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British International School HCMC - Secondary Campus

Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees ₫834,700,000 - 956,300,000
Ages 11 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 2400
Type Co-educational
Opened 2005
Bus Service Yes
Part of
Academic offering
Curriculum IB (DP), British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE
Taught languages English, French, Mandarin, Spanish, Vietnamese
Typical class size 20
Strengths Performing Arts, Visual and Creative Arts, Academic Enrichment
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language, Social and Hobbies, Community and Service, Leadership and Professional, Lifestyle and Wellbeing
Stages Secondary School, Sixth Form
Introduction

The Secondary Campus of BIS HCMC serves students from Years 7 to 13 (ages 11–18) and is located in the Thao Dien neighbourhood of Ho Chi Minh City. Students follow the English National Curriculum through Key Stage 3, move into the internationally recognised Cambridge IGCSE programme in Years 10-11, and complete their studies in Years 12–13 with the IB Diploma Programme. Instruction is in English and the campus offers specialist facilities including science and design labs, robotics rooms, and a professional-scale auditorium. The language options, range of electives, and extensive co-curricular activities ensure students can personalise their pathways. With more than 100 co-curricular activities listed for the campus, students have opportunities to engage in leadership, service, performing arts, STEM and sport alongside their academic programme. The campus is designed to support progression to universities worldwide and to help each student find their strengths.

This campus is part of British International School Ho Chi Minh City

246 Nguyen Van Huong Street, An Khanh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The Essentials

British International School HCMC - Secondary Campus has 2,400 pupils, typical class sizes of 20, instruction in English.

Location

The Secondary Campus is located at 246 Nguyen Van Huong Street, Thao Dien, Thu Duc City, next to the Junior Campus and connected to it by a private pedestrian bridge. The Thao Dien area is a well-established, international neighbourhood with easy access to District 1 via the Saigon Bridge. The campus is within walking distance of local cafés, supermarkets, and residential housing, making it convenient for families living nearby.

Stages

The Secondary Campus provides education for students in the Secondary and Sixth Form stages, serving learners typically aged 11 to 18. Students follow the English National Curriculum in lower secondary, then progress to Cambridge IGCSE qualifications, and complete their studies with the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. This progression prepares students for entry to universities worldwide.

Type

The Secondary Campus is a co-educational day school.

Additional learning support

The school provides Additional Educational Needs (AEN) and English as an Additional Language (EAL) support for students who need extra help. Support includes small-group interventions, targeted instruction, and collaboration with class teachers. The school is not a specialist SEN institution but accommodates a range of mild to moderate learning needs within its mainstream setting.

Country affiliation

The school follows the British curriculum and is part of Nord Anglia Education, a UK-based global schools group.

Religious affiliation

The school does not have any religious affiliations.

School day structure

The school day begins at 7:50 a.m. with registration and the last period ending at 2:40 p.m. Co-curricular clubs and sports sessions take place after lessons and run until 4:55pm.

Bus service

BIS HCMC provides a school bus service serving multiple districts across the city. Each bus is supervised by trained staff who assist students during pick-up and drop-off. The service is centrally coordinated by the school’s transport office, with routes reviewed regularly to meet family needs.
Diving Deeper

Food Options

There are bistros and cafés on all BIS HCMC campuses; libraries on each campus; a canteen is available on the Junior Campus.

Governance and Ownership

Part of Nord Anglia Education. BIS HCMC is a member of FOBISIA, a registered centre for UK examination boards, and a designated International Baccalaureate World School. The school operates across three purpose-built campuses in the Thao Dien area of Ho Chi Minh City, with the Secondary Campus linked to the Junior Campus by a covered bridge.
Fees

Annual tuition at British International School HCMC - Secondary Campus ranges from VND 834,700,000 to VND 956,300,000 for 2026/27.

Application Fee
A non-refundable Application Fee of VND 4,700,000 is required upon submission of the application. This covers the administrative processing of new student applications.

Registration Fee
A one-time, non-refundable Registration Fee of VND 73,300,000 confirms a student’s enrolment and secures their place at the school.

Security Deposit
A refundable Security Deposit of VND 24,500,000 per student is required upon joining. The deposit is refunded in full when the student leaves, provided 90 days’ written notice is given.

