Beginning in 2025, the integration of Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu into Ho Chi Minh City has created a dynamic expanded metropolitan zone, attracting many young families and professionals. As a result, the demand for International and Bilingual schools in the area has grown significantly.

Based on official and updated data from government agencies and leading educational systems, Esearch has compiled a list of four outstanding International and Bilingual schools in Ba Ria- Vung Tau (HCMC) to help parents make more informed school choices.

1. SINGAPORE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL (SIS) - VUNG TAU CAMPUS

SIS Vung Tau (part of KinderWorld Education Group) is one of the most prominent international schools in the area, ideal for families seeking strong academic pathways and early preparation for overseas study.

Languages of instruction:

International Program: 100% English
Bilingual Program: English & Vietnamese
Integrated Program: Vietnamese with enhanced English
Chinese is also offered as an elective foreign language.

Contact Information:
Address: 103 Trần Cao Vân, Tam Thắng Ward, HCMC
Phone: +84 254 7301 777

 Website: vungtau.sis.edu.vn

 Facebook: facebook.com/siskinderworld

2. UK ACADEMY (UKA) – BÀ RỊA – VŨNG TÀU CAMPUS

UK Academy offers a continuous bilingual pathway from Kindergarten to Grade 12, integrating the optimized Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training (MOET) curriculum with Oxford-standard English. A key strength at the high school level is the NCUK University Foundation Program (UK), which expands global study opportunities for students. The learning environment is modern, dynamic, and strongly emphasizes soft skills through diverse extracurricular activities.

Language of instruction: Bilingual (English – Vietnamese)

Contact Information:
Address: 165 Nguyễn Hữu Thọ, Bà Rịa Ward, HCMC
Phone: 025 4730 5588 – 0772 666 989

 Website: uka.edu.vn

 Facebook: facebook.com/UKAcademy

3. VIETNAM–AMERICA SCHOOLS SYSTEM (VASCHOOLS) – VUNG TAU CAMPUSES

VAschools Vung Tau offers a bilingual pathway from Kindergarten to Grade 12, combining the Vietnamese MOET curriculum with Cambridge-standard ESL English. The school emphasizes developing the four core English skills and teaches Math and Science in English, helping students achieve international certificates such as Starters, Movers, Flyers, KET, PET, and IELTS.
VAschools also prioritizes life skills education, core values, and creative thinking through a broad range of extracurricular activities.

Language of instruction: Bilingual (English – Vietnamese)

Contact Information:

 Website: vaschools.edu.vn

 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vietmyvungtau/

Campuses (now within HCMC boundaries after the administrative merger):

Vietnam–America Kindergarten (Campus 1):
5–7 Hoàng Diệu, Vung Tau Ward, HCMC
Phone: (0254) 3510 035

Vietnam–America Primary – Secondary – High School (Campus 2):
95 Lý Thường Kiệt, Vung Tau Ward, HCMC
Phone: (0254) 3560 096

Vietnam–UK Primary School (Campus 3 & 4):
9 Trương Vĩnh Ký, Vung Tau Ward, HCMC
17 Trương Vĩnh Ký, Vung Tau Ward, HCMC
Phone: (0254) 3510 034 – 3852 175

Vietnam–America Kindergarten – Tam Thắng Campus:
Ground Floor, Block C, DIC Phoenix Apartment Complex, Chi Linh Urban Area, Tam Thắng Ward, HCMC

4. EINSTEIN SCHOOL VUNG TAU (NOW RENAMED HAPPY SCHOOL)

Einstein School offers a bilingual program from Primary to High School, blending the Vietnamese MOET curriculum with the U.S. Common Core framework. As a Cognia-accredited school, it is a pioneer in experiential learning and highly emphasizes Social–Emotional Learning (SEL), supporting students’ academic, emotional, and personal development toward becoming global citizens.

