primary), Reggio Emilia Approach	Curriculum IB (DP), Advanced Placement (AP), American Curriculum, Bespoke Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 1,300	Pupils 1,500
Typical class size	Typical class size 19	Typical class size 14
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2006	Opened 1997
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location AIS Thao Dien is located within the An Phu Superior Compound (APSC) at 36 Thao Dien Road, Thu Duc City (formerly District 2), Ho Chi Minh City. The Thao Dien area is a well-established residential neighbourhood known for its international community, cafés, and family-friendly amenities. The campus is approximately 15 minutes from the city centre and easily accessible via major roads and school transport links.	Location SSIS is located at 78 Nguyen Duc Canh, Tân Hưng Ward, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The campus is in the Phú Mỹ Hưng residential zone, a well-planned neighbourhood with lakes, green spaces and local amenities, and is approximately 20 minutes by car from the city centre.
Stages	Stages The Thao Dien campus provides education for Early Years and Primary students, from Infant Kindergarten (age 1.5) through Year 6 (age 10–11). It includes two nearby sites: Lotus (Kindergarten) and Cherry Blossom (Primary), both within walking distance of each other. Students progress to the Thu Thiem campus for Secondary and Senior School.	Stages The school serves Early Childhood (starting at age 3) through to Grade 12. It is organised into divisions encompassing Early Years/Kindergarten, Elementary (Grades 1–5), Middle School (Grades 6–8) and High School (Grades 9–12).
School type	School type AIS Thao Dien is a co-educational international day school that welcomes both local and expatriate students.	School type SSIS is a co-educational day school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support AIS provides individualised support for students with additional learning needs through its Student Support Services team. This includes assistance for mild to moderate Special Educational Needs (SEN) and tailored English as an Additional Language (EAL) programmes. Support is designed to help each student access the curriculum successfully.	Additional learning support The school offers Learning Support services for students with mild to moderate learning differences, working with parents and teachers to develop individual learning plans. It also offers English as an Additional Language (EAL) support for multilingual learners.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation The school follows an Australian educational philosophy and is part of the Inspired Education Group, an international network of schools.	Country affiliation There is no formal affiliation to a particular national government. SSIS operates as a not-for-profit international school based in Vietnam, following an American standards-based curriculum.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation The school does not have any religious affiliations.	Religious affiliation The school has no religious affiliations.
School day structure	School day structure Classes begin at 8:00 am and finish at 2:40 pm, with breaks for morning recess and lunch. After-school activities take place between 2:50 pm and 3:50 pm, providing additional opportunities in sports, arts, and clubs.	School day structure Specific published times are not detailed on the school's website.
Bus service details	Bus service details AIS offers a supervised school bus service that connects Thao Dien with other districts in Ho Chi Minh City. Routes are organised by distance, and each bus includes a licensed driver and an onboard assistant. The service operates five days a week, with options for both one-way and return travel, ensuring safe and reliable transport for students.	Bus service details SSIS provides a bus service for students. Each bus has an assigned monitor to ensure students board and alight safely. For after-school activities (ASAs), special bus departures are scheduled (for example at 4:10 pm and 4:40 pm) with an extra charge for ASA-only riders.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application Fee A one-time, non-refundable fee of VND 3,500,000 is required at the time of application. Acceptance Fee * Kindergarten (Infant–Senior): VND 32,000,000, with an additional VND 32,000,000 due when progressing to Year 1. * Primary (Years 1–6): VND 64,000,000. Tuition Fees (per year) * Infant Kindergarten: VND 295,600,000 * Junior Kindergarten: VND 302,100,000 * Senior Kindergarten: VND 305,400,000 * Year 1: VND 566,000,000 * Year 2: VND 619,300,000 * Year 3: VND 631,400,000 * Year 4: VND 640,000,000 * Year 5: VND 647,500,000 * Year 6: VND 653,800,000 Payment Options Families can pay fees in one annual payment or through two or four instalments. Discounts are offered for full annual payment and early settlement. Bus Service Fees (per year) Annual bus fees vary depending on distance, ranging from approximately VND 13,000,000 to VND 54,000,000 for one-way or return services. Other Costs Additional expenses include uniforms, lunches, optional after-school activities, and school supplies. Refund Policy Tuition fee refunds are calculated on a decreasing scale based on the student’s withdrawal date, with the highest refund before the start of the school year and none after the final term begins. Payment Methods Fees may be paid by bank transfer or credit card, in VND or USD, using the exchange rate set by the school’s designated banks.	