The ABC International School (ABCIS) vs The American School

	T The ABC International School (ABCIS) Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam	T The American School Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year ₫68,500,000 - 290,000,000	Fees / year ₫131,600,000 - 397,700,000
Age range	Age range 2 - 18 years	Age range 1½ - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational, Online/Hybrid	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels, Australian Curriculum, American Curriculum, IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge IGCSE	Curriculum IB (PYP), Advanced Placement (AP), American Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 790	Pupils 400
Typical class size	Typical class size 14	Typical class size 20
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1995	Opened 2010
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location The ABC International School (ABCIS) operates in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, with two campuses: Trung Son Campus in Binh Hung Commune, Binh Chanh District, and Nha Be Campus in Nha Be Commune. The Trung Son Campus is located at 152-158 No.1 Street, KDC Trung Son, Binh Hung, Binh Chanh District. The Nha Be Campus is located at No. 2, Street No. 9, KDC Tan An Huy, Nha Be Commune. The campuses are in southern Ho Chi Minh City and provide English-medium instruction within the British curriculum framework.	Location The school is located at 06 Song Hanh Road, An Phu Ward (Binh Trung Ward), Thu Duc City (District 2), Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. It is conveniently placed beside the HCM–Long Thanh–Dau Giay Expressway, offering straightforward access from central districts while being in a quieter residential-area of the city.
Stages	Stages ABCIS serves learners aged 3 to 18, encompassing Early Years, Primary, and Secondary. The Trung Son Campus serves 2–7 years old (Early Years/KS1) and the Nha Be Campus serves 8–18 years old, with the overall school range noted as three to 18 years in the broader overview.	Stages TAS educates students from 18 months to Grade 12, divided into four main divisions: Early Childhood Center (Pre-Nursery to Kindergarten, ages 18 months–5 years) Elementary School (Grades 1–5) Middle School (Grades 6–8) High School (Grades 9–12, including Advanced Placement courses)
School type	School type The ABCIS is an international day school and is non-denominational. There are no boarding facilities published for any year groups.	School type TAS is a co-educational day school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support The school does not provide formal Special Educational Needs (SEN) support; students with learning difficulties are considered on an individual basis and admission decisions are final based on the school's capacity to support the student.	Additional learning support TAS offers support for students with mild learning differences. Specialized teachers collaborate with classroom staff to adapt lessons and provide targeted help. Individualized Education Plans may be developed to meet specific student needs. The school advises families to discuss additional learning requirements during the admissions process to ensure appropriate support can be provided.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation There is no formal country affiliation; the school is a Vietnam-based international school that delivers the English National Curriculum.	Country affiliation The school follows an American-style curriculum and is affiliated with the U.S. model of education, but it is an independent international school in Vietnam.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Non-denominational; the school has no religious affiliation.	Religious affiliation The school does not have any religious affiliations.
School day structure	School day structure The 2025–2026 academic calendar shows term start dates and indicates that some term ends finish at 12:00 noon. For example, End of Term 2 and End of Term 5 finish at 12:00 noon, and Term 1 begins on August 8, 2025.	School day structure The school day runs from 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. for Early Childhood and Elementary students, and 7:45 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for Middle and High School students. Students have designated morning snack and lunch breaks, with meals served in the school cafeteria.
