doris
doris
Find Schools
Events
Saved schools
My account
Parent Guide Parent testimonials Community Transparency Charter About For Schools
Currency
S

Saigon South International School (SSIS)

Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City

Save school
Share
Navigate

· Reviewed by · B2C Marketing Manager

Independently researched by doris.
Not yet claimed by the school
Claim your profile
The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees ₫479,212,000 - 882,200,000
Ages 3 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 1500
Type Co-educational
Opened 1997
Bus Service Yes
Academic offering
Curriculum IB (DP), Advanced Placement (AP), American Curriculum, Bespoke Curriculum
Taught languages English, Mandarin, Spanish, Vietnamese
Typical class size 14
Strengths Performing Arts, STEM, 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 Elementary, Middle School, High School
Introduction

Saigon South International School (SSIS) is a not-for-profit, K–12 international school in Ho Chi Minh City’s Phú Mỹ Hưng community, about 20 minutes from downtown and set along the Rạch Đĩa River. Students learn in English within an American-style program that offers both Advanced Placement courses and the IB Diploma Programme in high school. Facilities include a 7,100 m² STEAM Design Center opened in 2024, featuring a two-story makerspace, robotics lab, visual art studios, independent research labs, and dedicated science labs. Beyond academics, SSIS runs extensive activities such as VEX Robotics, Debate, and Model United Nations, plus vibrant band/strings and theater opportunities. The school enrolls 1,500+ students from over 48 nationalities and provides busing for families.

78 Nguyen Duc Canh, Tan Hung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The Essentials

Saigon South International School (SSIS) has 1,500 pupils, typical class sizes of 14, instruction in English.

Location
SSIS is located at 78 Nguyen Duc Canh, Tân Hưng Ward, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The campus is in the Phú Mỹ Hưng residential zone, a well-planned neighbourhood with lakes, green spaces and local amenities, and is approximately 20 minutes by car from the city centre.

Stages
The school serves Early Childhood (starting at age 3) through to Grade 12. It is organised into divisions encompassing Early Years/Kindergarten, Elementary (Grades 1–5), Middle School (Grades 6–8) and High School (Grades 9–12).

Type
SSIS is a co-educational day school.

Additional learning support
The school offers Learning Support services for students with mild to moderate learning differences, working with parents and teachers to develop individual learning plans. It also offers English as an Additional Language (EAL) support for multilingual learners.

Country affiliation
There is no formal affiliation to a particular national government. SSIS operates as a not-for-profit international school based in Vietnam, following an American standards-based curriculum.

Religious affiliation
The school has no religious affiliations.

School day structure
Specific published times are not detailed on the school's website.

Bus service
SSIS provides a bus service for students. Each bus has an assigned monitor to ensure students board and alight safely. For after-school activities (ASAs), special bus departures are scheduled (for example at 4:10 pm and 4:40 pm) with an extra charge for ASA-only riders.
Diving Deeper

Uniform Requirement
The school requires wearing the approved SSIS uniform to school each day. Uniform items are purchased at the school store, and uniform details are division-specific as shown in the uniform items guide.

Food Options
SSIS has a cafeteria with a catering partner (Aden) starting in the 2025–2026 school year. EC and KG receive pre-ordered lunches delivered to classrooms; Grades 1–12 use their SSIS ID card to pay for meals; menus are published by division. During kitchen and cafeteria renovations (February 24–June 4, 2025), meals were prepared offsite and delivered to the school.

House System
SSIS has a four-house system: Hydra, Naga, Shenlong, Wyvern. House shirts are worn for orientation and house-based activities; house colors are red for Hydra, green for Naga, yellow for Shenlong, and purple for Wyvern.

Governance and Ownership
SSIS is established as a not-for-profit entity of the Phu My Hung Corporation.
Fees

Annual tuition at Saigon South International School (SSIS) ranges from VND 479,212,000 to VND 882,200,000 for 2026/27.

* Application Fee: VND 10,000,000 (one-time, non-refundable, per new student).
* Registration Fee: VND 60,000,000 (one-time, non-refundable, per new student, also applies to returning students re-enrolling after one or more years).

