Circular No. 14/2024/TT-BLDTBXH stipulates the criteria and standards for assessing the quality of vocational education.

CIRCULAR

REGULATIONS ON CRITERIA AND STANDARDS FOR QUALITY ASSESSMENT OF VOCATIONAL EDUCATION

On the basis of The Vocational Education Law on November 27, 2014;

Pursuant toThe Education Law on June 14, 2019;

Pursuant to Decree No.Decision 15/2019/NĐ-CP dated February 1, 2019 of the Government detailing certain provisions and implementing mechanisms ofThe Vocational Education Law;

Pursuant to Decree No.Decree 49/2019/NĐ-CP dated March 30, 2018 of the Government promulgating the Decree on quality assessment of vocational education;

Pursuant to Decree No.Decree 62/2022/NĐ-CP dated September 12, 2022 of the Government stipulating the functions, tasks, powers, and organizational structure of the Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs;

At the proposal of the Director General of the General Department of Vocational Education,

The Minister of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs issues this Circular to regulate criteria and standards for quality assessment of vocational education institutions.

PART I

GENERAL PROVISIONS

Article 1. Scope of Regulation and Applicability

1. This Circular regulates criteria and standards for quality assessment of vocational secondary schools, vocational colleges, and vocational training centers (hereinafter referred to as vocational education institutions); it also regulates criteria and standards for quality assessment of vocational training programs at the basic, intermediate, and advanced levels.

2. This Circular applies to: vocational education institutions, enterprises, and other entities registered for vocational education activities (hereinafter referred to as training institutions); organizations conducting quality assessment of vocational education and related units and individuals.

3. The contents of this Circular do not apply in the following cases:

a) The contents of Chapter II stipulated in this Circular do not apply to vocational education and regular education centers, teacher training colleges, and secondary teacher training schools;

b) The contents of Chapter III stipulated in this Circular do not apply to vocational training programs for teacher training qualifications under the management authority of the Ministry of Education and Training.

Article 2. Interpretation of Terms

1. Quality assessment of vocational education institutionsis the activity of evaluating and recognizing the degree to which vocational education institutions meet the quality assessment criteria for vocational education as prescribed in this Circular.

2. Quality assessment criteria for vocational education institutionsare the requirements that vocational education institutions must meet to be recognized as meeting quality standards. Each criterion includes standards.

3. Quality assessment standards for vocational education institutionsare the required levels to achieve for each specific content of each criterion.

4. Quality assessment of vocational training programsis the activity of evaluating and recognizing the degree to which vocational training programs at various levels meet the quality assessment criteria for vocational education as prescribed in this Circular.

5. Quality assessment criteria for vocational training programsare the requirements that training institutions must meet for their training programs to be recognized as meeting quality standards. Each criterion includes standards.

6. Quality assessment standards for vocational training programsare the required levels to achieve for each specific content of each quality assessment criterion for vocational training programs.

7. Employeris an enterprise, cooperative, agency, or organization that hires or uses workers according to agreements.

8. Graduation standardis the requirement to be achieved regarding the qualities and capabilities of students upon completion of an educational program.

9. Standard PointsMaximum score

10. is the highest score specified for each criterion.Evaluation score

Chapter II

is the score achieved for each criterion and standard.

OCCUPATIONAL DISEASE DETECTION HEALTH RECORD

Section 1

CRITERIA AND STANDARDS FOR QUALITY ASSESSMENT OF VOCATIONAL EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

CRITERIA AND STANDARDS FOR QUALITY ASSESSMENT

Article 3. Criteria and Evaluation Points for Secondary Vocational Schools and Colleges

1. The criteria for assessing the quality of secondary vocational schools and colleges (hereinafter referred to as schools):

Criterion 1 - Mission, Objectives, Organization, and Management;

Criterion 2 - Training Activities;

Criterion 3 - Teachers, Managers, Civil Servants, and Workers;

Criterion 4 - Training Programs and Textbooks;

Criterion 5 - Infrastructure and Training Equipment;

Criterion 6 - Scientific Research and International Cooperation;

Criterion 7 - Students and Support Activities for Students;

Criterion 8 - Quality Monitoring and Assessment.

2. Each standard that meets the requirements will be awarded 2 points, while a standard that does not meet the requirements will receive 0 points. A standard meeting the requirements is determined based on the school fulfilling the standard over two years including one year prior to the assessment year and the assessment year for secondary vocational schools, and three years including two years prior to the assessment year and the assessment year for colleges. The table summarizing the criteria, number of standards, and standard points for each criterion is attached as Appendix 1.

Article 4. Criteria and Standards for Assessing the Quality of Secondary Vocational Schools and Colleges

1. Criterion 1 - Mission, Objectives, Organization, and Management

a) Standard 1.1: The mission and objectives of the school are clearly defined, consistent with its functions, tasks, development orientation, and human resource needs in industry development strategies/national and local socio-economic development strategies, and are publicly disclosed.

b) Standard 1.2: The school has regulations on organization and operation, which clearly delineate the functions and responsibilities of units under and affiliated with the school, consistent with the mission, objectives, structure of majors, scale of training, and other relevant factors.

c) Standard 1.3: The school has established and operates a quality assurance system.

d) Standard 1.4: Annually, the quality assurance system of the school is evaluated and measures are taken to improve its effectiveness and efficiency in management.

