The Ministry of Education and Training in Vietnam has officially released the school year schedule for 2026-2027, which will be applicable nationwide. According to the plan, the earliest date for students to return to school is one week before the opening ceremony, which is set for September 5 each year. Specifically, first-grade, ninth-grade, and twelfth-grade students will return to school two weeks prior to the opening ceremony.

The first semester is scheduled to conclude before January 18, and the academic year must be completed by May 31. Additionally, the evaluation of students completing primary and lower secondary education will take place before June 30. This means that the summer break for students will last from May 31 until September 4.

Enrollment for new classes must be completed by July 31, and the national high school graduation exam is expected to take place on June 11-12 annually. Other national examinations will be organized according to the guidelines set by the Ministry of Education and Training.

It is essential for local education authorities to ensure that the academic calendar consists of at least 35 weeks of instruction, with 18 weeks in the first semester and 17 weeks in the second semester. The schedule must also align with the specific conditions and characteristics of each locality.

Public holidays and festivals will be observed according to the Labor Code and relevant annual guidelines. Teachers' annual leave can be taken during the summer break or arranged throughout the year to fit local educational plans.

Moreover, local authorities have the discretion to adjust the start of the school year and extend it by no more than two weeks if necessary, such as in cases of natural disasters or epidemics. In extreme weather conditions, the Director of the Department of Education and Training may decide to suspend classes and arrange for make-up sessions, ensuring that teachers' time off is respected.

Before September 10 each year, the Director of the Department of Education and Training is responsible for reporting to the Ministry about the preparations for the school year and the organization of the opening ceremony. Furthermore, a summary of the previous year's performance and proposals for recognition of achievements must be submitted by June 25.