As Ho Chi Minh City’s first international school (est. 1993), ISHCMC has built a legacy of academic rigor, holistic growth, and community – empowering learners to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Our Story and Purpose
Our Story & History
ISHCMC began its journey in 1993 as the International Grammar School in District 3—Ho Chi Minh City’s pioneering international education institution. By 1997, rebranded as the International School Ho Chi Minh City, the school moved to the current Primary Campus in District 2, marking the start of our modern era.
Key milestones along our journey
-
ISHCMC, previously known as International Grammar School, opens in District 3.
-
International Grammar School is renamed “International School Ho Chi Minh City” and moves to the current Primary campus location in District 2.
-
ISHCMC is granted approval to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP).
-
ISHCMC receives accreditation from the ECIS, now known as the Council of International School (CIS).
-
ISHCMC graduates its first class of International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP) students.
-
ISHCMC receives accreditation from NEASC and is now accredited by two of the most renowned international accreditation organizations worldwide.
-
ISHCMC joins the Cognita Schools Group, a family of over 100 schools worldwide.
-
ISHCMC officially inaugurates its new Secondary Campus.
-
ISHCMC celebrates its 25th year and its status as the first international school in Ho Chi Minh City.
-
ISHCMC celebrates its 30th year of curiosity, achievement, resilience and empathy
Our Mission, Vision & Values
Our journey isn’t just about milestones – it’s guided by a clear purpose
Mission
We inspire wellbeing and learning so that our diverse, internationally-minded community flourish as energized, engaged, and empowered learners.
Vision
To thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Our Core Values
Our values underpin our vision of enriching the lives of children to achieve more than they believe they can. They are our building blocks for our culture of ICARE and enable our diverse, internationally-minded community to flourish as energized, engaged and empowered learners.
Inclusion
Inclusion means valuing and leveraging differences to increase opportunities and contributions for all. It happens when people collaborate effectively, bringing unique experiences and strengths without minimizing their identity, background, or perspective.
Curiosity
Curiosity is self-motivation, self-efficiency and the continuous pursuit, discovery and eventual understanding of the unknown.
Achievement
Achievement encompasses a wide range of academic and character skills and competencies that ensures we are successful in our futures.
Resilience
Resilience is being self-aware and confident so that we can overcome setbacks and achieve the things that are important to us. Resilience enables us to stay motivated, achieve goals and live a happy life.
Empathy
Empathy is recognizing the humanity in each person that we have contact with and treating everyone with respect. Empathy enables us to understand each other better, work together more cohesively and build collective efficacy.
These values are not just words – they shape every aspect of life at ISHCMC, from classroom learning to our nurturing culture.
Why Families Choose ISHCMC
- Authentic Legacy: 30+ years of delivering an IB education that evolves with global standards.
- Learning Excellence:A coherent IB continuum across two campuses, supported by accredited, expert-led instruction.
- Vibrant Diversity: Over 60 nationalities thrive in a cohesive, globally-minded learning environment.
- Community-Driven: Families, educators, and students collaborate to create a supportive ecosystem grounded in shared values.
- Future-Ready Focus: Elite academic pathways, excellence in wellbeing, and facilities built for modern learning.
