International Schools of North America - Saigon South (SNA Saigon South) vs Vietnam Finland International School

	I International Schools of North America - Saigon South (SNA Saigon South) Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam	V Vietnam Finland International School Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year ₫514,560,000 - 843,470,000	Fees / year ₫457,590,000 - 639,240,000
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 6 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)	Curriculum IB (DP), Bespoke Curriculum, Finnish Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 500	Pupils 400
Typical class size	Typical class size 22	Typical class size 22
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English, Finnish, Vietnamese
Opened	Opened 2005	Opened 2019
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location The International Schools of North America – Saigon South (SNA Saigon South) is situated on Street No. 20 in the Him Lam Residential Area, Binh Hung Commune, District 8, Ho Chi Minh City. The campus lies within the Saigon South area, a well-planned residential neighborhood known for its family-oriented environment and convenient access to major districts of the city. Its proximity to main roads and transport links makes it easily reachable for both local and expatriate families. The area offers a calm and secure setting that contrasts with the busier city center, making it a suitable environment for both learning and community life.	Location VFIS is located at Gate 9, Ton Duc Thang University, 19 Nguyen Huu Tho Street, Tan Hung Ward, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. It sits within the university campus in a planned urban district, with accessible transport links and a calm, campus-conducive environment for families relocating.
Stages	Stages SNA Saigon South offers a full International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum from the Primary Years Programme (PYP) through the Middle Years Programme (MYP) to the Diploma Programme (DP). The school welcomes students from early primary to high school level, typically ranging in age from 3 to 18.	Stages The school offers programmes from Grade 1 through to Grade 12, covering primary, lower secondary and upper secondary levels. It delivers both an International Programme (Grades 1–12) and a Bilingual Programme (Grades 1–12).
School type	School type SNA Saigon South is a co-educational international school.	School type VFIS is a co-educational day school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support The school provides dedicated support for students with additional learning needs through its Student Support Services department. This includes English language acquisition programs for non-native speakers and an Inclusion Programme for students requiring academic, emotional, or behavioral support. Individual Education Plans (IEPs) are developed where necessary, ensuring each student receives targeted assistance. The school also offers counseling and wellbeing programs to help students thrive both academically and personally.	Additional learning support VFIS provides English Language Support (EAL) for students whose first language is not English, including foundation courses and grouped support classes. Additionally, the welfare services include a multi-professional team with special education teacher involvement to support student well-being.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation The school operates as a fully authorized International Baccalaureate World School, drawing on global best practices in international education rather than following a country-specific curriculum.	Country affiliation The school is affiliated with Vietnam in that it is located in Vietnam and is part of a Vietnamese public university; additionally it draws on the Finnish education ethos and curriculum standards but is not a Finnish “branch school” in the sense of being governed from Finland.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation The school does not have any religious affiliations.	Religious affiliation VFIS does not specify any religious affiliation; it is a secular international school.
School day structure	School day structure The typical school day begins around 8:15 a.m. and concludes at approximately 3:15 p.m., with scheduled breaks for snacks and lunch. Boarding students follow an extended daily routine, which includes supervised study periods, extracurricular activities, and structured evening programs. The daily schedule is designed to balance academic lessons with time for recreation, enrichment, and personal development.	School day structure On a typical day, the school opens from 7:30 am Monday to Friday, with formal lessons starting at 8:00 am and the main school day ending at 3:15 pm. Lunch and recess together last approximately 45 minutes (at different times depending on grade). After-school extra-curricular and additional classes may continue until about 4:00 pm.