Bus service details	Bus service details ABCIS offers a school bus service; admission materials include a School Bus Liability Form (optional) and a Code of Transportation Form (Secondary Only). Buses are supervised by an adult bus monitor and safety rules apply on transport.	Bus service details TAS provides a bus service that covers several residential areas across Ho Chi Minh City. Each route is supervised by trained bus monitors to ensure student safety, and attendance is checked during pick-up and drop-off. Families can register for transportation on a term basis, with route information and fees communicated directly to parents.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Registration and Application Fees - Registration Fee (one-off, non-refundable): amount varies by year group. Parents pay the registration fee when an offer of a place is made; the fee is paid once but is upgraded as the student moves to higher year groups (the difference must be paid on move-up). Example: moving from Nursery to Reception requires an additional VND 9,500,000 to make up the difference. Refundable Deposit - Refundable Deposit: a refundable deposit applies for Primary and Secondary year groups (VND 22,000,000 for most Primary and VND 22,000,000 for Secondary), while for several Early Years categories the deposit is listed as not payable. Exact refundable-deposit amounts or 'not payable' status are listed per year group below. Tuition fees by year group (School Year 2025–2026) — annual and per-instalment amounts Early Years - Pre-Nursery (Half day) - Registration Fee: VND 14,500,000 - Refundable Deposit: Not payable - Annual Tuition Fee: VND 187,000,000 - Instalment (one of 3): VND 68,500,000 - Pre-Nursery (Full day) - Registration Fee: VND 14,500,000 - Refundable Deposit: Not payable - Annual Tuition Fee: VND 310,000,000 - Instalment (one of 3): VND 113,500,000 - Nursery (Half day) - Registration Fee: VND 14,500,000 - Refundable Deposit: Not payable - Annual Tuition Fee: VND 187,000,000 - Instalment (one of 3): VND 68,500,000 - Nursery (Full day) - Registration Fee: VND 14,500,000 - Refundable Deposit: Not payable - Annual Tuition Fee: VND 310,000,000 - Instalment (one of 3): VND 113,500,000 - Reception - Registration Fee: VND 24,000,000 - Refundable Deposit: Not payable - Annual Tuition Fee: VND 367,500,000 - Instalment (one of 3): VND 134,750,000 Primary - Year 1 - Registration Fee: VND 24,000,000 - Refundable Deposit: VND 22,000,000 - Annual Tuition Fee: VND 503,500,000 - Instalment (one of 3): VND 184,600,000 - Year 2 - Registration Fee: VND 24,000,000 - Refundable Deposit: VND 22,000,000 - Annual Tuition Fee: VND 503,500,000 - Instalment (one of 3): VND 184,600,000 - Year 3 - Registration Fee: VND 29,000,000 - Refundable Deposit: VND 22,000,000 - Annual Tuition Fee: VND 579,800,000 - Instalment (one of 3): VND 212,600,000 - Year 4 - Registration Fee: VND 29,000,000 - Refundable Deposit: VND 22,000,000 - Annual Tuition Fee: VND 579,800,000 - Instalment (one of 3): VND 212,600,000 - Year 5 - Registration Fee: VND 29,000,000 - Refundable Deposit: VND 22,000,000 - Annual Tuition Fee: VND 598,000,000 - Instalment (one of 3): VND 219,200,000 - Year 6 - Registration Fee: VND 29,000,000 - Refundable Deposit: VND 22,000,000 - Annual Tuition Fee: VND 598,000,000 - Instalment (one of 3): VND 219,200,000 Secondary - Year 7 - Registration Fee: VND 38,400,000 - Refundable Deposit: VND 22,000,000 - Annual Tuition Fee: VND 693,000,000 - Instalment (one of 3): VND 254,000,000 - Year 8 - Registration Fee: VND 38,400,000 - Refundable Deposit: VND 22,000,000 - Annual Tuition Fee: VND 693,000,000 - Instalment (one of 3): VND 254,000,000 - Year 9 - Registration Fee: VND 38,400,000 - Refundable Deposit: VND 22,000,000 - Annual Tuition Fee: VND 693,000,000 - Instalment (one of 3): VND 254,000,000 - Year 10 - Registration Fee: VND 38,400,000 - Refundable Deposit: VND 22,000,000 - Annual Tuition Fee: VND 758,000,000 - Instalment (one of 3): VND 278,000,000 - Year 11 - Registration Fee: VND 38,400,000 - Refundable Deposit: VND 22,000,000 - Annual Tuition Fee: VND 758,000,000 - Instalment (one of 3): VND 278,000,000 - Year 12 - Registration Fee: VND 38,400,000 - Refundable Deposit: VND 22,000,000 - Annual Tuition Fee: VND 790,500,000 - Instalment (one of 3): VND 290,000,000 - Year 13 - Registration Fee: VND 38,400,000 - Refundable Deposit: VND 22,000,000 - Annual Tuition Fee: VND 790,500,000 - Instalment (one of 3): VND 290,000,000 All the numeric fee figures above and the per-instalment amounts are those published for the School Year 2025–2026. What the tuition covers and what it excludes - Tuition fee inclusions: uniforms, lunch, and insurance are included within the tuition fee; specific uniform items provided vary by year group (e.g., Pre-Nursery/Nursery receive five sets of uniform—three sets for half-day—plus cap, cardigan, house T-shirt and folder; older year groups receive the list appropriate to their phase). - Tuition fee exclusions: residential school trips and visits, instrumental (private) music lessons, and school buses are charged separately. Examination fees for public Cambridge examinations are charged in addition to tuition (IGCSE: VND 4,800,000 per subject; AS/A2: VND 5,500,000 per subject). Exam fees are non-refundable. Uniform and other additional costs - Where extra uniform pieces or replacements are required, items are available for purchase with published prices (examples): ABCIS Girls T-Shirt VND 170,000–200,000 depending on size, PE T-shirt VND 140,000, cardigan VND 330,000–370,000, school cap VND 100,000, swimsuits from VND 290,000–350,000, and other items listed with individual prices. Students in Nursery–Year 2 require a school bag available from the school for VND 