On 30/8, the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Education and Training issued guidelines regarding school fees.

The Department stated that the National Assembly has passed a resolution waiving tuition fees starting from the 2025-2026 academic year. While awaiting the government's implementation decree, schools are not allowed to collect tuition fees.

Regarding education services and support, the City People's Council has approved nine fee categories. The fee ceiling for group one (ward areas) is as follows:

For group two, students in 54 communes and Con Dao special zone, the city's ceiling is lower.

The Department clarified that these are maximum fees. Depending on specific circumstances and student needs, schools can negotiate with parents on the exact amount, but fees must not exceed the ceiling or increase by more than 15% compared to the previous academic year.

In addition, schools can collect fees for 15 other services related to educational programs (information technology instruction, enhanced English, life skills, STEM, etc.) and student needs (uniforms, learning materials, meals and daycare, drinking water, parking, etc.).

15 school fees in Ho Chi Minh City. Screenshot

15 school fees in Ho Chi Minh City. Screenshot

For program-related fees, the Department requires schools to maintain continuity from the previous academic year, ensuring the principle of collecting and spending sufficient funds for designated purposes, and maintaining transparency with parents. Fees must be commensurate with the quality of educational services. Any fee increases cannot exceed 15% compared to last year.

Overall, schools must explain, publicize, and reach an agreement with parents before collecting any fees.

The Ho Chi Minh City education system is the largest in the country, with nearly 2.6 million students and over 3,500 schools.

Students at Dang Tran Con Primary School, Ho Chi Minh City. School's fanpage

Students at Dang Tran Con Primary School, Ho Chi Minh City. School's fanpage

Le Nguyen