Bus service details	Bus service details The school offers a well-organized bus service for students living across Ho Chi Minh City. This service is managed in partnership with a professional transport provider, ensuring safety and reliability. Families can choose between one-way or two-way options, depending on their needs. Bus routes cover multiple residential districts, and details regarding stops, timing, and fees are made available at the start of each academic year.	Bus service details VFIS offers a dedicated school bus service operated by the school. The service is owned and run by VFIS, uses experienced drivers and monitors, and covers routes within approximately 10 km of the campus. Parents can register via the school’s transport office for pick-up and drop-off.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application Fee A one-time, non-refundable application fee of VND 5,600,000 is required upon submission of the admission form. Registration Fee A one-time registration fee of VND 40,000,000 applies upon enrollment confirmation. This fee is refundable only if the student is deemed ineligible due to failing the entrance exam or for verified medical reasons. Tuition Fees (per year and per semester) All fees are in VND. Payment may be made annually or by semester. Discounts apply for early full-year payment. * Grades 1–5 (PYP): 514,560,000 per year / 257,280,000 per semester * Grades 6–10 (MYP): 689,240,000 per year / 344,620,000 per semester * Grades 11–12 (DP): 843,470,000 per year / 421,735,000 per semester These tuition rates include textbooks, stationery, laboratory fees, co-curricular activities, IB examination fees (first attempt), English language support (if applicable), and student insurance. Boarding Fees Boarding is available for both primary and secondary students: * Primary (Mon–Fri): 94,300,000 per year * Primary (Mon–Sun): 115,200,000 per year * Secondary (Mon–Fri): 110,340,000 per year * Secondary (Mon–Sun): 135,640,000 per year Meals are included on school days only. Other Fees * Uniforms: Primary 2,975,000 / Secondary MYP 3,575,000 / Secondary DP 5,475,000 * Meals: Primary 35,470,000 per year / Secondary 40,930,000 per year * Transportation (within HCMC): From 21,000,000 to 40,230,000 per year (two-way), depending on pick-up zone Discounts and Sibling Policy * 10% discount for the second sibling, 15% for the third and subsequent siblings enrolled at SNA or other NHG schools. * 30% discount on bus fees for additional siblings sharing the same pick-up point. Refund Policy Tuition refunds are available if withdrawal is due to relocation, disaster, or medical reasons, with notice at least 30 working days before departure. Refund rates vary by timing (e.g., 100% before start date, 50% within two months of term start). Meal and boarding fees are refundable based on unused days. Payment Terms and Options Payments may be made by semester or annually via bank transfer to the school’s account.	Fee details Application Fees Primary applicants (Grades 1–5) pay an application fee of 2,250,000 VND. Secondary and High School applicants (Grades 6–12) pay 4,500,000 VND. This fee covers the entrance assessment and administration and is non-refundable. Tuition Fees International Programme – Annual Tuition (per grade): • Grades 1–5: 457,590,000 VND • Grades 6–7: 499,230,000 VND • Grades 8–10: 525,690,000 VND • Grades 11–12: 639,240,000 VND Term Tuition (per term): • Grades 1–5: Term 1 – 230,620,000 VND; Term 2 – 263,570,000 VND • Grades 6–7: Term 1 – 251,610,000 VND; Term 2 – 287,560,000 VND • Grades 8–10: Term 1 – 264,950,000 VND; Term 2 – 302,800,000 VND • Grades 11–12: Term 1 – 322,180,000 VND; Term 2 – 368,200,000 VND Billing Schedule & Payment Terms All annual tuition or Term 1 fees must be paid before the school year begins; Term 2 tuition must be paid before Term 2 starts. Early full-year payment made before 27 May receives a 10% reduction; payments between 28 May and 16 July receive a 5% reduction. Sibling & Long-Term Reductions Sibling reductions range from 10% (second child) to 20% (fourth child onward). A 3% reduction applies for students enrolled for five or more consecutive years. Other Costs Security deposit: 25,000,000 VND (International Programme). Meals: Primary includes lunch and snack; Secondary and High School include lunch only. Bus service fees vary by distance (5–15 km and Phu My Hung) and by public or private pick-up points. Refund Policies Refunds depend on withdrawal timing, with up to 100% refunded before the school year begins and partial refunds after the year has started. Fee Payment Options Fees may be paid annually or by term through the school’s accepted payment channels (e.g., bank transfer).
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements Boarding facilities are state-of-the-art and located 2 minutes from the main campus. Rooms are separated by gender, with bedrooms offering storage and study spaces. Communal spaces include a living room, a lounge, a dining room, and a laundry, and a dedicated boarding team provides round-the-clock care. The program offers a range of activities and events to support academic and personal growth.	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement VFIS has uniforms designed for activities both inside and outside the classroom. There is a separate uniform for PE activities, field trips and traveling. Uniforms are obligatory for every VFISer when arriving at or leaving campus or representing the School off-campus.
