ĐGNL Exam Countdown 2026

ĐGNL (Đánh giá Năng lực — literally "Competency Assessment") is Vietnam's national university aptitude test, organized by Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (VNU-HCM) and Vietnam National University Hanoi (VNU-HN). It serves as an alternative pathway to university admission alongside the national THPT (high school graduation) exam.

Over 90 universities across Vietnam accept ĐGNL scores for admissions. The test evaluates not just academic knowledge but also critical thinking, logical reasoning, data analysis, and problem-solving — skills that traditional exams may not fully assess. Students can take the test twice per year and use their highest score.

There are two separate ĐGNL systems with different formats:

VNU-HCM (1200-point scale):

VNU-Hanoi HSA (150-point scale):

Both are computer-based, multiple-choice exams. Each student receives a unique, randomized test from a question bank.

Both VNU systems typically hold two test rounds per year:

• Round 1: March–April 2026
• Round 2: May–June 2026

VNU-HCM holds tests in Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Can Tho, Buon Ma Thuot, Nha Trang, and Hanoi. VNU-Hanoi tests in Hanoi, Hai Phong, Thai Nguyen, Nghe An, and other cities.

Registration opens approximately 3–4 weeks before each round. Test fees are very affordable (150,000–300,000 VND, roughly $6–12 USD). Results are released within 2–3 weeks. Students may take both rounds and use the higher score.

The May test date is close to the national THPT exam in June, so students preparing for both should plan their study schedule carefully. Track the THPT countdown alongside your ĐGNL preparation.

ĐGNL tests integrated thinking, not just memorized knowledge. Here is an effective preparation approach:

Months 1–2: Knowledge Foundation

• Review high school core subjects: Math, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Literature, History, Geography, English
• Focus heavily on Math and Logic — high weight and the most improvable sections
• Practice reading comprehension in both Vietnamese and English daily

Month 3: Test-Specific Practice

• Complete past ĐGNL papers (2022–2025) under timed conditions
• Practice data interpretation: tables, charts, graphs
• Target 1 minute per question (150 questions in 150 minutes)
• Use the Pomodoro timer for focused study sessions

Final 2 Weeks: Full Simulations

• Take 3–4 full practice tests weekly
• Analyze errors by section and prioritize weak areas
• Practice the computer-based interface using online mock tests

Admission scores vary by university and program. Here are reference thresholds:

VNU-HCM (out of 1200):

VNU-Hanoi (out of 150):

Over 90 universities accept ĐGNL scores. Students can take the exam twice per year and use the higher result, giving them additional chances beyond the THPT exam.