University Scholarship Program

Problem

Finance is the first obstacle that low-income students in Vietnam face when receiving their university admission letters. Much of the joy experienced from receiving an acceptance and admission into the university is overwhelmed by the fear of financial costs: tuition, housing rental, course materials, living expenses, and so forth. “To continue or to give up?” is a real question that many students ask. Giving up means closing the door to their future that just opened. But continuing means becoming a burden for their families. Faced with this dilemma, many students choose to return to a life of manual labor instead of pursuing their intellectual dreams.

Moreover, for low-income students, the first year at university is a transition to a completely new life. These students are forced to confront intimidating changes in their living environment. Most grew up in far-flung towns and provinces, and have come to the big cities for the first time for college. During this transition, if students are assured a relatively firm financial situation, they will have more confidence and be more motivated to explore and grow. At this juncture, financial support will be a safety net as well as the first catapult to launch them closer to their futures.