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Australian International School Saigon - Thu Thiem Campus

Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees ₫295,600,000 - 912,300,000
Ages 1½ - 18 years
Pupil numbers 1200
Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)
Opened 2007
Bus Service Yes
Part of
Academic offering
Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (DP), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, Reggio Emilia Approach
Taught languages English, Korean, Mandarin, Spanish, Vietnamese
Typical class size 19
Strengths Sport, Visual and Creative Arts, STEM
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language, Social and Hobbies, Community and Service, Leadership and Professional, Lifestyle and Wellbeing
Stages Primary School, Secondary School, Kindergarten
Introduction

AIS Saigon’s Thu Thiem campus serves ages 1.5–18 in one location, combining IB Primary Years Programme and IB Diploma with Cambridge pathways (Lower Secondary and IGCSE). Facilities highlighted for Thu Thiem include science labs, a library/IB Centre, art studios, music/drama rooms, technology and design spaces, and an extensive sports complex with pools, courts and a FIFA-sized field. The campus also houses boarding (Years 7–13) for up to 50 students. Learning is delivered in English, with subjects including Vietnamese Language & Culture, and language options such as Chinese (Mandarin) and Korean in Secondary; activities extend to Spanish, robotics, performing arts, and competitive AIS Titans sports. Located in the rapidly developing Thu Thiem peninsula, the campus is AIS’s main site, offering the full school journey with transport options city-wide.

This campus is part of AIS Saigon

264 Mai Chi Tho Street, Binh Trung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The Essentials

Australian International School Saigon - Thu Thiem Campus has 1,200 pupils, typical class sizes of 19, instruction in English.

Location

AIS’s Thu Thiem campus is located at 264 Mai Chi Tho, An Phu Ward, Thu Duc City (Ho Chi Minh City). The area is part of the modern Thu Thiem peninsula, a growing residential and educational district about 15 minutes from the city centre. The school is easily accessible from major roads such as Hanoi Highway and Mai Chi Tho Boulevard, with convenient transport links across the city.

Stages

AIS Thu Thiem offers a full education pathway for students aged 1.5 to 18, from Infant and Kindergarten through Primary (Years 1–6), Secondary (Years 7–11), and Senior School (Years 12–13). The curriculum transitions from the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) to Cambridge Lower Secondary and IGCSE, and culminates with the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP).

Type

AIS is a co-educational international school, welcoming both local and expatriate students. It also offers boarding accommodation for students in Years 7–13, located on the Thu Thiem campus.

Additional learning support

AIS provides individualised support for students with additional learning needs, coordinated through its Student Support Services team. Support may include differentiated instruction, small group intervention, and pastoral care within mainstream classes. English language learners also receive EAL (English as an Additional Language) support where needed.

Country affiliation

The school follows an Australian educational philosophy and is affiliated with the Inspired Education Group, an international schools network headquartered in London. While Australian in origin, AIS offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Cambridge programmes to an international student body.

Religious affiliation

The school does not have any religious affiliations.

School day structure

The school day begins at 8:00 am and finishes at 2:40 pm for Secondary students. Morning recess runs from 9:30 to 10:00 am, and lunch is from 12:40 to 1:20 pm. After-school activities take place between 2:50 and 3:50 pm, with language support sessions (EAL and Vietnamese) continuing until around 4:05 pm. This schedule balances academic classes, enrichment opportunities, and time for social interaction.

Bus service

AIS provides a reliable, air-conditioned bus service that covers a wide network across Ho Chi Minh City. Each bus has a licensed driver and a trained monitor to ensure safety. The standard bus departs at 3:00 pm, with a later service at 4:05 pm for students taking part in after-school activities. Families can arrange route options during enrolment, and changes to travel plans can be managed through the school reception.
Diving Deeper

Boarding Arrangements

The Thu Thiem Campus offers a premium on-site boarding option for students in Years 7 to 13. The boarding house accommodates up to 50 students in premium facilities and provides 24/7 academic and personal support with comfortable common areas and boarding rooms.