đ) Standard 1.5: The Board of Directors or School Council (Party Committee, Rectorate for military-affiliated schools), Party organizations, mass organizations, and other advisory councils are established according to regulations; strategic orientations are set up in line with the mission and objectives of the school.

2. Criterion 2 - Training Activities

a) Standard 2.1: Admissions regulations and recruitment plans and policies are developed and implemented in accordance with the training programs of the school's majors and trades.

b) Standard 2.2: The school recruits students according to a plan ensuring fairness, objectivity, and improving the quality of incoming students. Recruitment activities are monitored, supervised, and improved to ensure their appropriateness and effectiveness.

c) Standard 2.3: The school establishes and enforces training, examination, testing, and graduation certification regulations. Training forms, methods, and approaches are diverse and appropriate to the goals and content of each training program.

d) Standard 2.4: The school develops and implements training plans for each class, course, semester, and academic year. Detailed training plans include modules, subjects, theoretical and practical hours, and internships suitable for the training form to enable students to meet the exit standards.

đ) Standard 2.5: Training activities are carried out according to the approved training program objectives and content; there is cooperation with employers or other organizations and individuals in organizing and guiding students' practical training and internships.

e) Standard 2.6: The school applies information technology in management and training organization, including distance learning (if applicable).

g) Standard 2.7: Annually, the school has plans and organizes monitoring and supervision of teaching and learning activities according to the schedule. Timely adjustments are made to teaching and learning activities based on recommendations from inspection reports to enhance training quality.

h) Standard 2.8: Methods and tools for evaluating students' academic performance and discipline are designed appropriately; they are reviewed, assessed, and improved to ensure accuracy, fairness, objectivity, and alignment with exit standards.

3. Criterion 3 - Teachers, Managers, Civil Servants, and Workers

a) Standard 3.1: Recruitment procedures, planning, training, and development processes for teachers and managers at the school are issued and implemented; annually reviewed, assessed, and improved.

b) Standard 3.2: The school fully implements policies and benefits for teachers, managers, civil servants, and workers. Annually, the school develops training and development plans to standardize and improve the quality of the teacher workforce, subject to approval by the competent authority.

c) Standard 3.3: The school's teaching staff meets professional and current standards in terms of quantity and structure of majors and trades to meet the training requirements of the school.

d) Standard 3.4: Teachers teach according to the content, objectives, and requirements of the training program and comply with related training organization regulations.

đ) Standard 3.5: The school has policies and measures to encourage teachers to study and self-improve their professional and vocational skills, and to innovate teaching methods.

e) Standard 3.6: Teachers regularly participate in training, development, and internships to update knowledge, technology, and professional skills or as required by specific training majors and trades.

g) Standard 3.7: The school's management staff meet the standards and fulfill assigned powers and responsibilities. The civil servant and worker staff have sufficient numbers and professional capabilities to meet job requirements. Management staff, civil servants, and workers are regularly trained and updated to improve their professional and vocational skills.

4. Criterion 4 - Training Program, Textbooks

a) Standard 4.1: The school issues and implements quality assurance procedures for the development, selection, revision, and supplementation of training programs. The process of developing and evaluating training programs involves participation from labor users and related parties.

b) Criterion 4.2: The institution fully issues all training programs and the graduation standards for each training program that has been certified to operate vocational education.

c) Criterion 4.3: The graduation standards of the training programs meet the requirements of the National Qualification Framework of Vietnam for vocational education levels, align with the objectives of vocational education, industry and profession requirements, and are publicly disclosed.

d) Criterion 4.4: Training programs are regularly reviewed, evaluated, updated, and improved in quality to meet labor market demands and industry development.

đ) Criterion 4.5: The institution issues and implements quality assurance procedures regarding the construction, selection, modification, and supplementation of training course materials. The process of developing and assessing training course materials involves the participation of experienced professionals and managers from the relevant industries and professions, as well as other stakeholders.

e) Criterion 4.6: The institution fully issues course materials for each module and subject within the training program. Specific course materials detail the content knowledge and skill requirements for each module and subject within the training program and are consistent with teaching methods.

g) Criterion 4.7: Course materials are periodically reviewed, evaluated, and updated according to regulations to meet changes in the training program.

5. Criterion 5 - Physical Facilities and Training Equipment

a) Criterion 5.1: The institution issues and implements management procedures and tools for equipment, workshops, classrooms, and other functional rooms to meet training, research, student service, and other institutional activity needs.

b) Criterion 5.2: The overall planning of the institution's campuses is suitable for their functions and environmentally sustainable. The institution's technical infrastructure complies with current standards and regulations, meeting training, production, service, and living needs.

c) Criterion 5.3: Administrative areas, theoretical learning areas, practical learning areas, physical training areas, service areas, and other facilities serving student and faculty life are equipped with appropriate physical facilities and training equipment based on the profession, scale, and level of training, ensuring technological requirements and environmental protection.

d) Criterion 5.4: Standards for the environment, safety, and occupational health are established and implemented by the institution, including essential needs and conditions for persons with disabilities (if applicable) and non-discrimination based on gender.

