Hanoi requires schools not to collect deposit fees

The Hanoi Department of Education and Training requires schools not to collect deposit fees, while this amount is up to 10-20 million VND at non-public facilities.

The information was stated in the Department's announcement on March 22. The Department said that recently it has received many complaints about the work of enrolling students at the beginning of the school year, in which many schools require parents to pay deposit money or collect and keep students' records. This "causes frustration for students, parents and public opinion".

The Department will coordinate with relevant units to strengthen inspection, examination and strictly handle violations if they are detected.

First graders of Thang Long Primary School, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, return to school in August 2022. Photo: Giang Huy — First graders of Thang Long Primary School, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, return to school in August 2022. Photo: *Giang Huy*

Hanoi has nearly 600 private schools, from kindergarten to high school. These schools usually recruit students by reviewing academic records or organizing their own exams.

In addition to tuition and expected fees for uniforms, facilities, boarding services, and transportation, many schools require parents to pay additional registration and admission fees if they are accepted. This fee is usually from 1.5 million VND or more, many schools charge 10-20 million VND.

This amount is often referred to by parents as a "deposit" or holding fee. If the student enrolls, the school will deduct it from the costs. If the student withdraws, depending on the school, the parent may or may not receive it back.

A private school leader said that the deposit requirement is to limit fake applications and to allow families to consider and be responsible for their choices.

Fees of a private school in Hanoi, including booking fee. Screenshot — Fees for a private school in Hanoi, including a booking fee. *Screenshot*

The registration and reservation fee has been controversial for many years. The reason is that this fee is not included in the education regulations, but many schools say that they operate like businesses and should be able to negotiate with parents.

In 2018, the Hanoi Department of Education and Training requested private schools not to charge registration and reservation fees, but this practice continued afterward.

Thanh Hang

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