Education & Schools in Vietnam

If you are moving to Vietnam with children — or planning to study here — understanding the education system is an essential part of your preparation.

Vietnam offers a wide range of educational pathways, from public schools to bilingual programs and international institutions. The right choice depends on age, language ability, long-term academic goals, and budget.

This guide explains how the system works and what families should consider before enrolling.

1. Overview

Vietnam’s education system is regulated by the Ministry of Education and Training (MOET). It includes early childhood education, 12 years of general education, vocational pathways, and higher education.

Public education is affordable and academically rigorous, while private and international schools provide alternative curricula and language options.

For expat families, understanding language of instruction, admissions requirements, and exam systems is especially important.

2. Education Levels

2.1. Early Childhood Education (Mầm non)

• Nursery (Nhà trẻ): Ages 3 months – 3 years
• Kindergarten (Mẫu giáo): Ages 3 – 5 years

Kindergarten is not compulsory, but most children attend before entering primary school.

2.2. Primary School (Tiểu học)

Grades 1–5
Ages 6–10

Primary education is compulsory in Vietnam.

2.3. Lower Secondary School (Trung học cơ sở)

Grades 6–9
Ages 11–14

2.4. Upper Secondary School (Trung học phổ thông)

Grades 10–12
Ages 15–17

After Grade 12, students may pursue vocational training, college, or university education.

* Specialized (Gifted) High Schools – “Trường Chuyên”

Vietnam has prestigious specialized public high schools for academically gifted students.

Students must pass highly competitive entrance exams.

Focus on advanced study in subjects such as:

• Mathematics
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Biology
• Literature
• Foreign Languages

These schools are academically demanding and often produce top university candidates.

2.5. Vocational & Higher Education

• Vocational Training (Trung cấp). Typically 1–2 years, focused on practical and technical skills.
• College (Cao đẳng). Usually 2–3 years, offering applied professional education.
• University (Đại học). Bachelor’s degrees generally take 4 years (longer for medical or technical programs).
• Postgraduate Education (Sau đại học)
  • Master’s programs typically last 1–2 years.
  • Doctoral programs usually require 3–5 years.

Vietnam has many public and private universities, and some offer English-taught programs in business, technology, and international studies.

3. Types of Schools

3.1. Public Schools

• Taught primarily in Vietnamese
• Affordable
• Larger class sizes
• Strong emphasis on academic achievement and discipline

Best suited for Vietnamese-speaking students.

3.2. Private Vietnamese & Bilingual Schools

• Smaller class sizes
• Improved facilities
• Vietnamese curriculum with enhanced English
• Moderate tuition fees

These schools can be a practical middle-ground option.

3.3. International Schools

• British (IGCSE / A-Level)
• American (US High School Diploma)
• International Baccalaureate (IB)
• Australian and other systems

English is typically the main language of instruction.

They offer globally recognized qualifications but come with higher tuition fees, especially in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.

International schools are popular among expat families who plan to relocate again or send children abroad for university.

4. Language of Instruction

Language is one of the most important factors when choosing a school.

• Public schools teach in Vietnamese.
• Bilingual schools combine Vietnamese and English.
• International schools teach primarily in English.

Some schools require placement tests to assess language ability before admission.

For children who do not speak Vietnamese, international schools usually provide a smoother transition.

5. Assessment & Examinations

In public schools, students are evaluated through continuous assessment and periodic exams.

Key national examinations include:

• End of Grade 9: Competitive entrance exams for upper secondary school (in major cities)
• End of Grade 12: National High School Graduation Examination, required for graduation and university admission

Academic performance plays a significant role in progression and university placement.

International schools follow their respective systems:

• IGCSE / A-Level (British system)
• SAT / GPA-based evaluation (American system)
• IB Diploma examinations

These qualifications are internationally recognized.

6. Academic Calendar

The Vietnamese school year typically:

• Starts in September
• Ends in May
• Includes a long summer break

Students also have a major holiday during Tet (Lunar New Year), which usually lasts one to two weeks.

Families relocating mid-year should check enrollment flexibility with schools.

7. Admissions & Enrollment Process

Admission requirements vary by school type.

Common requirements may include:

• Completed application form
• Academic transcripts
• Passport copies
• Health records
• Placement tests or interviews (especially in international schools)

Well-known international schools may have waiting lists. Early application is recommended.

8. Tuition & Additional Costs

Education costs vary significantly:

• Public schools: Low cost
• Private Vietnamese schools: Moderate cost
• International schools: High cost
• Universities: Generally affordable compared to Western countries

Additional expenses may include:

• Enrollment fees
• Uniforms
• School bus services
• Extracurricular activities
• Meals

Families should review the full fee structure before enrolling.

9. Choosing the Right School

When selecting a school, consider:

• Language of instruction
• Curriculum recognition
• Long-term university plans
• Location and commute time
• Budget
• Your child’s adaptability

Visiting campuses and speaking with other parents can provide valuable insight.

10. Final Thoughts

Vietnam offers diverse education pathways from early childhood to postgraduate studies.

Public schools provide strong academic foundations for local families, while international schools remain the preferred option for many expat communities. Higher education opportunities are expanding, with more international partnerships and English-taught programs available.

With proper research and early planning, families and students can find an educational path that supports both academic success and a smooth transition to life in Vietnam.