Block S is a special admission block for those with a passion for artistic disciplines such as photography, acting, and theater. It is a great option for students who want to pursue their artistic talents and interests in their higher education. Even if you don’t consider yourself naturally artistic, don’t worry! These skills can be cultivated and refined through dedicated practice and learning. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the details about Block S and explore the exciting opportunities it offers.
1 What subjects are in Block S? What subjects are tested for university admission?
Block S comprises a combination of three subjects: Literature (or Mathematics), and two specialized artistic subjects in cinematography (with a weightage of 2). The Literature score will be based on the national high school exam. The two artistic subjects will be conducted by the respective educational institutions offering this block. Block S is further divided into two subject combinations as follows:
Subjects in Block S
| Block | Subjects |
|---|---|
| S00 | Literature, Performing Arts in Cinema 1, Performing Arts in Cinema |
| S01 | Mathematics, Artistic Subject 1, Artistic Subject 2 |
The artistic subjects within each combination play a crucial role in determining the candidates’ overall performance. They increase competitiveness during the admission process and also provide a solid foundation for students’ future studies in their chosen artistic fields.
2 What are the specializations offered in Block S?
| Block | Specialization |
|---|---|
| S00 | Stage Directing |
| S00 | Dance Instruction |
| S00 | Theater, Film, and Television Acting |
| S00 | Choreography |
| S00 | Television Cinematography |
| S00 | Theater Acting |
| S00 | Film and Television Criticism and Theory |
| S01 | Film and Television Technology |
| S00 | Stage and Film Art Design |
| S00 | Film Directing |
| S00 | Photography |
| S00 | Cinematography |
| S00 | Screenwriting |
| S00 | Cai Luong Acting |
| S00 | Cheo Acting |
| S00 | Acting |
Block S has a unique admission process
Block S stands out from typical admission blocks with its distinct selection process. All candidates must go through preliminary and final selection rounds, specific to their chosen specializations. Here are the details:
Preliminary Selection Round
| Specialization | Exam Content |
|---|---|
| Screenwriting, Directing, Cinematography, Criticism and Theory, Photography, Sound, and Film Editing | Exam on general knowledge of culture, society, literature, and art |
| Acting | Candidates prepare a poem or prose piece related to their chosen field. They also perform a self-prepared scenario lasting no longer than 10 minutes, without a second character. |
| Choreography and Dance Instruction | Assessment of basic dance skills. Candidates perform 1-3 classical European dance movements and 1-3 sets of Vietnamese folk dances as required. They also interpret music and express their feelings through dance. |
| Popular Dance Choreography | Assessment of physical form through the performance of a 16-beat dance combination in one of the following styles: folk, contemporary, or international ballroom. Candidates also interpret music and express their feelings through dance. |
| Stage and Film Art Design | Candidates must submit a drawing as a prerequisite for the exam. |
Candidates participating in the preliminary round at the SKDA School
Final Selection Round
- Artistic Subject 1
| Specialization Group | Content | Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Screenwriting Group | Writing a film script | 2 |
| Editing Group | Watching a film and writing an analytical piece | 2 |
| Directing | 2 | |
| Cinematography | 1 | |
| Criticism and Theory | 2 | |
| Sound | 1 | |
| Film Editing Technology | 1 | |
| Photography Group | Writing an analytical piece on a photographic work | 1 |
| Stage Criticism and Theory | Watching a recorded play and writing an analytical piece | 2 |
| Stage Lighting and Sound Design | Writing a concept for lighting and sound design for a dramatic situation | 1 |
| Event and Festival Directing | Writing an outline for a festival script | 1 |
Artistic Subject Exam
- Artistic Subject 2
| Specialization Group | Content |
|---|---|
| Screenwriting, Directing, Criticism and Theory, Sound, and Film Editing Group | Oral examination |
| Cinematography and Photography Group | Practical photography session |
| Theater Acting Group | Performing a play based on the exam prompt |
| Cheo, Cai Luong, and Puppetry Acting Group | Singing to specialized music in the required vocal range, ear training, rhythm and feel, dancing as requested by the judges, and performing a play based on the exam prompt |
| Choreography and Dance Instruction Group | Presenting a self-choreographed piece (2-3 minutes) with a maximum of two performers, including the candidate. |
3 Top Universities Offering Block S Admissions
Block S Universities in the North
Hanoi University of Theater and Cinema
Hanoi University of Theater and Cinema is a renowned institution and a pioneer in artistic education in Vietnam. With a long-standing history, the university has been dedicated to cultivating talented individuals in the fields of theater, cinema, photography, and television.
Hanoi University of Theater and Cinema
Hanoi University of Theater and Cinema upholds its mission to contribute to the development of the country’s cultural landscape and to integrate Vietnamese cinema into the global arena. The university is located in the cultural and artistic hub at 76 Mai Dich, Cau Giay District, Hanoi.
University of Culture and Arts – Military School
The University of Culture and Arts – Military School is situated at 101 Nguyen Chi Thanh, Dong Da District, Hanoi. This university specializes in artistic education for military and civilian students, as well as performers, composers, writers, and choreographers.
University of Culture and Arts – Military School
The University of Culture and Arts – Military School fosters a disciplined military environment and a diverse cultural atmosphere. It provides students with ample opportunities to engage in wholesome political activities and develop their artistic talents. Notably, many famous artists in Vietnam, such as singer Thuy Chi, are alumni of this university and have returned as lecturers.
Central University of Art Education
Central University of Art Education
The Central University of Art Education is a leading public university in cultural and artistic education. Located at 18 Tran Phu, Van Quan Ward, Ha Dong District, Hanoi, the university has a rich history of over 50 years. It equips students with the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to become accomplished artists and art educators.
Block S Universities in the Central and Southern Regions
Ho Chi Minh City University of Theater and Cinema
Ho Chi Minh City University of Theater and Cinema
Ho Chi Minh City University of Theater and Cinema is renowned as the largest artistic education institution in Saigon. It has produced numerous prominent Vietnamese artists, including MC and actor Tran Thanh, actress Ninh Duong Lan Ngoc, and MC and comedian Dai Nghia.
The university offers a dynamic learning environment with experienced lecturers and industry veterans. Well-known directors and actors frequently visit the university to share their knowledge and industry insights with the students. The university is located at 125 Cong Quynh, Nguyen Cu Trinh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
Van Lang University
Van Lang University
Established in 1995, Van Lang University boasts modern facilities, a quality learning environment, and a well-disciplined cultural atmosphere. The university frequently organizes events and activities for students to showcase their talents and gain practical experience. Students benefit from the university’s dedicated lecturers and its advanced, innovative teaching methods.
4 Career Options After Graduating from Block S
Block S offers a diverse range of career paths for graduates, including but not limited to:
- Acting (Theater, Film,
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