Minh Anh is currently a 10th grader at Le Hong Phong High School for the Gifted in Ho Chi Minh City. She achieved the highest global score in mathematics at the secondary level in the Pearson Edexcel International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) exam in 2024.

This prestigious examination attracts thousands of students worldwide. Minh Anh took the test while studying at Le Quy Don Secondary School in District 3.

Minh Anh attributes her success to her passion for mathematics and the influence of her mother, a former math prodigy. Studying in an integrated English program since elementary school not only strengthened her English skills but also helped her master math and science subjects in English.

“At school, beyond textbook knowledge, our teachers expand on theoretical concepts, encourage us to apply mathematical principles in real-world situations, and foster a learning environment that inspires curiosity and deep understanding,” Minh Anh shared.

Vietnamese students shine in international certification exams

In addition to Minh Anh, Tran Ha Thanh Truc, a student at Tran Dai Nghia High School for the Gifted, achieved a perfect score of 9 (on an international scale from 1 to 9) in all three subjects: Mathematics, Science, and English at the high school level. Thanh Truc’s English score was the highest among all Vietnamese candidates who took the exam.

At the Pearson Edexcel certification ceremony for 700 students in Ho Chi Minh City enrolled in the integrated English program (under Education Project 5695), 99% of students passed at all three levels: primary, secondary, and high school, with over 80% achieving high scores.

For secondary students:

74% achieved excellent or high scores in Mathematics, significantly surpassing the global average of 49%.

For high school students:

100% passed all three subjects (English, Mathematics, and Science).

35% earned a perfect score in Mathematics, compared to the global average of 20%.

54% achieved top scores in English and Science, double the global average of 27%.

A stepping stone to making English Vietnam’s second language

According to Nguyen Van Hieu, Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Education and Training, the integrated English program was approved by the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee a decade ago. It represents a groundbreaking initiative aimed at improving English proficiency among students.

Unlike traditional English language classes, this program teaches Mathematics and Science in English under a high-quality curriculum that integrates Vietnamese and British education systems. The Pearson Edexcel certification, recognized internationally, ensures students receive a globally competitive education.

“This achievement reaffirms the quality and success of our educational approach. By enhancing students’ English proficiency and encouraging participation in international certification exams, we are preparing them for global integration,” Hieu stated.

He also noted that Conclusion 91 of the Vietnamese Politburo sets a long-term goal of making English the country’s second language in schools. The successful implementation of the integrated English program in Ho Chi Minh City serves as a strategic model for nationwide expansion, helping to realize the vision outlined in Conclusion 91.

Le Huyen