đ) Criterion 5.5: Training equipment and tools meet the requirements for organizing training programs and are managed, maintained, and arranged appropriately, ensuring pedagogical, health and safety, and environmental hygiene requirements.

e) Criterion 5.6: The institution issues and implements management procedures for the distribution of raw, fuel, and material supplies. These supplies are reasonably allocated, fully meeting the needs according to the training plan and schedule, and are effectively reused.

g) Criterion 5.7: The institution has a library including electronic reading rooms; reading rooms for staff and teachers; reading rooms for students; book storage areas that meet design standards and usage area quotas.

h) Criterion 5.8: Libraries and learning resources are comprehensive and appropriate, regularly updated, and utilize advancements in information technology for management and use, effectively supporting teaching, learning, and research activities of teachers, managers, employees, workers, and students.

6. Criterion 6: Scientific Research and International Cooperation

a) Criterion 6.1: The institution issues regulations and implements policies to encourage managers, teachers, employees, workers, and students to participate in scientific research, innovation initiatives, and technology transfer to enhance training effectiveness and quality and serve the community.

b) Criterion 6.2: Annually, the institution organizes the implementation of scientific research projects and innovation initiatives at the institutional level or higher, which are applied directly to the institution's training work and serve the community.

c) Criterion 6.3: Annually, the institution publishes articles by teachers, managers, employees, and workers in specialized journals or equivalent publications.

d) Criterion 6.4: There are cooperative activities with foreign schools or organizations contributing to improving the institution's training quality.

7. Criterion 7: Students and Student Support Activities

a) Criterion 7.1: Information about professions, training programs, and the implementation of training regulations, examinations, graduation recognition, school rules and regulations, and student policies and benefits is clearly, comprehensively, and publicly disclosed.

b) Criterion 7.2: Students enjoy policies and benefits as prescribed, ensuring their rights and creating opportunities for policy-targeted students to access vocational training and establish careers. Students are respected and treated equally without discrimination based on gender, religion, or origin.

c) Criterion 7.3: The institution has policies and implements policies to reward and motivate students who achieve high academic and disciplinary results; timely support is provided during the learning process to help them complete their studies.

d) Criterion 7.4: Students are given opportunities to participate in cultural, artistic, sports, scientific research, and other social activities to develop their qualities and capabilities comprehensively.

đ) Criterion 7.5: Student service and support activities, as well as the monitoring and management system, are regularly reviewed and improved to meet the needs of students and related parties.

8. Criterion 8 - Monitoring and Evaluating Quality

a) Criterion 8.1: Graduation rates and dropout rates are established, monitored, and compared (if applicable) to improve quality.

b) Criterion 8.2: The institution implements a feedback survey system from employers and other stakeholders regarding the graduates' performance in production, business, and services. Feedback information and stakeholder needs are used as a basis for evaluating and improving related policies to enhance the institution's service quality.

c) Standard 8.3: The institution establishes and implements procedures and tools to survey teachers and managers on policies related to teaching and learning, recruitment policies, training, development, and appointment of management staff and teachers; uses the results of the survey to conduct evaluations and improve relevant policies to ensure and enhance the quality of training.

d) Standard 8.4: The institution establishes and implements procedures and tools to survey students on the quality and effectiveness of various forms of training, service quality, teaching, and the implementation of policies related to students; uses the results of the survey to conduct evaluations and improve relevant policies to ensure and enhance the quality of training.

đ) Standard 8.5: The institution conducts self-assessment activities for quality, has plans to implement quality assessment of the institution; has plans and measures to implement improvements and enhancements to the quality of training based on the results of self-assessment and external assessments (if any).

e) Standard 8.6: Within twelve months from graduation, at least eighty percent of graduates have employment.

Article 5. Meeting and not meeting quality assessment standards

1. Meeting quality assessment standards

An institution is evaluated as meeting the quality assessment standards of vocational education institutions when it meets the following requirements:

a) The total score of the evaluation criteria for quality assessment reaches 80 points or more;

b) The score of each quality assessment criterion reaches 60% of the standard points of that criterion;

c) The scores of criteria 2, 3, 4, and 5 reach 80% of the standard points or more.

2. Not meeting quality assessment standards

An institution is evaluated as not meeting the quality assessment standards of vocational education institutions when it does not meet the requirements stipulated in Clause 1 of this Article.

Section 2

CRITERIA AND STANDARDS FOR QUALITY ASSESSMENT OF VOCATIONAL EDUCATION CENTERS

VOCATIONAL EDUCATION

Article 6. Criteria and scoring for vocational education centers

1. Quality assessment criteria for vocational education centers (hereinafter referred to as centers):

Criterion 1 - Mission, Objectives, Organization, and Management;

Criterion 2 - Training Activities;

Criterion 3 - Teachers, Managers, Civil Servants, and Workers;

Criterion 4 - Training Programs and Textbooks;

Criterion 5 - Infrastructure and Training Equipment;

Criterion 6 - Students and support activities for students;

Criterion 7 - Monitoring and evaluating quality.

