Passing the exam is easy, but studying is difficult.

Over 122,000 students withdrew from their university applications: University tuition fees exceed what parents can afford.

As someone concerned about education in Vietnam, writer Hoang Anh Tu spoke with a reporter from Dan Viet newspaper about the fact that more than 122,000 students who passed the university entrance exams did not enroll. According to Mr. Tu, one of the reasons is that tuition fees exceed what parents can afford.

"In the past, for our generation, getting into university meant a grand celebration for the whole village and extended family. But nowadays, getting into university is easier than getting into 10th grade in big cities. Just a good academic record is enough to get accepted, a GPA above 5 on the high school graduation exam is enough to get you in, and an IELTS score of 5.0 plus a decent academic record is all it takes to become a university student. However, the path from getting into university to actually becoming a university student is becoming increasingly difficult. This year, for example, over 122,000 students who passed the university entrance exam chose not to enroll. The same thing happened last year."

Students dropping out of university can be due to many reasons, but one of them is… finance. A survey of 110 universities shows that tuition fees for new students this academic year range from 10.6 to 250 million VND per year, with an average of around 20-35 million VND.

Candidates participating in the 2024 competency assessment exam of the Ministry of Public Security. Photo: Tao Nga

To survive in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, an average of 10 million VND per month is needed for tuition, food, accommodation, transportation, internet, etc. This is probably why many students have to give up their dream of becoming university students, as it exceeds the financial capabilities of many families.

Becoming a university student is a dream, and for many, it's even the sole goal for their future. This is because, in the world, people still value academic qualifications and require a university degree. Not to mention the widespread availability of higher education, which can leave those who don't go to university feeling left behind compared to their peers. But do these children really need to struggle so hard to get into university by draining their parents' pockets?

We have a mechanism for students from poor or near-poor households, or those facing financial difficulties due to unforeseen circumstances, to borrow money for their studies, but the maximum loan amount is 4 million VND per month. This amount is not enough for them.

The path from passing the university entrance exam to actually becoming a university student is very long for many children who haven't yet earned money and are still dependent on their parents' hard work. Is it really necessary for them to become university students at all costs?

Solutions for candidates whose financial situation does not allow it.

Speaking to a reporter from Dan Viet newspaper, Mr. Pham Quoc Toan, Head of the Natural Sciences Department and Deputy Head of the Professional Committee at Huynh Thuc Khang High School in Thanh Xuan District, Hanoi, said: "In my opinion, there are two reasons why students worry after being admitted to university. Firstly, the tuition fees are too high (usually at private universities), and secondly, they are admitted to universities they don't like. In addition, a small number of students are planning to study abroad and only register for admission to fulfill the application process. Among these, tuition fees are also a major concern for students because while they choose their preferred majors, the financial decision regarding tuition fees rests with their parents."

According to Master Pham Thai Son, Director of the Admissions and Communications Center, new students can consider the following solutions to continue their studies if their financial situation does not allow them to continue:

1. Students should research scholarship and financial aid programs offered by the university or external organizations. Many universities have scholarship programs for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, helping to alleviate financial pressure.

2. Some banks or credit institutions offer loans with preferential interest rates for students. This helps students cover their immediate study expenses and repay the debt after graduation and starting work.

3. In particular, students can look for part-time jobs to earn extra income. These jobs not only help cover part of their tuition fees but also help students gain work experience and skills.

4. It is advisable to choose a flexible program, deferring some courses to reduce tuition burdens during a given semester and extend your study period.

5. If new students are eligible for preferential policies, are children of families with meritorious service to the revolution, have a poverty certificate, or are in other special cases, they may be considered for tuition fee exemption or reduction according to the regulations of the state or the school.

And freshmen can contact charities, student aid funds, or the community to seek financial assistance. This can further develop valuable life skills for new students."

Source: https://danviet.vn/tuyen-sinh-dai-hoc-nam-2024-do-de-nhung-hoc-kho-20240831132731787.htm