Fee details * Application Fee: VND 10,000,000 (one-time, non-refundable, per new student). * Registration Fee: VND 60,000,000 (one-time, non-refundable, per new student, also applies to returning students re-enrolling after one or more years). Enrollment Deposit * Deposit: VND 45,000,000. * Payable upon signing the Letter of Acceptance (new students). * Deducted from the tuition invoice (from full payment or Q4 installment). * Refundable if a Departure Notice is given at least 60 days before leaving. Tuition Fees * EC3–4: 509,800,000 / Q1 178,430,000; Q2 127,450,000; Q3 127,450,000; Q4 76,470,000 * Kindergarten: 580,000,000 / Q1 203,000,000; Q2 145,000,000; Q3 145,000,000; Q4 87,000,000 * Grades 1–5: 702,700,000 / Q1 245,945,000; Q2 175,675,000; Q3 175,675,000; Q4 105,405,000 * Grades 6–8: 749,700,000 / Q1 262,395,000; Q2 187,425,000; Q3 187,425,000; Q4 112,455,000 * Grades 9–10: 794,300,000 / Q1 278,005,000; Q2 198,575,000; Q3 198,575,000; Q4 119,145,000 * Grades 11–12: 882,200,000 / Q1 308,770,000; Q2 220,550,000; Q3 220,550,000; Q4 132,330,000 Families choosing full annual payment by June 25 receive a 6% discount. Billing and Payment Schedule * Quarterly Installments: All installments are non-refundable. * Late enrollment: Tuition charged pro-rata (100%, 85%, 60%, 35% depending on entry quarter). * Refunds: Departure > 60 days = partial refund based on quarter (60% in Q1 → 0% in Q4). * Sibling Discount: 20% for third and subsequent children in the same family. Other Costs Families cover uniforms, lunches, personal supplies, AP & IB exam fees, extracurriculars (athletics, VEX Robotics, debate, performing arts), and bus transport. Students in Grades 4–12 must bring a MacBook. Payment Options Payments can be made via Vietcombank (Nam Sai Gon Branch) or Standard Chartered Bank (Vietnam) in VND or USD. All bank charges are borne by the payer, and an exchange rate applies to foreign currency transfers.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement The school requires wearing the approved SSIS uniform to school each day. Uniform items are purchased at the school store, and uniform details are division-specific as shown in the uniform items guide.
Food options	Food options The Lotus Campus canteen serves balanced home-cooked meals daily.	Food options SSIS has a cafeteria with a catering partner (Aden) starting in the 2025–2026 school year. EC and KG receive pre-ordered lunches delivered to classrooms; Grades 1–12 use their SSIS ID card to pay for meals; menus are published by division. During kitchen and cafeteria renovations (February 24–June 4, 2025), meals were prepared offsite and delivered to the school.
House system	House system —	House system SSIS has a four-house system: Hydra, Naga, Shenlong, Wyvern. House shirts are worn for orientation and house-based activities; house colors are red for Hydra, green for Naga, yellow for Shenlong, and purple for Wyvern.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is part of ACG Australian International Education Services Company Limited and is aligned with Inspired Education's global network of premium schools.	Governance and ownership SSIS is established as a not-for-profit entity of the Phu My Hung Corporation.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details The Australian International School (AIS) Thao Dien offers an internationally recognised curriculum for students from Infant Kindergarten to Year 6. Teaching in the Early Years is based on the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) framework, which encourages inquiry and hands-on exploration across all areas of learning. In the Primary School, students continue within the PYP while also following the Cambridge Primary curriculum for English, Mathematics, and Science, ensuring strong foundations in literacy and numeracy. Additional subjects include Social Studies, Vietnamese Language and Culture, Music, Visual Arts, Physical Education, and Technology. Lessons are delivered in English, with Vietnamese offered for both native and non-native speakers. On completion of Year 6, students transition to the Thu Thiem campus for Cambridge Lower Secondary, IGCSE, and the IB Diploma Programme.	Curriculum details Teaching and learning at SSIS follow an American-standards based framework across Early Childhood through Grade 12, emphasising inquiry, student engagement and critical thinking. In the Elementary School, a written curriculum provides integrated “Super Units” that connect subjects such as English, Maths, Science, Social Studies, Arts and Vietnamese, while specialist teachers support subjects like Visual Art, Drama, Music and Physical Education. In Middle School, students move into discipline-based classes, expanding their study of modern world languages, mathematics, science and humanities. In High School (Grades 9-12), students can pursue the high school diploma pathway with a choice of Advanced Placement (AP) courses or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) alongside the SSIS Diploma. The program of studies shows that students earn credits by subject area and can select pathways that match their future study plans.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar View document	Academic calendar View document
