Independent thinking · Open dialogue
PhilosophyOlympiadVietnam
From Vietnam to the World of Ideas.
A philosophical essay competition in English for high school students nationwide.
VPO 2027 · Season details coming soon
- WhoGrades 10–12
- FormatIndividual essay
- LanguageEnglish
- FeeFree
- VPO 2027Coming soon
About VPO
When the familiar becomes a question
What is fair? Why do we believe something is true? Familiar questions like these are not always easy to answer. Philosophy helps us examine explanations, find reasons for our views and be willing to think again.
The Vietnam Philosophy Olympiad (VPO) is an essay competition in English for high school students nationwide. Through each essay, students practice framing a problem, building an argument and weighing different views.
A good essay need not offer a final answer. What matters is that the writer understands the question, sets out a clear view and can explain why.
Do not say that with spring gone, every flower has fallen;
Zen Master Man Giac, Cao tat thi chung, Ly dynasty
last night, in the front yard, a branch of plum blossomed.
Why join
What do you learn from the VPO?
Learning without thought is labor lost; thought without learning is perilous.
Confucius, Analects
- I
Asking questions
Practice asking “why” and re-examine what you have taken for granted.
- II
Building arguments
Give reasons for your view, weigh objections and adjust when needed.
- III
Expressing clearly
Choose ideas, order an argument and present your thinking in English so that readers can follow it.
- IV
Listening and dialogue
Meet friends who care about philosophy and learn to exchange ideas when you disagree.
- V
International connection
Two selected candidates have the chance to represent Vietnam at the IPO, meeting and discussing with students from many countries.
The rounds
The road to the International Philosophy Olympiad
- 01Registration and review
Complete the registration form and explain why you want to take part.
- 02Qualifying Round
Online. One essay, 4 hours.
- 03National Final
In Hanoi. One essay, 4 hours.
- 04International Olympiad (IPO)
Two selected candidates represent Vietnam at the IPO.
Exploring philosophy
Where does philosophy begin?
Start with a question that interests you. Explore seven areas of philosophy through details from The School of Athens.
Philosophy begins in wonder.
Plato, Theaetetus
How ought we to live?
In the painting: Aristotle, his Ethics in hand
Vietnam at the IPO
Four years in a row, Vietnam at the IPO
Since 2023, Vietnamese students have taken part in the IPO, writing essays and exchanging ideas with peers from around the world. Look back at the Vietnamese team’s milestones.
FAQ
You may be wondering
Can I take part if I’ve never studied philosophy?
Yes. You don’t need specialist knowledge of philosophy or prior achievements. Start by reading, asking questions and practicing setting out your thinking.
How are essays marked?
Essays are assessed on the ability to analyze a problem, build an argument, weigh objections and show independent thinking. See the assessment criteria.
What should I prepare before the exam?
Practice reading prompts, building a thesis and writing essays in English in limited time. As you write, try to think of objections to your own view. See the preparation guide.
