8 Good Reasons To Choose an International School

In today’s world, an increasing number of parents are recognizing the value of a global education for their children. This trend highlights the demand for more than just a reputable institution; parents seek an educational environment that fosters academic excellence and achievement.

Here is the overview of the top 8 good reasons to choose an international school, including how they benefit students in this era of globalisation.

Global perspectives
Qualifications recognised worldwide
Individual personal development
Growth-oriented learning
International Curriculum
Comprehensive growth
Prioritised student engagement
Preparation for global universities

Table Of Contents

1. Global Perspectives
2. Qualifications Recognised Worldwide
3. Individual Personal Development
4. Growth-Oriented Learning
5. International Curriculum
6. Comprehensive Growth
7. Prioritised Student Engagement
8. Preparation for Global Universities
Reasons to Choose UNIS Hanoi International School
Investing in Your Child's Future With UNIS Hanoi
FAQs

1. Global Perspectives

There are many good reasons to choose an international school, one of them is the motivating environments that can help your child grow and the unique opportunity for students to interact with peers from around the world, which helps develop a broad and inclusive worldview.

Imagine a class where all children from different parts of the globe gather for studies. This dynamic cultural mix helps your child develop a deep understanding of various traditions, customs, and ways of thinking through exposure to diverse viewpoints.

International schools do not just rely on books; they incorporate real-world issues into their curriculum which promotes critical thinking skills and open-mindedness to prepare your child for success in our increasingly interconnected world.

At international schools like UNIS Hanoi, global perspectives are embedded within the curriculum through the integration of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals serve as a framework for learning, encouraging students to engage with pressing global issues such as climate change, social justice, and poverty alleviation.

Additionally, the school fosters intercultural competencies by encouraging students to engage in meaningful dialogues and collaborative projects with peers from various backgrounds.

By participating in service learning initiatives and international exchange programs, students gain firsthand experience in tackling global challenges and are prepared to contribute meaningfully to the global community.

2. Qualifications Recognised Worldwide

Many of these international schools follow curricula such as International Baccalaureate (IB) or Cambridge International Examinations which are internationally respected by colleges. These programmes ensure students receive an education that meets global standards, allowing them to compete academically with their peers worldwide.

The advantage of obtaining globally recognised qualifications is that students are not limited to pursuing higher education in their home country; instead, they have access to top universities worldwide. The flexibility enables them to choose institutions that align with their career aspirations and personal interests.

The IB or Cambridge programmes cultivate academic excellence and independent learning, research skills, and a strong ethical foundation, which are highly valued by universities and employers.

International schools like UNIS Hanoi offer a rigorous IB curriculum that emphasises inquiry-based learning, conceptual understanding, and academic integrity. The IB Diploma Programme is globally recognised and valued by prestigious universities in different parts of the world.

Moreover, the curriculum is designed to develop well-rounded individuals who excel both academically, socially, and emotionally.

3. Individual Personal Development

International schools often have a wide range of cocurricular activities including sport, and art clubs as well as community service projects such as environmental and cultural clubs.

Among the good reasons to choose an international school is the chance for students to engage in diverse co-curricular activities, allowing them to explore their interests while developing key life skills such as leadership, teamwork, resilience, and communication for a well-rounded education.

Moreover, small classes have the effect of allowing teachers to focus more on individual student’s strengths and weaknesses. This model allows students to identify areas where they excel and become passionate about them.

UNIS Hanoi emphasises holistic education, ensuring that personal development is as important as academic achievement. The school’s Co-Curricular Programme provides students with various activities, from leadership initiatives and drama productions to athletic teams and community service projects.

Our comprehensive approach enables students to cultivate talents, build resilience, and develop essential life skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.

Additionally, UNIS Hanoi integrates student well-being initiatives, including mindfulness practices, counselling services, and social-emotional learning programmes. These resources empower students to navigate challenges, build confidence, and foster a growth mindset, all contributing to their overall personal and academic success.

Learn about our diverse Co-Curricular Programmes for students: https://www.unishanoi.org/co-curricular

4. Growth-Oriented Learning

International schools foster multicultural environments where students study together with others from different backgrounds. This exposure broadens outlooks, inculcates tolerance, and develops reasoning abilities that are essential for success in today’s globalised world.

Additionally, international schools typically employ progressive teaching approaches that emphasise inquiry-based instruction and collaboration, thereby leading to a love of lifelong learning paths.

