Vietnamese students shift focus to Asian universities as US costs and visa rules tighten

During an Oct. 3 study-abroad event in Hanoi, Vietnamese students expressed growing reluctance to pursue U.S. degrees because tuition for out-of-state public schools averages $26,034 and private schools $46,973, far beyond what most families can afford. They are turning to Singapore and Hong Kong, where tuition is lower, travel costs are reduced, and entry requirements rely mainly on GPA and language scores. Summit Education notes that 30-40 % of its clients now explore Asian universities alongside the U.S., and the University of Hong Kong received 300 applications from Vietnam, admitting 192.

Counselors also point to tighter U.S. visa regulations and higher H-1B fees as deterrents. Asian schools are marketing themselves as modern, English-friendly environments with more straightforward admissions and scholarship opportunities. Experts advise students to focus on career goals and language proficiency rather than university rankings.