100,000. These uniform-item prices are charged separately when purchased. Discounts and reductions - Sibling Discount: 15% off tuition fees for the second, third or fourth child enrolled from the same family. - Loyalty Discount: 5% off tuition fees for students enrolled for at least three consecutive full academic years (applies where sibling discount does not). - Maximum discount cap: no individual pupil may receive more than 15% discount except scholarship winners. Billing schedule and payment terms - Payment cadence: Fees can be paid either annually in one lump sum or by three instalments. - Annual-payment reduction: Annual lump-sum payment is approximately 10% cheaper than paying by instalments; to qualify the annual payment must be received on or before 1 August 2025 for the 2025–2026 year. - Instalment due dates for 2025–2026 are: - First instalment: on or before 1 August 2025 - Second instalment: on or before 5 November 2025 - Third instalment: on or before 4 March 2026 - Late payment: any late payment after 15 working days will attract a penalty surcharge of 5% added to the outstanding balance. - Non-payment: the school reserves the right to refuse admission or continued attendance for non-payment of tuition fees. Refunds and deposit returns - Tuition fee refund on withdrawal: a parent/guardian must submit notice of withdrawal by the published deadline to be eligible for a partial refund. For the 2025–2026 academic year the published refund rules are: - Departure date November 5, 2025 — notice on or before September 4, 2025: refund = Annual Fee minus 1 instalment - Departure date March 4, 2026 — notice on or before November 21, 2025: refund = Annual Fee minus 2 instalments - Any time after March 4, 2026: no refund - There is no refund for any part of a single paid fee term instalment. - Refundable deposit return: deposit refunds follow set notice-and-refund dates; for 2025–2026 the published schedule links the departure day, the latest date to give notice and the date the deposit will be refunded (example: for a November 5, 2025 departure, notice must be given on or before September 4, 2025 and the deposit refund date is November 5, 2025). Examination and specialist charges - IGCSE examination charge: VND 4,800,000 per subject. - AS and A2 examination charge: VND 5,500,000 per subject. - The school may apply additional charges for specialist materials in practical subjects where such materials are outside the normal curriculum (charges are applied in addition to exam fees and tuition). Exam fees are non-refundable. Boarding - Boarding is not offered; The ABC International School operates as a day school and does not publish boarding provisions or boarding fees. Parents should treat all fee items above as day-school fees. Fee payment channels and contact for payments - The published fee information specifies payment frequency (annual or three instalments) and due dates but does not list detailed payment channels (e.g., bank-account details or card payment options) in the public fee schedule. Parents arrange fee payment with the school office using the school's admissions/contact channels (office@theabcis.com, +84 (0)28 7308 1828).	Fee details Application Fee An Application Fee of VND 18,000,000 is required when submitting an application form. This fee includes any mandatory assessments. It is deducted from the tuition payment if the student enrolls. It is refundable only if the student does not pass the placement test, but non-refundable if the student passes and chooses not to enroll. Registration Fee A non-refundable Registration Fee is payable within five working days of acceptance. It is a one-time payment confirming the student’s place. The amount varies by division: VND 30,000,000 for Early Childhood, VND 40,000,000 for Elementary, and VND 55,000,000 for Middle and High School. Tuition Fees (Annual / Semester) * Early Childhood: From VND 239,800,000 (Pre-Nursery) to VND 295,100,000 (Pre-Kindergarten) per year. * Elementary: From VND 330,400,000 (Kindergarten) to VND 540,500,000 (Grade 5) per year. * Middle School: VND 602,400,000 (Grades 6–8) per year. * High School: From VND 668,200,000 (Grades 9–10) to VND 723,500,000 (Grades 11–12) per year. * English as an Additional Language (EAL): VND 37,600,000–47,800,000 per year depending on level. Tuition is billed by semester or annually. Other Costs * Bus Service: Annual fees range from VND 13,900,000 (Thao Dien/An Phu route) to VND 53,100,000 (Binh Duong/Bien Hoa/Long Thanh route). A 40% sibling discount applies to the second child. * Lunch Fee: Annual meal plans range from VND 15,100,000 (Middle/High School) to VND 25,800,000 (Primary). * Uniforms and materials are additional costs, billed separately. Refunds and Payment Terms Refunds apply only as stated under application conditions. Payment can be made via bank transfer or credit card. Families may choose annual or semester billing.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements The American School operates as a day school with bus transportation and lunch services available.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniforms are mandatory and designed for Southern Vietnam's tropical climate. Primary pupils wear green shorts or skirts with a white polo shirt; secondary pupils wear green shorts, trousers, or skirts with a white polo shirt, and Years 12–13 wear white shirts with formal black or beige trousers or skirts; PE and swimming uniforms are also compulsory. Some uniform items are included in tuition fees, with additional pieces available to purchase, and students must wear a hat during playtime; the school cap costs VND 100,000.	Uniform requirement Uniforms are required. Uniforms include two school uniforms and one PE uniform.