Food options	Food options Food service is provided by Aden Food. The SNA Menu (September 2025) shows a mix of Asian and Western dishes; menus may change based on supply. The canteen is nut-free to accommodate allergies; vegetarian options are available. On-site staff and managers oversee safe, hygienic operations.	Food options VFIS offers daily nutritious, balanced meals for all students in the school canteen. Meals are prepared by an outsourced international catering company that meets Vietnamese Food Safety Requirements and EN ISO 9001:2015 (TUV Austria). The menu provides Western, Asian and vegetarian options, and there are cultural theme weeks during the school year.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is part of the Nguyen Hoang Group (NHG), a private education group in Vietnam, which provides an education ecosystem that includes institutions such as iSchool and UK Academy; SNA Saigon South benefits from this network.	Governance and ownership VFIS operates as a not-for-profit international school under Ton Duc Thang University, a not-for-profit public property independent from businesses.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details The International Schools of North America – Saigon South (SNA Saigon South) offers a full International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum, encompassing the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP). Students in Grades 1–5 follow the PYP, which emphasizes inquiry-based learning across subjects such as language, mathematics, science, and the arts. Grades 6–10 study within the MYP framework, integrating global contexts and interdisciplinary projects that encourage critical thinking and personal development. In Grades 11–12, students pursue the IB Diploma Programme, which includes six subject groups, Theory of Knowledge, the Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) components. English is the primary language of instruction, while Vietnamese and Korean are taught as additional languages. The curriculum prepares students for international higher education pathways and encourages engagement with local and global communities.	Curriculum details Vietnam–Finland International School (VFIS) offers two pathways from Grade 1 to Grade 12: an International Programme and a Bilingual Programme. The International Programme follows the Finnish National Core Curriculum, with Vietnamese language, History, Geography and Ethics added for Vietnamese citizens as required by national regulations. The Bilingual Programme combines Finnish curriculum principles with subjects taught in Vietnamese in alignment with Vietnam’s Ministry of Education and Training. From Grade 10, students begin a preparatory year leading toward the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP), which is formally offered in Grades 11 and 12. Across all years, students learn English with a structured progression based on Cambridge Assessment English, supported by additional English Language Support where needed. Specialist subjects include arts, crafts, home economics, physical education, and science, reflecting the broad subject areas in the Finnish framework.
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 SNA’s Student Support Services department includes a counselling and wellbeing team that works with students on individual, social, peer, educational and relationship issues in a confidential setting. They aim to support the physical, mental, social and emotional wellbeing of students, helping build resilience and self-help strategies. The boarding programme also emphasises daily supervision, mentoring and routines to support social-emotional growth. The school says that students themselves define “wellbeing” as including physical, social, emotional and spiritual aspects, and they involve students in discussions of trending issues.	Social & emotional learning VFIS supports students’ social and emotional development through its pupil-welfare services, which focus on learning, mental and physical health, and social well-being. The school states that this work is carried out by a multi-professional team that includes psychologists, counsellors, school nurses, and a special education teacher, overseen by the principal. Individual Learning Plans (ILPs) are used to guide student progress and provide structured support. The school also emphasises close collaboration between welfare staff, teachers, and families to ensure that students’ needs are identified and monitored. No additional SEL-specific programmes are publicly described.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) SNA offers an Inclusion Programme for students with learning, emotional or behavioural needs, supporting them through Individual Education Plans (IEPs). The school works with outside agencies and professional recommendations to assist students requiring challenge or help in their educational journey. While it is not a specialist SEN institution, it caters to a range of needs including academic, social, emotional and behavioural. The aim is an inclusive educational environment rather than a separate specialist centre.	Special educational needs (SEN) VFIS has a special education teacher as part of its welfare services, indicating that the school offers some level of SEN support. The welfare team includes professionals such as psychologists and counsellors who may also contribute to supporting students with additional needs. However, the school does not publicly specify which categories of SEN it can accommodate, nor does it describe specialised SEN programmes or facilities. There is no indication that VFIS is a specialist SEN institution. The available information confirms only that SEN support exists but does not detail its scope.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language SNA provides language support through its Student Support Services team — offering opportunities in English, Vietnamese and Korean, and supporting independent language studies for other mother-tongue backgrounds. However, the school does not publicly provide a detailed separate “EAL programme” description using that label, so the precise structure (e.g., levels, identification process) is not fully disclosed.	