| Course Level: | Bachelor’s | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Law & Legal Studies | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Law & Legal Studies | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Founded: 1996 (originally a faculty of law at the University of Ho Chi Minh City before becoming an independent institution)
Type: Public University
Location: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
HCMCUL offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in a variety of legal fields. Some of the key programs include:
Bachelor of Law (LL.B): The primary undergraduate program, which offers specializations in fields like civil law, criminal law, international law, business law, administrative law, and more.
Master of Law (LL.M): Graduate programs that offer advanced legal education in specific areas like:
Economic law
Civil law
International law
Criminal law
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Law: Advanced research-focused degrees for those who want to pursue academic or highly specialized legal careers.
1. Strong Academic Reputation: The university has a reputation for producing high-quality graduates, many of whom go on to have prominent careers in the legal profession, government, and academia.
2. Partnerships and International Cooperation: HCMCUL collaborates with various international institutions for student exchanges, joint research programs, and conferences. It has partnerships with universities in countries such as France, Germany, Japan, and the United States.
3. Legal Research: The university is active in legal research, often contributing to important national projects and legal reforms in Vietnam.
4. Expert Faculty: HCMCUL boasts a strong faculty with many professors who are leading experts in their respective legal fields.
Main Campus: Located in District 4, Ho Chi Minh City, the university has modern classrooms, a well-equipped law library, and research facilities.
Student Organizations: The university supports various student activities and legal forums that enhance professional development, including moot court competitions, legal clinics, and research groups.
The university accepts students primarily based on their scores in the National High School Examination (Kỳ thi Trung học Phổ thông Quốc gia) and conducts entrance exams for graduate programs.
Most of the programs are conducted in Vietnamese, but the university has been expanding its offerings in English, especially for international law and some postgraduate courses.
HCMCUL is recognized for producing well-qualified legal professionals who often work in government, law firms, corporate legal departments, and international organizations. The university is also known for its involvement in legal reforms and shaping Vietnam’s legal landscape.
Bachelor of Law (LL.B)
Duration: 4 years
Specializations:
Civil Law: Focus on private law matters, property law, family law, and inheritance law.
Criminal Law: Study of criminal justice, criminology, and the penal system.
Business Law: Corporate and commercial law, contracts, trade regulations, and mergers & acquisitions.
International Law: Legal systems of other countries, international treaties, human rights law, and trade law.
Administrative Law: Laws related to public administration, regulatory frameworks, and governance.
Program Focus: The LL.B program provides a solid foundation in Vietnamese law, with exposure to various fields of law to prepare students for legal practice or further studies.
Master of Law (LL.M)
Duration: 1.5–2 years
Specializations:
Economic Law: Focuses on laws that regulate the economy, business transactions, and commercial entities.
Civil Law: Advanced study of legal relationships among private individuals and entities.
Criminal Law: In-depth knowledge of criminal procedures, defenses, punishment, and rehabilitation.
International Law: Provides students with an understanding of international legal frameworks, cross-border disputes, and human rights law.
Constitutional and Administrative Law: Concentrates on public law issues, government structures, and administrative processes.
Program Focus: Graduate students deepen their understanding of specialized areas of law, with an emphasis on research and practical application.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Law
Duration: Typically 3–4 years
Program Focus:
Designed for legal scholars aiming to pursue academic careers or engage in advanced legal research.
The program involves coursework, comprehensive exams, and the preparation of an original dissertation.