Language of instruction: Bilingual (English – Vietnamese)

Contact Information:
Address: 43, 30/4 Street, Tam Thắng Ward, HCMC
Phone: 091 252 71 74

 Website: esvt.edu.vn

 Facebook: facebook.com/Happyschoolvt

CONCLUSION

As Ba Ria- Vung Tau becomes part of Ho Chi Minh City’s expanded metropolitan landscape, its education market is rapidly transforming with the rise of high-quality International and Bilingual school models. Each school on this list offers distinct strengths—from curriculum design and English proficiency to competency-based development and study-abroad pathways—catering to diverse family needs.

Esearch hopes this overview provides parents with clear, structured, and comparable information to help them select the most suitable learning environment for their children.

*Esearch is always ready to accompany you in finding the best educational environment for the next generation.

For more details on school programs, facilities, and admissions, please visit:https://esearch.vn/en .

Source: Compiled by Esearch

Ho Chi Minh City is not only known for its dynamic and modern lifestyle, but also for its many “islands of knowledge” — book spaces that connect people, languages, and cultures. For international families and book lovers alike, finding a place that offers both high-quality foreign books and an inspiring reading atmosphere makes life in this city even more fulfilling.

In the first part of “Discover the Best English Bookspaces in Ho Chi Minh City”, Esearch introduces four standout destinations where you can find your favorite books while enjoying moments of relaxation and creativity in the heart of Saigon:

(1) Nguyễn Văn Bình Book Street; (2) Fahasa Bookstore Nguyễn Huệ
(3) Phương Nam Book City; (4) Cá Chép Bookstore

1. Nguyễn Văn Bình Book Street – A Cultural Icon of Saigon

Nestled in the bustling city center, Nguyễn Văn Bình Book Street is a peaceful oasis of knowledge where book lovers can slow down amid the urban rhythm. Its leafy walkway, charming book stalls, and the aroma of coffee create a unique cultural ambiance of Saigon.

It’s a perfect destination for all ages: children can read stories and join outdoor activities, while adults sip coffee, browse foreign titles, or attend book signings and mini-exhibitions.

Location: Nguyễn Văn Bình Street, Bến Nghé Ward – between the Central Post Office and Notre-Dame Cathedral, one of the city’s most charming cultural landmarks.

2. Fahasa – Vietnam’s Largest Foreign Book Chain

As one of Vietnam’s oldest and most reputable bookstore brands, Fahasa is a go-to destination for parents and readers seeking English books, children’s stories, and international educational titles.

Suggested branch: 40 Nguyễn Huệ, Bến Nghé Ward – right in the heart of District 1, ideal for combining a book hunt with a leisurely city stroll.

3. Phương Nam Book City – Where Reading Meets Culture and Leisure

Phương Nam is a beloved bookstore brand, admired for its modern, welcoming, and experiential spaces. More than a shopping spot, it offers a cultural reading environment that blends literature with lifestyle.

Many locations feature the Book Café model, allowing visitors to enjoy a good read, savor a cup of coffee, and unwind during the weekend.

Suggested branch: Phương Nam Book City Saigon Centre (Takashimaya, District 1) – one of the city’s most modern and beautiful bookstores, offering a “city of books” experience inside a vibrant shopping mall.

4. Cá Chép Bookstore – Where Aesthetics Meet Knowledge

Cá Chép has become a favorite destination for young families, celebrated for its artistic and creative atmosphere. Beyond being a bookstore, it offers a complete cultural reading experience where all generations can find joy in every page.

The upper-floor café, with its relaxing ambiance and lovely city view, is an ideal spot to read, chat, or simply enjoy a peaceful afternoon in the heart of Saigon.

Address: 211–213 Võ Văn Tần, Bàn Cờ Ward – one of the most popular and charming book spaces in the city.

CONCLUSION

At Esearch, we believe reading is more than just acquiring knowledge — it’s an emotional journey where every book opens a door to a new world.

Stay tuned for Part 2 as we explore more unique reading spaces across Saigon — from artistic corners to academic book havens and peaceful family-friendly spots.

*Esearch is always ready to accompany you in finding the best educational environment for the next generation.

For more details on school programs, facilities, and admissions, please visit:https://esearch.vn/en .

