The University of Trade Unions announced on 22/5 the postponement of its mandatory English and IT exit exams, which are prerequisites for graduation and degree conferral. Originally scheduled for the final week of May, the exams will now take place on 6-7/6, with additional sessions planned afterward. This decision comes after widespread student frustration regarding the abrupt notification.

Four days before the university's announcement, final-year students widely expressed their dismay on online forums. They were surprised by the unexpected requirement to take these exams, given only one week to prepare. Many claimed they had been unaware of such a requirement throughout their four years of study. Previously, students only needed to complete four English modules and one IT module, or submit an English proficiency certificate like TOEIC for equivalency.

In its latest statement, the university acknowledged the concerns raised by students and parents. It clarified that foreign language and IT exit standards are mandatory requirements set by the Ministry of Education and Training. The university asserted that these requirements had been published on its information portal and communicated to students during their studies.

Despite prior dissemination, the university conceded that inconsistent communication and guidance meant a segment of students did not grasp the requirements. This oversight caused anxiety and pressure for students at a critical time for graduation consideration. "The University of Trade Unions accepts responsibility for the aforementioned shortcomings," the institution stated. Pham Duc Thinh, Head of the Quality Management Department at the University of Trade Unions, previously told VnExpress that student frustration stemmed from "not remembering" and "misunderstanding." However, he admitted this was the first year the university organized these specific exit exams.

A view of the University of Trade Unions campus. Photo: University website

The University of Trade Unions currently enrolls approximately 2,400-3,000 students annually. For the English exit exam, students are required to take Listening and Reading tests; English Language majors must complete all four skills. The IT exam comprises three parts: Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. The fees for the English and IT exams are 100,000 VND and 300,000 VND, respectively.

Duong Tam