Vietnam has emerged as one of Southeast Asia’s most attractive destinations for international educators, offering competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits packages, and a significantly lower cost of living compared to other teaching destinations in the region. International school teachers in Vietnam can expect to earn between $2,000 and $5,000 per month, with additional benefits including housing allowances, health insurance, annual flight reimbursements, and tuition exemption for children.¹ With the Vietnamese government investing approximately 6% of GDP in education—higher than many developed nations—the country has positioned itself as a leader in educational excellence in the region.²
The following report examines ten exceptional international schools in Vietnam that represent outstanding opportunities for qualified teachers. These institutions have been selected based on academic reputation, teacher reviews, facilities, benefits packages, and overall excellence in international education.
1. INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HO CHI MINH CITY (ISHCMC)
Location: Ho Chi Minh City
Founded: 1993
Curriculum: IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), IB Diploma Programme (DP)
History and Distinction
Established in 1993, ISHCMC holds the distinction of being Ho Chi Minh City’s first international school and Vietnam’s first IB World School.³ The school serves students aged 2-18 from over 60 nationalities and maintains a student-teacher ratio of 1:8.⁴ As Jane McGee, current Head of School, stated, “ISHCMC has over 30 years of experience inspiring students to think critically, embrace challenges, and love learning.”⁵
Academic Excellence
ISHCMC has consistently achieved remarkable academic results, with a 100% IB Diploma pass rate and students surpassing global IB averages for over 20 years.⁶ In 2025, 98% of graduates were accepted to their top-choice universities, earning over $56 million USD in scholarships.⁷ The school received over 1,100 university admission offers, including acceptances from Harvard, Yale, Oxford, and the University of Pennsylvania.⁸
Special Programs
The school offers more than 30 IB diploma subjects and emphasizes holistic education through extensive community service programs, leadership development initiatives, and personalized education pathways.⁹ ISHCMC incorporates cutting-edge technology into learning and maintains modern facilities including science labs, a gymnasium, swimming pools, and performing arts theaters.¹⁰
Estimated Salary and Benefits for Teachers
- Salary Range: $31,430 – $64,790 USD annually (approximately $2,619 – $5,399 per month)¹¹
- Housing allowance: $1,390 USD per month (before tax)¹²
- Annual flights: One-way relocation/repatriation ticket plus return ticket for annual home visit¹³
- Health Insurance: Worldwide coverage with emergency evacuation¹⁴
- Life insurance provided¹⁵
- Working visa and work permit processing¹⁶
- Paid holidays: Public holidays, school holidays, plus 10 personal leave days¹⁷
- Moving allowance: $1,830 USD for relocation shipping¹⁸
- Settling-in allowance: $920 USD (single) or $1,390 USD (couple)¹⁹
- Child tuition: Provided on discretionary, case-by-case basis²⁰
Why It Stands Out
ISHCMC’s status as Vietnam’s pioneering IB World School, combined with its three-decade track record of academic excellence and impressive university placement statistics, makes it a premier destination for experienced educators. The comprehensive benefits package and commitment to teacher development through professional learning opportunities establish it as one of the most attractive teaching positions in Vietnam.