Governance and Ownership

ACG Australian International Education Services Company Limited is the corporate entity behind AIS Thu Thiem. The school is part of a global premium schools group.
Fees

Annual tuition at Australian International School Saigon - Thu Thiem Campus ranges from VND 295,600,000 to VND 912,300,000 for 2026/27.

Application Fee
A one-time, non-refundable fee of VND 3,500,000 is payable upon application submission.

Acceptance Fee

* Kindergarten (Infant–Senior): VND 32,000,000 (an additional VND 32,000,000 due upon progression to Year 1)
* Primary & Middle School (Years 1–11): VND 64,000,000
* Senior School (Years 12–13): VND 32,000,000

Tuition Fees (per year, Plan A – Annual Payment)

* Infant Kindergarten: VND 295,600,000
* Junior Kindergarten: VND 302,100,000
* Senior Kindergarten: VND 305,400,000
* Year 1: VND 566,000,000
* Years 2–6: VND 619,300,000–653,800,000
* Years 7–9: VND 710,500,000–752,800,000
* Years 10–11: VND 763,900,000–792,800,000
* Years 12–13: VND 860,700,000

Payment Options
Tuition may be paid annually, in two instalments, or four instalments. A 6% discount applies for full annual payment, with an extra 1.5% early payment discount if settled before a due date.

Boarding Fees (Years 7–13)

* Full Boarding (Monday–Sunday): VND 248,100,000
* School-Day Boarding (Monday–Friday): VND 215,300,000

Bus Service Fees (per year)
Depending on route and distance, annual bus fees range from VND 13,277,000 (short distance, e.g. Thao Dien–Thu Thiem) to VND 53,890,000 (long distance, e.g. Bien Hoa, Dong Nai). Both one-way and return options are available.

Other Costs
Uniforms, meals for Years 7–13, extracurricular activities, and optional after-school care incur additional charges.

Refund Policy
Refunds on annual tuition are based on the student’s withdrawal date: 95% before school starts, 65% in Term 1, 40% in Term 2, 15% in Term 3, and 0% in Term 4.

Payment Methods
Fees can be paid by bank transfer or credit card, in VND or USD, using the prevailing Vietcombank or ANZ exchange rate
Academics

Australian International School Saigon - Thu Thiem Campus teaches IB (PYP), IB (DP), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, Reggio Emilia Approach for students aged 1.5 to 18.

Curriculum

The Australian International School (AIS) Thu Thiem offers an internationally recognised curriculum from early years through to graduation. In the Early Years and Primary School (Kindergarten to Year 6), students follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP), supported by elements of the Australian and Cambridge curricula in English, Mathematics, and Science. The Middle School (Years 7–9) continues with the Cambridge Lower Secondary Programme, preparing students for external assessment and subject specialisation. In Years 10–11, students study for the Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) across core and elective subjects. The Senior School (Years 12–13) offers the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP), providing a globally recognised qualification for university entry. The curriculum is delivered in English, complemented by language, arts, and technology programmes throughout all school stages.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

AIS supports students’ social and emotional learning through its Pastoral Care and Homeroom programme. Each student belongs to a homeroom group led by a teacher who monitors wellbeing and personal growth. The school employs a full-time school counsellor who provides individual and group guidance, and staff receive training to identify and support students’ social needs. SEL is embedded across daily school life, including assemblies, advisory periods, and community activities. The aim is to foster confidence, respect, and empathy through structured relationships between teachers and students.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

AIS provides individualised support for students with identified learning needs through its Student Support Services (SSS) team. The Special Education Needs (SEN) Coordinator, Mr. Shane Priddis, oversees provision and collaborates with classroom teachers to adapt learning where appropriate. Support may include differentiated instruction, modified materials, and targeted interventions. The school can accommodate students with mild to moderate learning difficulties but is not a specialist SEN institution. Additional SEN support fees apply, as outlined in the official fee schedule.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

AIS offers dedicated English as an Additional Language (EAL) programmes for students who require language support. The EAL Coordinator, leads the programme, which provides tailored instruction during school hours based on each student’s assessed proficiency. EAL is available from Year 2 to Year 11, with separate annual fees depending on the level of support required. The programme helps students build the language skills necessary to fully access the curriculum.

