APU International School operates under a semester calendar consisting of Fall and Spring semesters, each running approximately ninety school days. The school also conducts classes during the summer to help students fulfill graduation requirements, satisfy their intellectual curiosity, and accelerate their progress through the English Language Development (ELD) program.

Most core courses offered at APU International School require grade-appropriate English language skills as set by each department chair. The ELD program at the school provides students who need language assistance with specialized instruction designed to develop these skills. Students already proficient in English may test out of the ELD program and be allowed to enroll in the core courses immediately.

In addition to the elementary, middle, and high school programs, APU International School periodically supplements its curriculum with special study programs in the United States and Vietnam through the help and support of its partner institutions. These programs provide students with opportunities to learn more about Vietnamese and American cultures.