2. UNITED NATIONS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HANOI (UNIS HANOI)
Location: Hanoi
Founded: 1988
Curriculum: IB PYP, MYP, DP
History and Distinction
UNIS Hanoi opened in 1988 with just 12 students in a borrowed classroom, growing to serve over 1,100 students from nearly 70 nationalities today.²² As one of only two United Nations-affiliated schools worldwide, UNIS Hanoi uniquely embeds the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals into its curriculum framework.²³ The school was the first IB World School in Asia to offer all three IB programmes.²⁴
Media Recognition
In June 2023, UNIS Hanoi was recognized as one of the most recommended International Baccalaureate schools in Asia by The Knowledge Review, a leading education magazine. Head of School Jane McGee noted, “This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our faculty, staff, and students who work tirelessly to achieve academic excellence and make a positive impact in our community.”²⁵
Academic Excellence
UNIS Hanoi students consistently rank at the top of standardized tests, including the International Schools’ Assessment (ISA), Measures of Academic Progress (MAP), and American SAT and PSAT.²⁶ The school maintains a 20% cap on any single nationality, ensuring genuine international diversity.²⁷
Special Programs
The school’s affiliation with the United Nations sets it apart as a leader in global education and service learning.²⁸ Students participate in Model United Nations, performing arts programs, international student exchanges, and humanitarian projects throughout Vietnam.²⁹ State-of-the-art facilities include a 25-meter swimming pool, 400-seat theater, STEM labs, and extensive sports fields.³⁰
Estimated Salary and Benefits for Teachers
- Salary Range: $2,500 – $5,000 USD per month³¹
- Comprehensive health insurance
- Annual flight allowances for teachers and dependents
- Housing allowance or accommodation support
- Tuition exemption for up to 3 dependent children³²
- Professional development opportunities
- Paid school holidays and personal leave days
Teacher Qualifications
Over 50% of faculty hold Master’s or PhD degrees, and most have taught at international schools for more than 10 years.³³ On average, expatriate teachers remain at UNIS Hanoi for nearly 5 years, significantly higher than regional averages.³⁴
Why It Stands Out
UNIS Hanoi’s unique UN affiliation, status as a not-for-profit institution, truly international student body (with nationality caps ensuring diversity), and exceptional teacher retention rates make it one of the most prestigious and rewarding teaching environments in Vietnam.
3. BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL – HO CHI MINH CITY (BIS HCMC)
Location: Ho Chi Minh City
Founded: 2001 (part of Nord Anglia Education)
Curriculum: British National Curriculum, IGCSE, IB Diploma Programme
History and Distinction
As part of the Nord Anglia Education family of premium international schools, BIS HCMC brings world-class British education to Vietnam. The school serves students aged 2-18 across multiple campuses in District 2, Ho Chi Minh City.³⁶ BIS HCMC is recognized as the highest-ranking IB Diploma Programme school in Vietnam, with 12 students achieving scores of 42-44 points in 2025 and an impressive average of 36.4 points—significantly above the global average of 30.6.³⁷
International Partnerships
BIS HCMC collaborates with prestigious institutions including The Juilliard School (for performing arts), MIT (for STEAM education), and UNICEF (for global citizenship projects).³⁸ These partnerships provide unique professional development opportunities for teachers and exceptional learning experiences for students.
Academic Excellence
The school has been rated ‘outstanding in all categories’ by the UK government.³⁹ Parents and alumni consistently praise the quality of education, with one parent noting, “I have 3 children studying in 3 different international schools in HCMC, all of them are very good but I have to say BIS is the best (great academic program, strong sport and very dynamic outdoor activities).”⁴⁰
Estimated Salary and Benefits for Teachers
- Salary Range: $2,500 – $5,000 USD per month⁴³
- Housing allowance
- Annual return flights for teacher and dependents
- Comprehensive health insurance (worldwide coverage)
- Professional development through Nord Anglia University platform
- Tuition discount/exemption for children
Why It Stands Out
BIS HCMC’s membership in the Nord Anglia Education family provides unparalleled professional development opportunities and global networking. The partnerships with Juilliard, MIT, and UNICEF offer teachers access to world-class resources and training.
4. SAIGON SOUTH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL (SSIS)
Location: Ho Chi Minh City (District 7)
Founded: 1997
Curriculum: American standards-based curriculum, AP, IB Diploma Programme
History and Distinction
Founded in 1997 by the Phu My Hung Corporation, SSIS is one of the oldest international schools in Vietnam and the only not-for-profit international school in Ho Chi Minh City.⁴⁶ This not-for-profit status ensures that 100% of tuition fees are reinvested directly into student education, programs, and facilities.⁴⁷ The school enrolls over 1,500 students from more than 48 countries.⁴⁸
Academic Excellence
SSIS is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and authorized to grant both the IB Diploma and a comprehensive AP program—a rare combination that gives students flexibility for university applications worldwide.⁴⁹ The school was the first in Vietnam to be recognized as an Apple Distinguished School for innovation, leadership, and educational excellence.⁵⁰
Estimated Salary and Benefits for Teachers
- Salary Range: $2,500 – $5,000 USD per month⁵⁴
- Housing allowance
- Annual return flights
- Comprehensive health insurance
- Professional development funding
- 8 school counselors and a school psychologist provide support⁵⁵
Why It Stands Out
As the only not-for-profit PreK-12 international school in Ho Chi Minh City, SSIS demonstrates an authentic commitment to education over profit. The unique combination of offering both IB Diploma and AP courses makes it an exceptional choice for teachers seeking a values-driven, academically rigorous environment.
5. BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HANOI (BIS HANOI)
Location: Hanoi (Vinhomes Riverside)
Founded: 2009 (part of Nord Anglia Education)
Curriculum: British National Curriculum, International Primary Curriculum, IGCSE, IB Diploma Programme
History and Distinction
BIS Hanoi is part of the prestigious Nord Anglia Education family and offers a British-style education enhanced by world-class partnerships. The school serves students aged 2-18 and is committed to delivering educational excellence through one-of-a-kind learning experiences and technology-enriched facilities.
Estimated Salary and Benefits for Teachers
- Salary Range: $2,500 – $5,000 USD per month⁶⁷
- Housing allowance
- Annual return flights
- Worldwide health insurance coverage
- Professional development through Nord Anglia University platform
- More than 85% of staff stay from year to year⁶⁸
Why It Stands Out
BIS Hanoi combines the rigor of British education with global perspectives through Nord Anglia’s partnerships. The exceptional teacher retention rate of over 85% and parent satisfaction, combined with state-of-the-art facilities and comprehensive professional development opportunities, make it one of the most desirable teaching positions in Hanoi.
6. RENAISSANCE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL SAIGON
Location: Ho Chi Minh City (District 7)
Founded: 2007
Curriculum: British National Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, IB Diploma Programme
History and Distinction
Founded in 2007 by Ms. Nguyen Thuy Quynh, Renaissance International School Saigon has established itself as one of Vietnam’s leading medium-sized international schools with a warm, family-oriented atmosphere.⁷¹ The school serves over 500 students from more than 23 nationalities and is the only Round Square school in Vietnam, providing additional global learning opportunities.⁷²
Academic Excellence
Renaissance achieved exceptional IB Diploma results in the 2024-2025 academic year, with multiple students scoring above 40 points and the school achieving an average of 36—the highest in its history and six points above the global average.⁷³
Estimated Salary and Benefits for Teachers
- Salary Range: $2,500 – $4,500 USD per month (estimated)
- Housing allowance
- Health insurance
- Annual return flights
- Professional development opportunities
Why It Stands Out
Renaissance’s medium size (approximately 500 students) allows for genuine personalization and individualized attention that larger schools cannot provide. The family atmosphere, record-breaking academic results, and status as Vietnam’s only Round Square school create a unique teaching environment.
7. BRITISH VIETNAMESE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HO CHI MINH CITY (BVIS HCMC)
Location: Ho Chi Minh City (Binh Chanh District)
Founded: 2013 (part of Nord Anglia Education)
Curriculum: British National Curriculum (bilingual with Vietnamese), IGCSE, A-Levels
History and Distinction
BVIS HCMC is a leading bilingual international school and part of Nord Anglia Education’s global family of premium schools. The school uniquely combines British and Vietnamese education, unlocking both international and Vietnamese pathways for students.
Estimated Salary and Benefits for Teachers
- Salary Range: $2,500 – $5,000 USD per month⁸⁷
- Housing allowance
- Annual return flights
- Comprehensive health insurance
- Professional development through Nord Anglia University
Why It Stands Out
BVIS HCMC’s unique bilingual model makes it ideal for teachers interested in cross-cultural education. The combination of rigorous British academic standards with Vietnamese language and cultural integration creates a distinctive teaching environment.
8. VIETNAM AUSTRALIA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL (VAS)
Location: Ho Chi Minh City (multiple campuses)
Founded: 2004
Curriculum: Vietnamese National Curriculum integrated with Cambridge International Programme
History and Distinction
VAS was founded in 2004 and has grown to become the largest bilingual K-12 international school network in Ho Chi Minh City, serving approximately 9,500 students across seven modern campuses.⁹⁰ The school delivers a unique integrated bilingual education system combining Vietnamese and Cambridge curricula with A-Level as the graduation diploma.⁹¹
Academic Excellence
In 2025, 25.4% of students scored an A in at least three AS Level subjects.⁹² VAS students have been accepted into renowned universities including Johns Hopkins, the University of California system, University of Sydney, University of New South Wales, and Monash University.⁹³
Estimated Salary and Benefits for Teachers
- Salary Range: $24,000 – $32,000 USD annually ($2,000 – $2,667 per month)⁹⁶
- Monthly housing allowance⁹⁷
- Medical insurance⁹⁸
- Tuition exemption for up to two children⁹⁹
- Flight reimbursement¹⁰⁰
Why It Stands Out
VAS offers teachers the opportunity to work within Vietnam’s largest bilingual school network, providing unique insights into Vietnamese education while maintaining international standards.
9. AUSTRALIAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL (AIS) VIETNAM
Location: Ho Chi Minh City (Thu Thiem, District 2)
Founded: 2006
Curriculum: IB PYP, MYP, IGCSE, IB Diploma Programme
History and Distinction
AIS first opened in August 2006 with a secondary campus in District 3, Ho Chi Minh City. The school now operates on a modern campus in Thu Thiem and serves students aged 1.5 to 18 years old, following internationally recognized IB and IGCSE curricula.
Estimated Salary and Benefits for Teachers
- Competitive salary scale based on qualifications and experience
- Housing allowance
- Health insurance coverage
- Annual leave of 20 days accruing monthly
- Performance bonus eligibility
Why It Stands Out
AIS provides teachers with a structured, transparent benefits system and clear salary scales based on experience and qualifications. The school’s commitment to both IB and IGCSE curricula provides teachers with diverse teaching opportunities.
10. CONCORDIA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HANOI
Location: Hanoi
Curriculum: American-based curriculum
History and Distinction
Concordia is a private, non-profit, co-educational international day school with English instruction. The school serves the expatriate community in Hanoi with an American-based curriculum focused on personalized learning and student well-being.
Estimated Salary and Benefits for Teachers
- Salary Range: $2,500 – $4,500 USD per month (estimated)
- Housing allowance or accommodation support
- Health insurance
- Professional development funding
- Annual return flights
Why It Stands Out
Concordia’s American curriculum focus makes it particularly attractive for US-trained teachers seeking to use their home country’s educational framework abroad. The school’s not-for-profit status, strong community spirit, and emphasis on personalized learning create a supportive environment.
CONCLUSION
Teaching at an international school in Vietnam offers exceptional opportunities for professional growth, financial stability, and cultural immersion. The schools highlighted in this report represent the pinnacle of international education in Vietnam, each offering unique strengths while maintaining common features of excellence.
Competitive Compensation: Teachers can expect salaries ranging from $24,000 to $64,790 USD annually, with comprehensive benefits packages including housing allowances, health insurance, flight reimbursements, and tuition exemption for children. When combined with Vietnam’s low cost of living, teachers can save between $500-$1,300 per month while enjoying a comfortable lifestyle.
Academic Excellence: These schools consistently achieve outstanding results on international assessments, with several schools reporting IB Diploma averages significantly above the global mean. University placement rates approach 100%, with graduates attending prestigious institutions worldwide.
Professional Development: Membership in educational groups like Nord Anglia Education, along with partnerships with institutions such as MIT, Juilliard, and UNICEF, provides teachers with world-class professional development opportunities rarely available in standalone schools.
For qualified teachers seeking their next international assignment, Vietnam’s top international schools offer the rare combination of competitive compensation, academic excellence, professional growth, and an enriching cultural experience.
ENDNOTES
2. Teacher Salary in Vietnam, Teaching Abroad Direct.
3. International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC).
4. Aralia Education, Top 8 International Schools In Ho Chi Minh City, July 25, 2025.
5. International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC).
6. International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC).
7. International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC).
8. Aralia Education, Top 8 International Schools In Ho Chi Minh City.
11. INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OPPORTUNITIES(Vietnam), Serious Teachers.
12. INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OPPORTUNITIES(Vietnam), Serious Teachers.
13. INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OPPORTUNITIES(Vietnam), Serious Teachers.
14. INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OPPORTUNITIES(Vietnam), Serious Teachers.
15. INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OPPORTUNITIES(Vietnam), Serious Teachers.
16. INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OPPORTUNITIES(Vietnam), Serious Teachers.
17. INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OPPORTUNITIES(Vietnam), Serious Teachers.
18. INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OPPORTUNITIES(Vietnam), Serious Teachers.
19. INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OPPORTUNITIES(Vietnam), Serious Teachers.
20. INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OPPORTUNITIES(Vietnam), Serious Teachers.