English as an additional language VFIS provides structured English Language Support for students who require additional help. New students are assessed upon entry, and those who need support complete a compulsory foundation course, often held in the summer. During the school year, students may be placed into English support groups based on their proficiency level, with progress reviewed at the end of each semester. Additional English classes are available as paid programmes. This is the only EAL-related provision the school publicly describes.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing The school explicitly recognises that student mental health is important and offers counselling and mental wellbeing programmes. SNA states that students can discuss concerns in a safe and confidential space, receive guidance on coping strategies, and that wellbeing is promoted through awareness activities. The boarding environment is also noted as a key priority for wellbeing support.	Mental wellbeing The school’s welfare services state a commitment to promoting students’ mental and physical health as part of overall well-being. Psychologists and counsellors are included in the welfare team, indicating that professional mental-health support is available on campus. The emphasis on individual guidance and collaboration between staff and families is positioned as part of this support. Beyond these core services, the school does not publicly detail additional mental-wellbeing programmes, therapy services, or structured interventions.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding SNA has a published Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy, confirming its responsibility to protect students from harm, neglect and exploitation. It defines a designated safeguarding lead (or deputies), requires training for all staff and sets expectations for secure recruitment, clear procedures and record-keeping. The policy is aligned with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.	Safeguarding VFIS publicly describes its welfare services team but does not publish a dedicated safeguarding or child-protection policy on its website. There is no publicly available information about staff safeguarding training, reporting procedures, or child-protection frameworks. As such, apart from the presence of counsellors and psychologists, the school does not disclose further safeguarding provisions.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy View document	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The SNA Saigon South Campus sits on a 10,000 m2 area, with more than 80 classrooms and 10 function rooms, a playground, a relaxation area including a library, a pool, a gymnasium, a football field, and a dormitory, all built to modern international standards.	Facilities overview VFIS is located on Ton Duc Thang University's main campus. The building has a basement and three floors plus a roof, with a total construction area over 50,000 m2 on a 5-hectare site within TDTU's main campus. The facilities were designed by Finnish architects to reflect Finnish education principles and learning approaches. The learning environment aims to enable the joy of learning, support thinking and learning to learn, develop transversal skills through multidisciplinary modules, and promote communal knowledge. Open Learning spaces, Flexible Classrooms, Modern Practical Rooms, an Inspiration Library, and Outdoor Open Space form the core learning environments, while the campus integrates with Ton Duc Thang University facilities to support independent and collaborative study.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The campus includes a football field, a swimming pool, and a gymnasium to support sports and physical education.	Sports facilities Outdoor Open Space is listed as a VFIS facility.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Academic facilities comprise laboratory rooms, a musical hall, art rooms, libraries, and a robotics room to teach STEM subjects, along with a cafeteria and other spaces that support learning activities.	Academic facilities VFIS offers two programmes from Primary through Upper Secondary: International and Bilingual. The Finnish National Core Curriculum provides the framework for the International and Bilingual programmes, with local adaptations. The International Programme is taught in English by Finnish and international teachers, and upper secondary follows the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme with a Grade 10 IB preparatory year. The Bilingual Programme integrates Finnish and Vietnamese curricula, with Vietnamese as the main language of instruction and selected subjects taught in English. The English-language program is developed on the Cambridge English framework and aims for CEFR level B2 (IELTS 6.5) at graduation. VFIS became an IB World School in 2021 and offers the IB Diploma Programme in Grades 11-12. The school operates under Ton Duc Thang University.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Co-curricular activities are supported by spaces such as laboratories, a musical hall, art rooms, libraries, a 3D golf room, a robotics room for STEM, a football field, and additional spaces.	Extra curricular facilities VFIS offers co-curricular opportunities including visual arts, organised clubs, and Model United Nations.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History The International Schools of North America – Saigon South (SNA Saigon South Campus) was founded in 2005 as part of the Nguyễn Hoàng Group education network. Over the years it has developed into a K-12 institution offering a full International Baccalaureate continuum. The school gained full authorization for the IB Primary Years, Middle Years and Diploma Programmes as of 2022, making it one of the early IB Continuum schools in Vietnam. Its establishment reflects a growing demand among local and expatriate families for international education in Ho Chi Minh City.	History VFIS was established under Decision No. 5834/QD-HCMC by the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee on 7 November 2016 and operates as a non-profit institution affiliated with Ton Duc Thang University. The school opened its first academic year in August 2019 under the Finnish-inspired educational model. Initially serving Grades 1–9, it has since expanded to cover higher secondary levels and runs both International and Bilingual programmes.
