# Challenges in Vietnamese medical residency programs

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/challenges-in-vietnamese-medical-residency-programs
> Updated: 2026-09-26T03:41:52.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2.

Medical residency programs in Vietnam are characterized by extreme physical, mental, and financial pressures on students.

Individual accounts highlight the intense academic and professional toll, with one resident reporting significant weight loss and hair loss due to the stress of highly competitive entrance exams and rigorous training. 

Beyond the physical strain, residents face increasing financial burdens as universities move toward autonomy and raise tuition fees. At institutions such as Hanoi Medical University and the University of Medicine and Pharmacy (VNU), costs have risen substantially. Because many residency programs do not provide a salary, doctors must manage high-intensity hospital shifts while relying on family support or secondary employment to cover their education and living expenses.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-26: Medical residency students in Vietnam face rising tuition costs

Medical residency students in Vietnam face rising tuition costs and financial instability as they balance high-intensity clinical training without salaries, prompting calls for better support policies.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/medical-residency-students-in-vietnam-face-rising-tuition-costs

### 2026-09-09: Medical resident shares physical toll of intense training

Dr. Hoàng Văn Chương describes the severe physical and mental strain of medical residency in Vietnam, noting significant weight loss and hair loss due to intense academic pressure.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/medical-resident-shares-physical-toll-of-intense-training

---
Cite as: Challenges in Vietnamese medical residency programs. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/challenges-in-vietnamese-medical-residency-programs