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning AIS integrates social and emotional learning throughout its Early Years and Primary programmes. Teachers foster self-awareness, empathy, and cooperation through daily classroom routines, group projects, and pastoral activities. Homeroom teachers play an active role in monitoring student wellbeing and supporting positive relationships. Assemblies, themed activities, and school-wide events encourage students to reflect on values such as respect and responsibility. The school counsellor also contributes to SEL initiatives by providing support when social or emotional challenges arise.	Social & emotional learning Saigon South International School integrates social and emotional learning throughout daily school life. The Wellness Program helps students build skills in communication, empathy, responsibility, and community engagement. In the Elementary School, SEL is included through classroom activities such as goal setting and reflection. Middle School students participate in an Advisory Program focused on self-awareness, healthy relationships, and personal growth. In High School, regular advisory sessions and peer activities encourage connection, confidence, and a sense of belonging across the student community.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) AIS supports students with mild to moderate learning needs through its Student Support Services (SSS) team. The Special Education Needs (SEN) Coordinator works with teachers to adapt lessons, set learning goals, and monitor progress. Support may include small-group or in-class assistance depending on each student’s needs. Additional SEN fees may apply when extra staffing or resources are required. AIS is not a specialist SEN institution and may refer families to external professionals if more intensive support is needed.	Special educational needs (SEN) The school provides Learning Support for students with mild to moderate learning differences. This support is offered through collaboration between classroom teachers, learning specialists, and parents. Individual Learning Plans are developed to help students meet their academic and personal goals. SSIS clarifies that it is not a specialist SEN institution and cannot accommodate students requiring intensive or full-time therapeutic support.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language AIS provides structured EAL (English as an Additional Language) support for students whose first language is not English. The EAL Coordinator oversees individualised or small-group instruction to develop listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. EAL provision begins from Year 2 and continues through the primary years. Assessment at enrolment determines the level of language support required. Additional EAL fees apply depending on the extent of assistance needed.	English as an additional language The school offers an English as an Additional Language program for multilingual learners starting from Kindergarten. EAL teachers work alongside classroom teachers to help students develop their English skills while engaging fully in classroom learning. English language proficiency is assessed during the admissions process to determine placement and support levels.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing AIS employs a qualified school counsellor who offers confidential support for students facing emotional, behavioural, or social challenges. The counsellor provides individual sessions, group workshops, and referrals to external specialists where necessary. Teachers and leadership staff collaborate to ensure early identification and intervention for students in need of additional care. Regular communication between teachers and families helps maintain a supportive environment focused on student wellbeing.	Mental wellbeing Student mental wellbeing is supported through access to school counsellors and structured wellness education across divisions. The High School program includes counselling services, advisory sessions, and lessons focused on life skills and resilience. These initiatives aim to help students navigate academic and personal challenges in a supportive environment.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding AIS maintains a clear Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy that outlines procedures for ensuring student safety. All staff members receive regular safeguarding training and are required to report any concerns to designated Child Protection Officers. The school enforces supervision guidelines, visitor management protocols, and safety checks across all activities. These measures aim to ensure that students are protected and that any issues are handled promptly and appropriately.	Safeguarding Saigon South International School (SSIS) maintains a comprehensive Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy approved by its Board of Directors and reviewed every four years. The policy applies to all teaching and non-teaching staff and outlines clear responsibilities for protecting students’ safety and wellbeing. The school fosters a “Culture of Care,” ensuring all community members are aware of their duty to promote child welfare and report any concerns. A Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), supported by divisional principals and counsellors, oversees the safeguarding process and coordinates a “Team Around the Child” approach to provide multi-layered support. Staff are required to record concerns using a secure online system (CPOMS), with clear procedures for emergencies, confidentiality, and follow-up actions. The policy also mandates annual safeguarding training, parent education sessions, and compliance with international and Vietnamese child-protection laws, including the 2016 Vietnamese Children’s Law and UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy View document