Food options	Food options ABCIS operates a whole-school canteen and a separate KS5 canteen to serve meals for students. The Nha Be campus includes a Food Technology room to support practical food education.	Food options ECC and Primary students receive 3 meals per day (1 lunch and 2 snacks), while Middle School and High School students receive 1 meal per day (Lunch).
House system	House system The ABCIS uses a four-house system with Dalat Dragons, Hanoi Hornets, Mekong Monsters and Saigon Serpents. Students take part in house competitions and earn house points across sports and academic activities, reinforcing belonging and leadership.	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The ABC International School is part of Galaxy Education and Training Ltd.	Governance and ownership The school is governed by a Board of Directors; leadership is provided by an Executive Principal.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details The ABC International School follows the English National Curriculum and delivers all instruction in English. Early Years covers Pre-Nursery, Nursery and Reception, followed by Primary (Key Stages 1–2) and Secondary (Key Stage 3) leading to IGCSEs in Key Stage 4. In the Senior Phase, students study International AS and A Levels (Cambridge) with AQA options, and the College Board's AP programme is available. Language provision includes Vietnamese in Primary, with options to study French and Chinese in Secondary. The curriculum is complemented by an ECA Programme, and ABCIS is accredited by Cambridge International Examinations to deliver IGCSEs and AS/A Levels and is a FOBISIA member.	Curriculum details The American School (TAS) follows a U.S.-based curriculum aligned with American Education Reaches Out (AERO) and Common Core standards. The program spans from Early Childhood through Grade 12, emphasizing academic, creative, and personal development across all stages. In Elementary School, students study core subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies alongside Art, Music, Physical Education, and World Languages. Middle School builds on these foundations through an integrated approach that prepares students for advanced study. In High School, students work toward a U.S. High School Diploma and may take Advanced Placement (AP) courses in subjects such as English, Mathematics, Sciences, and World Languages. Instruction is delivered entirely in English, with additional support for English language learners and courses in French, Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese Studies.