Mental Wellbeing

AIS employs a qualified school counsellor who supports the mental wellbeing of students across all year levels. Counselling services include confidential sessions for individuals and small groups, as well as referrals to external mental health professionals when necessary. The counsellor works closely with teachers, homeroom mentors, and the leadership team to promote a safe and supportive environment. Regular wellbeing checks, peer support initiatives, and open communication between staff and families contribute to maintaining positive mental health among students.

Safeguarding

AIS operates under a clear Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy that outlines responsibilities for all staff in protecting students. Designated safeguarding officers are appointed to manage and respond to any concerns. Staff receive annual training on safeguarding and reporting procedures. Visitor management, supervision protocols, and secure communication channels help ensure student safety across all school activities and campuses.
Parent Experience

History

The Australian International School (AIS) was established in 2006 to provide an international education grounded in Australian values and teaching principles. Initially operating from smaller campuses in Ho Chi Minh City, the school expanded to include the purpose-built Thu Thiem campus, which now serves students from Kindergarten to Year 13. AIS became part of the Inspired Education Group, a global network of international schools, strengthening its international connections and academic offerings. Over the years, AIS has maintained a focus on combining academic excellence with personal development in a multicultural environment.

Community

AIS has a diverse and inclusive community of local and expatriate families from more than 40 nationalities. The school celebrates a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including International Day, Tet (Lunar New Year), and Book Week, which bring students, staff, and families together. Community activities such as school concerts, charity fundraisers, and sports competitions encourage engagement across year levels. The school promotes collaboration between families and teachers to foster a warm, supportive atmosphere.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

AIS has an active Parent Teacher Association (PTA) that plays a central role in strengthening the school community. The PTA organises events such as the Welcome Back Picnic, International Day, and the AIS Christmas Fair, providing opportunities for families to socialise and contribute to school life. It also supports fundraising activities for community and service projects. Regular meetings and social gatherings allow parents to share feedback and collaborate with the school leadership team. Through these initiatives, the PTA helps create a positive connection between home and school.
Facilities

Facilities Overview

The Thu Thiem Campus serves ages 1.5 to 18 years and is AIS Saigon's main campus offering the full AIS academic journey from kindergarten to Year 13 in a single location. It is the largest AIS campus and features purpose-built and upgraded facilities designed to support dynamic and engaging lessons. The campus provides a home-for-boarders environment with a dedicated boarding house for students. The facilities reflect modern, state-of-the-art technology to support learning across academics, arts, and sports.

Sports Facilities

The campus has an extensive sports complex that includes a gymnasium, basketball courts, and tennis courts, as well as a FIFA-sized football field. An on-site swimming pool supports swimming as part of the physical education program and for skill development. These facilities support a broad sports program and competitive AIS Titans teams.

Academic Facilities

Modern classrooms are equipped with advanced technology, including AI and VR capabilities, to enhance teaching and learning. Brand-new science laboratories support biology, chemistry and physics experiments. The library and media centre provide resources for research and study, with an adjacent IB Centre for Diploma Programme students. Art studios and dedicated music, dance and drama rooms support performing and visual arts. Computer labs and design and technology workshops enable digital literacy and practical engineering projects.

Extra Curricular Facilities

The school offers extensive extracurricular opportunities across sports, arts and technology, including robotics, GLEE Club, drama, dance, arts and crafts, chess, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish. Sports options include tennis, basketball, cricket, football, swimming, and other activities, with involvement in AIS Titans teams and participation in national and international tournaments. Welfare lessons and a broad enrichment programme support wellbeing, social skills and cyber-safety.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual

The school serves students from infancy to Year 13 (ages 1.5 to 18) with instruction in English by native-speaking teachers. Cambridge International programmes (IGCSE) and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme are offered, with results including high IB scores and notable IGCSE achievements. Senior students receive tailored university and career guidance to support admissions to leading universities worldwide. The curriculum progresses from infant play-based learning to IB Diploma and Cambridge qualifications.