Enrollment Deposit

* Deposit: VND 45,000,000.
* Payable upon signing the Letter of Acceptance (new students).
* Deducted from the tuition invoice (from full payment or Q4 installment).
* Refundable if a Departure Notice is given at least 60 days before leaving.

Tuition Fees

* EC3–4: 509,800,000 / Q1 178,430,000; Q2 127,450,000; Q3 127,450,000; Q4 76,470,000
* Kindergarten: 580,000,000 / Q1 203,000,000; Q2 145,000,000; Q3 145,000,000; Q4 87,000,000
* Grades 1–5: 702,700,000 / Q1 245,945,000; Q2 175,675,000; Q3 175,675,000; Q4 105,405,000
* Grades 6–8: 749,700,000 / Q1 262,395,000; Q2 187,425,000; Q3 187,425,000; Q4 112,455,000
* Grades 9–10: 794,300,000 / Q1 278,005,000; Q2 198,575,000; Q3 198,575,000; Q4 119,145,000
* Grades 11–12: 882,200,000 / Q1 308,770,000; Q2 220,550,000; Q3 220,550,000; Q4 132,330,000
Families choosing full annual payment by June 25 receive a 6% discount.

Billing and Payment Schedule

* Quarterly Installments: All installments are non-refundable.
* Late enrollment: Tuition charged pro-rata (100%, 85%, 60%, 35% depending on entry quarter).
* Refunds: Departure > 60 days = partial refund based on quarter (60% in Q1 → 0% in Q4).
* Sibling Discount: 20% for third and subsequent children in the same family.

Other Costs
Families cover uniforms, lunches, personal supplies, AP & IB exam fees, extracurriculars (athletics, VEX Robotics, debate, performing arts), and bus transport. Students in Grades 4–12 must bring a MacBook.

Payment Options
Payments can be made via Vietcombank (Nam Sai Gon Branch) or Standard Chartered Bank (Vietnam) in VND or USD. All bank charges are borne by the payer, and an exchange rate applies to foreign currency transfers.
Academics

Saigon South International School (SSIS) teaches IB (DP), Advanced Placement (AP), American Curriculum, Bespoke Curriculum for students aged 3 to 18.

Curriculum
Teaching and learning at SSIS follow an American-standards based framework across Early Childhood through Grade 12, emphasising inquiry, student engagement and critical thinking. In the Elementary School, a written curriculum provides integrated “Super Units” that connect subjects such as English, Maths, Science, Social Studies, Arts and Vietnamese, while specialist teachers support subjects like Visual Art, Drama, Music and Physical Education. In Middle School, students move into discipline-based classes, expanding their study of modern world languages, mathematics, science and humanities. In High School (Grades 9-12), students can pursue the high school diploma pathway with a choice of Advanced Placement (AP) courses or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) alongside the SSIS Diploma. The program of studies shows that students earn credits by subject area and can select pathways that match their future study plans.

Academic calendar
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
Saigon South International School integrates social and emotional learning throughout daily school life. The Wellness Program helps students build skills in communication, empathy, responsibility, and community engagement. In the Elementary School, SEL is included through classroom activities such as goal setting and reflection. Middle School students participate in an Advisory Program focused on self-awareness, healthy relationships, and personal growth. In High School, regular advisory sessions and peer activities encourage connection, confidence, and a sense of belonging across the student community.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
The school provides Learning Support for students with mild to moderate learning differences. This support is offered through collaboration between classroom teachers, learning specialists, and parents. Individual Learning Plans are developed to help students meet their academic and personal goals. SSIS clarifies that it is not a specialist SEN institution and cannot accommodate students requiring intensive or full-time therapeutic support.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
The school offers an English as an Additional Language program for multilingual learners starting from Kindergarten. EAL teachers work alongside classroom teachers to help students develop their English skills while engaging fully in classroom learning. English language proficiency is assessed during the admissions process to determine placement and support levels.

Mental Wellbeing
Student mental wellbeing is supported through access to school counsellors and structured wellness education across divisions. The High School program includes counselling services, advisory sessions, and lessons focused on life skills and resilience. These initiatives aim to help students navigate academic and personal challenges in a supportive environment.