Source: Compiled by Esearch

When deciding to invest in their child’s International Baccalaureate (IB) education, financial planning is often among the top concerns for parents. While IB programs across Vietnam’s leading international schools follow a unified global standard, the total cost of investment varies significantly among the country’s three main education hubs: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. This is not merely a question of tuition, but a strategic consideration of educational investment efficiency.

As an educational research and school information platform, Esearch aims to provide valuable insights to support parents in selecting the most suitable environment for their child’s development. Below is our tuition analysis of IB programs across three key regions in Vietnam for the 2025–2026 academic year.

1. THE BIG PICTURE: THREE DEVELOPMENTAL TIERS OF VIETNAM’S IB MARKET

Chart: Comparison of IB Program Tuition Fees Selected International Schools 

in Vietnam (Academic Year 2025–2026)

Source: Official school websites, academic year 2025–2026.

Note: Tuition fees (rounded) are sourced from official school websites and may vary depending on school policies.

Based on data collected from representative IB schools, Esearch observes that Vietnam’s IB ecosystem has evolved into three distinct developmental tiers. The tuition gap reflects not only investment scale and infrastructure quality but also each region’s market segmentation and degree of internationalization.

Sources: (1) Saigon South International School (SSIS), Ho Chi Minh City

(2) Odyssey International School (OIS), Da Nang

(3) United Nations International School (UNIS), Hanoi

1.1. Hanoi – The Peak of Academic Excellence and International Standards

In Hanoi, the international education environment is considered the “pinnacle of academia,” featuring leading names such as the United Nations International School of Hanoi (UNIS), the British International School Hanoi (BIS Hanoi), Hanoi International School, and Reigate Grammar School Vietnam. Tuition fees at this group of schools range from approximately 418 million to over 1 billion VND per year, comparable to prestigious IB schools in the Southeast Asia region.

Additionally, The Olympia Schools, with fees from 138 to 868 million VND per year, represents a flexible trend by combining a bilingual program with the full IB program, expanding access for more Vietnamese families. Overall, Hanoi is a concentrated and selective market where the IB program is not only an academic choice but also a symbol of prestige and international standards.

1.2. Ho Chi Minh City – Vietnam’s Most Dynamic and Competitive Education Ecosystem

In Ho Chi Minh City, the international education ecosystem is considered the most dynamic and competitive in the country. Schools such as the International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC), the British International School Ho Chi Minh City (BIS HCMC), Saigon South International School (SSIS), the European International School (EIS), and the Australian International School (AIS) all offer the IB program with tuition fees ranging from 279 million to over 959 million VND per year.

A key feature of this region is the diversity in educational philosophies, with many schools combining the IB with other programs like IGCSE, AP, or A-Level to meet the academic needs of both local and international students. Complemented by a large community of international parents and a rich network of extracurricular and arts activities, Ho Chi Minh City solidifies its position as a vibrant global education hub—a convergence point for families with a long-term vision for educational investment.

1.3. Da Nang (formerly part of Quang Nam Province) – An Emerging Destination Balancing Cost and Quality of Life

In contrast, Da Nang is emerging as a new destination for international education, offering strong advantages in cost and quality of life. Currently, the Odyssey International School (OIS) is the only school in Central Vietnam that holds Candidate School status for the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP). Tuition ranges from VND 198 to 570 million per year, significantly lower than Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Beyond financial affordability, Da Nang attracts families thanks to its safe environment, clean air, and balanced lifestyle, making it a favorable option for those who prioritize both academic growth and emotional well-being. Although the international school ecosystem is still in its developmental stage, Esearch identifies Da Nang as a promising market for 2025–2030, particularly as more education groups and young families explore opportunities outside the two major metropolitan centers.

Although Da Nang’s international education ecosystem is still in the development stage, Esearch assesses it as a high-potential market for the 2025–2030 period, especially as the trend of “shifting away from the two major education hubs” is increasingly being considered by many education groups and young families.