Rather than relying on rote memorisation, these schools encourage students to explore subjects through critical thinking, research, and discussion. It enhances their understanding of core subjects as well as nurtures curiosity and innovation.

At UNIS Hanoi, the philosophy of exceptional learning is built upon student-led inquiry, interdisciplinary connections, and real-world application. Learning is not limited to traditional classroom instruction; instead, students engage in hands-on experiences that encourage critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability – good reasons to choose an international school for a forward-thinking education.

The IB framework at UNIS Hanoi fosters curiosity and encourages students to make meaningful connections between subjects, allowing them to transfer knowledge across disciplines. Through reflection and goal-setting, our students learn how to assess their own growth, adapt to new challenges, and develop into lifelong learners.

5. International Curriculum

It is important to consider whether they offer globally recognised qualifications as you select a suitable school for your kids. Global qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Cambridge International Examinations are often found in international schools. These programmes are highly regarded around the world and ensure students are prepared to meet the demands of higher education institutions, regardless of geographic location.

Additionally, they are designed to challenge students with rigorous academic content while promoting critical thinking, creativity, and global awareness.

International schools also boast strong partnerships with universities and businesses, providing students with access to valuable information regarding career paths, as well as internships and networking opportunities.

Moreover, these schools’ curriculum often includes specialised programmes and subject offerings that cater to individual student interests, such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, the arts, and humanities. With this broad range of options, students are given the freedom to pursue their passions and develop their talents further, ensuring a well-rounded education.

At UNIS Hanoi, our IB programme exemplifies this expansive academic preparation. As one of only two UN schools worldwide, UNIS Hanoi uniquely integrates United Nations principles into its curriculum, developing students into leaders with strong intercultural competencies.

6. Comprehensive Growth

International schools recognise the importance of a holistic education that nurtures a well-rounded individual. They seek to balance academics with the development of social, emotional, and physical skills.

Through co-curricular activities such as sports, arts, music, and drama, international schools encourage students to discover and hone their talents while fostering essential life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and resilience.

In addition, international schools often integrate project-based learning and service-oriented activities into their curriculum, which allows students to apply their classroom knowledge to real-world problems, developing critical thinking and a sense of social responsibility. These projects may range from environmental conservation efforts to community service and social justice initiatives, all of which help to instil a deep understanding of global challenges and the significance of contributing positively to society.

International schools also emphasise personal growth by offering various leadership opportunities through student councils, clubs, and service groups. These platforms allow students to take initiative, advocate for their peers, and engage with the broader school community.

At UNIS, comprehensive growth is supported by the IB Learner Profile, which encourages students to embody characteristics such as being open-minded, reflective, and balanced. The school’s holistic approach is further enriched by its Service Learning Programme, which connects students with local communities and encourages them to engage with global issues.

Furthermore, UNIS’s co-curricular programmes in sports, arts, and music enable students to develop their physical and creative talents, fostering personal growth beyond the classroom. Through these programmes, students excel academically and become compassionate, responsible global citizens.

7. Prioritised Student Engagement

Recognising that each child learns differently, international schools provide tailored support through learning specialists, counsellors, and personalised educational plans. This inclusive approach ensures that every student receives the guidance and support needed to succeed academically and personally, regardless of their learning style or background.

Teachers in international schools focus on fostering an environment where inquiry and exploration are encouraged, allowing students to take ownership of their learning.

By encouraging curiosity and providing students with opportunities to explore their interests, schools cultivate an atmosphere where learners feel motivated to pursue excellence.

Furthermore, international schools actively work to create a supportive community where students feel valued and connected. By offering mentorship opportunities and establishing strong relationships between staff and students, these schools help learners build a sense of belonging and self-worth.

Besides, these international schools often host cultural events, assemblies, and school-wide activities that unite students and families, fostering a strong school identity. A welcoming school culture ensures that students from diverse backgrounds feel at home and supported in their learning journey.

At UNIS, student engagement is a top priority, with personalised support services such as Learning Support, English as an Additional Language (EAL) specialists, and individualised educational plans to ensure no student is left behind. Teachers collaborate with counsellors and specialists to provide tailored support, helping students navigate their unique learning journeys.

8. Preparation for Global Universities

International schools act as gateways to higher education, providing students with key advantages in university admissions and scholarship opportunities. At UNIS Hanoi, a structured university preparation programme ensures students are well-equipped for this transition.