Community	Community SNA Saigon South hosts a vibrant and multicultural community of students, staff and families drawn from many nationalities. The school regularly organises cultural celebrations, seasonal events (such as Christmas tree decoration contests) and themed activities that bring together the wider school community. These shared occasions provide opportunities for students and parents to engage outside of the classroom and build connections across backgrounds.	Community The VFIS community brings together students, teachers and families from diverse cultural backgrounds and hosts regular events such as the back-to-school Orientation Day, where new students and parents meet their teachers and peers. The school also organises cross-cultural programmes including the Finnish Education Expo, which invites Finnish school representatives and parents to explore study pathway options. These activities aim to foster inclusive relationships among stakeholders and strengthen the school’s collaborative, multicultural ethos.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The school does not publicly provide detailed information about a formal Parent Teacher Association (PTA) or similar parent-led organisation. While parents are visibly involved in various community and cultural events, there is no published record of a structured PTA body, committee, or calendar of parent-driven initiatives. As such, details regarding specific PTA activities, leadership roles, or parent-school collaboration programs are not disclosed on the school’s official platforms.	Parent teacher association The school website does not publicly provide detailed information about a specific Parent Teacher Association (PTA) structure, groups or regular files of activities labelled as a “PTA”. Therefore, the existence of a formal PTA with named committees, events or parent-led groups is not clearly disclosed on the school’s public materials.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Co-Curricular Activities at SNA Saigon South include STEM, Debate, Chess, and Presentation, providing opportunities to extend learning beyond the classroom. The program also features robotics competitions and STEM festivals that bring real-world problem solving into student life. Students are encouraged to push beyond their limits through CCAs, which challenge them to excel and view setbacks as learning opportunities. These activities connect classroom concepts to practical, academic-growth experiences.	Academic & intellectual VFIS is an IB World School authorized in 2021 to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. The curriculum blends the Finnish core curriculum with Vietnamese values and uses a research-based, learner-centered pedagogy. In the international program, students study 180 days and there are no standardized tests. VFIS offers two educational programs, International Programme and Bilingual Programme, for Grades 1–12, aligned with Finnish education standards to develop global citizenship.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Co-Curricular Activities include music, art, and dance, with Dance listed among the arts offerings and Presentations developing performance and communication skills. The CCAs program covers arts in addition to sports and technology as part of a holistic, creative pathway. Students have opportunities to express themselves creatively through dance and other artistic activities. The program emphasizes creative collaboration and expression as part of the IB framework.	Arts & creative VFIS emphasizes arts and creative pursuits as part of the learning experience. Drama is taught in Grades 8–9 using active learning methods. Psychology is offered to Pre-IB students (Grade 10) and in the IB Diploma Programme. Rainbow Hour supports creativity and well-being as part of VFIS study.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Students have the option to study a second language in addition to English, including French, Spanish, Korean, and Chinese. An EAL Bridge program provides intensive English language support for students who need to strengthen English to participate in the MYP. Languages Support is available as part of Student Support Services to assist language development. This language offering and support reflect exposure to different cultures within an international IB community.	Cultural & language VFIS offers International and Bilingual Programmes for Grades 1–12, with 15 nationalities represented. The Bilingual Programme includes Vietnamese language instruction; International Programme assessments are conducted in English and Bilingual Programme assessments are conducted in English and Vietnamese. VFIS operates within Ton Duc Thang University and emphasizes cross-cultural understanding and international-mindedness.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Co-Curricular Activities include sports, music, art, technology, language, and social activities; examples include Football, Swim, Chess, Basketball, and Dance. The CCAs program encourages teamwork, leadership, and personal growth through diverse activities outside academics. Students can explore interests and develop confidence through CCAs. The program supports a broad, well-rounded student life that complements academic learning.	Social & hobbies Student life includes events such as STEM Robotics Experience Day, the Finnish Culture & Education Experience Day, and Vietnamese Teachers' Day. The school hosts the VFIS Mathcounts Challenge and a Career Guidance & Study Abroad Fair. Upcoming events include VFIS Tet Fair 2026 on February 5, 2026, a School Tour & Information Day on January 31, 2026, and a Finnish performance exchange with the Imatra Big Band on January 16, 2026.