2. Each standard that meets the requirements receives four points, and a standard that does not meet the requirements receives zero points. A standard that meets the requirements is determined based on the center fulfilling the standard and maintaining it for at least one year up to the time of evaluation. The summary table of criteria, number of standards, and standard points for each criterion is attached in Appendix 2.

Article 7. Criteria and standards for quality assessment of vocational education centers

1. Criterion 1 - Mission, Objectives, Organization, and Management

a) Standard 1.1: The mission and objectives of the center are clearly defined, appropriate to its functions, tasks, development orientation, and consistent with human resource requirements in industry and local development strategies.

b) Standard 1.2: Regulations on organization and management of the center are established to ensure autonomy and responsibility, reviewed, and adjusted annually. Party organizations, mass organizations, and advisory councils are established according to regulations.

c) Standard 1.3: Functions, tasks, and responsibilities of specialized departments, units, and subordinate units of the center are clearly defined, appropriate to the industry structure, scale of training, and mission and objectives of the center.

2. Criterion 2 - Training Activities

a) Standard 2.1: Admissions regulations and recruitment plans and policies are developed and implemented in accordance with training programs, ensuring fairness and objectivity. Recruitment activities are monitored and improved to ensure appropriateness and effectiveness.

b) Standard 2.2: Training methods are diverse, suitable for the goals and content of each training program, meeting student needs and center conditions. Teaching methods combine practical skill training with theoretical knowledge, promoting students' initiative, self-discipline, teamwork skills, and group work. Assessment methods are designed appropriately, reviewed, evaluated, and improved to ensure accuracy, fairness, objectivity, and alignment with graduation standards.

c) Standard 2.3: The center develops and implements detailed training plans for each class, course, semester, or session. Training plans include modules, subjects, theoretical and practical hours, and internships to meet graduation standards.

d) Standard 2.4: Training activities are conducted according to approved training program goals and content; there is cooperation with employers or other organizations in organizing and guiding students in practical and internship activities.

3. Criterion 3 - Teachers, Managers, Civil Servants, and Workers

a) Standard 3.1: The center establishes regulations on recruitment, planning, training, and development of teachers, managers, civil servants, and workers. It fully implements teacher, manager, civil servant, and worker policies and systems. Annually, the center develops training and development plans to standardize and improve the quality of the teaching staff, which are approved by competent authorities.

b) Standard 3.2: The center's teaching staff and managers meet current professional and qualification standards, ensuring sufficient numbers, industry structure, and levels to meet training requirements.

c) Standard 3.3: Teachers teach according to training program goals; fully and effectively perform assigned training tasks.

d) Standard 3.4: Annually, the center plans and implements training and development programs to improve the professional and technical qualifications of teachers. Teachers regularly participate in training, development, and internships at employing organizations to update their knowledge, technology, and occupational skills or to meet specific industry requirements.

4. Criterion 4 - Training Program, Textbooks

a) Standard 4.1: The center issues complete training programs and graduation standards for each program. The process of developing and evaluating training programs involves the participation of labor users. Graduation standards for training programs meet the requirements of the National Qualification Framework for vocational education levels, align with the goals of vocational education, industry and profession training requirements, and are publicly disclosed.

b) Standard 4.2: Training programs are regularly reviewed, evaluated, updated, and improved to meet the demands of the labor market and the development of industries and localities.

c) Standard 4.3: Textbooks are compiled, selected, evaluated, and issued for use as teaching and learning materials, concretizing the knowledge and skill requirements of each module and subject within the training program, facilitating active teaching methods.

d) Standard 4.4: Textbooks are regularly assessed, updated, and supplemented to be consistent with production techniques and services, meeting the innovation requirements of the training program.

5. Criterion 5 - Physical Facilities and Training Equipment

a) Standard 5.1: The overall planning of the center's premises is appropriate to their functions and environmentally sustainable. The technical infrastructure system of the center complies with current standards and regulations, meeting the needs of training, production, services, and living activities.

b) Standard 5.2: Classrooms, specialized classrooms, practical areas, experimental zones, and physical education areas have facilities and training equipment suitable for professions, scale, and training levels, ensuring technological requirements and environmental protection.

c) Standard 5.3: Training equipment and tools meet the requirements for implementing training programs; they are managed, maintained, and serviced to ensure pedagogical, health safety, and environmental hygiene requirements.

d) Standard 5.4: The center manages and distributes raw materials, fuels, and materials promptly and adequately according to the training plan and schedule. There are sufficient textbooks and course materials in printed or electronic form to serve students, teachers, management staff, and researchers.

6. Criterion 6 - Students and Support Activities for Students

a) Standard 6.1: Information about professions, training programs, and their implementation: Training regulations; examination, testing, and graduation recognition regulations; center rules and policies for students are clearly described, fully detailed, and publicly disclosed.

b) Standard 6.2: Students are ensured to enjoy benefits and policies as prescribed; they are respected and treated equally without discrimination based on ethnicity, religion, beliefs, gender, personal characteristics, family background, social status, or economic circumstances.

c) Standard 6.3: The center has policies and implements policies to reward, encourage, and motivate students to achieve high academic and discipline results; timely support is provided during the study period to fulfill study tasks; job placement counseling is offered to graduates.