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 —	Academic calendar View document
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning The ABC International School provides Social and Emotional Learning through an extensive PSHE programme focused on health and well-being, and a school counsellor who leads wellbeing workshops for students.	Social & emotional learning TAS includes social and emotional learning within its pastoral care and guidance framework. Homeroom teachers and counsellors help students develop interpersonal skills, teamwork, and self-management through classroom discussions and age-appropriate activities. Advisory sessions in Middle and High School focus on goal-setting, community involvement, and responsible decision-making. The school’s emphasis on respect, integrity, and care underpins all SEL initiatives.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The school uses a Support for Learning policy with early identification, the Assess-Plan-Do-Review (APDR) cycle, Waves of Support (Wave 1 Quality First Teaching; Wave 2 Targeted Interventions; Wave 3 External Specialist Support), and Individual Education Plans (IEPs) for students on the SEND register; admission may be declined if the school cannot provide the necessary support, and English as an Additional Language (EAL) is not treated as a SEN.	Special educational needs (SEN) TAS provides support for students with mild learning differences through differentiated instruction and the involvement of Learning Support teachers who collaborate with classroom staff. Students identified as needing additional assistance may have Individual Education Plans (IEPs) tailored to specific goals. The school states that it is not a specialist SEN institution and may not have the capacity to serve students with severe learning or behavioral needs. Families are encouraged to share full educational assessments during admissions to ensure appropriate placement and support.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language EAL is not in itself a special educational need; EAL learners require time to develop English proficiency and receive high-quality teaching to support language development, with progress monitored across languages to determine if further assessment is needed.	English as an additional language TAS operates a dedicated English as an Additional Language (EAL) program for students requiring language support. The program provides targeted English instruction alongside mainstream classes to help students build proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Annual EAL tuition fees are published separately from standard tuition, indicating a structured program for both Primary and Middle/High School levels. Students transition out of the program once they reach grade-level English competency.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported by The ABC Well-Being and Mental Health Policy, which includes a PSHE-based health and well-being curriculum, a school counsellor delivering workshops, staff well-being initiatives such as a Staff Welfare group, and a formal referral process via Heads of Year.	Mental wellbeing TAS supports student wellbeing through access to school counsellors, homeroom guidance, and wellness-focused activities across all divisions. Counsellors work with students individually or in small groups to discuss personal and academic concerns. The school promotes emotional health by encouraging open communication between students, parents, and teachers. No separate published mental health program or external partnership is listed.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Safeguarding and child protection are governed by the Child Protection Policy, with safeguarding regarded as the responsibility of all staff and concerns referred to the Safeguarding Lead through the school's safeguarding processes.	Safeguarding TAS outlines policies to protect student welfare and maintain a safe school environment. Staff are required to monitor attendance, report incidents, and uphold clear behavioural standards. The school promotes mutual respect and zero tolerance for bullying or harassment.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The ABC International School operates across multiple campuses in Ho Chi Minh City, with purpose-built facilities designed for international education. The campuses provide extensive academic spaces including a Library/Learning Resource Centre, six science laboratories, a Design Suite, three ICT/Computer Science classrooms, a Resistant Materials Workshop, and a 3D Printing and Laser Cut Area. Arts and performance spaces include two music classrooms, a recording studio, six music practice rooms, two art studios, a drama room, a theatre with over 400 seats and an auditorium with over 120 seats. The school supports physical education with a 4G football pitch, a large indoor gymnasium, a 25-meter swimming pool and an indoor sports hall with a sprung wooden floor. On the Trung Son Campus, facilities for younger learners include an age-appropriate swimming pool, a sports field, a modern playground, a sleep room, a soft play room, a dining hall, and a library and music room.	Facilities overview The American School's campus was completed in 2020 and serves Pre-Nursery through Grade 12, with a capacity of over 2,000 students. The campus sits on about 25,000 m2 and provides more than 100 classrooms. The facilities are described as outstanding for student learning, supporting growth from early childhood through high school. The campus emphasizes a comprehensive environment for academics and student life, including a library and related resources.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The Nha Be Campus offers a 4G artificial grass football pitch, a large indoor gymnasium, a 25-meter swimming pool, and an indoor sports hall with a sprung wooden floor that accommodates two full-size basketball courts. A fitness centre provides 23 commercial-quality machines and free weights for student training. The Trung Son Campus provides outdoor facilities including a sports field and an age-appropriate swimming pool to support physical education and aquatic activities. Both campuses support indoor and outdoor PE activities with dedicated spaces for different activities.	Sports facilities The campus includes a dedicated sports center and facilities for indoor athletic activities. The site features spaces for sports and recreation, and pickleball courts are part of the athletic provisions.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Academic facilities include a Library/Learning Resource Centre and six science laboratories. A Design Suite and three ICT/Computer Science classrooms support practical and project-based learning. A Resistant Materials Workshop and a 3D Printing & Laser Cut Area enable hands-on design and fabrication activities. There are 28 standard classrooms across campuses, plus KS5 Learning & Study Rooms and dedicated Exam Rooms to support assessment and study. The KS5 spaces complement the library and study resources to support independent learning.	Academic facilities The TAS library offers both physical and digital resources to support learning, including access to Destiny Discover, Sora, Britannica, and JSTOR. The library resource page describes the library as a hub of books, databases, and digital tools that promote curiosity and critical thinking.