The Ministry of Education and Training in Vietnam announced that no changes would be made to the schedule of the 2025 high school graduation exam, confirming that it will take place on June 26 and June 27, 2025. This announcement came in response to requests from several provinces, including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Ninh Binh, Nghe An, and Quang Tri, suggesting that the exam could be moved up by approximately three weeks.
On March 20, 2025, the GD&DT issued a formal response to the Departments of Education and Training in these provinces, explaining their decision after considerable review of the suggestions presented. "The Ministry appreciates the proactive approach of the Departments of Education and Training in proposing adjustments to the exam schedule to meet local needs and realities," the Ministry stated. However, after weighing the potential administrative impacts and challenges, it confirmed that the original timeline would remain intact.
The high school graduation exam for 2025 is significant, as this cohort will be the first to complete their studies under the new General Education Program (GEP) established in 2018, which introduces substantial changes to the grading and testing process. Students will take four subjects: compulsory Mathematics and Literature, plus two additional elective subjects chosen from a broad range including Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Geography, History, Economic and Legal Education, Informatics, Technology, and Foreign Language.
Local authorities argued that advancing the exam schedule was essential under the current circumstances where nationwide restructuring is underway, impacting local administrations. For instance, the Department of Education and Training in Hanoi pointed out that with the largest number of candidates taking the exam, any adjustments in preparation could lead to complex logistical challenges. Similar sentiments were echoed by officials in Ho Chi Minh City, Ninh Binh, and Nghe An.
In a bid to create more favorable conditions for students as well as to ensure their rights are maintained, officials from these provinces requested that the exam be moved earlier in June. They highlighted the importance of providing a stable environment for both students and parents leading up to this crucial period.
The Ministry's decision to maintain the original schedule reflects its commitment to stabilizing the educational landscape during a period of significant transition. "This decision helps to stabilize the psychology of students and parents and does not disrupt other educational activities," reiterated the Ministry, emphasizing its approach towards consistent educational programming.
Looking ahead, the Ministry has urged the local departments to coordinate closely with relevant stakeholders as they move forward with the 2025 high school graduation exam. Implementation of the exam will adhere to previously established criteria to ensure safety, seriousness, and compliance with prescribed regulations throughout the examination process.
As preparations continue, the focus will now shift to ensuring effective and efficient organization of the exam. The GD&DT aims to foster a conducive environment for both students and educators as they navigate the complexities introduced by the updated educational program.
Ultimately, despite the pressures and challenges posed by administrative changes, the Ministry is confident that maintaining the exam's original dates will streamline the process and contribute to a smoother and fairer high school graduation experience for all students involved.