Students work closely with faculty advisors to develop expertise in specialized legal fields such as public international law, constitutional law, or human rights.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (Approx. in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Law (Civil Law) |
4 years |
1,100 – 1,300 |
|
Bachelor of Law (Criminal Law) |
4 years |
1,100 – 1,300 |
|
Bachelor of Law (Business Law) |
4 years |
1,200 – 1,400 |
|
Bachelor of Law (International Law) |
4 years |
1,200 – 1,500 |
|
Bachelor of Law (Administrative Law) |
4 years |
1,100 – 1,300 |
|
Bachelor of Law (Economic Law) |
4 years |
1,200 – 1,400 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (Approx. in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Law (Civil Law) |
1.5–2 years |
1,500 – 2,000 |
|
Master of Law (Criminal Law) |
1.5–2 years |
1,500 – 2,000 |
|
Master of Law (Economic Law) |
1.5–2 years |
1,600 – 2,100 |
|
Master of Law (International Law) |
1.5–2 years |
1,700 – 2,200 |
|
Master of Law (Constitutional and Administrative Law) |
1.5–2 years |
1,500 – 2,000 |
|
Master of Law (Business Law) |
1.5–2 years |
1,600 – 2,100 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (Approx. in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Civil Law |
3–4 years |
2,000 – 2,500 |
|
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Criminal Law |
3–4 years |
2,000 – 2,500 |
|
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Economic Law |
3–4 years |
2,100 – 2,600 |
|
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in International Law |
3–4 years |
2,200 – 2,700 |
|
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Constitutional and Administrative Law |
3–4 years |
2,000 – 2,500 |
|
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Law |
3–4 years |
2,100 – 2,600 |
Most programs at HCMCUL are offered in Vietnamese, but there are select programs and courses, particularly in international law, that are available in English. International students are welcome to apply for both undergraduate and graduate programs.
Bachelor's Degrees:
Bachelor of Law (International Law): This program may offer some courses in English or have English-language resources, focusing on international legal frameworks.
Master's and PhD Programs:
Some Master’s and PhD programs, particularly those focused on international law or subjects with a global focus, may offer partial or full instruction in English. These programs may also attract more international students due to their global relevance.
Research Opportunities: HCMCUL is involved in many collaborative international legal research projects. Graduate students interested in international law may find this an attractive option.
For most programs, a proficiency in Vietnamese is required. International students who do not speak Vietnamese may need to undertake language training before they begin their studies. However, for programs and courses offered in English, the university may require proof of English proficiency, such as an IELTS or TOEFL score.
Vietnamese Language Programs: International students might have the opportunity to take Vietnamese language classes before or during their studies to help them integrate better.
Undergraduate Programs:
Academic transcripts from high school.
Vietnamese proficiency test results (if applicable).
Some programs may require entrance exams or interviews, though this can vary.
Graduate Programs (Master's and PhD):
Relevant undergraduate or graduate degree.
Academic transcripts and letters of recommendation.
Research proposal (for PhD students).
Proof of English proficiency (for English-language programs).
Note: International students may also be required to have their educational credentials authenticated and translated.
Tuition fees for international students are generally higher than for domestic students, but the fees are still relatively affordable compared to many Western institutions.
Undergraduate Programs: Approx. $1,200 – $1,500 per year.
Master’s Programs: Approx. $1,500 – $2,200 per year.
PhD Programs: Approx. $2,000 – $2,700 per year.
These figures are estimates, and fees may vary depending on the program. It is recommended to contact the admissions office for the latest fee structure.
HCMCUL may offer limited scholarships for international students, especially those enrolling in graduate programs. Scholarships are often based on academic performance or specific agreements with partner universities abroad.
Vietnamese Government Scholarships: The Vietnamese government sometimes offers scholarships for students from developing countries, especially for those pursuing studies in Vietnam. These can cover tuition, living expenses, or both.
Partner Institution Scholarships: Students from universities that have exchange agreements with HCMCUL may benefit from tuition waivers or reduced fees.
HCMCUL provides limited on-campus housing, but international students can also find affordable accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City. The city is known for its reasonable living costs compared to other major cities in Asia.
Estimated Living Costs:
Accommodation: $200 – $500 per month (depending on location and type of accommodation).
Food and Miscellaneous: $200 – $300 per month.
Living in Ho Chi Minh City is relatively affordable, and many international students opt for shared apartments or private housing options nearby.
International students at HCMCUL have opportunities to engage in student organizations, legal societies, and moot court competitions. The university encourages participation in extra-curricular activities, which can help foreign students integrate into the university community.
