I. Introduction to IELTS Score Conversion for Admission to Thuongmai University

In 2024, Thuongmai University (TMU) introduced new regulations for applicants holding an IELTS Academic certificate of 5.5 or higher, or other equivalent English proficiency certificates. Specifically, candidates with these certifications are eligible for admission through the combined admission method.
A key highlight is that IELTS scores are converted into a 10-point scale for the 2024 university admissions process. Notably, this conversion can provide a significant advantage, as IELTS certificates can be converted into as many as 12 points, creating favorable conditions for candidates with strong English proficiency.
The specific points awarded under the IELTS combined admission method are as follows:
- IELTS 5.5 converts to 8 points
- IELTS 6.0 converts to 9 points
- IELTS 6.5 converts to 10 points
- IELTS 7.0 converts to 11 points
- IELTS 7.5 converts to 12 points
Refer to the 2024 Thuongmai University conversion table for IELTS and other certificates below.
| Certificate Type | Score | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Eligible Majors (Specializations) |
| Conversion Factor | 1.2 | 1.1 | 1.0 | 0.9 | 0.8 | ||
| Converted Score | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | ||
| – HSK | Level 6 | Level 5 | Level 4 | Chinese Language (Business Chinese) | |||
| – TCF | 600+ | 550 – 599 | 500 – 549 | 450 – 499 | 400 – 449 | Business Administration (Business French) | |
| – DELF | C2 | C1 | B2 | ||||
| – IELTS Academic | 7.5+ | 7.0 | 6.5 | 6.0 | 5.5 | All majors (specializations) | |
| – TOEFL iBT | 90+ | 83 – 89 | 74 – 82 | 63 – 73 | 50 – 62 | ||
| – SAT | 1401+ | 1301 – 1400 | 1201 – 1300 | 1101 – 1200 | 1000 – 1100 | ||
| – ACT | 31+ | 28 – 30 | 25 – 27 | 22 – 24 | 20 – 21 | ||
II. Details of the 2024 IELTS Combined Admission Method at Thuongmai University

1. Admission methods at Thuongmai University
In 2024, Thuongmai University offers 8 admission methods:
Independent admission methods:
- Direct admission: According to current regulations of the Ministry of Education and Training.
- Admission based on 2024 High School Graduation Exam results.
- Admission based on high school academic transcripts: Exclusively for students from specialized high schools nationwide, assessing academic results from grades 10, 11, and 12.
- Admission based on competency assessment exam results: Using results from the 2024 exam organized by Vietnam National University, Hanoi.
- Admission based on thinking assessment exam results: Using results from the 2024 exam organized by Hanoi University of Science and Technology.
Combined admission methods:
- Combining international certificates with High School Graduation Exam results: Candidates must hold a valid international certificate at the time of application and 2024 graduation exam scores.
- Combining international certificates with high school academic transcripts: Candidates must hold a valid international certificate at the time of application and provide 3-year high school academic records.
- Combining provincial/city-level Excellent Student awards with High School Graduation Exam results: Candidates must have achieved an award at the provincial/city level (or equivalent) and have 2024 graduation exam scores.
Note:
- Among the admission methods, two allow candidates to use valid international language certificates (including IELTS) in combination with either High School Graduation Exam scores or high school academic transcripts.
- For the method combining Excellent Student awards with graduation exam scores, the award must be at the provincial/city level or higher.
2. Combining international certificates with High School Graduation Exam results
2.1. Application requirements
Candidates must hold one of the following international certificates:
- IELTS Academic 5.5 or higher
- TOEFL iBT 50 or higher (excluding Home Edition)
- HSK Level 4 or higher
- TCF 400 or higher
- DELF B2/C1/C2
- SAT 1000 or higher
- ACT 20 or higher
To be eligible for admission via this method, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- IELTS Certificate: Must hold a valid IELTS Academic certificate of 5.5 or higher at the time of application.
- Quality threshold: Must meet the minimum entry quality requirements set by Thuongmai University.
- Total admission score: The sum of the two High School Graduation Exam subjects (Math and one of the following: Literature, Physics, or Chemistry) plus the converted international certificate score must be at least 20 points.
2.2. Admission score calculation formula
Admission Score = Method Score + Priority Points (if any)
- Calculation on a 30-point scale
Method Score = [Math Exam Score + Literature/Physics/Chemistry Exam Score + (Converted Certificate Score * 2)] * 30/44
Example:
A candidate has an IELTS 7.0 certificate (valid), which converts to 11 points.
High School Graduation Exam results: Math = 9, Physics = 9.
Method Score = [ 9 + 9 + (11 * 2)] * 30/44 = 27.27 (rounded to two decimal places)
- Calculation of priority points (if any)
When the Method Score is greater than 22.5, priority points are reduced according to the formula:
Priority Points = [(30 – Method Score) / 7.5] x Priority Point Value
Example: Candidate in Region 2 + Group 01 = 0.25 + 2 = 2.25
Priority Points = (30 – 27.27) / 7.5 x 2.25 = 0.819
- Final Admission Score
Admission Score = Method Score + Priority Points (if any)
Based on the examples above, Admission Score = 27.27 + 0.819 = 28.09 (rounded to two decimal places)
3. Combining international certificates with high school academic transcripts
3.1. Application requirements
Candidates must hold one of the following international certificates:
- IELTS Academic 5.5 or higher
- TOEFL iBT 50 or higher (excluding Home Edition)
- HSK Level 4 or higher
- TCF 400 or higher
- DELF B2/C1/C2
- SAT 1000 or higher
- ACT 20 or higher
Similarly, candidates with an IELTS Academic score of 5.5 or higher are eligible for admission via the combined high school transcript method at Thuongmai University.
Candidates must meet the minimum entry quality requirements. The total score of the two subjects (Math and Literature/Physics/Chemistry) and the converted international certificate score must be at least 20 points.
3.2. Admission score calculation
1. Calculation on a 30-point scale
Method Score = [Math Transcript Score + Literature/Physics/Chemistry Transcript Score + (Converted Certificate Score * 2)] * 30/44
Where:
Transcript Score: The average of the academic scores for grades 10, 11, and the first semester of grade 12 for the respective subject.
Example:
Candidate has an IELTS 6.0 certificate (valid): Converted score is 9 points.
– Math transcript score:
- Grade 10: 9.5
- Grade 11: 8.5
- Grade 12, Semester 1: 9.4
→ Math score = (9.5 + 8.5 + 9.4) / 3 = 9.1
– Literature transcript score:
- Grade 10: 8.2
- Grade 11: 8.0
- Grade 12, Semester 1: 8.5
→ Literature score = (8.2 + 8.0 + 8.5) / 3 = 8.2
Therefore:
Method Score = [9.1 (Math) + 8.2 (Literature) + (9 * 2) (Converted Certificate Score)] * 30 / 44 = 24.07 (rounded to two decimal places)
2. Calculation of priority points (if any)
If the Method Score is greater than 22.5, priority points are reduced according to the formula:
Priority Points = [(30 – Method Score) / 7.5] × Priority Point Value
Example:
Candidate in Region 2 and Group 01, Priority Point Value = 0.25 + 2 = 2.25
If the Method Score is 24.07, Priority Points are calculated as follows:
Priority Points = (30 – 24.07) / 7.5 × 2.25 = 1.78 (rounded to two decimal places)
3. Final Admission Score
Admission Score = Method Score + Priority Points (if any)
Using the example above:
Admission Score = 24.07 + 1.78 = 25.85 (rounded to two decimal places)
III. Benefits of using an IELTS certificate for admission to Thuongmai University