Community & service	Community & service Service learning is a defined component of the MYP at SNA, with students engaging in meaningful community projects. The IB framework emphasizes community involvement and social responsibility as part of the learning experience. The school runs community engagement initiatives that reflect its values and global outlook. Notably, campaigns such as Not Alone illustrate student-led community actions focused on online safety.	Community & service VFIS is the first Finnish international school in Southeast Asia and is a not-for-profit international school belonging to Ton Duc Thang University, a public autonomous university in Vietnam. VFIS pursues sustainable human development and aims to be a world-class learning community. Scholarships are available for current VFIS students (Grades 9–12) and new students (Grades 2–12), covering 25%–50% of tuition; selection is by the Scholarship Committee. Scholarships apply to tuition fees only and do not cover other fees.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional SNA hosted the Harvard Young Global Leaders Program, focusing on leadership, problem-solving, communication, public speaking, and critical thinking, with an actionable project. The NextGen Scholarship recognizes leadership potential in addition to achievements in arts or sports. The IB Continuum and SNA's branding as 'The School for Future Leaders' support leadership development. The school's pathways and programs position students to pursue leadership and global opportunities.	Leadership & professional VFIS has a leadership team led by the Head of School, Ms. Miekk-Oja Suvi Kristiina, and emphasizes Finnish standards and teacher autonomy. Teachers are encouraged to engage in continuous professional development. The school hosts Career Guidance & Study Abroad Fair to support student leadership and future planning.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Physical and Health Education is a core IB MYP subject, emphasizing wellbeing and a healthy lifestyle. Co-Curricular Activities include Football and Swim, providing regular opportunities for fitness and outdoor activity. Dance is offered as a creative outlet that supports physical wellbeing and expression. The CCAs program promotes resilience and the learning experience of turning failure into a constructive step forward.	Lifestyle & wellbeing VFIS emphasizes peace and happiness, with a learning approach that avoids excessive pressure or competition in the international program. The campus features Finnish-designed facilities, flexible classrooms, and open spaces to support well-being and safe growth. The school promotes meals, physical education, and mindfulness as part of student life.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school provides language learning in English, Vietnamese, and Korean, and supports Independent Language studies for students from other mother tongues.	Language provision The International Programme is taught in English by Finnish and international teachers. Vietnamese language and social studies are compulsory within the International Programme and Vietnamese is the main language of instruction in the Bilingual Programme, with selected subjects delivered in English. The English-language component follows Cambridge Assessment English framework and aims for CEFR level B2 (IELTS 6.5) by graduation.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching VFIS offers two programmes from Primary through Upper Secondary: the International Programme and the Bilingual Programme. The International Programme is taught in English by Finnish and international teachers and follows the Finnish National Core Curriculum with local adaptations; upper secondary students pursue the IB Diploma Programme in Grades 11-12 with an IB preparatory year in Grade 10. The Bilingual Programme provides an integrated Finnish and Vietnamese curriculum; Vietnamese is the main language of instruction, with selected subjects delivered in English. The English-language component uses the Cambridge framework and aims for CEFR level B2 by graduation.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards VFIS does not publicly disclose any institutional awards given directly to the school in the last five years.