Cultural Exchange Programs: The university occasionally hosts events and activities to foster cross-cultural understanding between Vietnamese and international students.
Legal Clinics and Moot Court: International students can participate in legal clinics and moot court competitions, which offer practical experience and insights into Vietnamese and international legal practices.
HCMCUL has established partnerships with various universities and legal institutions worldwide, offering opportunities for student exchange programs, joint degree programs, and international conferences.
Exchange Programs: HCMCUL collaborates with institutions from countries such as France, Japan, Germany, the United States, and other Southeast Asian nations.
Joint Degrees: In some cases, students may be able to enroll in joint degree programs, where part of the study is done in Vietnam and part at a partner university abroad.
International students wishing to study at HCMCUL must apply for a student visa before their arrival in Vietnam. The university provides the necessary documents, including an acceptance letter, to support the visa application.
Student Visa Process:
Apply at a Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate in your home country.
Typically, the visa is granted for the duration of the study program but may need renewal based on course length.
Students must show proof of enrollment and financial stability.
Career Opportunities: Graduates from HCMCUL, particularly those with expertise in international law or business law, may find opportunities in multinational corporations, international organizations, or law firms operating across Asia and globally.
Continuing Education: International graduates may also pursue postgraduate or PhD programs in Vietnam or abroad, leveraging the university’s partnerships and growing academic reputation.
Admission Criteria:
Admission is primarily based on the National High School Graduation Examination (Kỳ thi Trung học Phổ thông Quốc gia). Students are ranked based on their test scores in subjects such as Literature, History, Geography, and Mathematics.
Students must meet the cutoff scores established by the university for different specializations within the Bachelor of Laws program.
Application Process:
Fill out the online application form on the university's admission portal.
Submit required documents, including high school transcripts, graduation certificate, and results of the National High School Examination.
Pay the application fee.
Admission Timeline:
Applications typically open around July following the National Examination results.
Admission results are released in August.
Admission Criteria:
International students are usually required to have completed their secondary education equivalent to Vietnamese high school.
Proficiency in Vietnamese is often required for most programs, except for specific courses in international law that may be taught in English. If the student doesn't meet the language requirements, they may need to complete Vietnamese language courses before starting their degree.
Application Process:
Fill out the online application form on the university's website or send a paper application to the admissions office.
Submit required documents:
High school diploma or equivalent.
Academic transcripts (translated into Vietnamese or English).
Proof of Vietnamese language proficiency (if applicable) or an English language proficiency test (IELTS, TOEFL) for English-taught programs.
Passport copy.
Health certificate (issued within the last 6 months).
Proof of financial capability (for student visa purposes).
Pay the application fee.
Entrance Examination/Interview: International students may be required to pass an entrance exam or attend an interview, depending on the program and the student's qualifications.
Admission Timeline: International students should apply 3-6 months before the start of the academic year, which typically begins in September.
Admission Criteria:
Bachelor's degree in Law or a related field.
Pass an entrance examination that may include tests in general legal theory, specialized subjects, and a foreign language (often English).
Application Process:
Submit an application form along with the required documents (bachelor’s degree, academic transcripts, curriculum vitae, and a letter of recommendation).
Register for the university’s entrance exam for the LL.M program. The exam usually includes tests in specific areas of law and a language proficiency test (if applicable).
Pay the application fee.
Admission Timeline: Applications generally open in March and the entrance exams take place in May or June. Results are announced by July, and the program typically starts in September.
Admission Criteria:
Bachelor’s degree in law or a related field from a recognized institution.
Proficiency in English or Vietnamese, depending on the language of instruction.
Proof of work experience or professional achievements may also be required for some programs.
Application Process:
Submit the online application or paper application form.
Provide the following documents:
Undergraduate degree and academic transcripts (translated into Vietnamese or English).
Language proficiency test results (IELTS, TOEFL for English; Vietnamese proficiency for Vietnamese-taught programs).
Letters of recommendation (typically from academic or professional references).
Passport copy.
