Ninh Binh, Hai Phong lead in average literature graduation exam scores

Ninh Binh students surged over 10 ranks to top the nation in average literature graduation exam scores, closely followed by Hai Phong.

On the morning of 1/7, the Ministry of Education and Training announced the 2026 high school graduation exam scores for over 1,2 million candidates.

Literature is one of two compulsory subjects in the exam. The national average score was 6,497, a decrease of about 0,5 points.

Ninh Binh students led with an average score of 7,257, an increase of about 0,3 points, and a significant leap from their 14th position last year. Hai Phong followed closely with 7,253 points, improving by nearly 10 ranks.

Nghe An, which led last year, ranked third this year with 7,027 points. Ha Noi and Thanh Hoa also achieved average scores above 7.

In contrast, Vinh Long recorded the lowest average literature score at 4,998, making it the only province nationwide with a score below 5. Son La, which ranked last year, placed second to last this year with 5,389 points.

Other provinces with average scores below 6 included Tay Ninh, Dak Lak, Dong Nai, Da Nang, and Lang Son.

The 2026 high school graduation exam took place on 11-12/6, involving a record number of over 1,2 million candidates. This year's literature exam maintained its structure, comprising two parts: Reading Comprehension (4 points) and Writing (6 points). The topics covered contemporary issues, such as the use of artificial intelligence and the question of how to cultivate "Vietnamese Steve Jobs". Educators noted that while the exam structure was stable, students found it challenging to achieve high scores.

After receiving their scores, candidates have five days to request a review if needed, with the deadline set for 5/7. From 2/7, candidates can begin registering and adjusting their university and college admission preferences through the Ministry's system, continuing until 5 p.m. on 14/7.

Before registering preferences, candidates can access VnExpress's University Lookup page to view historical admission benchmarks by major, institution, or tuition fees.

University admission results and candidate pass/fail statuses will be announced after 5 p.m. on 9/8.