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Two music classrooms, a recording studio, six music practice rooms, two art studios and a drama room support performing and visual arts across campuses. The Nha Be Campus hosts a theatre with over 400 seats and a separate auditorium with over 120 seats for performances. A library and dedicated spaces on the Trung Son Campus support younger students' arts activities. These spaces help enable a broad extracurricular programme in music, drama and visual arts across the school.	Extra curricular facilities Extracurricular opportunities include Model United Nations (MUN) programs, as noted in student-life content. The school also highlights scholarships earned by students, with over USD 200,000 in scholarships awarded in certain years.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History The ABC International School (ABCIS) was founded in 1995 as the ABC English School, starting with 12 students in a playgroup and nursery. By 2001 the school had grown to about 70 pupils and began formally following the British National Curriculum; the name was changed to The ABC International School to reflect its expanding diversity. In 2003 the school was registered in the UK with the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) and the Department for Education (DfES). The school moved to its first purpose-built campus in South Saigon in 2004, and shortly afterwards with a pupil population exceeding 500, relocated to a larger campus known as SS1 for the Primary Stages; in 2005 the school was accredited by Cambridge to teach IGCSE and A Levels and joined FOBISIA, later COBIS. A state-of-the-art campus opened in August 2018, marking the culmination of expansion and the school's ongoing growth.	History The American School (TAS) was founded in 2010 as a private, independent international school offering an American-style education in Ho Chi Minh City. The school was established to serve both local and expatriate families seeking a U.S. curriculum leading to a high school diploma. Since its opening, TAS has expanded from a small early childhood and elementary program to a full Pre-Nursery–Grade 12 institution. The school continues to operate as an independently owned and managed organization, not affiliated with any government or religious body.
Community	Community The ABCIS uses a house system with four houses—Dalat Dragons, Hanoi Hornets, Mekong Monsters, and Saigon Serpents—fostering a vibrant, inclusive community. Students participate in a wide range of house competitions and events, earning house points for Achieving, Belonging, and Caring, which promotes leadership and teamwork. The Nha Be campus features a 400-seat theatre and other facilities that support performances and cultural events, enriching the school's community life. The school runs a Model United Nations (MUN) program with weekly meetings and inter-school conferences, and field trips include FOBISIA regional events as well as Duke of Edinburgh's Award activities and group residential trips.	Community TAS is known for its diverse international community, welcoming students and families from a range of cultural backgrounds. The school organizes regular community events such as International Day, Cultural Fairs, and Spirit Week, which celebrate global awareness and school unity. Students also participate in charity drives and service projects that encourage civic engagement and cultural exchange.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The ABC International School describes parents as an integral part of its community, with opportunities to get involved through events, Parent Advisory Groups, and a dedicated parent portal. Parent Advisory Groups coordinate input from families and support school initiatives and volunteer efforts. A dedicated parent portal provides direct lines of communication and access to updates on student progress and school activities. The principal notes that the school is family-owned and has operated for more than 25 years, underscoring a close, family-centered approach to governance.	Parent teacher association The school does not publicly disclose information regarding a formal Parent Teacher Association (PTA) or equivalent parent organization. While TAS provides regular communication between parents and teachers through conferences, progress reports, and meetings, there is no available reference to a structured PTA, parent council, or parent-led activities on its official materials.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The Extra-Curricular Activities (ECA) Programme at The ABC International School comprises over 80 activities each week, spanning on-campus and off-timetable options. Activities include sport, music, and art, with additional service-oriented pursuits that complement classroom learning. The programme is designed to support physical, social, and psychological development, helping students become well-rounded learners. It aims to prepare students for future education and life beyond school.	Academic & intellectual The American School provides a United States–standard learning path from Preschool through Grade 12. GELDS is used in early childhood, and the elementary and middle grades follow a Common Core framework. AP courses are available, and the school is pursuing IB Diploma Programme authorization with IB PYP offered in the primary years. The program emphasizes inquiry-based learning and global citizenship.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Arts and music are core strands within the ECA Programme. Students have access to music and art activities that run beyond the formal timetable, enabling creative exploration. The school's broader clubs include opportunities described by leaders as part of a wide range of arts-related activities, such as music-focused offerings and other creative pursuits. Facilities at campuses with dedicated music spaces—such as music classrooms and a recording studio—support performance and creative projects.	Arts & creative Arts are integrated across grades with dedicated spaces for visual arts, music, and drama. Students participate in creative field experiences, including trips to the Van Gogh and Monet exhibitions. A broad arts program supports opportunities to explore creativity through ongoing projects and performances.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Cultural and language activities include Model United Nations and other global awareness initiatives as part of student life. The school participates in FOBISIA events, providing regional cultural, academic, and sporting exchanges. International trips and school-wide experiences further broaden cross-cultural understanding and global perspectives.	Cultural & language The school maintains a multicultural environment and hosts cultural events such as Tet celebrations. Students may participate in Model United Nations and related leadership activities. English-language instruction is supported within a United States–style curriculum.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies The ECA Programme offers hobby-based and social opportunities beyond timetabled classes, contributing to a lively and inclusive school community. Examples of clubs cited by school leadership include Jump-Jam and Construction Club, illustrating breadth in creative and practical activities. House Teams also foster social engagement and peer collaboration through events and competitions.	Social & hobbies Experiential learning beyond the classroom is a hallmark of TAS Life, including field trips and off-campus activities that extend learning. The school encourages exploration of interests through experiences outside standard lessons.
