Vietnam Overview

Vietnam is the easternmost country in Southeast Asia, bordered by China to the north, Laos and Cambodia to the west, and the South China Sea to the east. With a population of over 86 million, it is the 13th most populous country in the world.

Since 1986, Vietnam has undergone major economic and political reforms, incorporating elements of a market economy and moving towards international reintegration. The country experienced 8% annual GDP growth between 1990 and 1997, followed by 7% annual growth between 2000 and 2005, making it one of the fastest growing countries in the world. Vietnam became a member of the World Trade Organization in January of 2007.

Education has a central role in Vietnamese culture, where it is seen as an essential avenue of advancement. With over 60% of the population under the age of 35 and 1.2 million students graduating from secondary institutions every year, there is tremendous demand for higher education. Many students choose to advance their academic careers by studying abroad, and the number of number of Vietnamese students enrolled in foreign institutions increased by 55% in 2008-2009.

Over the last decade, the number of Vietnamese international students in the United States has seen consistent growth. Enrollment has risen dramatically in recent years, with a 45.3% increase in 2007-2008 followed by a 46.2% increase in 2008-2009. Vietnam is now the ninth leading country of origin for international students in the United States, with a total of 12,823 students.

For American educational institutions, Vietnam represents a tremendous opportunity with proven growth potential. It should be a key location for any educational institution seeking to recruit talented, motivated students and bolster its international enrollment.