Culture & Entertainment · Vietnam Bureau
Vietnam to end IELTS bonus points in university entrance system
Vietnam's education ministry has proposed scrapping bonus points awarded for international English language certificates in university admissions, marking a significant shift in the country's higher education entrance policies.
LSN Vietnam ·
The Ministry of Education and Training unveiled plans to eliminate preferential scoring for IELTS certificates and awards for excellent students in the national university entrance examination, effective from the 2025 academic year onwards.
The proposed reform would standardize the university admissions process by removing advantages currently granted to students holding internationally recognized English proficiency qualifications. Under the existing system, candidates with IELTS certificates receive additional points that can substantially improve their chances of gaining admission to competitive programs.
The ministry's decision reflects growing concerns about equitable access to higher education and reducing disparities between students from different socioeconomic backgrounds. Officials argue that removing such bonus points would create a more level playing field for all applicants, regardless of their ability to afford expensive language certification exams.
The proposed changes have prompted debate among educators and stakeholders about balancing meritocratic principles with the practical benefits of recognizing student achievement. University administrators and student representatives have been invited to provide feedback on the proposed amendments before final implementation.
The ministry is expected to release further details regarding the revised admissions criteria and timeline for phasing out the bonus point system in coming weeks.