A significant milestone reinforcing global recognition and academic excellence
The European International School Ho Chi Minh City (EIS) has been officially accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) – one of the world’s most respected educational authorities. This milestone affirms EIS’s position as a leading international school in Vietnam and further strengthens the global pathways available to its students.
A Global Benchmark for Quality and Integrity
WASC is one of six regional accrediting bodies in the United States that evaluates schools across the U.S., Asia, and the Pacific. Accreditation is granted only after an extensive review of teaching quality, leadership, governance, and student outcomes.
“This accreditation confirms the standard of excellence we strive for every day,” says Ben Armstrong, Co-Head of School at EIS. “It assures families that EIS delivers an internationally benchmarked education recognised by universities around the world.”
Immediate Benefits for Graduating Students
The current Year 12 cohort will be the first to graduate with WASC – accredited high school diplomas and transcripts, strengthening their university and scholarship applications worldwide.
These credentials carry significant advantages in countries such as the United States and Canada, where accredited transcripts are often required for admission. They also support visa applications and smooth transitions when students transfer between schools or countries.
“For our graduating students, the timing could not be better,” Mr Armstrong notes. “Their academic records now come with an added layer of global recognition and credibility.”
Complementing the International Baccalaureate (IB) Pathway
EIS is renowned for its commitment to the International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum of programmes. The school will continue to offer the full IB Diploma Programme while also recognising that not all students pursue the complete Diploma.
WASC accreditation provides a meaningful, internationally accepted alternative for students who take individual IB Courses or choose a customised academic pathway. Every EIS graduate – whether completing the full IB Diploma or not – will now hold a respected qualification acknowledged by universities worldwide.
“This ensures that every student at EIS has a viable and valuable pathway to success,” Mr Armstrong explains. “It allows us to personalise learning while maintaining rigorous academic standards.”
Long-Term Assurance for Families
WASC accreditation aligns with the school’s existing accreditation from the Council of International Schools (CIS). EIS is now fully accredited until 2029, when the next joint CIS/WASC review will occur.
This long-term alignment provides families with confidence that EIS is regularly reviewed and held accountable to international benchmarks. It ensures continuity and stability for students, even if families relocate or apply to universities abroad.
A Strengthened Value Proposition
For families seeking a trusted international education, WASC accreditation delivers clear, practical benefits:
- Globally recognised qualifications for all graduates
- Enhanced university application outcomes
- Independent verification of academic quality
- Assurance of regular external review
- Flexible learning pathways tailored to each student
This recognition positions EIS among the world’s top international schools and underscores its commitment to continuous improvement and excellence.
A Shared Achievement
The accreditation is the culmination of years of dedication from the entire EIS community – teachers, students, staff, and parents alike.
“This is more than a symbol of academic quality,” says Mr Armstrong. “It is a reflection of our community’s shared vision – to prepare young people for success in any part of the world.”
As EIS looks ahead, the WASC accreditation will continue to strengthen its global standing, support diverse student pathways, and reaffirm its mission to deliver a world-class education grounded in integrity, innovation, and international mindedness.
Families interested in our holistic education and scholarships are invited to contact the Admissions Office at (+84 28 7300 7257) or info@eishcmc.com for a personal tour.
