Parents and students disappointed by news of IELTS exam postponement

My Ha• November 10, 2022 17:20

(Baonghean.vn) - This is information that makes many students across the country worried, especially those in their final year.

Last night (November 9), many candidates preparing to take the IELTS exam received a notice of exam cancellation from the British Council. The letter clearly stated: "We regret to inform you that all British Council IELTS exams in Vietnam will be postponed until further notice. Therefore, your exam on November 10, 2022 will be cancelled.

Notice of IELTS exam postponement on the British Council website. Photo: PV

This decision is beyond our control and affects all international language proficiency exams in Vietnam. The timing of the resumption of exams will depend on approval from the Ministry of Education and Training and we are working closely with the Ministry to obtain the necessary approvals as soon as possible."

Previously, on November 8, Deputy Minister of Education and Training Nguyen Huu Do also signed a document requesting the Departments of Education and Training to strengthen the management of joint organization of foreign language proficiency exams.

Notice of IELTS test registration at a center located in Vinh city. Photo: MH

According to this document, the Ministry also pointed out the limitations in the process of issuing foreign language certificates. That is, the joint organization of foreign language proficiency certification exams in Vietnam has not been strictly managed, so it has many potential risks that affect the rights of test takers.

To ensure the organization of certification exams in accordance with regulations, the Ministry requires the departments to advise the Provincial People's Committee to strengthen their management role.

Including strict management of organizations and individuals that are carrying out joint activities to organize foreign language proficiency exams in the area according to regulations.

In addition, localities must check the conditions to ensure the organization of foreign language proficiency exams according to the regulations of the Ministry of Education and Training. Organizations and individuals are only allowed to organize exams and issue foreign language proficiency certificates in the locality when there is an approval decision or a decision to extend the joint exam organization by the Ministry of Education and Training.

IELTS exam schedule at Vinh University in 2022. Photo: MH

Regarding the suspension of IELTS exams, many parents whose children are studying for the exams are extremely worried. Ms. Le Phuong Lan (Truong Thi ward) read this information this morning and said: Since the beginning of grade 10, my child has registered for a review course and is expected to complete the study program and take the exam in grade 11. For the remaining time of grade 12, I want my child to spend time focusing on reviewing for the high school graduation exam. However, if the exam schedule is extended, it may affect the children's review and exam. Not to mention that they may lose the opportunity to be directly admitted to universities.

Previously, students in Nghe An who took the IELTS certification exams often had to register for the exam in big cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. However, students can now register for the exam at many facilities in Vinh city and these units are all partners with the British Council in coordinating and organizing international IELTS certification exams such as Vinh University, Ama Vinh English Center, Phan Boi Chau High School for the Gifted, etc.

IELTS certificate is considered a passport that opens up international career and study opportunities. In Nghe An, in recent years, students with IELTS certificate will have the opportunity to be admitted directly to grade 6 in secondary schools (specialized schools), grade 10 in public high schools and Vinh University Specialized High School.