Safeguarding
Saigon South International School (SSIS) maintains a comprehensive Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy approved by its Board of Directors and reviewed every four years. The policy applies to all teaching and non-teaching staff and outlines clear responsibilities for protecting students’ safety and wellbeing. The school fosters a “Culture of Care,” ensuring all community members are aware of their duty to promote child welfare and report any concerns. A Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), supported by divisional principals and counsellors, oversees the safeguarding process and coordinates a “Team Around the Child” approach to provide multi-layered support. Staff are required to record concerns using a secure online system (CPOMS), with clear procedures for emergencies, confidentiality, and follow-up actions. The policy also mandates annual safeguarding training, parent education sessions, and compliance with international and Vietnamese child-protection laws, including the 2016 Vietnamese Children’s Law and UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Safeguarding Policy
Parent Experience

History
The school was founded in 1997 by the Phu My Hung Corporation as a non-profit international school. Lawrence S. Ting and Ferdinand P. Tsien are noted as the visionary founders behind the establishment of the school. Over time the school has expanded its campus, added new facilities and grown its student body to serve a broad international community. The governance is non-profit and linked to the Phu My Hung development.

Community
The community at the school is multicultural, with students and families from a wide range of nationalities. Regular events include International Day, Family Fun Day, Elementary Sports Day and Christmas Tree Lighting which bring together students, parents and staff. The school emphasises parent-and-community involvement in planning and running these events, fostering active participation across the community.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
The PTA at the school comprises parents, teachers and staff working together to support the school community. It organises coffee mornings for new and returning parents to connect and receive updates, as well as large events such as the Family Fun Day and International Day. The PTA also runs “Parent Clubs” including Art Club, Book Club, Coffee Club, Spanish Language Class, Pilates Club and Sports Club. Country Ambassadors are part of the PTA network, assisting families from specific nationalities to connect within the school community. Volunteers are encouraged to join event committees and support initiatives throughout the school year.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
The SSIS campus spans 6 hectares and serves EC through Grade 12 in three divisions, with bright, modern classrooms and expansive outdoor spaces. Two new buildings were added in 2024 to expand learning spaces. Three libraries hold nearly 30,000 titles across divisions. A state-of-the-art IDEA Center and Design Lab, plus divisional maker spaces including the ES Spark Lab, support hands-on learning and design thinking. The HS IDEA center houses 3D printers, CNC machines, an industrial laser and water cutters, and a 3D scanner; SSIS also supports robotics through VEX and FIRST teams with a dedicated VEX arena for practice.

Sports Facilities
Athletics facilities indoors include two air-conditioned gyms with three full courts for basketball and volleyball, a brand new fitness studio, and a six-lane pool. Outdoors, there are three full soccer fields with stadium lighting.

Academic Facilities
Bright, modern classrooms support instruction across EC through Grade 12. A state-of-the-art IDEA Center and Design Lab, with divisional maker spaces, support STEAM learning. The HS IDEA center houses 3D printers, CNC machines, an industrial laser and water cutters, and a 3D scanner. The MS design lab provides coding and construction, and the Spark Lab covers robotics, circuitry, physical computing, AR/VR, and multimedia. The libraries offer more than 25,000 physical books and more than 4,500 online titles across three divisions. The campus features a 360-seat auditorium and a Blackbox Theatre for performing arts.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Robotics and maker activities are supported by the ES Spark Lab, the MS design lab, and the HS IDEA center, with VEX and FIRST robotics teams and a VEX arena for practice. The performing arts spaces include a 360-seat auditorium and a Blackbox Theatre for after-school productions. Athletic facilities enable participation in citywide and regional leagues with two indoor gyms, a six-lane pool, a fitness studio, and three outdoor soccer fields with stadium lighting. Outdoor learning spaces and learning gardens provide environments for clubs and project-based activities. The libraries and arts spaces support a range of clubs, study groups, and performances.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
SSIS follows an American standards-based curriculum. The high school program includes Advanced Placement (AP) courses and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). SSIS is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). SSIS is the only international school in Ho Chi Minh City offering both AP and IB in high school.

Arts & Creative
SSIS supports arts across visual and performing arts. The STEAM Design Center is 7,100 square meters and includes a makerspace, a robotics lab, an art exhibition space, visual art studios, and science labs. The high school offers AP Art and Design courses.