- Increase admission chances
Using an IELTS certificate is an effective way to boost your chances of getting into Thuongmai University. The certificate not only represents your English proficiency but also serves as a key factor in evaluating your overall potential. A high IELTS score can help you achieve a higher admission score, thereby increasing your chances of acceptance.
- Optimize your admission score
IELTS scores are converted to a 10-point scale and combined with academic or graduation exam scores. With a high IELTS score, you can “compensate” for other subjects, helping to raise your total admission score and providing a significant competitive advantage.
- Leverage the value of an international certificate
IELTS is a globally recognized international certificate. Using it not only helps during the admission process but also provides long-term value for your career. It proves your English proficiency and opens doors to study and work opportunities worldwide.
IV. Important notes when using IELTS for university admission
- An IELTS certificate does not guarantee admission
Simply holding an IELTS certificate does not guarantee you will be admitted. You must achieve a high overall admission score, which includes your academic results and other factors. Therefore, prepare thoroughly and do not rely solely on your IELTS score.
- Pay attention to the certificate’s validity
IELTS certificates are only valid for 2 years from the test date. Ensure your certificate remains valid throughout the admission period. If it expires, you will not be able to use it for your application.
- Check specific admission requirements
Each major may have its own minimum IELTS score requirements and specific subject combinations. Read the Thuongmai University admission guidelines carefully to understand these requirements.
- Prepare as early as possible
Preparing for IELTS and university admission takes time. Start early to allow yourself enough time to study and achieve the highest score possible. This reduces pressure and increases your chances of success.
V. Effective IELTS preparation tips
- Determine your current level and build a suitable study plan
Before starting your IELTS preparation, assess your current English level. Then, create a study plan tailored to your level and goals. This helps you focus on the skills that need improvement and optimizes your study time.
- Choose a reputable IELTS preparation center
Selecting a reputable and experienced IELTS center can help you achieve a high score. A good center provides quality courses, expert instructors, and effective study materials.
If you are looking for these, check out the IELTS preparation courses at the ECE Language Center. Ms. Doan Nuong and the instructors at the center have helped many students reach their target IELTS scores to pursue their dreams of studying and settling abroad.
- Use standard IELTS preparation materials
Refer to books and study materials highly rated by reputable publishers such as Cambridge, Oxford, etc.
- Practice and take mock tests regularly
Practice all four skills—Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing—regularly and take mock tests to familiarize yourself with the exam structure, hone your test-taking skills, and manage your time effectively.
Possessing an IELTS certificate is a major advantage when applying to Thuongmai University. Start planning your preparation today, equip yourself with this powerful “key,” and confidently conquer your dream of entering university! Good luck!





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