Vietnam toughens rules on recognition of online foreign degrees

The Ministry of Education and Training has issued Circular 65 on the recognition of degrees awarded by foreign educational institutions for use in Vietnam.

The circular, which will take effect on September 26, applies to agencies, organizations and individuals involved in the recognition of qualifications awarded by foreign educational institutions for use in Vietnam.

Notably, the new rules provide greater clarity on foreign programs delivered through distance learning, including fully online courses and programs combining online and in-person study.

Not all online foreign degrees will be recognized

Under the new regulations, completing an online foreign degree program and receiving a diploma does not automatically mean that the qualification will be recognized in Vietnam.

Learners must pay attention to the country where they study and reside, because the program must be authorized by the competent education authorities of that country.

The circular also distinguishes between students who study directly at foreign institutions, through joint training programs, at branch campuses in Vietnam, or in programs delivered in a country different from the country where the degree-awarding institution is based.

For programs delivered in Vietnam, foreign educational institutions must operate legally and comply with Vietnamese regulations on curricula, admissions, training duration and other relevant requirements.

As per the circular, where a program is delivered in a country other than the one where the degree-awarding institution is headquartered, recognition will also depend on whether the institution is legally permitted to operate and award degrees, or is accredited, in the country where the program is conducted.

Doctoral degrees require at least 12 months of on-site study

For doctoral degrees earned through direct study at a foreign university but involving field research in another country, learners must spend at least 12 months studying and conducting research in person at the degree-awarding institution during the program for the qualification to be considered for recognition in Vietnam.

For doctoral degrees awarded on the basis of previously completed research or scientific works, candidates must still meet all requirements of the relevant doctoral program.

These include having a scientific supervisor and defending the dissertation before an academic committee.

Their academic and research results must also meet the learning outcomes required for a corresponding doctoral program in Vietnam.

English-language degrees do not need translation

Applicants for degree recognition can submit their documents online through the National Public Service Portal and pay the required fee electronically.

Information already available in national databases does not need to be resubmitted in paper form or as certified electronic copies.

Importantly, degrees issued in English do not need to be translated into Vietnamese.

Applicants only need to upload scanned copies of the required documents to the National Public Service Portal.

The documentation process is also simplified for digital degrees and transcripts, as well as documents containing information that can be directly authenticated by the awarding institution.