Statement of purpose outlining why you want to pursue a master’s degree at HCMCUL.
Proof of financial ability (for visa purposes).
Pay the application fee.
Entrance Examination/Interview: Some international students may be required to pass an entrance exam or attend an interview, depending on the program.
Admission Timeline: The application process for international students should be started well in advance, typically 6 months before the start of the academic year in September.
Admission Criteria:
A Master’s degree in Law or a closely related field.
A well-developed research proposal in the field of law.
Demonstrated academic competence and research potential.
Language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught programs; Vietnamese proficiency for Vietnamese-taught programs).
Application Process:
Submit an online or paper application with the following documents:
Master’s degree and academic transcripts (translated into Vietnamese or English).
A research proposal outlining your intended area of study and its significance.
Curriculum Vitae (CV) and professional experience.
Letters of recommendation from academic or professional supervisors.
Proof of language proficiency (Vietnamese or English, depending on the program).
Passport copy (for international students).
Health certificate (for international students).
Proof of financial capability (for visa purposes).
Pay the application fee.
Admission Examination/Interview:
Applicants may be required to attend an interview with faculty members to discuss their research proposal and academic background.
Admission Timeline: PhD applications are generally open in the first half of the year, with enrollment in September.
Main Intake: Once a year, in September (the academic year typically begins in early September).
Application Period: Applications usually open around July following the results of the National High School Graduation Examination for domestic students. International students may need to apply 3–6 months in advance, usually around April to May.
Educational Requirement:
Completion of high school (upper secondary education) in Vietnam.
Students must participate in the National High School Graduation Examination (Kỳ thi Trung học Phổ thông Quốc gia) and achieve the required cutoff scores in specific subject combinations:
Literature (Ngữ văn)
History (Lịch sử)
Geography (Địa lý)
Mathematics (Toán học) for some programs.
Selection Process:
Students are ranked based on their national examination scores, and admission is competitive, especially for popular specializations like Civil Law and International Law.
Educational Requirement:
A high school diploma (or equivalent) from their home country.
Equivalent academic qualifications to meet the Vietnamese high school standard.
Language Requirement:
Proficiency in Vietnamese is required, as most undergraduate programs are taught in Vietnamese.
If applying for English-taught programs (such as some courses in International Law), students need to provide proof of English proficiency (such as IELTS or TOEFL).
If the student does not meet the Vietnamese language requirement, they may need to complete a Vietnamese language course before starting the program.
Application Documents:
High school diploma and transcripts (translated into Vietnamese or English).
Proof of Vietnamese language proficiency (or a plan to study Vietnamese).
Passport copy.
Health certificate.
Proof of financial capability (for student visa purposes).
Main Intake: Once a year, in September.
Application Period: Applications are usually open from March to June, with entrance exams held in May or June for domestic students.
Educational Requirement:
A Bachelor’s degree in Law or a related field from a recognized university.
Entrance Examination:
Candidates must pass the entrance examination which generally includes:
Legal theory and specialized law subjects.
A foreign language test (usually English).
Some programs may require an interview or submission of a research proposal.
Educational Requirement:
A Bachelor’s degree in Law or a related field from a recognized institution, equivalent to a Vietnamese Bachelor of Law degree.
Language Requirement:
Proficiency in Vietnamese is required for most programs, except for certain courses in International Law or programs specifically taught in English.
For English-taught programs, international students need to provide proof of English proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL scores). The minimum required scores are typically:
IELTS: 6.0 or higher.
TOEFL: Equivalent score based on the test type.
Application Documents:
Bachelor’s degree and transcripts (translated into Vietnamese or English).
Proof of Vietnamese or English language proficiency (depending on the program).
Letters of recommendation (from professors or employers).
Statement of purpose or research proposal (for certain programs).
Passport copy.
Health certificate.
Proof of financial ability (for visa purposes).
Main Intake: Once a year, in September.
Application Period: Applications typically open in the first half of the year. Students are encouraged to apply 6 months in advance due to the lengthy application process.
