Transforming Vietnamese Higher Education Admissions: Changes Ahead for 2025
New regulations will redefine how students enter universities, emphasizing comprehensive assessments and personal alignment with career goals.
Vietnam's higher education system is poised for a major overhaul as the Ministry of Education and Training (MoET) implements significant changes to the admission processes for universities and colleges for the academic year 2025. With the first cohort of students under the new general education program facing their national graduation exams, the overhaul aims to meet new educational standards and adapt to the rapidly changing job market.
According to PGS-TS Nguyễn Thu Thủy, the head of HED at MoET, alterations to the admission process will eliminate the option for early admissions, creating a streamlined common admissions framework instead. “From the draft announcement and feedback gathering, the official regulations will include adjustments from the previously announced draft,” she stated. This statement reflects confidence in tightening the criteria for university admissions to uphold academic integrity.
The upcoming admissions will also mark the first time many students will submit their final year high school results as the basis for their entry to higher education institutions. Notably, schools are required to evaluate students comprehensively, considering their results across the entire final year instead of just exam scores. Institutions are also mandated to set their own standards for translating foreign language certifications, allowing students with valid certifications to bypass taking the language exams during their graduation assessments.
The admissions strategy shift has sparked discussion among educators on the importance of providing clear guidance to students. ThS. Phạm Doãn Nguyên, Deputy Principal at Hoa Sen University, emphasized this during the recent career counseling program themed “Right Occupation – Bright Future.” ThS. Nguyên urged students to focus on “positioning themselves, their careers, and the job market,” stressing the necessity of thorough preparation as they approach exam season. He elaborated on how students need to assess their capabilities and interests. “Each field requires different qualities and competencies,” he remarked, advising students to explore not just the attractive sides of their chosen careers but also the less glamorous realities.
Despite concerns about adapting to the new regulatory environment, educational leaders affirm the importance of being proactive when selecting fields of study. Institutions are preparing information and guidance sessions to help students navigate the new admissions criteria successfully. TS. Phạm Tấn Hạ, deputy principal of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities at Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City, highlighted the need for thorough research. “Many students still don't understand their desired field of study, including the knowledge and skills needed and career opportunities available,” he voiced. TS. Hạ underscored the importance of students thoroughly researching potential programs, financials such as tuition fees and potential scholarships, as they prepare for their academic future.
The reforms also signal the need for adaptability among students. “Students should recognize the industry's dynamic nature and embrace the interdisciplinary educational approach being adopted by more institutions,” TS. Hạ urged. This perspective is especially relevant as shifts within Vietnam's labor market highlight the interconnectedness of various fields, prompting higher education providers to prepare students to emerge as versatile workforce members capable of adapting over time.
With these newfound responsibilities and opportunities, students must employ diligent planning and self-assessment. The MoET's changes will undoubtedly reshape how students engage with their educational prospects and career ambitions. The 2025 admissions process promises not only to change how students are evaluated but also to encourage thoughtful reflection on their future paths and readiness for competitive academic and professional environments.
To sum up, as Vietnam embarks on this exciting educational transition, it is clear the changes are set to redefine the higher education admissions process significantly. Students are encouraged to assess their strengths, understand their ambitions, and analyze job market conditions, laying the groundwork for informed decisions about their futures.