The Ministry of Education and Training is seeking comments on a new draft Circular to replace Circular 23/2017/TT-BGDDT on the Regulations on foreign language proficiency assessment tests according to the 6-level foreign language proficiency framework for Vietnam (VSTEP). Compared to the old Circular, the draft replacement Circular has 5 new points.

Firstly, to enhance the autonomy and accountability of examination organizing or joint examination organizing units. Specifically, the Circular only stipulates the framework, requirements, and minimum criteria for organizing units; it does not specify the detailed examination organization process as before.

Based on the criteria, units will develop their own exam organization process, coordination/association regulations and publicly announce them as well as send them to the Ministry of Education and Training through the Department of Quality Management for management and to serve the work of inspection, examination, supervision and post-inspection.

Second, strengthen solutions to organize exams and issue foreign language certificates according to the 6-level foreign language proficiency framework to ensure security, safety, reliability, fairness, especially against proxy exams. Add a requirement for units to provide photos of candidates during the exam on the certificate lookup and verification system.

Third, allow the testing unit to cooperate with other units to organize foreign language proficiency tests according to the 6-level foreign language proficiency framework for Vietnam if the cooperating unit meets the conditions specified in the Circular. This contributes to expanding the testing locations, making it more convenient for candidates to take the test.

Fourth, increase the effective application of information technology and digital transformation in all stages of exam organization.

Fifth, clearly stipulate the process of constructing exam questions, the exam question bank, and regulations on the level of duplication of exam questions between exam sessions.

Foreign language certificates according to the 6-level foreign language proficiency framework for Vietnam (VSTEP) are equivalent to levels A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2. Up to now, many universities have used VSTEP English certificates in training and graduation recognition for students.

In 2023, candidates with VSTEP level 3 certificate will be exempted from foreign language exam in the consideration of high school graduation recognition.

Readers can see the draft circular HERE