7. Criterion 7 - Monitoring and Quality Assessment

a) Standard 7.1: Annually, the center conducts surveys of students in various training professions regarding the quality and effectiveness of training forms and methods; service and teaching quality; and the implementation of policies related to students; feedback from labor user units and relevant parties on the level of satisfaction of graduates is collected.

b) Standard 7.2: The center carries out self-assessment activities; specific plans and measures are implemented to improve and enhance training quality based on feedback, self-assessment results, and external assessment results (if available).

c) Standard 7.3: The center ensures that at least 80% of its graduates find employment within six months of graduation.

Article 8. Meeting and Not Meeting Quality Assessment Standards

1. Meeting quality assessment standards

The Center shall be evaluated as meeting the quality assessment standards for vocational education institutions if it satisfies the following requirements:

a) The total score of the evaluation criteria for quality assessment reaches 80 points or more;

b) The evaluation score of criteria 2, 3, 4, and 5 reaches 75% of the standard score of each criterion or more;

c) The evaluation score of criteria 1, 6, and 7 reaches 50% of the standard score of each criterion or more.

2. Not meeting quality assessment standards

The Center shall be evaluated as not meeting the quality assessment standards for vocational education institutions if it does not satisfy the requirements stipulated in Clause 1 of this Article.

Chapter III

CRITERIA AND STANDARDS FOR QUALITY ASSESSMENT OF VOCATIONAL EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

TRAINING PROGRAMS

Section 1

QUALITY ASSESSMENT CRITERIA AND STANDARDS FOR TRAINING PROGRAMS

INTERMEDIATE AND HIGHER VOCATIONAL TRAINING PROGRAMS

Article 9. Criteria and Evaluation Scores for Intermediate and Higher Vocational Training Programs

1. Criteria

Criterion 1 - Program Objectives and Graduation Standards;

Criterion 2 - Program Structure and Content, Textbooks;

Criterion 3 - Training Activities;

Criterion 4 - Teaching Staff, Management Personnel, Civil Servants, and Workers;

Criterion 5 - Physical Facilities, Training Equipment, and Learning Materials;

Criterion 6 - Students and support activities for students;

Criterion 7 - Monitoring and evaluating quality.

2. The evaluation score for each standard that meets the requirement is 2.5 points, and for those that do not meet the requirement is 0 points. A standard is considered to meet the requirement based on the school's compliance with the standard over two years, including one year before the evaluation year and the evaluation year for intermediate vocational training programs, and three years, including two years before the evaluation year and the evaluation year for higher vocational training programs. The summary table of criteria, number of standards, and standard scores for each criterion is attached as Appendix 3.

Article 10. Quality Assessment Criteria and Standards for Intermediate and Higher Vocational Training Programs

1. Criterion 1 - Program Objectives and Graduation Standards

a) Standard 1.1: The program objectives are clearly defined, consistent with the mission of the institution, vocational education goals, and labor market demands.

b) Standard 1.2: The graduation standards of the program are clearly defined, meeting the requirements of the National Qualification Framework for vocational education levels, industry and occupation training requirements, learner needs, employer needs, other stakeholders' needs, and are publicly disclosed.

c) Standard 1.3: The graduation standards of the program integrate digital skills to meet the requirements of digital transformation in vocational education.

2. Criterion 2 - Program Structure and Content, Textbooks

a) Standard 2.1: The training program contains complete information, has a logical structure, is flexible, and is updated, approved, and issued.

b) Standard 2.2: The program content meets changes in science and technology, production, business, service requirements, and labor market demands or industry-specific demands.

c) Standard 2.3: The program is designed and developed based on the needs and feedback from relevant parties, ensuring the achievement of graduation standards. Each course or module must reflect its position, role, and progress towards achieving the program's graduation standards.

d) Standard 2.4: The program is regularly reviewed, assessed, updated, and improved to meet labor market demands and industry development.

đ) Standard 2.5: Textbooks are compiled, selected, reviewed, and issued sufficiently for all modules and courses in the training program.

e) Standard 2.6: Textbooks specify knowledge and skill requirements for each module and course in the program, facilitating active teaching methods and ensuring compliance with industry and occupation training requirements.

g) Standard 2.7: Textbooks are regularly reviewed, assessed, and updated according to regulations, reflecting program innovations.

3. Criterion 3 - Training Activities

a) Standard 3.1: Admissions policies are clearly defined, publicly disclosed, and updated. Admission counseling activities help learners choose appropriate training fields and occupations, leveraging their strengths and abilities. Admission results achieve at least 80% of the planned enrollment targets set by the training institution.

b) Standard 3.2: Training methods are suitable for the content and objectives of each module and course, contributing to achieving program objectives and graduation standards.

c) Standard 3.3: Teaching and learning activities promote learners' proactivity, self-awareness, independent work ability, teamwork organization, and the development of occupational skills, lifelong learning, and self-study habits.

d) Standard 3.4: The institution collaborates with employers to organize and guide learners in practical training and internships at workplaces.

