This schedule is part of the 2025-2026 academic year plan issued by the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee (UBND) on 14/8.

The return date for students in grades 1, 9, and 12 is two days later than the Department of Education and Training's initial proposal but still earlier than the national schedule. The opening ceremony and the first semester will commence on 5/9 as usual.

The school year will conclude before 31/5/2026. The evaluation and recognition of completion of primary school and graduation from lower secondary school will be completed by 30/6. Admissions for grades 1, 6, and 10 will be finalized before 31/7. This schedule is the same as last year.

Students of Le Hong Phong High School for the Gifted during the opening ceremony of the 2024-2025 school year. Photo: Thanh Tung

Students of Le Hong Phong High School for the Gifted during the opening ceremony of the 2024-2025 school year. Photo: Thanh Tung

Three days ago, the Ministry of Education and Training released the national academic year schedule. Accordingly, students in grades 1, 9, and 12 nationwide will return to school no earlier than 22/8. Other grades may start a week later, on 29/8.

The first semester will end before 18/1/2026, and the second semester before 31/5. The 2026 high school graduation exam is scheduled for 11-12/6, about two weeks earlier than in recent years.

However, provinces and cities can develop their academic year plans, as long as they ensure 35 weeks of instruction (18 weeks for semester one and 17 for semester two), and adhere to national holiday regulations.

After the merger, Ho Chi Minh City has the largest education system in the country with over 2.5 million students.

Le Nguyen