Arts & Creative

The campus provides dedicated spaces for the arts, including Art Studios for visual arts and design, and rooms for music, dance and drama. There are Arts & Crafts spaces and Design & Technology workshops to support creative projects. The facilities support performing arts, visual arts and project-based learning across the curriculum.

Cultural & Language

Mandarin Chinese and Spanish language clubs are available. The language offerings support cross-cultural communication within the school community.

Social & Hobbies

Students participate in a broad range of extracurricular activities across sports and arts, including Robotics, GLEE Club, Drama, Dance, Arts & Crafts, Chess, Tennis, In-line Skating, Judo, Basketball, Cricket, Football and Swimming, as well as Magic Club, Surfing, Golf and more. AIS Titans sports teams provide competitive opportunities at national and international levels.

Community & Service

Welfare lessons are provided to all students, with mindfulness focus for Primary students and cyber-safety for Secondary students. There are opportunities for community service and public speaking as part of the student experience.

Leadership & Professional

Senior students receive tailored university and career guidance to support admissions to top universities and future planning.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Facilities include a gymnasium, basketball and tennis courts, a FIFA-sized football field and an on-site swimming pool. The Thu Thiem campus offers a premium boarding residence with extended access to the campus and 24/7 academic and personal support. Welfare and wellbeing programs include mindfulness and cyber-safety initiatives as part of student life.
Languages

Language Provision

The language of instruction is English, taught by native-speaking teachers. The curriculum is delivered in English across all stages, with Cambridge Lower Secondary and IGCSE, and the IB Diploma Programme for Years 12–13. Mandarin Chinese and Spanish are offered as extracurricular activities.
Reputation

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 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.
Admissions

Admissions

1. Enquiry or School Tour
Families begin by completing an Enquiry Form or booking a personalised school tour. This allows parents to learn about the school’s curriculum, facilities, and boarding or day options available at the Thu Thiem or Thao Dien campuses. Tours are arranged directly with the Admissions Office or online.

2. Application Form and Supporting Documents
Parents then complete the Enrolment Application Form and submit required documents online. These include school reports from the previous two years, a copy of the student’s birth certificate or passport, parents’ passports or identity cards, and any relevant Special Educational Needs assessment reports. Certificates of achievement in academics, sport, or community programmes may also be included.

3. Entrance Exams and Interview
Applicants are invited to complete an entrance exam and attend an interview with the Principal or Deputy Principal. This step helps the school assess academic readiness and English language proficiency before placement.

4. Offer Letter and Acceptance
Successful candidates receive a formal Offer Letter. To confirm the place, families must pay a non-refundable Acceptance Fee, followed by tuition fees according to their chosen payment plan.

5. Welcome to AIS
Once payment and paperwork are completed, the student’s enrolment is finalised, and they officially join the AIS community.

Scholarships

AIS Saigon offers academic and talent-based scholarships for new students entering Years 7-12, with awards ranging from 10% up to 100% of the annual tuition fee. The selection is based on academic achievement and individual talents in the school’s three pillars: academics, arts, and sports. The application process requires submission of the scholarship application form, recent school reports, evidence of achievement (academic, sporting, cultural, or community), passport or birth certificate copies, and payment of an application fee of VND 3,500,000. Shortlisted applicants are then invited to take assessments (including English test, cognitive ability test, and writing test) followed by an interview with the senior leadership team. Recipients must maintain high standards of achievement and participation, with scholarship continuation contingent upon consistent performance and contribution to school life.

Waitlist

AIS operates on a rolling admissions basis, and enrolment is subject to seat availability in each year group.
School Events
The school has not added events