CONCLUSION

Each region contributes its own distinct identity to Vietnam’s expanding IB ecosystem. Ho Chi Minh City stands out with its vibrant energy, program diversity, and strong global orientation, reflecting the city’s role as a hub of international connectivity and innovation. Hanoi, on the other hand, continues to define the benchmark for academic excellence and international prestige, maintaining its reputation as the country’s intellectual and institutional anchor. Meanwhile, Da Nang—with its balanced lifestyle, affordability, and emerging educational opportunities—signals the next wave of development, representing a promising frontier for families seeking both quality learning and holistic well-being.

Ultimately, the question is not which city is better, but which environment is most aligned with a family’s values and vision for their child’s global learning journey. Esearch believes that in the years ahead, the focus will shift from “the most expensive or famous” to “the most suitable.” This evolution will broaden access to international education, promoting a more inclusive, globally connected, and sustainable education ecosystem across Vietnam.

*Esearch is always ready to accompany you in finding the best educational environment for the next generation.

For more details on school programs, facilities, and admissions, please visit:https://esearch.vn/en .

Source: Esearch Team

After exploring lantern streets, enjoying lion dances, and visiting modern festive spots in Part 1, your Mid-Autumn Festival 2025 journey will be even more complete when your family experiences traditional crafts and culinary delights.

In Part 2 of the Mid-Autumn Festival 2025 Guide in Ho Chi Minh City, Esearch continues to accompany families in Vietnam, bringing you engaging suggestions such as lantern-making workshops, mooncake baking classes, and the sweet flavors that define this festive season.

This is a wonderful opportunity for the whole family to be creative together while also discovering Vietnamese culture through meaningful and hands-on experiences.

III. HANDS-ON CRAFTS & FAMILY FOOD EXPERIENCES

3.1 Join Craft Workshops with Your Kids

A wonderful way to be creative together while exploring Vietnamese traditions.

• Lantern-Making Workshop: Kids can design and decorate their own lanterns—boosting creativity and fine motor skills. Recommended venues include VinSpace Art Studio (former District 2), popular with expat families, and Tí Toáy Atelier (former District 3) for a more local cultural experience.

• Mooncake-Making Workshop: Children can knead dough and shape their own festive mooncakes—an engaging sensory activity. Maison Marou (former District 1) offers unique, chocolate-inspired twists, while professional baking schools like Star Kitchen (former Districts 1 & 7) also run seasonal classes.

Note: Class details are usually posted on ticketing platforms (Ticketbox, Eventbrite) or organizers’ social media about 1–2 months before the festival.

3.2 Family Mooncake Tasting

No Mid-Autumn Festival is complete without mooncakes.

What to try?

• Traditional flavors: Mixed nuts, mung bean, lotus seed.

• Modern flavors: Kids often love creative options like lava chocolate, cheese, or milk tea.

Esearch family tips: Purchase from trusted brands such as Givral, Brodard, Như Lan, or explore premium mooncake collections from 5-star hotels.

CONCLUSION

Mid-Autumn Festival 2025 promises to be a colorful cultural journey for the international community in Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you’re strolling lantern streets, joining baking workshops, or simply moon-gazing at home with your kids, each experience brings family bonding and unforgettable memories.

Esearch believes that engaging in local festivals like Mid-Autumn not only enriches children’s understanding but also nurtures multicultural connections within your family. With these suggestions, we hope you can plan the perfect Mid-Autumn Festival 2025 in Ho Chi Minh City—full of joy, culture, and togetherness.

Stay connected with Esearch to discover more activities and learning opportunities in Vietnam—because every childhood deserves a rich experience and every future deserves a bright beginning. Wishing your family a magical Mid-Autumn celebration!

*Esearch is always ready to accompany you in finding the best educational environment for the next generation.

For more details on school programs, facilities, and admissions, please visit:https://esearch.vn/en .

Source: Compiled by Esearch

The Mid-Autumn Festival 2025, taking place on Monday, October 6, 2025 (15th day of the 8th Lunar Month), is one of the most dazzling and culturally rich celebrations of the year. In Vietnam, it is not only a festival for children but also a time for families to reunite, enjoy the beauty of the full moon, and embrace traditional customs.