Educational Requirement:
A Master’s degree in Law or a related field from a recognized university.
Research Proposal:
A detailed research proposal outlining the intended field of study, research questions, and the academic contribution of the research.
Entrance Examination and Interview:
Candidates may need to pass an entrance examination and/or an interview to discuss their research proposal and academic background.
The examination may include legal theory and specialized legal subjects.
Educational Requirement:
A Master’s degree in Law or a related field from a recognized university, equivalent to a Vietnamese master’s degree.
Research Proposal:
A well-structured research proposal is required, highlighting the research’s relevance and originality.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Amount/Coverage |
Application Process |
Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Vietnamese Government Scholarships |
International students from developing countries |
Full or partial coverage of tuition fees + living expenses |
Apply through the Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate or directly through HCMCUL |
Available for both undergraduate and graduate programs. |
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
High-achieving domestic and international students based on academic performance |
Partial or full tuition waiver |
Automatic consideration based on academic results |
Available to top students in undergraduate and graduate programs. |
|
HCMCUL Research Scholarships |
Graduate (Master’s/PhD) students with exceptional research proposals |
Partial tuition waiver or research grant |
Submit research proposal and academic documents |
Primarily for Master’s and PhD students. |
|
Partner Institution Scholarships |
Students from universities with exchange programs or partnerships with HCMCUL |
Partial or full tuition waiver |
Apply through the exchange program office |
Available through specific bilateral agreements. |
|
Corporate Scholarships |
Students specializing in Business Law, Corporate Law, or Economic Law |
Partial tuition or internship stipends |
Application and interview with corporate partners |
Offered by companies that partner with the university. |
|
Ho Chi Minh City Scholarships for Outstanding Students |
Top students in academic performance, particularly in Law |
Partial tuition waiver |
Automatic or application depending on the scholarship |
Focused on domestic students but can be available for some international students. |
|
Financial Aid for Low-Income Students |
Domestic and international students facing financial hardship |
Partial tuition reduction, living expense support |
Submit financial documents and application form |
Based on family income, supporting documents required. |
Facility/Accommodation Type |
Description |
Cost (Per Month in USD) |
Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
|
On-Campus Dormitory |
Basic shared rooms, primarily for domestic students |
$50 – $100 |
Limited availability, basic amenities, more affordable option. Priority often given to domestic students. |
|
Off-Campus Private Apartments |
Fully furnished private apartments or rooms near the campus |
$250 – $500 |
Popular among international students. Offers more privacy and independent living. |
|
Shared Apartments (Off-Campus) |
Shared accommodation with fellow students, usually 2-4 people |
$150 – $300 |
Costs are shared among students. Includes kitchen, shared living space, and sometimes utilities. |
|
Homestay (with Vietnamese families) |
Live with a local Vietnamese family, includes meals |
$200 – $350 |
Offers cultural immersion, includes meals, utilities. Preferred by students who want to experience local culture. |
|
Student Hostels (Off-Campus) |
Private or shared rooms in student hostels close to the university |
$100 – $200 |
Affordable option for international students. Generally includes basic furniture, internet, and utilities. |
|
Living Expenses (Food, Transport, etc.) |
Estimated monthly expenses for food, transportation, and other necessities |
$200 – $300 |
depending on lifestyle. Includes transportation, groceries, dining out, and miscellaneous costs. |
Facility |
Description |
Remarks |
|---|---|---|
|
Law Library |
Comprehensive law library with access to Vietnamese and international legal resources |
Open to all students, essential for research. |
|
Computer Labs |
Equipped with computers and internet access for research and study |
Available for student use. |
|
Sports and Recreation Facilities |
Includes gym, sports fields, and fitness areas |
Free or subsidized for students. |
|
Cafeteria |
Serves affordable meals, snacks, and beverages |
Average meal cost: $1 – $3. |
|
Student Support Services |
Includes academic advising, counseling, and career support |
Available for all students. |
|
Student Clubs and Societies |
law-related, cultural, and recreational clubs |
Great for networking and extracurricular activities. |
HCMCUL is known for its rigorous academic programs, especially in legal studies. Students are encouraged to engage deeply with their subjects and participate in activities that support their learning.