đ) Standard 3.5: The institution establishes, issues, and implements procedures for assessing and grading learners' academic performance and discipline, issuing diplomas fairly and transparently, and maintaining complete and clear records.

e) Standard 3.6: Various assessment methods for learners' academic performance are compatible with program graduation standards and teaching and learning objectives.

g) Standard 3.7: Learner assessment results are compiled, analyzed, and promptly fed back to improve teaching and learning.

4. Criterion 4 - Teaching Staff, Management Personnel, Civil Servants, and Workers

a) Standard 4.1: Teaching staff participating in instruction have professional qualifications meeting the standards, capable of fulfilling the training program requirements and related organizational training regulations.

b) Standard 4.2: Teaching staff are assigned tasks commensurate with their expertise, capabilities, and experience. Ensuring sufficient teaching staff for all modules and courses within the training program, maintaining appropriate student-to-class ratio and student-to-instructor ratio.

c) Standard 4.3: There is a plan to develop the teaching staff in terms of quantity and quality to implement the training program. Teachers actively participate in scientific research and related competitions in their field of expertise.

d) Standard 4.4: The need for training, development, and professional advancement of teachers is systematically determined, planned, and implemented through activities to meet such needs. Teachers are regularly provided with opportunities for learning, training, and practical experience to update their knowledge, technology, and enhance their occupational skills or as required by specific training programs.

đ) Standard 4.5: The cadre of management staff, employees, and workers implementing the training program in the department or faculty must meet the requirements regarding professional expertise and effectively carry out tasks in building and organizing the implementation of the training program; they are regularly provided with opportunities for learning and training to improve their professional expertise.

e) Standard 4.6: The teaching staff, management cadres, employees, and workers implementing the training program in the department or faculty enjoy benefits and policies as prescribed. Policies encouraging continuous improvement of the quality of the training program are implemented for teachers and management cadres who have achieved notable results.

5. Criterion 5 - Physical infrastructure, training equipment, and learning materials

a) Standard 5.1: Classrooms, specialized classrooms, practical areas ensure current physical infrastructure standards, technological requirements, and environmental sustainability. Environmental, health, and safety standards are established and implemented, including essential needs and conditions for persons with disabilities and non-discrimination based on gender.

b) Standard 5.2: Training equipment and tools are adequately available in quantity and variety, meeting the requirements for organizing and implementing the training program.

c) Standard 5.3: Training equipment and tools are managed, maintained, and arranged reasonably, ensuring pedagogical requirements, health and safety, and environmental hygiene.

d) Standard 5.4: The school issues and implements procedures for managing and distributing raw materials, fuels, and supplies. These items are neatly organized and arranged, fully meeting the planned and scheduled training needs and are efficiently reused.

đ) Standard 5.5: Libraries and learning resources are adequate and appropriate; they are updated and utilize advancements in information technology for effective management and use, supporting teaching, learning, research activities of teachers, management cadres, employees, workers, students, and other related activities in implementing the training program.

e) Standard 5.6: Training equipment, tools, and online training conditions are suitable and updated to meet the requirements of the training program.

6. Criterion 6 - Students and Support Activities for Students

a) Standard 6.1: Information about the field, profession, training program, examination regulations, graduation recognition criteria, school rules and policies for students is clearly, comprehensively, and publicly disclosed.

b) Standard 6.2: Students are ensured to benefit from prescribed policies and incentives, including reward policies for high academic achievement and personal development. Students are timely supported during their studies to complete their academic tasks.

c) Standard 6.3: Students are advised on their studies and provided opportunities to participate in extracurricular, cultural, artistic, sports, scientific research, entrepreneurship activities, and counseling on labor market, employment, and career development.

d) Standard 6.4: Study advisory activities, extracurricular activities, movement activities, and other support services help improve students' learning and employability after graduation. Pedagogical environment and landscape facilitate students' learning, training, and personal development.

7. Criterion 7 - Monitoring and Quality Assessment

a) Standard 7.1: Policies, processes, and tools ensuring the quality of program development, selection, modification, and issuance are established, operated, evaluated, and improved.

b) Standard 7.2: The quality of support services and facilities in study and training areas and other services is monitored, evaluated, and improved.

c) Standard 7.3: A system for surveying and collecting feedback from employers and relevant parties on the level of satisfaction of graduates and the suitability of the training program with production, business, and service practices is established. Feedback and the needs of relevant parties are used as a basis for designing and developing the training program.

d) Standard 7.4: The school conducts self-assessment of the quality of the training program and implements measures to improve quality.

đ) Standard 7.5: Graduation rates, dropout rates, and average graduation times are established, monitored, and compared (if applicable) to improve quality.

e) Standard 7.6: Data on the attainment of exit standards by training program students is established and monitored. Satisfaction levels of graduates, employers, and relevant parties are established, monitored, and compared to improve quality.

g) Standard 7.7: Employment rates, entrepreneurship rates, and further education rates of students after graduation are established, monitored, and compared (if applicable) to improve quality. Within twelve months of graduation, at least eighty percent of graduating students are employed.

