How to Choose an International School: 8 Essential tips for Parents

Top 8 Tips for Choosing an International School for Your Child

1. Identify Your Child’s Educational Goals and Learning Pathway Before Choosing a School

Before choosing a school, parents should clearly identify their child’s learning goals and development pathway. This is one of the most important tips for choosing an international school for your child, helping families select an educational environment that is right for their child.

• Suitability for an international learning environment: International education places a strong emphasis on initiative, critical thinking, independent learning and collaboration. Students are encouraged to ask questions, express their views, participate in discussions and develop independent thinking. Parents should therefore consider their child’s level of independence and ability to adapt before making a decision.
• Learning pathway: Parents should determine whether their child is likely to continue their education in Vietnam or study abroad after secondary school. Each pathway may suit different curricula and language requirements. Identifying this direction early can give students a clearer learning pathway and help them prepare more effectively for the future.
• Your child’s interests, abilities and personality: Every student has their own abilities, interests and personality. Parents should look for a school with a curriculum and extracurricular activities that allow their child to build on their strengths. When students learn in an environment that suits them, they are more likely to remain motivated and engaged over time.

• Curriculum type: Parents should research international school curricula such as Cambridge, IB or A Level to find an option that aligns with their child’s educational pathway. Each curriculum has a different teaching approach and educational objectives. The school will implement the programme and support students throughout their learning journey.
• Recognition of qualifications: Parents should research the awarding body and the extent to which qualifications are recognised after graduation. Qualifications that are widely recognised around the world can make it easier for students to apply to international universities and broaden their study opportunities across different countries.
• University pathway: Schools often have university counselling teams that support students from an early stage. Parents and students may receive guidance on subject choices, building an application profile and selecting suitable fields of study. Collaboration between parents, students and the school can make university preparation more effective.

  

  An internationally recognised curriculum and globally valued qualifications open up opportunities for children around the world (Source: BVIS HCMC)

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• Highly qualified teachers: Teachers’ qualifications, academic backgrounds and teaching certifications are key factors for parents to consider when choosing an international school. Teachers with relevant subject expertise and strong pedagogical skills can help students build a solid academic foundation from the earliest years.
• International experience and long-term commitment to the school: In addition to qualifications, parents should look into teachers’ teaching experience and length of service at the school. A stable faculty with substantial international experience can reflect the quality of the school environment while providing continuity throughout students’ learning and development. It can also help foster positive relationships between teachers, students and families.
• Appropriate class sizes: A suitable class size allows teachers to give closer attention to individual students while encouraging active participation, interaction and collaboration.
• Personalised learning: Beyond teaching quality, parents should find out how the school monitors academic progress and supports individual students. Understanding each student’s needs, strengths and goals enables teachers to provide appropriate guidance and help them fulfil their potential.

Teaching quality is reflected in the dedicated and highly qualified faculty at an international school (Source: BVIS HCMC)

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4. Academic Results, International Qualifications and University Opportunities

• International examination results: Look at students’ performance in examinations such as IGCSE, A Level or IB, including high-grade rates, graduation rates and academic awards. These results can provide an indication of teaching quality and the level of support offered by the school.
• Value of international qualifications: Parents should find out whether the curriculum and qualifications students receive after graduation are recognised by universities and educational institutions worldwide. An internationally valued qualification can give students more options when progressing to university.
• University offers and scholarships: Offers from reputable universities, the number of university offers and international scholarships received by students can provide evidence of the school’s outcomes. They also give parents a basis for assessing whether the educational environment can help their child achieve their future academic goals.

Reviewing the academic results and achievements of previous cohorts can give parents a more comprehensive view of the quality of education and the long-term value an international school can offer.

Outstanding international examination results and university offers from leading universities worldwide received by BVIS students in Ho Chi Minh City

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5. Learn from the Experiences of Other Parents and Students

• Speak to the parent community: Talking to families whose children currently attend the school can provide practical insights into teaching quality, the learning environment and school culture, helping parents make a choice that suits their child’s needs and development pathway.
• Read reviews on forums and groups: Education forums and groups often contain practical comments and experiences relating to individual schools. However, parents should compare information from multiple sources to gain an objective view and avoid relying solely on personal opinions.
• Attend an Open Day or School Tour: Taking part in an admissions event or school tour allows parents and students to experience the learning environment first-hand. They can observe the facilities, school culture, teaching approach and the way teachers interact with students before making a decision.

Parents should listen to the real experiences of other families to make a more informed decision (Source: BVIS)

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6. Is the Learning Environment Safe and Supportive?

• Student safeguarding and wellbeing: Parents should ask about student protection procedures, campus security, transport arrangements and emergency response plans. A safe, well-managed learning environment helps students feel confident as they learn, explore and develop each day.
• Health care and holistic support: In addition to school medical services and balanced nutrition, parents should consider support for mental health, counselling and student wellbeing. These services contribute to a positive learning environment where every student feels cared for and understood.
• Diverse learning and experiential spaces: Libraries, laboratories, sports facilities, playgrounds and creative spaces support classroom learning while encouraging students to explore their interests, develop skills and nurture a lasting enjoyment of learning.
• A positive school culture and individual care: A quality educational environment should promote respect, inclusion and a sense of responsibility. Parents should learn about the school’s child protection policies and how it supports students in overcoming challenges in their learning and everyday lives.

>> Read more: Five Things to Look for on a School Tour