Vietnam Proposes Shorter University Degrees for Gifted Students

Vietnam's Ministry of Education and Training is considering a new proposal that could allow academically gifted university students to shorten their study duration. The draft circular on the regulation of undergraduate training, currently open for public feedback, suggests that students in talent programs or those achieving a GPA of 'good' or higher could graduate sooner.

Under the proposed regulations, these high-achieving students could complete their degrees in as little as 1.5 years for a standard 3-year program, or 2.5 years for a 5-year program. This accelerated path is contingent on not graduating more than half a year earlier than the prescribed standard duration. The national education system generally sets undergraduate program durations between 3 to 5 years.

This initiative builds upon previous regulations, such as a 2021 circular that allowed students to complete programs within a maximum of twice the standard duration, but did not specify a minimum. The new proposal aims to provide a more structured and flexible framework for exceptional students, acknowledging their ability to progress at a faster pace. The draft also addresses other aspects of university education, including temporary leave, withdrawal, changing majors, and pursuing dual degrees.