Australian International School Saigon - Thu Thiem Campus vs International Schools of North America - Saigon South (SNA Saigon South)
Australian International School Saigon - Thu Thiem Campus and International Schools of North America - Saigon South (SNA Saigon South) are both in Ho Chi Minh City, about 10 km apart. Both schools offer IB programmes, and Australian International School Saigon - Thu Thiem Campus also offers Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE and Reggio Emilia. Published annual fees are ₫295,600,000 - 912,300,000 at Australian International School Saigon - Thu Thiem Campus and ₫514,560,000 - 843,470,000 at International Schools of North America - Saigon South (SNA Saigon South), which puts International Schools of North America - Saigon South (SNA Saigon South) roughly 12% higher. Australian International School Saigon - Thu Thiem Campus takes pupils from 1.5 to 18, and International Schools of North America - Saigon South (SNA Saigon South) from 3 to 18. Australian International School Saigon - Thu Thiem Campus is the larger school, with around 1,200 pupils to International Schools of North America - Saigon South (SNA Saigon South)'s 500. Typical class sizes are 19 at Australian International School Saigon - Thu Thiem Campus and 22 at International Schools of North America - Saigon South (SNA Saigon South).
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.
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.
Stages
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).
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.
School type
School 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.
School type
SNA Saigon South is a co-educational international school.
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
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.
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.
Country affiliation
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.
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.
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
The school does not have any religious affiliations.
Religious affiliation
The school does not have any religious affiliations.
School day structure
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.
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.
Bus service details
Bus service details
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.
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.
Fees
Fees
Fee details
Fee details
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.
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
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.
Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements
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Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement
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Food options
Food options
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Food options
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House system
House system
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House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership
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Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
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.
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.
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.
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.
Scholarships
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.
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.
Waitlist
Waitlist
AIS operates on a rolling admissions basis, and enrolment is subject to seat availability in each year group.
Waitlist
The school does not operate a formal waitlist or pooled admissions system.
