Studying in Australia during high school is a major step towards global pathways in university and career. Competition for places in good Australian private schools is strong, and families who prepare early always have a smoother and more successful journey. Let’s take a look at what Vietnamese students should focus on to get ready.
1. Prepare Early for the AEAS Test
Most private schools rely on the AEAS test because it provides the most accurate, independent assessment of a student’s academic potential and English readiness. It is not a pass or fail exam, but a tool schools use to judge placement, support levels, and suitability.
Students should :
• Strengthen general English skills (reading, vocabulary, grammar);
• Practice essay writing under time pressure;
• Get used to English-only test instructions;
• Review Maths concepts in English, not just in Vietnamese terminology;
• Work through practice questions for the Reasoning section.
A good AEAS result gives schools confidence that the student is prepared for an English-medium environment. Most importantly, it reflects real ability, not memorisation.
2. Build Real Academic Strength, Not Just Scores
Australian high schools care about consistent performance, not last-minute cramming.
Students should:
• Strengthen core subjects, especially English, Maths and Science;
• Maintain solid school reports and behaviour records;
• Develop independent learning habits, because Australian classrooms expect students to think, question, and observe without constant supervision.
High quality schools prefer students who show genuine academic readiness, steady progress, and a positive attitude.
3. Build English for Real Life, Not Just Exams
Australian high school life is fast-paced and interactive. Students will need English for everyday situations, not only for tests.
Students should:
• Read English books, news articles, and short stories daily;
• Watch English-language videos and practice speaking;
• Join English clubs or speaking groups;
• Write short summaries, journals, or opinion paragraphs to build writing fluency.
Students who reach Australia with strong communication skills adjust far faster, make friends more easily, and learn with confidence.
4. Develop Global Skills and School Readiness
Australian schools expect students to participate, think critically, and take initiative.
Students should:
• Learn teamwork and group discussion skills;
• Practice presentations or simple public speaking;
• Build time management habits;
• Take part in activities outside the classroom such as sports, music, robotics, volunteering or community clubs.
These experiences help students settle into the holistic learning culture of Australian private schools.
5. Strengthen Health, Wellbeing and Independence
Living in a new country demands emotional resilience.
Students should:
• Practice simple life skills such as organising timetable, managing belongings, emailing teachers, or asking for help when needed;
• Learn basic cooking or simple chores which can be useful in boarding houses or homestay;
• Build mental readiness for change, including living away from family.
A student who knows how to look after themselves copes better and gains confidence quickly.
6. Understand Australian School Expectations
Each school has its own culture, curriculum and support programs.
Families should:
• Research school values, academic programs, boarding or homestay options, and subject choices;
• Set realistic expectations about school workload, English support requirements, and adjustment time;
• Encourage students to have a positive mindset about studying in a global environment.
Clear expectations lead to smoother adaptation and stronger long-term outcomes.
Thorough preparation is the difference between students who struggle and students who thrive. Vietnamese students who focus early on academics, English, AEAS readiness, global skills, and independence enter Australian high schools with a strong head start. They adapt faster, perform better, and make the most of every opportunity.
Reach out to ASA Vietnam for tailored guidance, clarity, and access to some of Australia’s most prestigious private schools!