Accreditations	Accreditations * International Baccalaureate (IB) World School: Authorized to offer the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP). This accreditation confirms the school’s adherence to the International Baccalaureate Organization’s global standards for inquiry-based and internationally minded education. * Council of International Schools (CIS) Member School: Membership indicates that the school is part of a global community of international institutions committed to high-quality education and continuous improvement through peer evaluation and global best practices. * Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC): A U.S.-based accrediting commission that assesses schools for academic quality, governance, and institutional integrity, ensuring that learning outcomes meet international benchmarks. * Keeping Safe – Child Protection Curriculum: Certification that the school implements internationally recognized child protection education and safeguarding standards to support student safety and wellbeing. * Saigon International Schools Athletic Conference (SISAC): Membership in this regional organization allows the school to participate in inter-school athletic events, fostering sportsmanship and physical development within the international school community in Ho Chi Minh City.	Accreditations International Baccalaureate (IB) World School – Diploma Programme: VFIS is authorised to offer the IB Diploma Programme for Grades 11–12. This accreditation confirms that the school meets the International Baccalaureate Organization’s standards for delivering the programme. Establishment Approval by the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee: The school was formally established under an official government decision in 2016. This authorisation recognises the school as an approved educational institution within Vietnam’s national regulatory framework.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Application Submission Parents begin by completing the online or in-person application form and paying the non-refundable application fee. The form requires basic student details such as grade level, date of birth, and previous school records. Applications are typically accepted between March and June, although late submissions are considered depending on space availability. 2. Entrance Assessment and Interview Each applicant completes an entrance assessment, which may include academic testing, a writing sample, and an English proficiency evaluation. Younger students may participate in an interview or classroom observation. The admissions team reviews all results alongside the student’s past academic records to determine eligibility. 3. Offer of Placement Successful applicants receive an official offer of enrolment once assessment results and documentation meet school requirements. Parents confirm acceptance by signing the enrolment agreement and paying the one-time registration fee to secure the student’s place. 4. Payment and Orientation After registration, families pay tuition and other related fees such as meals, uniforms, and transportation according to the school’s payment schedule. Before the school year begins, students and parents are invited to orientation sessions to support a smooth transition into the school community. 5. Late Applications Applications received after the main intake period are considered on a rolling basis. Admission is subject to class capacity, assessment results, and the school’s ability to support the applicant’s educational needs.	Admissions 1. Submit Application & Required Documents Parents begin by completing the application form and submitting the required documents to the Admissions Office. These documents typically include school records, identification documents, and the application fee. The school reviews the documents to determine the child’s eligibility to move to the next step. Parents are informed if any additional paperwork is needed. 2. Entrance Assessment & Interview VFIS requires an entrance assessment for all applicants. The assessment may include academic testing and an interview, depending on the year group and programme. Assessment scheduling is arranged by the Admissions Office after the application is processed. Families receive instructions on preparation, location, and required materials. 3. Review of Results & Placement Decision The school evaluates the entrance assessment results, academic history, and programme suitability. Based on this review, VFIS determines whether the applicant is eligible for placement. Parents are notified of the decision by the Admissions Office. Applicants who meet requirements may proceed to enrollment if space is available. 4. Offer Letter & Acceptance If the student is accepted, VFIS issues an official Offer Letter. Parents must confirm acceptance within the timeframe described by the school. The offer outlines the programme, grade placement, and next administrative steps. Failure to respond on time may result in the offer being withdrawn. 5. Payment of Security Deposit & Fees To secure the place, parents must pay the required security deposit and tuition fee according to the school’s payment schedule. Payment confirms the student’s seat for the upcoming academic year. The security deposit policies differ for returning and new students, as stated on the fees page. Parents receive confirmation once payment is completed. 6. Enrollment Completion & Orientation After payment, families complete remaining administrative steps such as uniform purchase, student card registration, and health-related requirements. The school informs parents of orientation dates and the start of term procedures. Enrollment is considered complete once all steps are fulfilled. Students then join their assigned class at the beginning of the school year.
Scholarships	Scholarships NextGen Scholarship (Grades 6–10) This merit-based award provides up to 50% tuition coverage for students entering the Middle Years Programme (MYP). Selection is based on two assessment rounds, including a MAP Growth test in Math and Reading, and a written essay or interview in English. Little Eagle Talent Scholarship (Grades 1–5) This scholarship supports primary students showing strong academic and creative potential. It covers 50% of tuition and 50% of the registration fee. Applicants submit a short video showcasing a talent such as storytelling or singing in English and complete the school’s entrance assessment. Both scholarships are valid for the duration specified in the offer, are non-transferable, and may not be exchanged for cash. Recipients are expected to maintain good academic standing and participate actively in school life.	Scholarships VFIS offers scholarships to students based on academic performance, assessment results, and other eligibility criteria defined by the school. Applicants may be required to sit scholarship-specific assessments, and results determine scholarship levels. Scholarships can cover a percentage of tuition fees, and conditions include maintaining academic performance and school conduct. Scholarship policies also clarify that tuition refunds for scholarship recipients are calculated after applying scholarship reductions. Detailed criteria, required documents, and application timelines are provided on the school’s scholarship page.
Waitlist	Waitlist The school does not operate a formal waitlist or pooled admissions system.	Waitlist The school does not publicly disclose the use of a waitlist or pool system.
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