Our History

Founded in 1993, and previously named the “International Grammar School”, ISHCMC was established to provide high quality education to children of expatriate families in Vietnam. From its humble beginnings in District 3, ISHCMC has expanded to two campuses located in Thao Dien with best-in-class learning facilities that serve as the foundation for learning.

At ISHCMC, we are extremely proud to have been the first international school in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. With a long history of graduating students to high profile universities around the world we are continuously looking forward whilst respecting and embracing our past.

The story so far

  • 1993

    IS HCMC, previously known as International Grammar School, opens in District 3.

  • 1997

    International Grammar School is renamed “International School Ho Chi Minh City” and moves to the current Primary campus location in District 2.

  • 1998

    IS HCMC is granted approval to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP).

  • 1999

    IS HCMC receives accreditation from the ECIS, now known as the Council of International School (CIS).

  • 2000

    IS HCMC graduates its first class of International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP) students.

  • 2008

    IS HCMC receives accreditation from NEASC and is now accredited by two of the most renowned international accreditation organizations worldwide.

  • 2011

    IS HCMC joins the Cognita Schools Group, a family of over 100 schools worldwide.

  • 2017/18

    IS HCMC officially inaugurates its new Secondary Campus.

  • 2018

    IS HCMC celebrates its 25th year and its status as the first international school in Ho Chi Minh City.

  • 2023

    IS HCMC celebrates its 30th year of curiosity, achievement, resilience and empathy