Starting in 2025, Vietnam's university and college admissions are set to undergo major changes, allowing for greater flexibility in subject combinations. The new policies, implemented by the Ministry of Education and Training, will provide a more inclusive admissions process, particularly for candidates from diverse backgrounds.
The regulations, as outlined by the ministry, eliminate the previous requirement whereby students could only choose a maximum of four subject groups for university admissions. This change is primarily aimed at accommodating the growing diversity of student interests and backgrounds. According to the ministry, the new structure will allow candidates to select from an unrestricted combination of subjects, enhancing their chances of admission.
Specifically, from 2025 onwards, the number of subjects required for the university entrance examination will be reduced to just two. Each candidate must still select at least three major subjects, which can include mathematics or literature, with a minimum overlap of 25%. This restructuring is anticipated to support around 50% of candidates in pursuing their preferred subjects.
Dr. Nguyen Anh Dung, President of the higher education department of the Ministry of Education and Training, highlighted the rationality behind the reforms. “The new policy will help candidates who choose to take entrance exams in different subjects have the opportunity to be admitted into various degree programs based on the capacities of higher education institutions,” he noted.
Previously, under the Project 2561 BE (2018), the regulations imposed limits on the number of subject combinations that students could undertake to qualify for university admissions. This restriction was seen as a barrier to many prospective students, diminishing their opportunities for academic advancement. The 2025 changes represent a significant shift towards a more open and accessible approach to higher education.
The reduction in the number of exams and the flexibility in subject choice are part of a broader educational reform initiative by the Vietnamese government. This initiative aims to align the education system more closely with the demands of the modern workforce and the diverse interests of students today.
To further ensure a level playing field, students are now required to use their grade 12 results when applying for admission. This requirement guarantees that academic performance is directly considered in the admission process, thereby maintaining a standard of quality across the applicant pool.
In addition to the regulatory changes, the Ministry of Education and Training has also officially abolished advanced admission processes that previously allowed certain students to secure placements based on criteria outside the standard testing framework. This decision reflects a commitment to ensuring that all admissions are based on academic merit and standardized assessments.
As Vietnam progresses into this new educational landscape, the upcoming modifications to the university admission process are poised to create a more equitable system for all students. The anticipated changes are geared towards empowering students to explore a wider spectrum of subjects, ultimately leading to more informed and capable graduates prepared to meet the challenges of the future.
With these revisions not set to take effect until 2025, schools and universities across the country are now beginning to prepare for the implications of this new admissions framework. Educators, students, and parents alike are keenly observing how these changes will impact the academic environment, instructional strategies, and student engagement in the coming years.
The move towards a more flexible admissions process may also herald a new era of collaboration among educational institutions, potentially leading to joint programs and interdisciplinary studies that could benefit students who have a myriad of interests and skills.
The Vietnamese education system is witnessing a transformative moment that promises to reshape the landscape of higher education and provide equitable access for all students—regardless of their initial academic pathways. With a focus on adaptability and inclusivity, the incoming regulations reflect a dedication to fostering a rich educational environment.