Seminars and Workshops: The university organizes regular legal seminars, workshops, and guest lectures with leading legal professionals, professors, and policymakers.
Moot Court Competitions: Students can participate in moot court competitions, which simulate court proceedings and help students develop skills in argumentation, research, and advocacy.
Legal Clinics: Students can work in legal clinics, offering free legal services to the community. This practical training helps students apply theoretical knowledge in real-life legal situations.
Research Opportunities: Students are encouraged to take part in research projects, often collaborating with professors or working on legal reforms or international law research.
HCMCUL offers a wide variety of student clubs and societies catering to different interests. These clubs help students network, gain new skills, and balance their academic lives with extracurricular activities.
Legal Clubs: These include the Moot Court Society, Debate Club, and Law Research Clubs, where students discuss legal issues, practice litigation, and collaborate on academic research.
Cultural Clubs: The university supports cultural and language clubs that celebrate Vietnamese culture and offer international students the chance to learn about the local customs.
Sports Clubs: The university has various sports clubs, including soccer, basketball, badminton, and volleyball. These clubs promote physical fitness and teamwork.
Art and Music Clubs: Creative students can join clubs focused on the performing arts, music, dance, and photography, providing a creative outlet alongside academic work.
Volunteering and Social Responsibility Clubs: Students can join social responsibility clubs, which focus on community service, environmental protection, and charity work.
Students at HCMCUL enjoy an active social life. The university is situated in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, offering easy access to the city’s vibrant cultural and social scene.
Cultural Events: The university hosts several cultural events throughout the year, including the Tet Festival (Vietnamese New Year) and other celebrations that allow international students to experience Vietnamese traditions.
International Exchange Programs: Through partnerships with universities around the world, students can participate in exchange programs, offering a chance to study abroad and experience different legal systems.
Student Festivals: HCMCUL organizes student festivals where students can showcase their talents in music, dance, and art, while also building relationships with peers.
HCMCUL provides students with modern campus facilities that support both their academic needs and extracurricular interests.
Library: The university’s law library is a crucial resource, equipped with Vietnamese and international legal texts, research journals, and online databases.
Computer Labs: Students have access to computer labs with internet access, which they can use for academic research and assignments.
Cafeteria: The on-campus cafeteria offers affordable meals, providing Vietnamese and international cuisine at low costs (around $1 – $3 per meal).
Sports and Recreation Facilities: The university has several sports facilities, including a gym, sports fields, and areas for recreation. Students can use these facilities for both competitive and recreational activities.
While most on-campus accommodation is limited and generally reserved for domestic students, international students usually live in off-campus housing such as private apartments, shared apartments, or homestays.
Accommodation Cost: Off-campus accommodation options vary from $150 to $500 per month, depending on whether students choose shared apartments or private rentals.
Living Expenses: Monthly living expenses, including rent, food, and transportation, typically range from $400 to $800, making it relatively affordable for students to live in Ho Chi Minh City.
HCMCUL offers comprehensive support services to ensure students' academic, social, and personal well-being.
Academic Advising: The university provides academic advising services to help students choose the right courses, meet graduation requirements, and plan their academic path.
Career Support: The Career Services Office helps students with career counseling, resume writing, and connecting with internships and job opportunities. The university hosts regular career fairs where students can meet with potential employers.
Mental Health and Counseling Services: The university provides counseling services to help students with any mental health or personal issues they may face during their studies.
Health Services: HCMCUL ensures that students have access to basic healthcare services, either through on-campus facilities or partnerships with nearby hospitals.
Studying at HCMCUL also offers students the chance to live in Ho Chi Minh City, one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic and culturally rich cities.
Vibrant City Life: Students have access to a wide range of cultural experiences, from museums and historical landmarks to vibrant street markets, cafes, and restaurants.
