The top-scoring student in Ho Chi Minh City’s 2026 tenth-grade entrance exam has revealed their study methods, achieving both the highest score and acceptance into two prestigious specialized high schools. The student was admitted to both the Trần Đại Nghĩa gifted high school and the Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City’s School for the Gifted. Notably, the student achieved this success without attending any extra tutoring classes. The student’s success is attributed to effective self-study techniques and a focused approach to learning. This achievement challenges the common reliance on supplemental education in Vietnam. The student’s experience offers insights into alternative pathways to academic success.