For many families, learning English is no longer just about communication or work, it's become a race for high scores and native-like accents. But is early IELTS certification really the right approach?

"Sending VND100 million (US$4,000) home every month after deducting taxes and expenses..." is one advertisement promoting vocational study abroad programs that made me laugh.

Countless "extra costs" behind tuition fees that come with sending a child to an international school are making my friend anxious—and even considering pulling his child out to return to public school.