Affordable Transportation: The city offers affordable and convenient public transportation options, including buses and ride-hailing services such as Grab. Many students also use motorbikes, which are a common form of transportation in Vietnam.
Nightlife and Social Scene: The city has an active nightlife scene with plenty of cafes, bars, and restaurants that cater to both local and international students.
For international students, HCMCUL offers numerous ways to integrate into the academic and social environment.
Vietnamese Language Support: International students who don’t speak Vietnamese can enroll in language courses offered by the university to help them adjust to life in Vietnam and participate more fully in academic and social activities.
International Student Orientation: HCMCUL offers orientation programs for new international students, helping them adjust to campus life, understand Vietnamese customs, and navigate academic requirements.
Buddy Programs: The university sometimes pairs international students with local students to help them integrate and navigate both academic and social aspects of student life.
HCMCUL encourages students to participate in extracurricular activities that enhance their leadership and networking skills.
Student Leadership Opportunities: Students can take on leadership roles in various student clubs and societies, helping organize events, competitions, and academic conferences.
Law Conferences and Competitions: The university regularly hosts and participates in legal conferences and competitions, providing students with a platform to network with law professionals and peers from other universities.
Volunteering: Students can participate in volunteer activities organized by the university’s social responsibility clubs, which engage with the local community, offering legal aid, educational support, and charity work.
HCMCUL’s Career Services Office plays a vital role in preparing students for the job market by offering the following:
Career Counseling: Students receive guidance on career paths in various fields of law, such as civil law, criminal law, business law, international law, etc.
Resume and CV Writing: Workshops and one-on-one sessions are offered to help students prepare professional resumes, cover letters, and CVs that are suitable for law-related positions.
Interview Preparation: Students are trained in interview skills, mock interviews, and professional behavior, helping them gain confidence for real-world job interviews.
Networking Opportunities: The university organizes events such as job fairs, career workshops, and networking sessions, where students can connect with potential employers and professionals in the legal industry.
Internships are considered a crucial part of the legal education experience at HCMCUL. The university helps students find internships through its strong ties with law firms, companies, government institutions, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
Internships at Law Firms: Many students intern at well-known local and international law firms in Ho Chi Minh City. This hands-on experience helps students develop practical skills and build connections in the legal profession.
Corporate Legal Departments: Students focusing on business law or corporate law often intern in the legal departments of multinational companies and corporations in industries such as finance, manufacturing, and technology.
Government and Judicial Internships: Students interested in public law, administrative law, or criminal law can intern with various government ministries, local courts, and legal departments.
NGO Internships: HCMCUL also facilitates opportunities with non-governmental organizations (NGOs), especially for students interested in human rights, environmental law, and public interest law.
Though there isn't a formal on-campus placement process like in some universities, many law firms and corporations collaborate with the university for recruitment through job fairs, legal conferences, and special events.
Law Firms: Graduates from HCMCUL are often recruited by both local and international law firms. Firms may hire students as junior associates, legal assistants, or paralegals based on their area of specialization.
Corporate Sector: Students specializing in business law and economic law are highly sought after by multinational corporations (MNCs) operating in Vietnam. Legal professionals with an understanding of both local and international legal frameworks are in demand for corporate legal positions.
Government Jobs: Some graduates pursue careers in government ministries, regulatory bodies, or the judiciary, taking roles as legal advisors, public prosecutors, or working in legal policy-making.
International Organizations: Graduates with a specialization in international law or human rights law may find opportunities with international organizations such as the United Nations or non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
HCMCUL has a strong alumni network of successful legal professionals working in various sectors of the economy. The alumni often participate in university events, providing valuable insights, mentoring, and networking opportunities for current students.
Alumni Mentorship Programs: The university facilitates mentorship programs where senior alumni guide students in career planning and offer advice on navigating the legal job market.
Guest Lectures and Networking Events: HCMCUL regularly invites successful alumni to deliver guest lectures and participate in panel discussions, providing students with first-hand industry insights and career advice.