For the international community in Ho Chi Minh City, Mid-Autumn Festival is a wonderful opportunity for parents and children to share unforgettable moments right in the heart of the city.

As your trusted companion in Vietnam, Esearch is delighted to present Part 1 of the Mid-Autumn Festival 2025 Family Guide in HCMC, focusing on both traditional and modern destinations where you and your children can fully immerse yourselves in the festive spirit.

I. DISCOVERING TRADITIONAL MID-AUTUMN SPACES WITH YOUR CHILDREN

To let your children experience the soul of the festival, you can’t miss these cultural landmarks that have stood the test of time.

1.1 Lương Nhữ Học Lantern Street (Former District 5) – A Fairyland of Lights

Located in Saigon’s Chinatown (Chợ Lớn), the heart of the Chinese-Vietnamese community, the area transforms into a “kingdom of lights” every 8th lunar month. The highlight is Lương Nhữ Học Street and surrounding lanes, which become the city’s largest lantern market.

For kids: This truly feels like a wonderland. Children will be amazed by thousands of handmade lanterns in every shape and color—from traditional star and carp lanterns to modern cartoon characters. Let them choose their favorite one!

Esearch family tips:

• Best time to visit: Go in the evening (after 7:00 PM) to see the street at its most dazzling.

• Safety note: Weekends are very crowded. For families with young kids, weekdays are better. Keep your children close and watch your personal belongings.

1.2 Lion and Dragon Dance Performances – Dynamic & Exciting

The sound of pounding drums marks the arrival of Mid-Autumn Festival.

For kids: Children will be captivated by the high-energy, acrobatic performances of lion and dragon dance troupes. This is one of the most memorable activities of the season.

Esearch family tips: You can easily catch these shows at shopping malls or along main streets in former District 1 and District 5.

II. ENJOYING THE FESTIVAL IN MODERN, FAMILY-FRIENDLY VENUES

If you prefer safe, comfortable spaces with diverse activities, these modern venues are ideal.

2.1 Nguyễn Huệ Walking Street (Former District 1)

As the city’s central boulevard, Nguyễn Huệ Walking Street is beautifully decorated during every major festival.

For kids: With its wide, open space, children can run and play freely. Elaborate Mid-Autumn displays featuring the Moon Lady (Chị Hằng) and Moon Boy (Chú Cuội) make for perfect family photo backdrops.

Esearch family tips: Ideal for a family stroll in the evening, with many restaurants and cafés nearby.

2.2 Major Shopping Malls

Popular malls such as Saigon Centre, Vincom Center (former District 1), Estella Place (former District 2), and Crescent Mall (former District 7) are top destinations for families with young kids.

For kids: Malls often host free weekend workshops like lantern-making, mask-painting, and figurine coloring. These “all-in-one” venues provide safe, air-conditioned spaces for play and learning.

Esearch family tips: Follow mall Facebook pages for updated schedules and bring your children to join in.

2.3 Starlight Bridge – Crescent Lake (Former District 7)

In Phú Mỹ Hưng Urban Area, the Starlight Bridge and Crescent Lake offer a more spacious and less crowded alternative to downtown.

For kids: The LED-lit bridge sparkles like a sky full of stars—a magical sight for children. Families can stroll, enjoy the cool air, and watch the moon in a safe, serene setting.

Esearch family tips: Combine your visit with dinner at one of the family restaurants around Crescent Mall.

CONCLUSION

Mid-Autumn Festival 2025 in Ho Chi Minh City offers a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity—from lantern streets and lion dances to Nguyễn Huệ Walking Street and the Starlight Bridge. It promises to be an emotional and enriching journey for the whole family.

To make the celebration even more fulfilling, beyond sightseeing and strolling, there are also hands-on craft workshops and unique culinary experiences you won’t want to miss.

Join Esearch in Part 2 of our guide, where we introduce creative workshops and the delightful flavors of mooncakes—designed especially for international families.

*Esearch is always ready to accompany you in finding the best educational environment for the next generation.

For more details on school programs, facilities, and admissions, please visit:https://esearch.vn/en .

Source: Compiled by Esearch