VIETNAM
HOME/ VIETNAM
Are you considering studying in VIETNAM? According to several reports and news articles, Vietnam is in the market to promote foreign education for its brightest minds. With a multitude of students in several countries, especially from East Asia, opting for higher education abroad, universities in European nations and the Americas are waiting to welcome the influx with open arms. Vietnamese students make up the third-largest segment of the international student marketplace. Furthermore, ninety-two per cent of Vietnamese families seek physical, face-to-face interactions with counsellors for advice when making big educational decisions.
Country Information – Benefits to be in VIETNAM
Studying in Vietnam, Visiting Vietnam or moving for work to Vietnam! In recent years, Vietnam, one of Europe’s overlooked studies abroad destinations, has experienced a huge boost in interest from prospective students, and we think we know why.
Over the past twenty years, Vietnam’s economic development has been steady, yet impressive. The average rate of growth has been pegged at 5.5%, since 1990. The economy is on a roll, and estimations, at least till 2025, are on the positive side. With youth under 30, making up half of the Vietnamese demographic, most international students of Vietnamese origin can be found in Japan. There is also great interest for Vietnamese students to pursue education in countries like Australia.
Why opt for higher studies abroad? The common consensus among the Vietnamese is that their own tertiary domestic education system is not equipped to accommodate most students who apply for higher education within the country. With this view, there has to be a way for elementary and secondary institutions in Vietnam to reach out to universities in countries abroad.
Acumen, part of the Sannam S4 Group, is an organisation that can give an edge to most international educational institutions that wish to tap into the Vietnamese student population. Acumen has partnerships with world-leading universities enabling doors to be opened and opportunities created for Vietnamese students to reach their desired educational destination.
Details about Educational institutes, Colleges, Universities
Student have lots of institutions to choose from for education in Vietnam. A desire to pursue higher education and earn a degree doesn’t have to be stressful, boring or something to trudge through especially if you vault over one of the top universities or colleges in Vietnam.
The overall objectives of the Education Development Strategic Plan (EDSP) are to renovate the education system, move closer to regional and international quality standards, and ensure social equity and lifelong learning opportunities.
The EDSP covers nine strategic solutions focused on renovating education management, expanding the education institution network, developing human resources, and strengthening investment and training. The EDSP outlines further objectives for all levels of education:
- Achieve universal early childhood and care education to ensure that all children have the proper intellectual, emotional, and physical development necessary to enter primary school.
- Improve and maintain the quality of universal lower secondary education and pursue universal upper secondary education in economically disadvantaged localities.
- Strengthen ethnic minority boarding schools and provide inclusive education at all levels.
- Restructure the vocational education system, establish new colleges that respond to learning needs, and ensure that students are equipped with the professional skills to participate in the international labor market.
- Expand non-public higher education and provide more university preparatory institutions for ethnic minorities.
- Diversify various forms of continuing education and create life-long learning opportunities to continuously improve professional qualifications.
List of Top Vietnam Universities: (Public & Private)
- Can Tho University
- Dong Nai University of Technology
- Duy Tan University
- Foreign Trade University
- FPT University
- Hai Phong Medical University
- Hanoi Architectural University
- Hanoi Law University
- Hanoi Medical University
- Hanoi National University of Education
- Hanoi University
- Hanoi University of Agriculture
- Hanoi University of Business and Technology
- Hanoi University of Culture
- Hanoi University of Industrial Fine Arts
- Hanoi University of Mining and Geology
- Hanoi University of Pharmacy
- Hanoi University of Science
- Hanoi University of Science and Technology
- HCMC University of Technology
- Ho Chi Minh City Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Education
- Ho Chi Minh City International University
- Ho Chi Minh City University of Agriculture and Forestry
- Ho Chi Minh City University of Architecture
- Ho Chi Minh City University of Engineering and Technology
- Ho Chi Minh City University of Foreign Languages and Information Technology
- Ho Chi Minh City University of Industry
- Ho Chi Minh City University of Law
- Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology
- Hong Bang University
- Hong Bang University International
- Hong Duc University
- Hue University
- Lac Hong University
- National Economics University
- National University of Civil Engineering
- Nguyen Tat Thanh University
- Nha Trang University
- Phuong Dong University
- Tay Bac University
- Thai Binh Medical University
- Thai Nguyen University
- The University of Da Nang
- The University of Medicine & Pharmacy
- Ton Duc Thang University
- University of Dalat
- University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City
- University of Transport and Communications
- Van Lang University
- Vietnam Maritime University
- Vietnam National University
- Vietnam National University
- Vietnam University of Commerce
- Vinh University
- Water Resources University
- Ho Chi Minh City University of Natural Sciences
- Ho Chi Minh City University of Pedagogy
- Ho Chi Minh City University of Social Sciences and Humanities
Language Tests or Language requirements
Do I need to pass and ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEST to study in Vietnam? Is the question you must be having in your mind. Let us make it clear and precise for you. If your first language is not English, you’ll need to show excellent language proficiency to apply to a Vietnam university.