Article 11. Meeting and not meeting the quality assessment standards for training programs

1. Meeting quality assessment standards

A vocational training program at the intermediate level or college level shall be assessed as meeting the quality assessment standards for vocational education when it satisfies the following requirements:

a) The total score of the evaluation criteria for quality assessment reaches 80 points or more;

b) The evaluation score of criteria 2, 4, 5, and 7 reaches 75% or more of the standard score for each criterion;

c) The evaluation score of criteria 1, 3, and 6 reaches 50% or more of the standard score for each criterion.

2. Not meeting quality assessment standards

A vocational training program at the intermediate level or college level shall be assessed as not meeting the quality assessment standards for vocational education when it does not satisfy the requirements stipulated in Clause 1 of this Article.

Section 2

CRITERIA AND STANDARDS FOR QUALITY ASSESSMENT OF TRAINING PROGRAMS AT THE PRIMARY LEVEL

TRAINING FOR PRIMARY LEVEL QUALIFICATIONS

Article 12. Criteria and evaluation points for primary level training programs

1. Criteria

Criterion 1 - Objectives and graduation standards of the training program;

Criterion 2 - Program Structure and Content, Textbooks;

Criterion 3 - Training Activities;

Criterion 4 - Teaching staff, management personnel, civil servants, and workers;

Criterion 5 - Physical Facilities, Training Equipment, and Learning Materials;

Criterion 6 - Students and support activities for students;

Criterion 7 - Monitoring and evaluating quality.

Each standard that meets the requirements is awarded 4 points, while a standard that does not meet the requirements receives 0 points. The standard is considered met if the training institution participates in vocational education activities and meets the standard for at least one year up to the time of the training program evaluation. The summary table of criteria, the number of standards, and the standard scores for each criterion is provided in Appendix 4.

Article 13. Criteria and standards for quality assessment of primary level training programs

1. Criterion 1 - Program Objectives and Graduation Standards

a) Standard 1.1: The objectives of the training program are clearly defined, consistent with the mission of the training institution, aligned with the goals of vocational education, and responsive to labor market demands.

b) Standard 1.2: The graduation standards of the program are clearly defined, meeting the requirements of the National Qualification Framework for vocational education levels, industry and occupation training requirements, learner needs, employer needs, other stakeholders' needs, and are publicly disclosed.

2. Criterion 2 - Program Structure and Content, Textbooks

a) Standard 2.1: The training program contains complete information, has a logical structure, is flexible, and has been approved and issued. Each course or module must reflect its position, role, and progress towards achieving the graduation standards of the training program. The content of the training program adapts to changes in science and technology, production, business, service requirements, and meets the needs of enterprises and the labor market.

b) Standard 2.2: The training program is designed and developed based on the needs and feedback from stakeholders, ensuring the achievement of graduation standards; it is regularly reviewed, evaluated, updated, and improved to meet the demands of the labor market and the development of industries and localities.

c) Standard 2.3: Textbooks are compiled, selected, reviewed, and issued according to regulations, ensuring sufficient textbooks for all modules and courses in the training program. Textbooks detail the knowledge and skill requirements for each module and course within the training program; they are compatible with production, business, and service technologies, and meet the specific requirements of the industry and profession.

d) Standard 2.4: Textbooks are regularly reviewed, evaluated, and updated according to regulations, keeping pace with the changes in the training program.

3. Criterion 3 - Training Activities

a) Standard 3.1: The admission policy is clearly defined, publicly announced, and updated. Admission counseling activities help students choose the right field of study, leveraging their strengths and interests.

b) Standard 3.2: Training methods are suitable for the content and objectives of each module and course, contributing to achieving program objectives and graduation standards.

c) Standard 3.3: Teaching and learning activities promote the initiative and self-discipline of students, encouraging the development of occupational skills, self-study skills, and lifelong learning.

d) Standard 3.4: The organization of examinations, evaluations, and certification of graduates is conducted fairly and transparently; records are fully documented and clear. Evaluation methods for student performance are diverse, compatible with the graduation standards of the training program and teaching objectives.

4. Criterion 4 - Teaching Staff, Management Personnel, Civil Servants, and Workers

a) Standard 4.1: Teaching staff participating in instruction have professional qualifications meeting the standards, capable of fulfilling the training program requirements and related organizational training regulations.

b) Standard 4.2: Teachers are assigned tasks commensurate with their qualifications, abilities, and experience. It ensures that all modules and courses in the training program have qualified teachers; it maintains appropriate student-to-class ratio and teacher-to-student ratio.

c) Standard 4.3: Teachers deliver instruction according to the training program's objectives and fully implement the training program with quality. Teachers regularly engage in further education, training, and practical work at actual production, business, and service sites relevant to the industry and profession, and their training needs.

d) Standard 4.4: Management personnel, civil servants, and workers meet the requirements for professional qualifications and effectively perform their duties in building and implementing the training program; they are regularly trained to enhance their professional qualifications.

