Understanding IELTS and VSTEP, UEFers in international collaborative programmes prepare for phase 2

OCTOBER 7, the UEF International Institute held the workshop “IELTS or VSTEP? Choose Your Path, Reach Your Goal”, helping students in international collaborative programmes understand the English requirements for progressing to phase 2 of their programme. This workshop provided a basis for UEFers to choose between the two tests and build a suitable preparation roadmap from the first year.

The workshop enabled UEFers of the international collaborative programmes to understand their two options for English certificates

For students in international collaborative programmes, planning for English certificates from the early stage plays an important role in their learning journey. To enter phase 2 of the academic programme, they are required to achieve IELTS band 5.5 or hold a VSTEP B2. This is the reason why they should address the question “IELTS or VSTEP” from the first year of university.

UEFers proactively explored English certificates, preparing for the next phase of the programme

The workshop was hosted by Mr. Nguyen Hoang Anh Tuan, Deputy Academic Manager of Vietop English and MA Applied Linguistics and TESOL at Newcastle University (UK), who holds an IELTS band 8.5, PTE 90, and the Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (CELTA). Co-hosting the workshop was Ms. Dang Vu Minh Thu, Lecturer at the Foreign Language of Saigon University, VSTEP Examiner, VSTEP Trainer, and Academic Consultant for the VSTEP programme at HP VSTEP.

Dr. Hoang Viet Hien, Head of the English Language and Linguistics programme, expressed appreciation for the two speakers’ support and sharing

With professional experience in English language teaching and foreign language evaluation, the two speakers took turns providing students with detailed information about IELTS and VSTEP, from their formats to the competencies required at each level, their band scores, and scoring rubrics.

The similarities and differences between IELTS and VSTEP were thoroughly analysed to help students understand the format as well as the proficiency and competencies required for IELTS 5.5+ and VSTEP B2. This information is essential for K2026 freshmen as they have just started exploring the university environment and have enough time to prepare for the transition to phase 2.

Mr. Nguyen Hoang Anh Tuan shared his practical perspective on the format, requirements, and preparation strategies for the IELTS test

The two speakers also spent part of their presentations sharing with students what to notice when studying for the test, useful revision strategies, and time management tips so they can start preparing from the first year instead of waiting until the last minute to speed up.

For IELTS 5.5 or VSTEP B2 requirements, setting goals from the first year enables students to divide their learning journey into logical stages, from evaluating their current competence, identifying strengths and weaknesses, reinforcing their foundation, developing each skill, and finally choosing the test date.

Ms. Dang Vu Minh Thu provided detailed information about VSTEP and its competency requirements of B2 level

Through the workshop, UEFers were equipped with foundational knowledge to distinguish between IELTS and VSTEP, understand the requirements of IELTS 5.5+ and VSTEP B2, and decide on the test that aligns with their personal goals. Most importantly, each student can now build a detailed study plan to meet the English requirements, preparing for the next phase of the programme.

For freshmen, there is still a long journey ahead. However, once they identify their goals as well as develop and follow a well-grounded study plan early, achieving the required English certificate will become more feasible.

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