Tuition Fees (2025–2026 Academic Year)

* Year 7: VND 834,700,000 per year (Term 1 452,700,000 | Term 2 338,790,000 | Term 3 190,510,000)
* Year 8: VND 834,700,000 per year (Term 1 452,700,000 | Term 2 338,790,000 | Term 3 190,510,000)
* Year 9: VND 834,700,000 per year (Term 1 452,700,000 | Term 2 338,790,000 | Term 3 190,510,000)
* Year 10: VND 880,500,000 per year (Term 1 477,540,000 | Term 2 357,380,000 | Term 3 200,960,000)
* Year 11: VND 880,500,000 per year (Term 1 477,540,000 | Term 2 357,380,000 | Term 3 200,960,000)
* Year 12: VND 956,300,000 per year (Term 1 518,650,000 | Term 2 388,150,000 | Term 3 218,260,000)
* Year 13: VND 956,300,000 per year (Term 1 518,650,000 | Term 2 388,150,000 | Term 3 218,260,000)

Billing Schedule and Payment Terms
Tuition may be paid annually before the school year begins or per term in advance. Annual payments receive an approximate 15 percent discount. Payments are accepted in VND, or in USD for overseas transfers at the prevailing bank exchange rate. Late payments incur a 1.5 percent monthly surcharge.

Additional Costs
Tuition does not include meals, transport, uniforms, school trips, co-curricular clubs, or instrumental music lessons.

Refund Policy
Parents must provide 90 days’ written notice before withdrawal. Refunds are based on the term of withdrawal: 55 percent of annual tuition (Term 1), 30 percent (Term 2), and 0 percent (Term 3). Term fees and late enrolment fees are non-refundable.
Academics

British International School HCMC - Secondary Campus teaches IB (DP), British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE for students aged 11 to 18.

Curriculum

The Secondary Campus at BIS HCMC offers a structured academic pathway that builds upon the British education system. Students in the lower secondary years follow the English National Curriculum, studying core subjects such as English, Mathematics, Sciences, Humanities, and Modern Foreign Languages. In the upper secondary stage, students work towards the Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), selecting a combination of subjects that reflect their interests and strengths. In the final two years, students undertake the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, an internationally recognised qualification for university entry. Specialist teachers lead lessons across all subjects, supported by extensive facilities for Science, Technology, Performing Arts, and Sport. The curriculum promotes academic depth, research skills, and independence in preparation for higher education and global opportunities.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Social and emotional learning at the Secondary Campus is embedded within the Personal, Social, Health, and Economic (PSHE) curriculum and the school’s pastoral structure. Each student belongs to a form group led by a tutor, who provides daily guidance and support. PSHE lessons address topics such as relationships, personal growth, online safety, and decision-making. Assemblies and year group activities reinforce respect, empathy, and responsibility. The school’s pastoral team, led by Heads of Year, ensures that social and emotional wellbeing is nurtured throughout a student’s secondary education.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

The Secondary Campus provides tailored support for students with Additional Educational Needs (AEN), including mild to moderate learning or attention difficulties. The Learning Support Department works closely with subject teachers to adapt lessons and provide targeted interventions. Support may include small-group sessions, differentiated materials, and one-to-one guidance. The school is not a specialist SEN institution, but it accommodates a range of learning needs within its mainstream academic framework. Regular monitoring ensures that students receive consistent and appropriate support.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

The school offers an EAL programme designed to help students develop the language skills needed to succeed across all subjects. Specialist EAL teachers support students through focused instruction, either within lessons or in small withdrawal groups. Progress is assessed regularly to ensure students gain confidence and fluency in English. EAL support is integrated into the academic timetable to enable students to participate fully in the curriculum and wider school life.

Mental Wellbeing

The Secondary Campus maintains a proactive approach to student wellbeing, supported by pastoral staff and the school counselling team. Counsellors are available for confidential guidance, and teachers receive ongoing training to recognise and respond to wellbeing concerns. PSHE lessons and wellbeing initiatives promote resilience, self-care, and healthy relationships. The school also runs activities and awareness weeks that encourage open discussion around mental health and stress management.

Safeguarding

BIS HCMC has a formal Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy, aligned with international best practice and Nord Anglia Education standards. All staff receive regular training on child protection and reporting procedures. The school designates safeguarding leads responsible for ensuring that concerns are managed appropriately and confidentially. Parents are informed of safeguarding commitments through the parent handbook and communication channels. Policies are reviewed annually to maintain a safe, transparent, and supportive school environment.
Parent Experience

History

The British International School Ho Chi Minh City began in 1997 as a small pre-school named Tiny Tots, founded by Maurice and Rosie Nguyen. Over time, it expanded into a full through-school to meet the growing educational needs of the expatriate and local communities. The Secondary Campus opened in 2005 in Thao Dien, enabling the introduction of internationally recognised programmes such as the IGCSE and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma. In 2015, BIS HCMC joined the Nord Anglia Education group, strengthening its links with global education partners and broadening student opportunities across academics, arts, and service.

Community

The Secondary Campus community includes students from over 50 nationalities who contribute to a culturally rich and inclusive environment. The school calendar features events such as International Week, STEAM and Arts Festivals, and Sports Tournaments, which celebrate diversity and teamwork. Students are also actively involved in service and sustainability initiatives, working with local charities and community organisations to promote environmental awareness and social responsibility.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

The Parent Teacher Group (PTG) at the Secondary Campus promotes communication and engagement between parents, teachers, and students. It organises a variety of activities, including welcome events for new families, charity fundraisers, and cultural celebrations. Parents may join PTG subcommittees or serve as event volunteers to help coordinate community activities. The group also runs initiatives such as uniform swaps, social gatherings, and coffee mornings to connect families. Working alongside school leadership, the PTG supports both the academic and social wellbeing of the Secondary Campus community.
Facilities

Facilities Overview

Secondary Campus is connected to the Junior Campus by a covered bridge and provides a 21st‑century learning environment with technology‑enabled spaces. It features DREAMS, science, and design and technology labs, and a robotics room. It offers indoor and outdoor basketball courts, a football pitch, a fitness centre, and a 25‑metre swimming pool. Creative spaces include a professional auditorium, dance studios, soundproof music rooms, and The Curve, the expansive secondary library.

Sports Facilities

The campus has a 25‑metre swimming pool, an Astroturf pitch, basketball courts, and a fitness centre.

Academic Facilities

The Secondary Campus houses a suite of science labs, design and technology labs, a robotics room, and visual arts studios. DREAMS labs support technology‑rich learning, and The Curve library provides study spaces, with a dedicated Sixth Form Centre and wellbeing area to support senior students.

Extra Curricular Facilities

The school offers more than 100 co‑curricular activities on each campus, including sport, drama, music, arts, leadership, environment, and politics. Students participate in expeditions in Vietnam and around the world and engage in international collaborations, including partnerships with MIT and The Juilliard School.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual

The school offers IGCSEs and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). In 2025, 97% of IGCSE students achieved at least five A*-C grades, with 39 students achieving A*-A in all subjects. The class of 2025 IB Diploma average score was 36.3, above the world average of 30.6, and one student achieved a perfect 45 points. The school is a member of FOBISIA and is a designated International Baccalaureate World School.

Arts & Creative

The co-curricular program includes a STEAM collaboration with MIT and a performing arts collaboration with The Juilliard School. There are more than 100 activities across the three campuses, spanning sport, drama, music, arts, leadership, environment and politics. The Secondary Campus features a professional auditorium, dance studios, and soundproofed music rooms for artistic expression. Facilities on the campuses include technology-enriched DREAMS labs and well-equipped libraries.

Cultural & Language

The BIS HCMC community includes students from more than 55 countries. More than 90% of teachers hold British qualifications and have UK experience, and language learning is supported by native-speaking language teachers. The school is a FOBISIA member, a registered centre for UK exam boards, and an International Baccalaureate World School. The Global Campus connects BIS HCMC to 81 Nord Anglia schools worldwide.

Social & Hobbies

There are more than 100 co-curricular activities across the three campuses, including sport, drama, music, arts, leadership, environment, and politics. Students have opportunities for expeditions and global trips. Pastoral care and wellbeing are supported by a dedicated team, including counsellors and a school nurse. A campus wellbeing programme helps keep students safe and healthy at school.

Community & Service

UNICEF collaboration engages students with global issues and social impact projects. The school supports environmental initiatives, including a student-led Precious Plastics project, and partners with Blue Dragon Children's Foundation and The Friends for Street Children Association to drive campaigns and education. Students learn through integrated social impact projects and hands-on community service locally and globally.

