HUST Entrance Scores Soar, Data Science & AI Lead

Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST) announced its admission scores for the 2026 academic year on August 9, with cutoffs for many departments exceeding last year's figures. The highest score was achieved by the advanced program in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (AI), reaching 29.54 points, reflecting a surge in interest in high-tech fields within Vietnam. In addition to the AI and Data Science advanced program, the advanced programs for Computer Science and Digital Space Security also surpassed 29 points, showing a slight increase from the previous year. The lowest admission scores were recorded for the advanced programs in Biotechnology and Accounting. Under the talent admission (special selection) method, the highest scores ranged from 96.09 to 96.75 out of 100, depending on the applicant category. For admissions based on the Thinking Assessment Test (TSA), the highest cutoff score was 82.12, also for the Data Science and AI program. HUST plans to enroll a total of 9,700 students for the 2026 academic year through three methods: special selection, TSA scores, and high school graduation exam results. Regarding tuition fees, standard programs are expected to range from VND 28 million to VND 40 million per year (approximately $1,100-$1,570 USD), with an increase of no more than VND 5 million compared to current fees. Programs taught in English, enhanced language programs, and the Vietnam-France Higher Engineering Training Program (PFIEV) will cost between VND 35 million and VND 68 million per year (approximately $1,370-$2,660 USD). For international cooperation, joint training programs, and talent programs, tuition is calculated per semester. The talent program fees are around VND 17 million to VND 21 million per semester, while programs with international elements cost VND 24 million to VND 33 million per semester. Under Vietnam's one-party system, investment in education, particularly in science and technology, is a strategic priority for national development and economic growth. The concentration of interest in advanced technical fields may also indicate future shifts in the country's industrial structure.