Nguyen Duy Phong, a 12th-grade student from Chuong My A High School in Hanoi, has stunned educators by scoring an exceptional 130 out of 150 in the Competency Assessment Exam (HSA) - the highest result recorded in both exam sessions of 2025 - and placing in the top 4 nationwide in the Thinking Assessment conducted by Hanoi University of Science and Technology.

Speaking with VietNamNet, Duy Phong admitted he was shocked upon seeing his score. “I had never reached this level in any of my practice exams at home. I usually scored between 110 and 115,” he said. The surprise grew when he learned that his 130-point score was not only the highest of the year but also exceeded last year’s top scorer in the same exam conducted by Vietnam National University, Hanoi.

Phong modestly attributed his success to both effort and a bit of luck.

The HSA exam comprises three sections: Mathematics and data analysis (50 questions, 75 minutes), Language and literature (50 questions, 60 minutes), and an optional third section - either Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) or English (50 questions, 60 minutes).

Phong scored 48/50 in the Mathematics section, 44/50 in Language and literature, and 38/50 in Science.

He had earlier participated in the Thinking Assessment conducted by Hanoi University of Science and Technology and ranked among the top four nationwide.

To prepare, Phong devoted substantial time to focused revision. “Our homeroom teacher encouraged a class-wide study competition to improve university entrance chances. I also practiced with sample tests to familiarize myself with the format,” he said.

He noted that the HSA exam differs from the national high school graduation exam in that it lacks highly complex problem-solving questions but covers a broader range of content. “Time pressure is also much higher. In Mathematics, for instance, you have 75 minutes for 50 questions - just about 90 seconds per question,” he explained.

Beyond academic preparation, Phong emphasized the importance of mental readiness. “Staying calm in the exam room is essential - especially with time pressure. I always tackled the easier questions first to build confidence, then circled back to the harder ones,” he shared.

Phong also highlighted the value of group study, which allowed him to clarify weaker topics through discussion. At home, he focused on practice tests, especially on question types he frequently got wrong. “I tried to remember the structure of past questions so I could quickly recall solutions during the real exam,” he added.

He described his study routine as consistent but not excessive. “I usually sleep by 11 p.m. I set nightly study goals and try to meet them with determination,” he said. Compared to his peers, Phong believes he studies fewer hours but with greater focus.

“To do well in anything, you have to give it your all. Luck isn’t something you can count on or control. But if you keep working hard, luck will eventually come,” he added.

After school, Phong often unwinds with YouTube or e-sports matches. Now, with two impressive exam results under his belt, he is preparing for the national high school graduation exam while researching future career paths.

Phong is currently considering majors in Control and Automation Engineering or Mechatronics Engineering at Hanoi University of Science and Technology.

Nguyen Xuan Truong, Principal of Chuong My A High School, said Phong is part of 12A5, a class known for its strong self-study culture.

“Thanks to their homeroom teacher’s inspiration, the class has a powerful academic spirit, learning from older students. Phong stands out as an excellent, well-rounded student,” Truong said.

He also noted Phong’s academic versatility. “In grade 9, he was a top student in English. Now in high school, he excels in Physics and Chemistry. His recent top-4 national ranking in the Thinking Assessment further demonstrates his exceptional ability.”

Thanh Hung