English Language Tests for International Students: Language Proficiency in Vietnam universities is subject to testing the knowledge of English language. IELTS, TOEFL and PTE are the exams which are mandatory for fulfilling the criteria.
- IELTS: IELTS is a commonly accepted English test all over the world. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is one of the most popular English Language tests for non-native English speakers. It evaluates English skills like listening, reading, speaking, and writing. It has nine score bands that identify the different levels of proficiency ranging from non-user to expert. Generally, a minimum score of IELTS 5.5 is required at the undergraduate and master levels, while 6.0 is at the Masters and 6.5 at the Ph.D. level.
- TOEFL: TOEFL or Test of English as a Foreign Language is accepted by most Vietnam universities and colleges. TOEFL assesses English language skills in reading, listening, speaking, and writing. Its focus on academic A minimum score of TOEFL 70 is required at the undergraduate and master levels, while a minimum score of TOEFL 85 at the Ph.D. level is generally accepted. For Vietnam universities, a test score of 70–90 is typically considered adequate for admission.
- PTE: PTE is accepted by 60% of Vietnam schools and universities. It is usually available in over 50 countries. However, it is currently available in 10 countries, including India and Nepal. Results are available immediately. The minimum PTE score required in Vietnam is 56 and it may go up to the highest depending on the course level. (Only a few universities accept this)
VISA types and Its Understandings
A student visa is a type of visa required by foreign nationals to study and stay in Vietnam for the duration of their studies. A student who is not a citizen of Vietnam but wants to study in Vietnam requires a Vietnam Student Visa to fulfil this purpose. Any foreign student who enrols on a course lasting three months or more in Vietnam will require a student visa.
Student visa (Type: DH) is non-immigrant visas that do not require the holder to obtain citizenship. Any prospective students seeking higher education in Vietnam must obtain a student visa. International Student Service Centre (ISSC) is the unit at International University to help international students and international scholars to obtain the visa pre-approval prior to their departure to Vietnam. International students and scholars need to provide ISSC with all necessary documents at least 2 weeks prior to the expected day of their departure.
Note: It is unable to convert Tourist Visa into Student Visa after you entered Vietnam. According to article 7, point 1 of Vietnam Immigration Law 2015, the purpose of Vietnam visa cannot be converted from one purpose to another. For instance, someone entering Vietnam with a tourist visa (DL) cannot be able to convert it into a studying visa (DH).
Type of Visa for Vietnam
- Student Visa (Type: DH): This is non-immigrant visas that do not require the holder to obtain citizenship. Any prospective students seeking higher education in Vietnam must obtain a student visa.
- ENTRY VISA: For international students who are currently in their home country, have been admitted to International University, and will come to Vietnam for study purpose.
Admission & VISA Application Process
Admission process explained in a simplified way. If you’re from a country outside the EU, you need to have a recognized high school certificate. This certificate serves as a confirmation that your diploma is valid according to the requirements in Vietnam. You can easily have your diploma validated at the Vietnam embassy in your country. Vietnam embassies will provide you with a Volante Accreditation which can be used to apply to the university of your choice.