Starting in Grade 9, students are encouraged to explore their academic interests and develop a scholarly identity. By Grade 10, they engage in strategic planning, selecting courses and extracurricular activities that enhance their university applications. This early preparation allows students to showcase a well-rounded and focused academic profile by the time they reach the application process.

Grade 11 at UNIS Hanoi marks the beginning of intensive university preparation, where students refine their personal statements, research suitable universities, and balance aspirations for elite institutions with best-fit general universities.

By Grade 12, personalised guidance ensures that students finalise and submit strong applications while receiving support in interview preparation and decision-making. Universities worldwide appreciate the well-rounded education international school graduates receive, making them highly desirable candidates.

UNIS Hanoi actively supports students through the financial aid process, offering workshops and guidance on securing scholarships. Through structured support, students can maximise their chances of reducing tuition costs, making a top-tier education more accessible to families.

Reasons to Choose UNIS Hanoi International School

Ready to delve deeper into what sets UNIS Hanoi apart? Let’s explore some of the school’s special academic features:

The IB Programme

UNIS Hanoi was the pioneer of the IB in the Asia-Pacific encompassing all three programmes; Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP).

IB offers a globally prestigious qualification that is acknowledged by universities everywhere. It is a challenging programme, that fosters critical thought, problem-solving, and intercultural understanding that breeds successful lifelong learners and global citizens.

This ensures that your child has a smooth academic journey as it applies the same learning approach starting from kindergarten to graduation.

Service Learning Programme

The Service Learning programme is a perfect example of how UNIS Hanoi cultivates these qualities in students, which is an integral part of the school’s philosophy.

From elementary school through high school, this programme incorporates service opportunities into the curriculum, allowing students to cultivate empathy, become engaged citizens, and positively impact both local and global communities.

Read more about our Service Learning Programme: https://www.unishanoi.org/academics/service-learning

Counselling and Support

UNIS Hanoi recognises that emotional well-being and academic achievement go together. Therefore, there is a comprehensive counselling and support programme for all students run by professionals dedicated to them.

The Student Success Teams, including counsellors, learning support teachers, and healthcare professionals, work together to ensure each student thrives. The programme offers academic guidance, social-emotional support, and assistance with university applications and career exploration. This all-encompassing approach helps students overcome obstacles and realise their full potential.

Technology

At UNIS Hanoi, technology is blended into the curriculum effortlessly, giving students skills in digital literacy that will make them thrive in the 21st century.

From interactive whiteboards in elementary classrooms to advanced software used in high school science labs, UNIS Hanoi equips students to become responsible and confident digital citizens.

For your child’s international education, UNIS Hanoi is one of the best choices. Its strong technological focus helps your child prepare for the demands of a technologically advanced world.

Investing in Your Child’s Future With UNIS Hanoi

UNIS Hanoi is a leading international school in Hanoi Vietnam, offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme, which focuses on critical thinking, independent learning, and intercultural understanding and aligns perfectly with the values many parents seek. If you’re searching for good reasons to choose an international school, consider the unparalleled global opportunities and well-rounded education we offer at UNIS Hanoi.

Beyond academics, our dedicated team provides exceptional support services to ensure your child’s emotional well-being and holistic development.

Ready to learn more? Visit our website or contact our admissions team today!

FAQs

If you’re wondering if sending your beloved children to an International School would be wise, we’ve tried answering some frequently asked questions parents ask about this issue.

What is the importance of the global network and community that students can access through international schools?

International schools connect students with their counterparts and teachers from all over the world, creating a network that promotes intercultural appreciation and long-term friendships. This kind of exposure broadens students’ mindsets and equips them with skills for an interconnected future.

What are the challenges and considerations parents should be aware of when choosing an international school for their child?

Choosing international education requires striking a balance between the curriculum and individual needs of your child. The student should consider cultural factors in the school, including class sizes and supportive services like counselling/learning support in order to smoothen any academic/social transitions.

Can attending an international school provide a competitive advantage during the university admissions process? If so, how?

A globally recognised curricula like the IB programme prioritises critical thinking, research skills, and holistic development, which universities highly value.
Moreover, international schools promote intercultural understanding through diverse student bodies and multilingual instruction, preparing students for a globalised world.
Additionally, strong English language skills are crucial for university success, and international schools offer a solid foundation in this area.

Author Profile

UNIS Communication Team

UNIS Hanoi is ever-evolving, but one thing that remains is our passion to nurture and equip students to be agents of change for a better world.

Top 8 Good Reasons to Choose an International School