Basic Information on Grading in Vietnam

The Vietnamese grading system is based on a 1-10 point scale, similar to the US 1.0-4.0 scale. Usually when an American institution asks for a grade-point average (GPA) calculated on the 4 point scale, the student will be expected to do a direct mathematical conversion, so 10 becomes 4.0, 7.5 becomes 3.0, etc. This makes sense from a practical standpoint (Please see attached the suggested grade conversion table). In reality, however, it is completely inaccurate. 

In the Vietnamese system, a score of ten is rarely given, even for the brightest student. In contrast, a 4.0 in a U.S. classroom is not unusual, nor is someone with a 4.0 GPA overall. According to the Research Center for Vocational, Technical and Higher Education under the Vietnamese Ministry of Education, someone with a 7.5 GPA will probably be in the top 10-15% of his or her class. Therefore, American colleges and universities should pay greater attention to class rank and other skills reflected in the application process rather than his/her absolute adjusted GPA. 

Also be advised that the practice of most Vietnamese institutions is not to provide official transcripts to other universities on behalf of their students. Students can request one signed and stamped original transcript from the institution, and then have copies certified with a red stamp at a government office. Translation services are also available at these offices. 

For further evaluation of foreign educational credentials, please refer to the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO), www.aacrao.org. 

GRADE CONVERSION TABLE  

by EducationUSA Vietnam