How to choose an International School in Hanoi: A Guide for Korean Families

For Korean families moving to Hanoi, choosing the right international school is one of the most important decisions you will make.  It’s not only an academic decision but also about helping your child settle into a new country, adapt to a new language environment, and find comfort in a different school culture.  

Many parents begin with similar questions. Will my child feel happy and settled? How quickly will they gain confidence in English? Which curriculum will support their future plans? Will the school understand the needs of Korean families? And how will my child be supported both academically and emotionally?  

This guide is designed to help Korean families understand what to look for when comparing international schools in Hanoi and how British International School Hanoi supports students through each stage of that journey.  

1. Look for a school that helps students settle quickly  

Moving from Korea to Vietnam can be exciting, but it can also feel challenging for children.  Starting at a new school means adjusting to unfamiliar routines, different teaching styles, and new friendships  

When exploring an international school in Hanoi, parents should ask how the school supports new students during their first weeks and months. 

When joining BIS Hanoi, new students are supported by a connected team that includes Form Tutors, Heads of Year, subject teachers, counsellors, admissions staff, and student buddies. This approach helps children feel known, welcomed, and ready to engage from the beginning.  

For many Korean students, confidence often grows first through social connections before it becomes visible in the classroom. A caring school environment makes that transition more comfortable.  

2. Understand the English Language support available  

For most Korean families, English language development is a key priority when considering an international school. At the same time, it is equally important that the child feel proud of their native language, culture, and identity.  

The best international schools do not expect every child to arrive with perfect English. Instead, they provide structured support that allows students to grow gradually and confidently over time.  

When comparing schools, you may want to understand how students are assessed on entry, what English support is offered, how it is integrated into daily learning, and how progress is communicated.  

At BIS Hanoi, English as an Additional Language (EAL) provision support students in building the language skills they need not only to access the curriculum, but also to communicate with confidence, participate actively in lessons, and express their ideas clearly. The goal is not simply for students to “cope” in English but to become confident communicators and independent learners.  

3. Choose a curriculum that supports long-term goals  

Curriculum is one of the most important factors when choosing an international school in Hanoi. Korean families often consider several possible futures whether that is returning to Korea, staying in Vietnam, or applying to universities overseas.  

A strong international curriculum offers flexibility and keeps multiple pathways open. Parents often look for programmes that are widely recognised, support applications to universities in different countries, and develop skills such as critical thinking, communication, and independence.  

Students at BIS Hanoi follow a British-style international education that leads towards respected pre-university pathways, including the IB Diploma Programme and the BIS Diploma.  This allows them to keep their future options open, whether they are considering universities in Korea, the UK, the United States, Canada, Australia, or other global destinations.  

4. Ask about university guidance early  

For many Korean families, university preparation is a major part of the school decision. Even at an early stage, it is useful to understand how the school prepares students for future choices.  

Strong university guidance helps students explore their interests, make informed subject choices, research universities, understand different application systems, and prepare effectively for the next steps.  

At BIS Hanoi, university and careers guidance begins before the final years of school. Students receive personalised support as they explore subject choices, future pathways, and university destinations.  

For Korean students, this can be especially helpful when families are considering applications to Korean universities as well as international destinations. Different countries have different expectations, and early guidance helps families make informed decisions.  

5. Consider wellbeing, friendships, and belonging  

Academic success is important, but students learn best when they feel safe, supported, and connected.  

Moving to a new country can take time, especially when building friendships and adjusting to a multicultural environment. That is why wellbeing should play a central role in your decision.  

At BIS Hanoi, students are encouraged to take part in a wide range of experiences beyond the classroom, including sports, performing arts, creative activities, leadership, and service. These opportunities help them build confidence, independence, teamwork, communication skills, and a wider view of the world.  

6. Look for clear communication with parents  

For families new to Hanoi, clear communication from school is essential. Parents want to understand how their child is progressing and feel confident asking questions when needed.  

At BIS Hanoi, Korean-speaking support, Ms Jinny Jung from Admission team and Ms Rachel Hahn from Career and University Guidance department, are available for families who would like clearer communication and cultural understanding throughout the school journey.  

Visit BIS Hanoi  

Choosing an international school in Hanoi is not only about curriculum or facilities. It is about finding a place where your child can feel happy, supported, challenged, and prepared for the future.  

At British International School Hanoi, we understand the hopes and questions Korean families may have when moving to Vietnam. Whether your child is building confidence in English, adapting to a new school culture, or preparing for university, our team is here to support their journey. If you are a Korean family considering international schools in Hanoi, we warmly invite you to visit BIS Hanoi, meet our teachers, and discover how your child can thrive here.  

Book a personalised school tour and speak with our Admissions Team today.