Educational System in Vietnam

Vietnam's educational system is a dynamic landscape that might differ from what many expats are familiar with. It is divided into five main stages, each with its unique focus and approach to learning. Understanding this system is crucial for expat parents looking to enroll their children in local or international schools. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the educational system in Vietnam, the types of schools available, and tips for expat parents navigating this system.

What are the main stages of education in Vietnam and what are the names of those stages?

The Vietnamese education system is structured into five main stages: Preschool (M?m non), Primary School (Ti?u h?c), Lower Secondary School (Trung h?c c? s?), Upper Secondary School (Trung h?c ph? thông), and Higher Education (Giáo d?c b?c cao). Each stage has a specific focus and caters to different age groups.

Preschool (M?m non)

Preschool in Vietnam caters to children aged 18 months to 5 years. It focuses on developing basic motor skills, socialization, and introducing basic concepts of numbers, letters, and colors. Preschools can be public or private, with varying curricula and approaches.

Primary School (Ti?u h?c)

Primary School is compulsory and caters to children aged 6 to 10. It focuses on basic subjects like Mathematics, Vietnamese, Science, Social Studies, Arts, and Physical Education. English is introduced from the third grade. Primary schools are mostly public, but private options are also available.

Lower Secondary School (Trung h?c c? s?)

Lower Secondary School caters to students aged 11 to 14. It builds upon the primary school curriculum with more advanced subjects. English continues to be a compulsory subject. Students prepare for the High School Entrance Exam at the end of this stage.

Upper Secondary School (Trung h?c ph? thông)

Upper Secondary School caters to students aged 15 to 18. It focuses on preparing students for the National High School Exam, which determines university eligibility. Subjects are more specialized, and students have more elective options.

Higher Education (Giáo d?c b?c cao)

Higher Education includes universities and colleges offering degrees and diplomas. Students can pursue a wide range of disciplines. Admission is based on the National High School Exam scores.

How does a newcomer from a different country enroll their kids in school?

To enroll their children in a Vietnamese school, expats should contact the school directly for admission procedures. Generally, required documents include a valid passport, visa, residence certificate, and previous school records. Some schools may require proficiency in Vietnamese.

My children are still learning Vietnamese, can they enroll in a public school?

Public schools in Vietnam teach primarily in Vietnamese. While there is no legal barrier preventing non-Vietnamese speaking children from enrolling, the language barrier may pose a significant challenge. It is recommended to consider international or bilingual schools for a smoother transition.

Are there public bilingual schools? Where are they and how do international students get admitted?

Public bilingual schools are limited in Vietnam. Most bilingual programs are found in private or international schools, predominantly in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Admission procedures vary, but typically involve submitting application documents and possibly taking an entrance exam.

What types of private schools are common in Vietnam?

Private schools in Vietnam range from international schools, which follow foreign curricula and teach in English, to bilingual schools offering a mix of Vietnamese and international curricula. There are also private schools that follow the Vietnamese curriculum but offer additional resources and facilities.

Do expats typically send their children to public or private school? How expensive are Private schools in Vietnam?

Many expats choose to send their children to private or international schools due to the language and cultural familiarity. Private schools can be expensive, with tuition fees ranging widely depending on the school's reputation and facilities. Annual fees can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of USD.

Are you allowed to homeschool while living in Vietnam?

Homeschooling is not officially recognized in Vietnam. The law mandates that all children must attend school. However, some expats may choose to homeschool their children using foreign curricula, but this may not be legally recognized by local authorities.

May kids attend online school instead of a local school while living in Vietnam?

Online schooling is not explicitly regulated in Vietnam. While some expats may opt for online schools, especially those following their home country's curriculum, it is important to note that this may not comply with local education laws. It is advisable to consult with relevant authorities for the most accurate information.