U.S. and Vietnam Launch Landmark Higher Education Delegation

HANOI, March 10, 2025 – In celebration of 30 years of U.S.–Vietnam relations, the U.S. Mission to Vietnam, in partnership with the Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training and the Institute of International Education, proudly announces the International Academic Partnership Program. More than 40 senior leaders from 21 highly rated American universities will embark on a five-day study tour of Vietnam from March 31 to April 4 to forge new partnerships and strengthen academic collaboration with their Vietnamese counterparts.

This higher education delegation represents American public and private institutions in 17 states, ranging from research universities to community colleges. They will explore Vietnam’s higher education landscape through campus visits, networking events, and meetings with government and private sector stakeholders.

More than 30,000 students from Vietnam were enrolled at U.S. education institutions in the 2023/24 academic year, collectively contributing more than $1 billion to the U.S. economy.

“As we celebrate 30 years of diplomatic relations, this U.S. higher education delegation in Vietnam is a testament to the United States fulfilling its commitments under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” said Marc E. Knapper, U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam. “Expanding educational partnerships is crucial to the success of the U.S.-Vietnam relationship. By bringing together top universities from both nations, we are creating new pathways for students and researchers to thrive in both countries.”

“Higher education partnerships between the United States and Vietnam offer tremendous, mutually beneficial economic opportunities,” said Jason Czyz, President of the Institute of International Education. “Researchers from our two countries can collaborate on a variety of STEM fields and create training programs that prepare students for the future of work.”

Statement from the Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training: “The International Academic Partnership Program in Vietnam marks a bold step in expanding educational ties, fostering innovation, and enhancing student and faculty exchange between the two nations.”

The study tour is part of a comprehensive, 9-month program that includes guided strategic planning, mentorship, webinars, and seed grant opportunities. IIE’s Center for International Partnerships developed the International Academic Partnership Program in 2009 to guide higher education institutions seeking to internationalize their campuses through sustainable, mutually beneficial partnerships. Since its inception, the program has worked with more than 350 higher education institutions and 14 partner countries, including Norway, Thailand, Greece, New Zealand, and India.

For inquiries contact HanoiPressOffice@state.gov.

For more information about IAPP Vietnam, visit: IAPP Vietnam | IIE

LIST OF PARTICIPATING INSTITUTIONS