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview AIS Thao Dien Campus comprises two campuses, Lotus (Kindergarten) and Cherry Blossom (Primary), located about 300 metres apart within the An Phu Superior Compound on Thao Dien Road. Lotus Campus was refurbished in summer 2024 with boutique-style buildings, purpose-designed classrooms, a green garden, and European Kompan playgrounds. Cherry Blossom Campus was refurbished in summer 2024 with upgraded classrooms, language rooms, a library, a computer room, a new auditorium and playgrounds. Children attend Lotus for Kindergarten and transfer to Cherry Blossom for Years 1 to 6, with Year 5 and 6 events hosted at the Thu Thiem Campus to support transition. The Cherry Blossom Campus is adjacent to the AIS Sports Centre, providing access to a swimming pool and multi-sport courts. The Lotus Campus is near the Thao Dien Sports Centre, which offers swimming and multi-sport facilities.	Facilities overview The SSIS campus spans 6 hectares and serves EC through Grade 12 in three divisions, with bright, modern classrooms and expansive outdoor spaces. Two new buildings were added in 2024 to expand learning spaces. Three libraries hold nearly 30,000 titles across divisions. A state-of-the-art IDEA Center and Design Lab, plus divisional maker spaces including the ES Spark Lab, support hands-on learning and design thinking. The HS IDEA center houses 3D printers, CNC machines, an industrial laser and water cutters, and a 3D scanner; SSIS also supports robotics through VEX and FIRST teams with a dedicated VEX arena for practice.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Cherry Blossom Campus is adjacent to the AIS Sports Centre, offering access to a swimming pool and multi-sport courts. The Lotus Campus is near the Thao Dien Sports Centre, which provides a swimming pool and multi-sport facilities. The facilities support curricular and after-school sports and swimming activities. The campuses provide access to these sports amenities via the nearby centres.	Sports facilities Athletics facilities indoors include two air-conditioned gyms with three full courts for basketball and volleyball, a brand new fitness studio, and a six-lane pool. Outdoors, there are three full soccer fields with stadium lighting.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Instruction is conducted entirely in English. The curriculum integrates the IB Primary Years Programme (EYP for Junior & Senior Kindergarten) and Cambridge English and Cambridge Maths for Years 1 to 6. Infants follow Inspired Reggio Emilia Early Years Approach and Play-Based Learning. AIS is part of Inspired Education Group. The curriculum also uses inquiry-based learning to develop critical thinking and real-world skills.	Academic facilities Bright, modern classrooms support instruction across EC through Grade 12. A state-of-the-art IDEA Center and Design Lab, with divisional maker spaces, support STEAM learning. The HS IDEA center houses 3D printers, CNC machines, an industrial laser and water cutters, and a 3D scanner. The MS design lab provides coding and construction, and the Spark Lab covers robotics, circuitry, physical computing, AR/VR, and multimedia. The libraries offer more than 25,000 physical books and more than 4,500 online titles across three divisions. The campus features a 360-seat auditorium and a Blackbox Theatre for performing arts.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities The international schools in Thao Dien offer a wide range of extracurricular activities for kindergarten and primary students. Clubs include GLEE Club, Arts & Crafts, Chess, Tennis, Basketball, Football, Netball, and Swim Squad. Primary students participate in Robotic STEM, Drama, Dance, Magic Club, Spanish, In-line Skating, Acro/Gymnastics, Judo and Sewing. Regular events, field trips, and school camps are held for Years 2 to 6.	Extra curricular facilities Robotics and maker activities are supported by the ES Spark Lab, the MS design lab, and the HS IDEA center, with VEX and FIRST robotics teams and a VEX arena for practice. The performing arts spaces include a 360-seat auditorium and a Blackbox Theatre for after-school productions. Athletic facilities enable participation in citywide and regional leagues with two indoor gyms, a six-lane pool, a fitness studio, and three outdoor soccer fields with stadium lighting. Outdoor learning spaces and learning gardens provide environments for clubs and project-based activities. The libraries and arts spaces support a range of clubs, study groups, and performances.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History The Australian International School (AIS) was established in 2006 in Ho Chi Minh City to provide an international education based on Australian teaching principles. The Thao Dien campus was one of the school’s first locations, serving as the foundation for its early years and primary programmes. Over time, AIS expanded to include the Thu Thiem and Xi campuses, creating a connected learning pathway from Kindergarten to Year 13. The school is part of the Inspired Education Group, an international network of schools operating across more than 20 countries.	History The school was founded in 1997 by the Phu My Hung Corporation as a non-profit international school. Lawrence S. Ting and Ferdinand P. Tsien are noted as the visionary founders behind the establishment of the school. Over time the school has expanded its campus, added new facilities and grown its student body to serve a broad international community. The governance is non-profit and linked to the Phu My Hung development.