- Apply for a school in Vietnam
- Receive Offer Letter & Pay Initial Fees
- Submit Visa Application & Book Biometric at VAC
- Attend Visa Interview
- Visa Approve or Decline
- Arrive in Vietnam
1. Apply for a school in Vietnam
- Before you apply for a student visa you will need to apply for admission into the Undergraduate or Graduate program. Admission to universities in Vietnam must be done through the individual universities’ websites; there is no centralized admission portal.
- Select your university of choice in Vietnam and apply for the course you want. The process involves the submission of the required documents: 1) High school certificate if you are applying for a bachelor’s degree. 2) Bachelor’s/master’s certificate if you are a graduate student. 3) A copy of your Curriculum Vitae. 4) A clean criminal record. 5) Evidence of English or Vietnamese language proficiency. 6) Evidence of financial capability to take care of your education. 7) Depending on your university of choice, you may need to submit more documents. Ensure you verify the requirements of the university before proceeding with your application.
2. Receive Offer Letter & Pay Initial Fees
- Now that you have been admitted and you receive a document called Letter of Acceptance from the institution’s international student office. You will be instructed to pay some fees to confirm your admission to the institution. Pay the fees from your bank account for safer transactions and then get Final Offer Letter from the college.
- Finalize one University that you wish to join and pay a deposit as required by the University. Prepare your documents for the Vietnam student visa application. Book an appointment and apply for the visa. We will help you finalize your documents, check if they are in order and guide you in taking the visa appointment.
- There are International Student Offices available in many Vietnamese institutions. They assist international students with their applications. They receive approval correspondence from the Vietnam Immigration Authority and forward it to international students. You can fill and sign this document from them to increase your chances of approval.
3. Submit Visa Application & Book your Biometric at VAC
- You have passed the admission test or met the admission’s criteria for higher education studies at a Vietnam university. Next step is to apply for your student visa/residence permit as soon as possible. Contact your closest Vietnam Embassy or Consulate for additional queries. You must submit the student visa application to the Vietnam Agency.
- Complete the Vietnam student visa online application form. Find the online visa application at kdmid.ru. This is the official website of the Vietnam Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Answer the mandatory questions marked with a “*”.
- Once you submit your application through the e-service then you have to go to the embassy to prove your identity and submit your fingerprints. Bring all the documents you submitted in the online service with you. Additionally, you must pay the application fee at the embassy/consulate. If you apply in person then similarly you will be asked to submit your fingerprints and pay the fee.
4. Attend Visa Interview
- Now is the time to wait for reply from High Commission and based on your application, biometric and details you will be asked to submit documents (if required). Attend the interview.The embassy will ask you to show up for an interview to ask questions related to your application process and education. Then, you must wait to receive an answer whether your application has been accepted or rejected.
5. VISA Approve or Decline
- Once you submit your application you must patiently wait for an answer. The Vietnam Immigration Office evaluates students’ applications as a top priority so the processing time will be done as soon as possible.
- The time will vary especially if you are missing anything from your application and the embassy contacts you to submit the missing documents, but, the usual time it takes to review an application is usually sometime between 1 to 3 months. As soon as your application has been approved the Vietnam Immigration Office will send your residence card to the embassy where you can then pick it up and leave for Vietnam.
6. Arrive in Vietnam
- You have already gained your admission and your student visa. If your application is successful, you will get a visa to Vietnam and travel there. Yet, upon arrival in Vietnam, you need to complete two more procedures. At the Vietnam port of entry, you will receive an immigration card. The card consists of two identical parts that contain questions about you and your trip. Fill in the required information. One part of the card should remain at the border police, and the other one you should carry with you. Register your Vietnam student visa.
Applying for Student Visa?
Understand the procedure and then only start the visa application process. You are expected to apply six months in advance of your trip. It takes about four to eight weeks to get your visa if you do not forget to submit any documents or have to re-submit them. Here are the steps for applying for your Vietnam student visa.
Eligibility Criteria for Vietnam Student Visa: To be eligible for a visa to study in Vietnam you must fulfil the following conditions. The main part of every Vietnam visa application process is gathering the requirements. The required documents for a Vietnam student visa are as follows. These are some of the documents you need to submit during the application for a residence permit:
- Passport and its copy: Please note that your passport must be valid for at least six months from the arrival date in Vietnam. A copy of the passport must be from the photo page.