Community & service	Community & service The International Award includes a Service component that requires volunteering and community contribution. The ECA Programme also features acts of service as part of its broad offering. School trips and related activities further support community engagement and service-oriented learning through practical experiences.	Community & service Community service is demonstrated through events such as TAS Sport Day, where proceeds support charitable funds for underprivileged children.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Leadership development is embedded in ECAs, notably through The International Award, which comprises Service, Adventurous Journey, Skill, and Physical Recreation components. Model United Nations and other clubs build leadership, communication, and teamwork skills relevant to future studies and careers. The program emphasizes leadership alongside academic and personal development across activities.	Leadership & professional —
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing The ECA Programme emphasizes physical activity and wellbeing, with sports and fitness forming a key element alongside other wellness-oriented pursuits. The International Award's Adventurous Journey and Physical Recreation components promote outdoor activity and healthy lifestyles. School trips also contribute to resilience and well-being through challenging, real-world experiences.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Campus facilities support wellness and physical activity, including swimming pools, a soccer field, indoor basketball courts, a gym, a rooftop tennis court, and a mini golf course. The campus capacity exceeds 2,000 students across more than 100 classrooms.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision Vietnamese is introduced in Year 1 and taught through Year 6 as weekly lessons. In secondary, French and Chinese are offered as language options. In Key Stage 3, additional languages are introduced or continued to support global awareness and communication.	Language provision —
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching From Year 1, students are introduced to Vietnamese to promote bilingual skills. Vietnamese is taught as weekly lessons for Years 1–6. The curriculum follows the English National Curriculum, with Vietnamese taught as a language subject rather than a full bilingual track. No formal bilingual program across multiple languages is described.	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards British Schools Overseas (BSO) inspection 2024: Outstanding (Grade 1) across all standards; inspection took place 16–18 January 2024 and the report was published on 26 February 2024. The Principal's Welcome notes that the school has undergone four BSO inspections, the most recent in January 2024, and was graded “Outstanding” on both occasions. The school also holds a distinctive status as the only Vietnamese school permitted to host admission tests for Oxford and Cambridge Universities.	Awards The school does not publicly disclose or list any institutional awards received within the past five years.
Accreditations	Accreditations The ABC International School is accredited by the Cambridge International Examinations Board (CIE) to deliver the IGCSE and AS/A Level curricula and examinations. This accreditation enables students to pursue Cambridge IGCSEs and A/AS Levels and supports entry to universities worldwide. The school is a member of FOBISIA (Federation of British International Schools in Asia), a network that provides regional opportunities and professional development for staff. The College Board's Advanced Placement (AP) programme is available at ABCIS, giving students access to university‑level courses and assessments. ABCIS is the only school in Vietnam to be granted permission to host admission tests for Oxford and Cambridge Universities. The school is acknowledged as a member of COBIS (Council of British International Schools). It is a Duke of Edinburgh Award (The International Award for Young People) member school, linking to the international award framework. The Vietnamese Government licenses ABCIS to operate as an International School teaching the British National Curriculum. ABCIS is registered with the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA), which issues British National Curriculum documentation and SATs for Years 2–9. It is also registered with the UK Department for Education (DfE), which accredits British National Curriculum schools.	Accreditations * Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC): Accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges, covering Early Childhood through High School. WASC is one of six U.S. regional accrediting bodies that evaluate the quality and integrity of educational institutions. * Council of International Schools (CIS): Member of the Council of International Schools (CIS), demonstrating adherence to international standards for governance, teaching, and student well-being. * College Board (Advanced Placement Authorization): Authorized by the U.S. College Board to offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses and examinations at the High School level, allowing students to pursue college-level studies and earn potential university credit.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Schedule a visit to the school. To begin, you should complete the inquiry form so a member of the Admissions Team can contact you, and you may also call the school to arrange a visit. The school provides a form online to request a visit, and staff will follow up to set up a time that fits your schedule. This initial contact is the first step toward arranging the entrance assessments and interview. 