5. Criterion 5 - Physical infrastructure, training equipment, and learning materials

a) Standard 5.1: Classrooms, specialized classrooms, practice areas, and experimental zones have facilities and equipment suitable for the profession, scale, and level of training, ensuring technological and environmental protection requirements.

b) Standard 5.2: Training equipment and tools meet the requirements of the training program, are managed, maintained, and arranged appropriately, ensuring pedagogical, health safety, and environmental hygiene requirements.

c) Standard 5.3: Raw materials, fuels, and materials are neatly organized, convenient, and adequately supplied according to the training plan and schedule; they are efficiently reused. The training institution provides sufficient, appropriate, and updated learning materials to support teaching and learning activities.

d) Standard 5.4: Training equipment and tools, as well as online training conditions, are suitable and updated to meet the requirements of the training program.

6. Criterion 6 - Students and Support Activities for Students

a) Standard 6.1: Information about fields, professions, training programs, examination rules, graduation recognition procedures, institutional internal regulations, and policies for students is clearly described, comprehensive, and easily accessible.

b) Standard 6.2: Students enjoy benefits and policies as prescribed, including incentive policies for high academic and discipline achievements. Students are promptly supported during their studies to fulfill their academic responsibilities.

c) Standard 6.3: Students receive academic counseling, opportunities to participate in extracurricular cultural, artistic, and sports activities; they are advised on the job market, employment, and career development.

7. Criterion 7 - Monitoring and Quality Assessment

a) Standard 7.1: The teaching and learning process, as well as the evaluation of students' learning outcomes, are regularly reviewed and assessed to ensure compatibility and alignment with the exit standards. Test results and student evaluations are promptly compiled, analyzed, and fed back to improve teaching and learning.

b) Standard 7.2: Training institutions conduct self-assessment of program quality and implement measures for continuous improvement to ensure and enhance quality.

c) Standard 7.3: The employment rate, including self-employment and further education, of graduates is established, monitored, and compared (if applicable) to improve quality.

d) Standard 7.4: Within six months of graduation, at least eighty percent of graduates have secured employment.

Article 14: Meeting and Not Meeting Quality Assurance Standards for Vocational Education Programs

1. Meeting quality assessment standards

A vocational training program at the basic level of a profession or trade shall be deemed to meet the quality assurance standards for vocational education when it satisfies the following requirements:

a) The total score of the evaluation criteria for quality assessment reaches 80 points or more;

b) The evaluation scores of criteria 2, 4, 5, and 7 reach seventy-five percent or more of the standard score for each criterion.

c) The evaluation scores of criteria 1, 3, and 6 reach fifty percent or more of the standard score for each criterion.

2. Not meeting quality assessment standards

A training program shall be deemed not to meet the quality assurance standards for vocational education if it fails to satisfy the requirements stipulated in Clause 1 of this Article.

Chapter IV

IMPLEMENTATION

Article 15. Responsibilities of Direct Management Agencies of Vocational Education Institutions, Enterprises, and Other Entities Engaged in Vocational Education Activities

Create favorable conditions for vocational education institutions, enterprises, and other entities engaged in vocational education activities to strive to meet the quality assurance standards for vocational education.

Article 16. Responsibilities of Vocational Education Institutions, Enterprises, and Other Entities Engaged in Vocational Education Activities

1. Develop plans and organize the implementation of the provisions of this Circular to ensure and improve the quality of training.

2. Conduct self-assessment of quality in accordance with the provisions of this Circular and other relevant regulations.

Article 17. Effective Date

1. This Circular takes effect from February 15, 2025. Circular No. 15/2017/TT-BLDTBXH dated June 8, 2017, issued by the Minister of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs on the criteria and standards for quality assurance in vocational education, shall cease to be effective from the date this Circular comes into force, except as provided for in Clause 2 of this Article.

2. For vocational education institutions and training programs that undergo external evaluation thirty days prior to the effective date of this Circular, they shall continue to complete the evaluation and recognize the quality until the institution completes the external evaluation and organizes the recognition of vocational education quality, but not later than ninety days from the date this Circular comes into force.

3. During the implementation period, if any issues arise or difficulties occur, please report to the Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs (through the General Department of Vocational Education) for prompt consideration and resolution./.

ANNEX 01:

(Issued together with Circular No. 14/2024/TT-BLDTBXH dated December 31, 2024 of the Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs)

ofSTANDARDS FOR QUALITY ASSURANCE CRITERIA

Criterion 1 - Mission, Objectives, Organization, and Management

CRITERIA AND STANDARDS FOR QUALITY ASSESSMENT

(Issued together with Circular No. 14/2024/TT-BLDTBXH dated December 31,

VOCATIONAL EDUCATION CENTER December 2024

of the Ministry of Labor, War Invalids, and Social Affairs)

Criterion 1 - Mission, Objectives, Organization, and Management

Criterion 6 - Students and Support Activities for Students

STANDARDS FOR QUALITY ASSURANCE CRITERIA

VOCATIONAL EDUCATION CENTER December 2024

of the Ministry of Labor, War Invalids, and Social Affairs)

STANDARDS FOR QUALITY ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

CHAPTER TRAINING PROGRAM FOR VOCATIONAL AND COLLEGE LEVELS

ANNEX 04:

VOCATIONAL EDUCATION CENTER December 2024

of the Ministry of Labor, War Invalids, and Social Affairs)

Criterion 1 - Mission, Objectives, Organization, and Management

TRAINING PROGRAM FOR PRIMARY LEVEL