Community	Community AIS Thao Dien has a close-knit, multicultural community representing families from over 40 nationalities. The school celebrates a variety of cultural and community events throughout the year, such as International Day, Tet (Lunar New Year), and Book Week. These events bring together students, parents, and staff to share cultural traditions and strengthen community connections.	Community The community at the school is multicultural, with students and families from a wide range of nationalities. Regular events include International Day, Family Fun Day, Elementary Sports Day and Christmas Tree Lighting which bring together students, parents and staff. The school emphasises parent-and-community involvement in planning and running these events, fostering active participation across the community.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association AIS has an active Parent Teacher Association (PTA) that plays an important role in supporting school life and community engagement. The PTA organises regular events such as the Welcome Back Picnic, International Day, and the Christmas Fair, encouraging families to socialise and participate in school activities. It also coordinates fundraising and charity initiatives that contribute to local community projects. The PTA meets regularly with school leadership to discuss community feedback and ideas for improving the student experience. Through these efforts, the PTA helps maintain strong partnerships between families and the school.	Parent teacher association The PTA at the school comprises parents, teachers and staff working together to support the school community. It organises coffee mornings for new and returning parents to connect and receive updates, as well as large events such as the Family Fun Day and International Day. The PTA also runs “Parent Clubs” including Art Club, Book Club, Coffee Club, Spanish Language Class, Pilates Club and Sports Club. Country Ambassadors are part of the PTA network, assisting families from specific nationalities to connect within the school community. Volunteers are encouraged to join event committees and support initiatives throughout the school year.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school offers Robotic STEM as an extracurricular activity for primary students. Primary students also participate in Drama, Dance, Magic Club, Spanish, In-line Skating, Acro/Gymnastics, Judo, and Sewing. Regular events, field trips, and school camps for Years 2 to 6 support independence, self-esteem, and resilience.	Academic & intellectual SSIS follows an American standards-based curriculum. The high school program includes Advanced Placement (AP) courses and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). SSIS is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). SSIS is the only international school in Ho Chi Minh City offering both AP and IB in high school.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Specialist art facilities include art and music rooms and a new auditorium, enabling students to explore and develop creative talents. Primary students engage in visual and performing arts as part of the enrichment programme.	Arts & creative SSIS supports arts across visual and performing arts. The STEAM Design Center is 7,100 square meters and includes a makerspace, a robotics lab, an art exhibition space, visual art studios, and science labs. The high school offers AP Art and Design courses.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Spanish is offered as an extracurricular language. Cultural activities are available as part of the enrichment programme.	Cultural & language SSIS serves an international student body. SSIS provides an English-language curriculum with English-language support through its EAL program. During admissions, linguistic needs are comprehensively assessed to determine English-proficiency services. SSIS is a member of MRISA and SEASAC.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies The school offers clubs and sports such as GLEE Club, Arts & Crafts, Chess, Tennis, Basketball, Football, Netball, and the Swim Squad, with additional after-school activities through the sports centre. Primary students can also join Robotic STEM, Drama, Dance, Magic Club, Spanish, In-line Skating, Acro/Gymnastics, Judo, and Sewing.	Social & hobbies SSIS offers After-School Activities, athletics, and clubs. Students can pursue interests beyond class through ASAs and sports. Campus life includes a range of social and recreational opportunities.
Community & service	Community & service —	Community & service Service in Action connects SSIS students with local partners to perform service. These experiences foster empathy and real-world understanding. The program is integrated across school life.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Leadership opportunities are included in the enrichment programme. Participation in clubs and team activities helps students develop leadership, teamwork, and interpersonal skills.	Leadership & professional The Head of School is Dr. Catriona Moran. SSIS has a leadership team and a faculty recruited from around the world. Four high school guidance counselors support college and career planning. SSIS operates as a not-for-profit entity.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing The Cherry Blossom campus is adjacent to the AIS Sports Centre, which provides a swimming pool and multi-sport courts for curricular and extracurricular activities. The facilities support physical fitness, teamwork, and well-being.	Lifestyle & wellbeing SSIS provides well-being support through weekly advisory lessons in high school. Dedicated counselors support students' social and emotional growth. SSIS offers health and wellness initiatives and a broad program of student-life activities.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school teaches in English, and instruction is conducted entirely in English from infants to Year 6. The curriculum includes the IB Primary Years Programme and the Cambridge International curriculum for English and Maths. Vietnamese support teachers are provided to assist language needs. Spanish is offered as an extracurricular language activity for primary students.	Language provision The school uses an English-language curriculum. