On April 29, 2025, Deputy Prime Minister Le Thanh Long convened a meeting with the Ministry of Education and Training (MoET) to discuss preparations for the upcoming high school graduation exam, set to take place on June 26 and 27. This year's exam is particularly significant as it will involve over 1.1 million candidates from across 63 provinces and cities, marking a major educational milestone.
According to Deputy Minister Pham Ngoc Thuong, approximately 200,000 officials will be mobilized to assist in organizing the exam, which is the first to be conducted under the new 2018 general education program. "This is a large exam that requires meticulous planning and execution to ensure its success," said Thuong during the meeting.
Preparations for the exam began well in advance, with the MoET initiating planning as early as 2024. The ministry announced reference exam questions on October 18, 2024, which is five months earlier than in previous years. This proactive approach aims to alleviate pressure on both students and staff involved in the exam process.
In an effort to ensure a smooth examination process, the ministry expects to have around 2,500 exam sites, an increase of 177 from 2024, and 50,000 exam rooms, up by 4,851 rooms. This expansion is necessary due to the increased number of candidates and the need for adequate facilities to accommodate them.
One of the key goals of this year's exam is to reduce both pressure and costs for students and their families while maintaining high standards of quality. "We aim for a 'two reductions' approach: reducing stress and reducing expenses for society while still ensuring the integrity of the exam," Thuong emphasized.
In addition to logistical preparations, the MoET is keenly aware of the potential challenges posed by new technologies that could facilitate cheating. Recent years have seen the emergence of sophisticated cheating methods, including the use of tiny listening devices and, more recently, artificial intelligence. The Ministry of Public Security has reported on the complexities of this issue, noting that they have dismantled several networks selling cheating devices.
To combat these challenges, the police plan to implement stringent security measures during the exam period. They will also focus on public awareness campaigns aimed at students and parents, particularly regarding the risks of leaking exam questions.
Deputy Prime Minister Le Thanh Long stressed the importance of conducting the exam successfully and safely, particularly given that this year's exam coincides with significant administrative changes in the government structure. "We cannot afford any mistakes; even a minor lapse could have serious consequences," he warned.
The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the need for clear directives and specific actions to ensure the exam's success. He called for detailed guidance that is responsive to the ongoing changes in the administrative system, ensuring that all personnel involved are adequately trained and prepared.
Furthermore, Long highlighted the importance of collaboration among various government ministries, including the Ministry of Public Security and the Ministry of Health, to ensure a cohesive approach to the exam's organization. He recommended holding a nationwide online conference to discuss the exam's logistics and preparations, thereby fostering communication and coordination.
As the exam approaches, the MoET is also focused on ensuring that students are well-informed about the examination process. This year, candidates following the 2018 general education program will take four exams: two mandatory subjects, Mathematics and Literature, along with two elective subjects chosen from a selection of subjects studied in school, such as Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Geography, History, and others.
For students following the previous 2006 curriculum, the exam format will include Literature, Mathematics, and a Foreign Language, along with one subject from Natural Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) and one from Social Sciences (History, Geography, Civic Education).
Results from the 2025 high school graduation exam are expected to be announced on July 16, 2025, with the goal of completing graduation considerations and diploma issuance before September 30. This timeline is crucial, as it allows students to transition smoothly into their next educational or vocational steps.
In summary, the 2025 high school graduation exam represents a significant event in Vietnam's educational landscape, with comprehensive preparations underway to ensure its success. The MoET and the government are committed to maintaining the integrity of the examination process while adapting to new challenges posed by technology and administrative changes.
