A record number of students took the Ho Chi Minh City National University’s aptitude assessment exam this year, with a significant proportion achieving high scores. Despite this surge in strong performances, recruitment specialists are forecasting that actual admission cut-off scores will likely remain stable for the 2026 university intake. This prediction contrasts with expectations that increased scores would automatically translate to higher entry requirements. Experts suggest various factors beyond test results influence final admission decisions, including overall application volume and institutional quotas. The university’s assessment is a key component of the Vietnamese university admissions process, alongside national high school exam results. This year’s high participation rate indicates growing reliance on aptitude-based testing as a university entrance pathway. The situation will be closely monitored as universities finalize their admission criteria.