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is available for multilingual learners. During admissions, linguistic needs are comprehensively assessed to determine the level of English proficiency. EAL specialists collaborate with classroom teachers to support language development and ensure access to the English-language curriculum.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations * International Baccalaureate (IB) World School: AIS is authorised to offer the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and the IB Diploma Programme (DP), signifying compliance with the IB’s global standards for inquiry-based, internationally oriented education. * Cambridge International School: The school is accredited by Cambridge Assessment International Education to deliver the Cambridge Lower Secondary and IGCSE (in Thu Thiem Campus) programmes, ensuring recognised academic pathways aligned with international benchmarks. * Council of International Schools (CIS) Member: AIS is a member of the Council of International Schools, a global organisation that supports quality assurance and continuous improvement through rigorous evaluation and professional development.	Accreditations * Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC): A U.S.-based regional accreditor recognised for validating school quality and continuous improvement for schools in East Asia and the Pacific. * International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO / IB Diploma Programme authorisation): Authorisation that allows SSIS to offer the IB Diploma Programme, demonstrating it meets the standards and practices of the IB organisation. * College Board (AP Programme authorisation): Recognition that SSIS is authorised to offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses, enabling students to take rigorous college-level subjects while in high school. * Council of International Schools (CIS) Membership: SSIS is a member of CIS which supports international school quality through benchmarked peer review and professional development. * Association of International Schools in South East Asia (AISA) or similar regional associations: SSIS holds membership in regional international-school networks (such as SEASAC and MRISA) which link the school to peer institutions for activities and standards.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Enquiry and School Tour Families begin the process by completing an online enquiry form or arranging a personal tour of the Thao Dien campus. The Admissions Team provides information about the Early Years and Primary programmes, facilities, and available year groups. 2. Application Submission Parents submit the Application Form along with copies of the child’s birth certificate or passport, recent school reports (if applicable), and any relevant health or learning support documents. A non-refundable Application Fee of VND 3,500,000 is payable at this stage. 3. Assessment and Interview Younger children may be observed during a play-based session, while older applicants might take a short academic assessment. The school may invite families to meet with the Principal or Admissions staff to ensure the programme is a good fit for the child’s needs. 4. Offer and Acceptance Successful applicants receive a Letter of Offer confirming the year group and start date. A place is secured once parents sign the Enrolment Agreement and pay the Acceptance Fee. 5. Orientation and Start of School Families receive details about class placement, uniforms, and transport. Orientation activities help new students and parents become familiar with daily routines and teachers before school begins.	Admissions 1. Inquiry and Application Submission Families begin by completing the online application form and uploading all required documents. An application fee of VND 10,000,000 is payable at this stage. Applicants in Early Childhood to Kindergarten complete a developmental observation, while Grades 1–12 complete written assessments in English and mathematics. 2. Assessment and Interview Following the initial review, students may be invited for additional testing or an interview to determine English proficiency and overall readiness. The Admissions Office evaluates prior school records, assessment results, and whether the school can meet the student’s learning needs. 3. Decision and Offer After review, applicants may receive an offer of admission, be placed on the waiting list, or be declined. Accepted families receive a formal Letter of Acceptance, which must be signed and returned along with a completed health form. 4. Payment and Enrollment To secure a place, families must pay the required enrollment deposit and tuition (or first installment) by the due dates listed in the fee schedule. All payments must be completed before the student’s first day of class. 5. Orientation and Start New students and parents are invited to attend orientation sessions before the start of the academic year in August. Middle and High School students also meet with a counselor to confirm course selections and discuss academic planning. 6. Rolling Admissions Applications are accepted year-round, although placement is based on space availability. Families seeking entry in August are encouraged to begin the process by January of the same calendar year.
Scholarships	Scholarships AIS scholarships apply only to students entering Years 7–12, which are offered at the Thu Thiem campus. The Thao Dien campus (Early Years to Year 6) does not offer scholarships.	Scholarships SSIS offers the annual Lawrence S. Ting Scholarship for one Vietnamese student entering Grade 10 who has only attended local Vietnamese schools. The scholarship is renewable for up to three years, is awarded on the basis of academic excellence, English proficiency, interest in global/international affairs and service to others. The application timeline begins in December and features a written test, group discussion and interview rounds, with winners announced in May.
Waitlist	Waitlist AIS operates a rolling admissions process throughout the year, depending on availability in each year group. The school does not publish details of a formal waitlist or pool system.	Waitlist SSIS operates a wait-pool (waiting list) system. Qualified applicants whose grade level is full are placed on the waiting list until space becomes available. Admission thereafter depends on space and on the candidate meeting requirements.
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