How to study abroad: A step-by-step guide & Tips for studying aboard

Benefits of studying abroad

Studying abroad offers many benefits for students' education and development, from access to international education to the development of skills needed for the future:

• Access to international education: Study in a modern environment and gain exposure to diverse teaching methods and educational programmes.
• Enhance English proficiency: Regularly use a foreign language in academic and daily settings, improving communication skills and confidence.
• Develop a global outlook: Experience different cultures, perspectives and ways of thinking, broadening students' outlook and adaptability.
• Build independence: Manage time, studies, finances and personal decisions independently, developing greater initiative and self-reliance.
• Expand personal networks: Connect with friends, lecturers and international communities, creating valuable relationships for the future.
• Increase academic and career opportunities: Gain international experience, strengthen academic profiles and broaden future career options.

Studying abroad provides an international education environment and numerous opportunities for students to develop holistically and explore their potential (Source: BVIS HCMC)

>> Read more: Choosing a University and Future Career: When Is the Right Time?

Steps to take when planning to study abroad

To make their study abroad journey successful and aligned with their goals, students should start preparing early in terms of their objectives, finances, academic background, application and administrative procedures.

1. Define your study abroad goals

The first step is to clearly identify the reasons for studying abroad – whether it is to pursue a preferred field of study, improve foreign-language skills or experience an international education environment. Based on these goals, students can determine the appropriate level and field of study and develop a pathway aligned with their personal aspirations.

At BVIS HCMC, University and Careers Guidance begins in Secondary, helping students identify their strengths, interests and future aspirations from an early stage.

2. Build a strong academic foundation and financial plan

Families and students should develop a clear financial plan covering tuition fees, living expenses and additional costs, while proactively researching scholarship opportunities. At the same time, maintaining consistent academic performance and developing foreign-language skills are essential for meeting programme requirements.

Alongside financial preparation, building a strong academic foundation from Secondary level can help students become better prepared for international university programmes.

At BVIS HCMC, the British curriculum, particularly A Level, helps students develop in-depth knowledge and become familiar with learning approaches similar to those used in university. Throughout their studies, students also develop critical thinking, research, presentation and leadership skills through academic and community activities. These are essential skills for continuing their education and adapting to an international university environment.

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3. Choose the right study destination and university

The choice of country should be based on the education system, field of study, language, costs, living environment and the student's personal goals. When choosing a university, students should carefully research the programme, teaching quality, admission requirements and other relevant information to make an informed decision.

This is a broad research and planning stage covering everything from the choice of country and type of institution to the field of study. The information about interests, abilities and career aspirations identified at the beginning provides a basis for narrowing down the options and finding the universities that best suit the student.

At BVIS HCMC, University and Careers Guidance is provided throughout the learning journey, helping students gradually bring together their interests, abilities, chosen field of study and future university options.

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4. Understand university entry requirements

Students should carefully research the admission requirements for each university and programme, from academic criteria and language requirements to personal documents and application deadlines. Understanding these requirements early allows students to prepare proactively and minimise errors when submitting their applications.

At this stage, students at BVIS HCMC receive support from the University Guidance team in researching and keeping up to date with the admission requirements of individual universities. Clearly identifying the criteria that need to be met helps students develop an application plan that is appropriate and closely aligned with actual requirements.

5. Prepare your study abroad application

Students need to prepare all documents required by the university, which may include academic transcripts, qualifications, certificates, reference letters and a personal statement. Applications should be carefully reviewed, with translation and certification completed where required before submission. For international university applications, students should also demonstrate their abilities, personality and aspirations alongside their academic credentials.

During this stage, BVIS HCMC supports students in developing an application pathway at each stage, while helping them prepare application materials including the Personal Statement, Reference Letter, interview skills and key deadlines and timelines. This structured approach helps students clearly demonstrate their abilities, individuality and future goals.

Preparing a study abroad application is an important step in demonstrating a student's abilities and aspirations (Source: BVIS HCMC)

>> Find out more: Tips for Applying to Study Abroad

6. Submit your application

Once the application is complete, students should keep track of admission deadlines and submit their applications according to the instructions provided by each university or programme. Before submitting, they should review all information and supporting documents carefully to minimise errors.

After submitting the application, students should regularly check their email and the university's admissions portal for updates on their application status, and promptly provide any additional documents or information requested.

7. Apply for a student visa

Once they receive an offer of admission, students should research the visa application process and prepare the required documents according to the regulations of the destination country. If an interview is required, students should prepare information about their programme, university and study abroad plans in advance.