- Visa Application Form: You can access this form through the Vietnam Embassy website.
- Applicant Photo: The size of the photo must be the size of the passport photo.
- Certificate of Admission and Confirmation of Visa Issuance: As mentioned, these documents are issued by the university.
- Proof of financing: You must provide evidence that you can cover your expenditure in Vietnam.
- Previous educational certificates.
- Proof of solvency, meaning that you have the sufficient funds to support yourself during your studies. The minimum amount required for Vietnam is around 2500 AED per month and you can prove it by providing bank statements.
- Certificate of good conduct with no prior criminal record.
- Medical certificate and insurance. If you are a European national, then you need to provide the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
- Proof of payment of the administrative fee.
- Proof of accommodation in Vietnam.
- Visa Fee will not be reimbursed in case of visa refusal.
Dos and Don’ts for Vietnam Student Visa Application: You need to remember the following dos and don’ts while applying for Vietnam student visa.
Dos
- Apply for a student visa at least 5 weeks in advance of your planned travel date to allow enough time for the application procedure to be completed on time for you to join your course.
- Remember that if you are applying online, you can only apply for your visa a maximum of 180 days before your course starts
- Fill up your visa application form carefully with all accurate details.
- Submit all the required supporting documents along with your visa application form.
Don’ts
- Do not present false documents for your visa.
- Do not provide any false information.
- Do not hide or misrepresent facts in your visa application.
Financial requirements, Finances & Cost of Living
How much does it cost to study in Vietnam? Vietnam remains the most preferred among most international students when it comes to popular study-abroad destination options. However, proof of clear available funds is required to pursue studies in Vietnam to cover tuition and living expenses.
- How much are the tuition fees in Vietnam?
- How to prove funds for Vietnam?
- How much does student accommodation costs in Vietnam?
- How much does it cost to live in Vietnam?
- What financial support is available to international students in Vietnam?
- How much are the TUITION FEES in Vietnam?
- Vietnam is one of the most popular destinations for university study but, like the UK, Australia, Canada and the US, it is not much expensive. The overall expenses of education in Vietnam is comparatively low as in other preferred developed nations. Tuition fees vary between programs, but international students generally pay between 1000–2500 USD per year. Study costs in private universities may be higher than in public or state institutions. Vietnam is an affordable country to live in as well.
- How to prove FUNDS for Vietnam?
- In order to pursue your studies in Vietnam, proof of sufficient funds is required to cover tuition and living expenses. You can prove to fund with the following:
- Proof of financial ability: An international student who is a national of visa required country of Vietnam needs to show that they have the financial ability to study in Vietnam. The documentary proof of financial ability can be in the form of bank statement /fixed deposit accounts/savings accounts. The amount of money is advisable to be minimum USD 8300.
- Security deposit: An international student might be required to pay a security deposit in certain cases. Once your student visa is approved, you will receive a letter that will indicate whether you need to pay a security deposit. The security deposit must be paid in the form of a Banker’s Guarantee, and the amount varies as per your country. The security deposit will be refunded to international students if they have departed Vietnam and have not breached any of the conditions stated in the security bond.
- How much does the student ACCOMODATION costs in Vietnam?
- Student accommodation is generally provided by Vietnam universities in student residence halls or student apartments. In Vietnam you can either live in a student dormitory within a university campus or rent a private accommodation. There are many different types of accommodation for students in Vietnam. The accommodation charges range from VND 7,000,000 to 15,000,000 depending upon the apartment- furnished or unfurnished.
- On-campus accommodation costs in Vietnam may range from $US 1,200 to $US 1,600 per semester, inclusive of utilities and other services. Following are the accommodation options available:
- Apartments: This option is best suited for students who need more privacy and independence. These are fully equipped. Single or double rooms are there in the apartment.
- Student Residences: This is the most common and economical option for students looking out for accommodation in Vietnam. With this option, you get to meet and interact with other students, and learn and practice new language with fellow pupils after classes as well. The student residences have shared kitchen facilities and all the other required facilities.
- Guesthouses / Hotels: This option is suitable for short stays like for 1-4 weeks.
- Homestays: This option involves living with the families in Vietnam. With this option, you get to know the country, its language, people and culture first-hand. If you’re eager to know about the country’s language and lifestyle and culture, then this is the best option for you. You’ll improve and upgrade your understanding of the local culture and tradition, and your accent will be more authentic.
- Teacher Home: This option involves living and studying in the home of a language teacher in Vietnam, who will welcome you into his or her family and make you feel at home. If you are interested in learning a language, then this is one of the best options to consider. With this option, you immerse yourself completely in the language and culture of the country.
- How much does it cost to LIVE in Vietnam?
- The cost of living in Vietnam varies by location, but in general it is easy to live well in Vietnam on a student budget. The costs of living in Vietnam Depending on various factors, the price may change. Others spend $3000 or more each month for an extravagant, next-level lifestyle. $8000 per month on a strict budget, all expenses carefully controlled and ensuring they can stay in Vietnam no matter what!
- Cost of Groceries in Vietnam: When it comes to the grocery costs, basic food requirements for one person will cost around $160 a month (say, for your daily dinners and breakfast items). The more bulk cooking you do, the cheaper it can get. It’s not really worth it to cook up meals for just one person in Vietnam due to how cheap it is to eat out.
- Food Costs: Food costs in Vietnam vary depending on the region you live in. Food (groceries, dining out, partying, nightlife) in Vietnam it will cost you $250–$550
- Mobile & Internet Cost: Internet expanses varies as per your package. Mobile Phone (including data) In Vietnam monthly will cost you about $12–$30. Internet (Wi-Fi) in Vietnam will cost you $12–$30.
- Electricity Cost: If you rent a room, your landlord will charge you extra if you require the usage of an air-conditioner (which you’ll probably do in hot and humid Vietnam). Electricity (Including water) In Vietnam will cost you somewhere $30–$70
- Transportation Costs: There are many cost-effective ways to travel in and around Vietnam. The taxi rate per km in the city: VND 12,000. City Centre bus fare is VND 5,000
- Utility Costs: Utility costs are around MUR 1,500 monthly for heating, gas, and electricity, and $50 per month for wireless internet connectivity.
- What financial support is available to INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS in Vietnam?
- Financial aid comes in many formats: Scholarships, Grants, Assistantships, and Work–Study Schemes. In Vietnam, there are ways that students can fund their studies–scholarships and financial aid. There are a few scholarships that students can apply for which can help towards living expenses and tuition fees. However, studying abroad can be a slightly expensive affair and thus availing university and government scholarships. Universities offer many excellent scholarship opportunities to international students. Here are a few of them:
- Scholarships in Vietnam: Scholarships offer financial support during your studies for a certain amount of time and stipend. In general, scholarship providers usually expect their recipients to have a certain profile. And the selection is then done by an independent board that often consider the following criteria:
- Excellent/good academic accomplishment in the past
- Motivation for application for the scholarship
- Personal circumstances (including financial need)
- Social and cultural engagement at JGU and elsewhere
- When searching for a scholarship it is important to be proactive!
Work Opportunities and Work environment
Currently, Vietnam has announced that there will be a temporary lift in the current work hour restrictions placed on international students in Vietnam. Working in Vietnam as an international student.
- Work Opportunities: There are many employment opportunities available in Vietnam for international students. Individuals are employed in different sectors. To work while studying in Vietnam, international students must have a valid work permit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vietnam Visa
- Is studying in Vietnam expensive?
- Vietnam is not as expensive as in many other countries. It is the cheapest and best if your budget is not too high.
- Is English Proficiency test score required for Vietnam study visa?
- Language proficiency test scores like IELTS or TOEFL might be required (not necessarily) for Vietnam Student Visa if your chosen university has specified the same.
- How much money do you need to live comfortably in Vietnam?
- A student will require around USD 15000 minus rent to live in Vietnam. Without house rent, a single individual will need approximately USD 9000.
- Is Vietnam good for international students?
- Vietnam is a good study destination for international students, offering a welcoming, safe, and vibrant environment. It offers natural beauty, several attractions, and quality education at reputed institutions. Its flourishing and steadily-growing economy also contributes to numerous available job opportunities for students alongside.