Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City
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APU American International School was founded in 2004 in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, by Dr. Thy Nguyen Truong, who continues to oversee its development. The school was established with the goal of offering an American-style education for both local and international students. In 2015, APU expanded to include a second campus in Da Nang, extending its reach across Vietnam. The Preschool and Elementary division of the Ho Chi Minh City campus was later introduced in 2017 to provide early childhood and primary education aligned with the American curriculum. APU remains part of the larger APU Educational Development Group, which manages all academic programs and partnerships.
APU promotes an active and diverse school community with events that bring together students, teachers, and families. Annual activities such as International Arts Week, Music Club performances, and service-learning projects encourage creativity and teamwork among students. Cultural celebrations, including Vietnamese Teachers’ Day and international holiday observances, help build a sense of connection and respect for cultural diversity within the community.
The school’s website does not publicly provide information about a formal Parent Teacher Association (PTA) or its specific activities. While parent engagement is encouraged through school events and communication channels, there is no dedicated PTA body, leadership structure, or published calendar of meetings and events. Parents appear to participate mainly through school-organized community events, parent–teacher conferences, and orientation sessions.
APU’s Preschool & Elementary campus in District 11 delivers an American curriculum with instruction in English and dedicated English Language Development (ELD) support. Learning in the early years emphasizes play-based approaches alongside structured programs such as Jolly Phonics, Go Math, Interactive Science, and leveled readers. Beyond classrooms, younger students can join the STEM-Robotics Club and take part in music activities and International Arts Week. Families across the city can use APU’s Shuttle Bus service, which operates pick-up and drop-off in every district with electronic student cards for safety and punctuality. APU also offers a boarding (dormitory) option close to campus for families who need it. The school’s pathway is aligned with U.S. education, and APU publishes information about AP and College Bridge opportunities as students progress through later grades.