Study and Living in Vietnam
As a student, there are many questions that keep running through your mind, such as cost of living and studying, accommodation, transportation and other necessary things. Read the post below to get the answer to all such questions-
Accommodation
There are many different types of accommodation for students in Vietnam. Following are the accommodation options available:
Apartments: This option is best suited for students who need more privacy and independence. These are fully equipped. Single or double rooms are there in the apartment.
Student Residences: This is the most common and economical option for students looking out for accommodation in Vietnam. With this option, you get to meet and interact with other students, and learn and practice new language with fellow pupils after classes as well. The student residences have shared kitchen facilities and all the other required facilities.
Guesthouses / Hotels: This option is suitable for short stays like for 1-4 weeks.
Homestays: This option involves living with the families in Vietnam. With this option, you get to know the country, its language, people and culture first-hand. If you’re eager to know about the country’s language and lifestyle and culture, then this is the best option for you. You’ll improve and upgrade your understanding of the local culture and tradition, and your accent will be more authentic.
Teacher Home: This option involves living and studying in the home of a language teacher in Vietnam, who will welcome you into his or her family and make you feel at home. If you are interested in learning a language, then this is one of the best options to consider. With this option, you immerse yourself completely in the language and culture of the country.
Transportation
Getting around Vietnam is easy and inexpensive. Public transport is easily available. One can get around the country through buses, taxis, vans and bicycle. Within the towns and cities of the country, taxis and motorbike taxis are easily available and go everywhere.
Getting Around by Buses
Buses in Vietnam are inexpensive and fast. The fare varies, but generally you can expect to pay between VND 5,000 and 10,000.
Travelling In and Around by Taxis
Taxis are the easiest mode of transport. Arrange the price in advance before you hop on a taxi. Taxis have meters.
Getting Around by Motorbikes/Motorcycle Taxis
Motorbikes can be rented or you can get on one of the motorcycle taxis (xe om). Arrange the price in advance.
Travelling In and Around by Cyclo-pedals
Cyclo-pedals are a rickshaw pulled by a bike. If you want to travel around the place or want to go for sight-seeing, this is the option for you. Set the price beforehand only. This option is economical and environment friendly.
Driving License
If you wish to drive a car in Vietnam, you must have an international driving permit (IDP) and a Vietnamese license.
Cost of Living
The cost of living for students in Vietnam varies depending on the student’s way of living.
Accommodation costs: The accommodation charges range from VND 7,000,000 to 15,000,000 depending upon the apartment- furnished or unfurnished.
On-campus accommodation costs in Vietnam may range from $US 1,200 to $US 1,600 per semester, inclusive of utilities and other services.
Transportation prices: There are many cost-effective ways to travel in and around Vietnam.
- The taxi rate per km in the city: VND 12,000
- City Centre bus fare is VND 5,000
*All prices are based on average prices in Ho Chi Minh City (2014)
Tuition Fees
The tuition fee varies depending upon the institution and level of education. Public educational institutions tuition fee is low, whereas private institutions comparatively charge high fees.
Working Conditions
International students who wish to work in Vietnam must have a valid work permit.
Health Insurance
International students must have a private health insurance or insurance from their home country. Some private higher education institutions in Vietnam cover health services in the tuition fees and other related costs.