Leadership & Professional

Parent Teacher Groups (PTGs) foster parent engagement and school community involvement. The Global Campus platform connects BIS HCMC to Nord Anglia's global network, enabling cross-school collaboration across 81 campuses. The school hosts student leadership activities and ambassadors as part of its global programs, and teachers pursue ongoing professional development, including an Executive Master's in International Education through King's College London.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

The school provides a pastoral care team, counsellors, and a school nurse to support student wellbeing. A dedicated wellbeing programme and a focus on safety and health are integrated across the campuses. Secondary facilities include indoor and outdoor basketball courts, football pitches, a 25-meter swimming pool, a fitness suite, theatre spaces, and libraries to support physical and mental wellness.
Languages

Language Provision

Languages taught include English, Vietnamese, French, Spanish and Mandarin. An English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme supports students for whom English is not their first language.
Reputation

Awards

* TES Awards for International Schools 2024 – Finalist, “International School of the Year”
BIS HCMC was shortlisted for this global education award recognising innovation and impact among international schools worldwide.

* Green Flag Award (Eco-Schools Framework)
The school has achieved the Eco-Schools Green Flag Award for sustainability initiatives, recognising its work in student-led environmental projects.

* Nord Anglia Education Global Campus Recognition
As part of Nord Anglia Education, the school has been recognised within the group for outstanding student engagement in the Global Campus online learning platform and UNICEF partnership activities.

Accreditations

* Council of International Schools (CIS): BIS HCMC is accredited by CIS, a global organisation that evaluates international schools against rigorous standards of teaching, leadership, and student wellbeing. This confirms that the school meets recognised international benchmarks for quality education and governance.

* Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC): The school is jointly accredited by WASC, a US-based accrediting body that assesses institutional integrity, curriculum effectiveness, and student achievement. The joint CIS–WASC process ensures both global and regional recognition of quality assurance.

* Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA): BIS HCMC is a member of FOBISIA, a network of British-style schools across Asia that collaborate on academic, sporting, and cultural standards, and share best practices in teaching and learning.

* Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE): The school is an approved Cambridge International Centre authorised to deliver the IGCSE programme. This accreditation enables BIS HCMC to offer Cambridge-certified qualifications for secondary students.

* International Primary Curriculum (IPC): The school is an accredited IPC member school, implementing the internationally recognised primary curriculum that focuses on thematic, cross-subject learning for younger students.

* International Baccalaureate (IB) World School: BIS HCMC is authorised by the International Baccalaureate Organisation to offer the IB Diploma Programme for students in Years 12–13. This confirms its adherence to IB teaching and assessment standards.
Admissions

Admissions

1. Enquiry and consultation
Families begin the process by completing the online enquiry form on the BIS HCMC website. The Admissions Team responds promptly to provide information about entry requirements, availability, and curriculum pathways. Parents are encouraged to arrange a campus tour—in person or virtually—to gain an overview of life at the Secondary Campus.

2. Campus visit and discussion
During the visit, families meet members of the academic and pastoral teams, tour classrooms, and learn about programmes such as the IGCSE and IB Diploma. The Admissions Team offers guidance on subject choices and placement options for students joining from other educational systems.

3. Application submission
Parents submit the online application form and supporting documents, including copies of the student’s passport, birth certificate, previous school reports, and any additional learning or language assessments. The Application Fee of VND 4,700,000 is payable at this stage.

4. Entrance assessment and interview
Students undertake an age-appropriate entrance assessment and, for older year groups, an interview with a senior member of staff. These steps help determine academic readiness and English language proficiency.

5. Offer and confirmation
Successful applicants receive a formal Offer Letter from the Admissions Office. A student’s place is secured upon payment of the Registration Fee and Security Deposit and completion of the enrolment paperwork.

6. Induction and transition
Before joining, new students and families are invited to attend orientation sessions to meet teachers, explore the campus, and learn about school routines. The pastoral team ensures smooth academic and social integration.

Scholarships

The school does not publicly disclose or advertise any scholarship programmes for the Secondary Campus. Admissions are based on application review and assessment, with all places subject to full tuition fees as published in the annual fee schedule.

Waitlist

The school operates a waitlist system when year groups reach full capacity. Applications are held on file and reviewed as spaces become available, with priority given to siblings of current students and children of returning families.
School Events
The school has not added events