Essential requirements for studying abroad

Each country and university may have its own admission criteria, but in general, a study abroad plan requires preparation across several areas, from academic ability to finances and personal documentation. Specifically:

Core requirements:

• Academic performance (GPA): Meet the required grade point average for the university and programme. Highly selective universities may require a higher GPA.
• Language proficiency: Hold a language certificate meeting the minimum score required by the country, university or programme.
• Health: Meet health requirements and complete a medical examination where required by the destination country.

Additional requirements:

• Financial capacity: Be able to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses and related costs throughout the study period.
• Offer of admission: Be accepted by a recognised university or educational institution and receive an offer of admission.
• Student visa: Meet the visa requirements and complete the application process and interview where required.
• Personal documents: Prepare a passport, school records, academic transcripts, qualifications, personal statement, reference letters and other relevant documents.

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Top study abroad destinations for Vietnamese students

Each country offers its own strengths in education, learning environments and opportunities for development. Depending on their field of study, budget, language proficiency and personal goals, students can consider a range of destinations.

1. United States

The United States is a popular destination among Vietnamese students thanks to its diverse education system and network of prestigious universities. Alongside a wide range of programmes, its international learning environment provides opportunities for students to develop independent thinking, transferable skills and greater clarity about future career pathways.

2. Australia

Australia offers a multicultural and dynamic learning environment with a wide range of study options. Its international living and learning environment also allows students to develop adaptability, broaden their experiences and achieve holistic development.

3. Canada

Canada is popular among Vietnamese international students thanks to its advanced education system, safe living environment and high quality of life. Its programmes place emphasis on practical learning, helping students develop practical knowledge and industry-relevant skills aligned with future career aspirations.

4. United Kingdom

With a long-standing educational tradition and many prestigious universities, the United Kingdom is an option for students seeking a strong academic environment. Its diverse programmes emphasise subject knowledge and critical thinking, providing a strong foundation for future study and development.

5. New Zealand

New Zealand is known for its high-quality, safe learning environment and close connection with nature. Alongside academic knowledge, its education programmes also focus on developing students' personal skills, creativity and adaptability.

6. Switzerland

Switzerland is particularly well known for opportunities in areas such as hospitality management, tourism and services. Its combination of theoretical and practical training allows students to gain hands-on experience and develop a clearer understanding of their career direction.

7. Singapore

Singapore is an option worth considering thanks to its proximity to Vietnam, international environment and high-quality education system. English is widely used in education, while certain cultural similarities can also make it easier for students to adapt to life abroad.

Students should carefully research each country before studying abroad to choose a destination that suits their field of study, language proficiency and personal goals (Source: BVIS HCMC)

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Where can BVIS students apply for university?

A Level qualifications are recognised globally, giving BVIS students opportunities to apply to leading universities around the world, including:

• United Kingdom: Universities within the Russell Group, a group of leading research-intensive universities in the UK, depending on the field of study and admission requirements.
• United States: Ivy League universities, each with its own application and admission requirements.
• Australia: Universities within the Group of Eight (Go8) and many other higher education institutions.
• Other countries: Canada, France, South Korea and others, offering a wide range of options for specialised fields of study and career pathways.

In 2025, BVIS students received more than 305 university offers and a total of more than USD 6.67 million in scholarships, including offers from universities within the Ivy League, Russell Group and Group of Eight.

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BVIS students' achievements on their journey to international universities

Studying at BVIS opens up many opportunities for students to pursue prestigious universities around the world. The following examples from the 2025 graduating cohort demonstrate the diversity of university destinations and fields of study:

• Ngan Nhi: Admitted to seven University of California (UC) campuses, including UC Berkeley, UC Davis and UC San Diego, with a total scholarship value of USD 444,000.
• Chi Khang: Admitted to seven prestigious universities in the US, including UBC in Canada, WPI, the University of Massachusetts (UMass) Amherst and Texas A&M University, with a total scholarship value of USD 235,000.
• Vivian Vu: Admitted to 10 prestigious universities in the US and UK, including the University of Manchester, the University of Birmingham, Boston University and the University of Connecticut, with a total scholarship value of USD 294,000.

From BVIS to prestigious universities around the world – a learning journey that opens up a wide range of future opportunities for students (Source: BVIS HCMC)

Studying abroad is a journey that requires strong preparation in academics, language skills, personal development and future planning.  Through its British curriculum, personalised university guidance and extensive enrichment opportunities, BVIS HCMC equips students with the academic knowledge, skills and confidence to secure places at leading universities worldwide and thrive in a global future.

Explore the curriculum and learning pathways at BVIS HCMC to help your child build a strong foundation for a global future. Contact us for detailed guidance: