Is Vietnam good for international students?

Find Out Why Vietnam Is One Of The Top Study Destinations In Asia

Asia is one of the most interesting study abroad destinations in the world and many students are looking for life-changing experiences in an exotic country. For many, it is a dream to be able to explore the vibrant cultures, create new experiences and gain academic knowledge, but the expenses are too high. 

Vietnam is one of the most underrated study abroad destinations in Asia. In the past few years Vietnam has become an ideal study destination for international students on a budget. In addition to the cheap living costs, the country has incredible culture and is filled with friendly locals. 

Is Vietnam good for international students?
Vietnam is not only an inexpensive country but also filled with vibrant culture and history. Picture by Nguyễn Anh Vũ

Below we have listed top five reasons why you should choose Vietnam. Our local employee Ida also shares her thoughts.

1. In constant change

Vietnam is ranked among the fastest-growing countries in the world. It’s largest city, Ho Chi Minh City is one of the most dynamic cities in the world. It is in constant change and has increasing education and career opportunities. Ho Chi Minh City is a place where you discover something new every day.

Vietnam is one of the most economically and politically stable countries in Asia. It has also been one of the best surviving countries during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Is Vietnam good for international students?
Vietnam is a country that is always evolving. Picture by Anton Shuvalov

2. Blissful city and blooming nature 

Whether you want to dive in to the vivid city life or escape to the countryside – Vietnam has it all. The endless plantations and breathtaking coastline reaching all the way to the borders of China and Cambodia are a sight for sore eyes. Ho Chi Minh City is lively and filled with vibrant cultures, friendly people and not to mention the magnificent skyscrapers. You can also take a breather in the city and admire the beautiful botanical gardens.

Is Vietnam good for international students?
At night, the streets of Ho Chi Minh City come to life. Picture by Georgios Domouchtsidis

3. High education programs

Ho Chi Minh City is a center of business in Vietnam and the Foreign Trade University (FTU) is one of Vietnam’s top universities to study foreign trade. Over the years it has received recognition both in Vietnam and Asia. FTU’s satellite campus in Ho Chi Minh City offers studies in International Business Management, International Finance, Banking, Logistics and Economics.

The Foreign Trade University is our newest study destination. If you are interested to read more about the study programs, visit our website for all the information.

Is Vietnam good for international students?
Vietnam is an international country with many students. Picture by Priscilla Du Preez

4. Easy on the pocket

Vietnam is a fairly inexpensive travel destination compared to other popular destinations in Asia. Living, studying and traveling is cheap and the country is considered to be very student-friendly. Ho Chi Minh City is filled with affordable accommodation options and street food. There is also a lot to do in the big city. You can visit the popular and unique attractions, outdoor markets or try different activities.

Is Vietnam good for international students?
There are many different cafes and restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City. Picture by Hiep Duong

5. Vibrant culture and history

Vietnamese culture is a mixture of old and new. Ho Chi Minh City has many historic attractions and old charm, but also modern architecture and lifestyle. Foreign cultures have left their mark but traditions are still protected. Even though the culture is heavily influenced by the Chinese culture it still has its own, Vietnamese features.

Features such as worshiping the ancestors, respecting family values, arranging traditional festivals and wearing traditional costumes are essential. The food culture reflects family values and dignities and is a big part of the local’s everyday life. Read more: 5 Things you did not know about Vietnam

Is Vietnam good for international students?
Vietnamese culture has both historic and modern features. Picture by Loifotos

Vietnam through the eyes of a local

Our partnerships specialist Ida Hyvärinen has lived in Ho Chi Minh City since January and is in contact with our host university FTU. According to her, the pandemic doesn’t affect her everyday life anymore and she hopes that more students would get interested in studying in Vietnam.

“Vietnam is definitely one of the best places to live during these difficult times. The situation here is very good and the pandemic doesn’t really affect our everyday life anymore. The situation is almost back to normal.”

Schools and universities have been opened and the Foreign Trade University opened two weeks ago. Traveling across the country is also allowed and encouraged.

According to Ida, the campus in Ho Chi Minh City is nice and small and the location is great with many restaurants and cafes nearby.

“The student life is very lively and international students get free access to student clubs and other activities. The city itself is a mixture of history and modern day. It is also a very international city with students and workers arriving from all around the world.”

Is Vietnam good for international students?
Ho Chi Minh City is considered to be very student-friendly. Picture by Quang Nguyen Vinh

Are you interested in studying in Asia? Then you should click here

Asia Exchange is a Finnish company providing study abroad opportunities in Asia Pacific for students from all around the world. Want to get travel tips and new blog posts straight to your inbox? Subscribe to our monthly newsletter! If you have any questions about studying abroad, feel free to contact us! We’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

This article was written by our intern Sofia!

Can international student work in Vietnam?

There are many employment opportunities available in Vietnam for international students. Individuals are employed in different sectors. To work while studying in Vietnam, international students must have a valid work permit.

Is studying in Vietnam worth it?

Studying an English-taught degree in Vietnam will offer you better paid job opportunities in the country or abroad. Compared to other international study destinations, Vietnam offers more affordable Bachelor's and Master's degrees.

Is Vietnam a good place to study abroad?

The country's breathtaking landscapes, tropical weather, and friendly environment make this country a top study abroad destination. You don't want to miss out on such an affordable, student-friendly, adventurous study abroad country for sure.

How much does it cost to study in Vietnam?

Tuition at a public university is about $200 per year. Private universities, on the other hand, are a lot pricer. Some private colleges have tuition ranging from $2000 to $10,000 a year. Whether you're a Vietnamese citizen or an international student looking to study in Vietnam, the country is full of opportunities.