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The Definitive Handbook to Translating Your IELTS Score to the University’s New Grading Paradigm

University admission through IELTS is an attractive opportunity and a growing trend for ambitious high school students. Learn how to convert your IELTS score into a competitive university application and unlock your future prospects.

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11 July, 2024

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a widely recognized English language proficiency assessment, often serving as a crucial component for scholarship and study abroad applications. With university entrance exams approaching, many students are curious about how their IELTS scores align with university admission requirements. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on converting IELTS scores for university admissions, offering the latest and most detailed information to help you navigate this important aspect of your academic journey.

1 Understanding the Conversion of IELTS Scores for University Admissions in 2023

Translating English language proficiency: A 10-point scale connection between IELTS and national exams. The Ministry of Education and Training’s regulations, issued in 2020, provide a framework for this conversion. According to these guidelines, test-takers who achieve an IELTS score of 4.0 or higher are exempt from taking the foreign language graduation exam.

While this exemption is in place for high school graduation, it’s important to note that university admissions have different requirements. The good news is that most universities in Vietnam set their minimum IELTS requirement at a fairly accessible level.

Vietnamese universities generally set their IELTS requirements at a manageable level, often starting from 5.5 and above.

Indeed, many universities in Vietnam accept IELTS scores of 5.5 and above. Some institutions, such as Hanoi University of Science and Technology and the Academy of Journalism and Communication, even accept scores as low as 5.0 for admission.

However, if you’re aiming for the most prestigious universities in the country, like Hanoi Law University, the Academy of Finance, or Hanoi University of Science and Technology, you’ll need to aim higher. These top-tier institutions will convert IELTS scores of 6.5 and above to a perfect 10 for the English subject.

Let’s take a look at a recent example of how the National Economics University converted IELTS scores in their admissions process for the year 2022:

IELTS 5.5 = 10 points
IELTS 6.0 = 11 points
IELTS 6.5 = 12 points
IELTS 7.0 = 13 points
IELTS 7.5 = 14 points
IELTS 8.0 – 9.0 = 15 points

Each university in Vietnam will have its own unique method of converting IELTS scores to fit their admissions criteria.

It’s important to remember that each university in Vietnam will have its own conversion scale for IELTS scores when it comes to the English subject. These scales are typically outlined in the institution’s regulations.

For instance, let’s consider the conversion scale used by the Foreign Trade University for IELTS scores:

IELTS 6.5 = 8.5 points
IELTS 7.0 = 9.0 points
IELTS 7.5 = 9.5 points
IELTS 8.0 – 9.0 = 10 points

When applying to universities, your IELTS certificate will be considered alongside other important factors, such as your performance in the National High School Examination, your academic records, and any awards you may have received in gifted student competitions. So, while your IELTS score is important, it’s not the only factor that determines your admission.

For context, the National Economics University, one of the leading economic institutions in Vietnam, sets a minimum requirement of IELTS 6.5 or equivalent for English proficiency. Alternatively, they also accept TOEFL ITP scores of 550 or higher or TOEFL iBT scores of 90 or higher.

Additionally, for the National Economics University, applicants must also achieve a combined score of 14 points or higher (including preference points) in the 2022 National High School Examinations for Mathematics and one other subject (excluding English) to be considered for admission.

2 A List of Universities with the Latest IELTS Conversion Requirements for Admissions in 2023

Ton Duc Thang University

Ton Duc Thang University, a modern and vibrant educational institution in Vietnam.

Ton Duc Thang University is one of the institutions that conduct admissions based on IELTS scores. Their requirements include a minimum IELTS score of 5.0. Additionally, for direct admission to their English-taught undergraduate programs, applicants’ IELTS certificates must be valid for two years from October 1, 2023.

Ho Chi Minh City University of Technical Education

The Ho Chi Minh City University of Technical Education has clear regulations for direct admissions to their mainstream or CLC programs. To be eligible, applicants must maintain a grade point average of 6.0 or higher across five semesters for each subject in their chosen combination. Additionally, an IELTS score of 5.0 or higher is required.

The Ho Chi Minh City University of Technical Education, offering a range of technical and vocational programs.

The university sets slightly different requirements for applicants to the English Language Teaching and English Language majors. For these competitive programs, a higher average grade point average of 6.5 or higher is expected, along with an IELTS score of 6.0 or above.

Ho Chi Minh City University of Banking

The Ho Chi Minh City University of Banking, offering a range of programs in the field of finance and banking.

The Ho Chi Minh City University of Banking is another university that considers IELTS scores in its admissions process. They have their own priority admissions and academic record evaluation regulations for their CLC program and International Double Degree Program, for which they offer 85 quotas. To be eligible, applicants must achieve an IELTS score of 5.0 or higher.

This article has provided you with a detailed guide on converting IELTS scores for university admissions in Vietnam. It’s important to remember that conversion methods may vary between universities, and your IELTS score is just one aspect of your application. For comprehensive and accurate information, always refer to the specific regulations and requirements of the universities you plan to apply to. Best of luck in your academic endeavors!

Frequently asked questions

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a widely recognized English language proficiency test. It is often a crucial component for scholarship and study abroad applications, including university admissions.

Each university in Vietnam has its own method of converting IELTS scores to fit their admissions criteria. The Ministry of Education and Training’s regulations, issued in 2020, provide a framework for this conversion. Generally, a score of 5.5 and above is considered manageable, with some universities accepting scores as low as 5.0. The most prestigious universities may require a minimum score of 6.5.

The National Economics University’s conversion for 2022 admissions: IELTS 5.5 = 10 points, 6.0 = 11 points, 6.5 = 12 points, 7.0 = 13 points, 7.5 = 14 points, and 8.0-9.0 = 15 points. Meanwhile, the Foreign Trade University’s scale is different: IELTS 6.5 = 8.5 points, 7.0 = 9.0 points, 7.5 = 9.5 points, and 8.0-9.0 = 10 points.

No, while the IELTS score is an important factor, universities consider other criteria as well. These include performance in the National High School Examination, academic records, and awards received in gifted student competitions.

Ton Duc Thang University requires a minimum IELTS score of 5.0 for admissions. For direct entry into their English-taught undergraduate programs, the IELTS certificate should be valid for two years from October 1, 2023. Ho Chi Minh City University of Technical Education sets the eligibility criteria at a grade point average of 6.0 or higher across five semesters, along with an IELTS score of 5.0 or above.

Yes, more competitive programs may have higher requirements. For instance, the English Language Teaching and English Language majors at Ho Chi Minh City University of Technical Education expect a higher average grade point average of 6.5 or higher, along with an IELTS score of 6.0 or above.

While your IELTS score is significant, it is not the sole determining factor for university admissions. Universities consider a range of criteria, so focus on maintaining a well-rounded and strong application package.