2. Prepare for and undergo entrance assessments and an interview. A decision on admission is made after the candidate completes entrance assessments and an interview with a member of the Senior Management Team. Interviews must be arranged in advance through the office administration. The interview evaluates educational ability, English language proficiency, and experience across curriculum areas; if a class is full, your child's name may be placed on a waiting list and you will be informed if a place becomes available. 3. Submit required documents and complete the admission form. If you secure an interview, you are expected to answer questions and complete an admission form during the process, including signing a declaration accepting school rules, regulations, and policies. To request an admission interview, you must provide a completed application form, the most recent school report, a copy of the student's passport or birth certificate (Vietnamese nationals), and one photograph. After a placement offer is made, additional documents are required (see Step 4). 4. Accept an offer and finalize placement. When a placement offer is made, parents/guardians have one week to complete all necessary documentation and pay the required fees to secure the place. Late responses or payments may result in the place being offered to another student. Following a placement offer, the school requires documents such as the Home School Agreement, Internet and Mobile Usage Agreement, Vaccination Record, and other forms (IGCSE/A Level Option Form for Year 10+, Code of Transportation for Secondary). 5. Understand placement criteria and policy requirements. Students are placed primarily by age, but other factors such as previous educational experience, maturity, and English language ability are also considered. The school does not provide Special Educational Needs (SEN) support for students with learning difficulties; such cases are considered individually if the school can provide appropriate support, with the management's decision being final. Parents are expected to commit to annual school trips and to accept all school rules, regulations, and policies to safeguard welfare and safety; the school reserves the right to cancel a registration if rules are not followed.	Admissions 1. Consultation Families begin by scheduling a consultation with the Admissions Office to discuss available programs, grade placement, and the child’s suitability for TAS. This step helps determine whether the school’s curriculum and support services align with the student’s needs. 2. Required Application Documentation Parents must submit all completed application forms, previous school records, copies of the student’s passport or ID, and other requested documents. The application is only reviewed once all materials are received. 3. Placement Assessment (if applicable) Students may be required to complete an academic or English language assessment to determine the most suitable grade level and any additional learning support needs. This step ensures accurate placement within TAS programs. 4. Admission Decision Once documentation and assessments are reviewed, families receive a formal admission decision. If accepted, the school provides written confirmation and details about enrollment procedures and payment deadlines. 5. Enrollment Parents confirm their child’s place by completing the enrollment form and submitting the signed agreement. At this stage, families receive orientation and academic year information. 6. Registration Fee To finalize enrollment, families must pay the non-refundable Registration Fee, which confirms the student’s placement and allows for an official start date.
Scholarships	Scholarships Scholarships are available through The ABC International School. There are up to three Sixth Form scholarships for tuition fee remission during Years 12 and 13, awarded to the top performing students based on IGCSE results (minimum eight subjects). Award 1 provides 50% of Year 12-13 tuition fees, Award 2 provides 33.33% of tuition fees, and Award 3 provides 16.66%. Eligibility requires two consecutive years of study at ABCIS, with performance criteria maintained throughout Years 12 and 13. The school also reserves the right to determine award allocation if multiple students have identical scores. In addition, there are Sixth Form Graduation Grants for travel and equipment expenses, with awards of up to US$5,000 (Grant 1) or US$3,000 (Grant 2), subject to meeting the stated conditions. Recipients must be full-time in the Sixth Form and have secured entry to a leading university, with documentation endorsed by their tutor.	Scholarships TAS does not list formal scholarship or financial aid programs on its official website. However, the school occasionally promotes scholarship or tuition discount opportunities through its official social media channels, typically tied to specific academic years or special initiatives. These offers vary by year and are announced directly through official communications rather than a standing scholarship program.
Waitlist	Waitlist Yes. If a particular class is full, a student's name may be entered onto a waiting list, and parents will be informed accordingly if places become available.	Waitlist TAS does not publicly state that it operates a waitlist or pool system.
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