Cultural & Language
SSIS serves an international student body. SSIS provides an English-language curriculum with English-language support through its EAL program. During admissions, linguistic needs are comprehensively assessed to determine English-proficiency services. SSIS is a member of MRISA and SEASAC.

Social & Hobbies
SSIS offers After-School Activities, athletics, and clubs. Students can pursue interests beyond class through ASAs and sports. Campus life includes a range of social and recreational opportunities.

Community & Service
Service in Action connects SSIS students with local partners to perform service. These experiences foster empathy and real-world understanding. The program is integrated across school life.

Leadership & Professional
The Head of School is Dr. Catriona Moran. SSIS has a leadership team and a faculty recruited from around the world. Four high school guidance counselors support college and career planning. SSIS operates as a not-for-profit entity.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
SSIS provides well-being support through weekly advisory lessons in high school. Dedicated counselors support students' social and emotional growth. SSIS offers health and wellness initiatives and a broad program of student-life activities.
Languages

Language Provision
The school uses an English-language curriculum. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is available for multilingual learners. During admissions, linguistic needs are comprehensively assessed to determine the level of English proficiency. EAL specialists collaborate with classroom teachers to support language development and ensure access to the English-language curriculum.
Reputation

Accreditations
* Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC): A U.S.-based regional accreditor recognised for validating school quality and continuous improvement for schools in East Asia and the Pacific.

* International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO / IB Diploma Programme authorisation): Authorisation that allows SSIS to offer the IB Diploma Programme, demonstrating it meets the standards and practices of the IB organisation.

* College Board (AP Programme authorisation): Recognition that SSIS is authorised to offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses, enabling students to take rigorous college-level subjects while in high school.

* Council of International Schools (CIS) Membership: SSIS is a member of CIS which supports international school quality through benchmarked peer review and professional development.

* Association of International Schools in South East Asia (AISA) or similar regional associations: SSIS holds membership in regional international-school networks (such as SEASAC and MRISA) which link the school to peer institutions for activities and standards.
Admissions

Admissions
1. Inquiry and Application Submission
Families begin by completing the online application form and uploading all required documents. An application fee of VND 10,000,000 is payable at this stage. Applicants in Early Childhood to Kindergarten complete a developmental observation, while Grades 1–12 complete written assessments in English and mathematics.

2. Assessment and Interview
Following the initial review, students may be invited for additional testing or an interview to determine English proficiency and overall readiness. The Admissions Office evaluates prior school records, assessment results, and whether the school can meet the student’s learning needs.

3. Decision and Offer
After review, applicants may receive an offer of admission, be placed on the waiting list, or be declined. Accepted families receive a formal Letter of Acceptance, which must be signed and returned along with a completed health form.

4. Payment and Enrollment
To secure a place, families must pay the required enrollment deposit and tuition (or first installment) by the due dates listed in the fee schedule. All payments must be completed before the student’s first day of class.

5. Orientation and Start
New students and parents are invited to attend orientation sessions before the start of the academic year in August. Middle and High School students also meet with a counselor to confirm course selections and discuss academic planning.

6. Rolling Admissions
Applications are accepted year-round, although placement is based on space availability. Families seeking entry in August are encouraged to begin the process by January of the same calendar year.

Scholarships
SSIS offers the annual Lawrence S. Ting Scholarship for one Vietnamese student entering Grade 10 who has only attended local Vietnamese schools. The scholarship is renewable for up to three years, is awarded on the basis of academic excellence, English proficiency, interest in global/international affairs and service to others. The application timeline begins in December and features a written test, group discussion and interview rounds, with winners announced in May.

Waitlist
SSIS operates a wait-pool (waiting list) system. Qualified applicants whose grade level is full are placed on the waiting list until space becomes available. Admission thereafter depends on space and on the candidate meeting requirements.
School Events
The school has not added events
Compare Saigon South International School (SSIS) with
vs Renaissance International School Saigon vs International School Ho Chi Minh City - Secondary Campus vs The Canadian International School vs Australian International School Saigon - Thao Dien Campus vs British International School HCMC - Secondary Campus vs Vietnam Finland International School
Search for more schools
Search schools in Vietnam View all schools in Ho Chi Minh City View all schools in Vietnam IB curriculum schools in Vietnam Open days & tours in Ho Chi Minh City What is the IB curriculum? View all schools Search all schools