The university organizes job fairs and legal conferences where students can meet with potential employers, network with professionals, and explore various career opportunities.
Annual Job Fair: HCMCUL hosts an annual job fair where law firms, corporations, and government agencies come to meet with students, collect resumes, and conduct interviews for internships and full-time positions.
Legal Conferences: The university also organizes legal conferences and symposiums that attract lawyers, judges, corporate executives, and academics. These events give students an opportunity to network and showcase their skills to the wider legal community.
While the university does not publish formal employment statistics, anecdotal evidence suggests that most graduates secure positions in their desired legal fields within a few months of graduating. The university’s strong connections with the legal industry and the high demand for qualified legal professionals in Vietnam contribute to this success.
Law Firms: Many graduates are employed by both domestic and international law firms in Vietnam, such as Baker McKenzie, VILAF, LNT & Partners, and YKVN.
Corporate Legal Departments: Graduates often join corporate legal teams in industries such as banking, real estate, technology, and manufacturing.
Government and Judicial Positions: Some graduates pursue careers in public administration, working in ministries, courts, or as prosecutors.
NGOs and International Organizations: For students interested in public international law or human rights law, career opportunities with NGOs and international agencies like the United Nations are available.
Many HCMCUL graduates pursue further studies, either in Vietnam or internationally, to specialize further in their fields.
LL.M. Programs: Some students pursue Master of Laws (LL.M) degrees at prestigious universities abroad, such as in France, Germany, the United States, or other countries with advanced legal education programs.
PhD Programs: Graduates interested in legal research and academia often continue their education by enrolling in PhD programs, either at HCMCUL or other renowned institutions worldwide.
As HCMCUL has strong connections with international universities and organizations, graduates who specialize in international law or business law may find opportunities to work abroad, especially in legal markets with ties to Southeast Asia.
Exchange Programs: HCMCUL also offers exchange programs with foreign universities, allowing students to spend part of their studies abroad, gaining exposure to international legal systems and expanding their job prospects.
National High School Graduation Examination Scores:
For undergraduate programs, admission is highly competitive and primarily based on students' performance in the National High School Graduation Examination (Kỳ thi Trung học Phổ thông Quốc gia). Students need to achieve high scores in subjects like Literature, History, and Geography (or other combinations) to meet the university's cutoff marks.
HCMCUL is considered one of the top law schools in Vietnam, so the required cutoff scores are generally high, making it selective for top-performing students.
Graduate and PhD Programs:
For Master's and PhD programs, the acceptance rate depends on a combination of factors including the applicant’s undergraduate performance, research proposal quality (for PhD applicants), and performance in entrance exams. While these programs are competitive, they are generally less restrictive than undergraduate admissions because of the more specialized nature of graduate studies.
International Students:
HCMCUL accepts international students, and the acceptance rate for foreign students might differ from that of domestic students. For international students, the key criteria include academic qualifications, language proficiency (Vietnamese or English, depending on the program), and, in some cases, interviews or entrance exams.
Undergraduate Programs: Due to the high demand for legal education in Vietnam and the university's status as a premier law school, the acceptance rate is likely low to moderate, especially for popular programs like Business Law and International Law. Only high-performing students from the National High School Graduation Examination are typically admitted.
Graduate Programs: For Master's and PhD programs, the acceptance rate may be moderate, as the admissions are more focused on specific academic or professional qualifications rather than large-scale entrance exams. However, strong academic records and research proposals are still crucial.
Address: 02 Nguyễn Tất Thành, Phường 12, Quận 4, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Description: This is the primary campus of HCMCUL and is centrally located in District 4, near the city’s vibrant business and cultural hubs. It houses the university’s administrative offices, lecture halls, law library, and most of the academic departments.
Address: Khu phố 3, Phường Long Phước, Quận 9, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Description: This campus is located in Thu Duc City (formerly District 9), which is part of the greater Ho Chi Minh City metropolitan area. This area is a growing educational zone, hosting multiple universities and research institutes. The campus is larger and more modern, catering to research activities and student accommodations.
