Vietnam to Eliminate Tuition Fees for Students in Public Schools
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On June 26, 440 out of 441 lawmakers present voted in favor of the resolution, which covers tuition exemption and support for preschool and general education learners within the national education system.
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Lawmakers attend a National Assembly session in Hanoi on June 26. Photo: quochoi.vn |
The policy applies to children in kindergartens and general education programs, including students in continuing education centers. It also covers individuals of Vietnamese descent living in the country without official nationality status, cited the Saigontimes.
Under the new policy, all students enrolled in public preschools, primary schools, secondary schools and continuing education programs will no longer have to pay tuition. Students attending private or independent schools will also receive government subsidies, with the amount determined by local authorities based on national guidelines. These subsidies must not exceed the actual tuition charged by the schools.
The policy applies to Vietnamese citizens and individuals of Vietnamese descent living in Vietnam, even if they have not obtained full citizenship. Officials say the goal is not just to reduce financial pressure on families, but to demonstrate the State’s responsibility toward future generations.
General Secretary To Lam reaffirmed the government’s commitment to education during a National Assembly session in late 2024, calling universal schooling a "core national mission." He said the plan will be rolled out step by step, beginning with free primary education and expanding to include higher levels. In addition to tuition waivers, the government also plans to support students with free meals and other aid, according to VNE.
The Politburo officially signed off on the plan on Feb. 28, 2025, following a feasibility study that confirmed the country's financial readiness. The initiative followed a broader push to modernize and streamline the national political system. |
Vietnam's public education system currently serves around 23 million children and teenagers. The total cost of implementing the free tuition policy is estimated at VND30.6 trillion (US$1.2 billion) annually.
For the 2025–2026 school year, VND22.5 trillion will go toward waiving tuition for 5-year-olds, primary schoolers and lower secondary students. An additional VND8.2 trillion will be needed to expand full coverage across all levels.
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