Official End of School Suspension Discipline from October 31, 2025

New disciplinary measures for students

Article 13 of Circular 19/2025/TT-BGDĐT replaces suspension with lighter, educationally oriented measures:

• For primary school students:

  • Reminder.

  • Apology request.

• For secondary and high school students:

  • Reminder.

  • Reprimand.

  • Written self-criticism report.

Under the previous Circular 08/TT of 1988, schools were allowed to impose five disciplinary measures, including suspension for one week or even one year. From October 31, 2025, these suspension-based penalties will be officially eliminated.

Identifying violations and levels of severity

Article 12 of Circular 19/2025/TT-BGDĐT sets out the framework for assessing violations:

• Types of violations:

  • Prohibited acts under the Education Law.

  • Acts that breach school regulations or rules of competent authorities.

• Levels of severity:

  • Level 1: Harmful to the student themself.

  • Level 2: Negative impact on a group or class.

  • Level 3: Negative impact on the entire school.

Purpose and principles of discipline

According to Article 11 of the Circular, the aim of discipline is prevention and education, not punishment. Key principles include:

• Helping students recognize mistakes, self-correct, and improve.

• Ensuring objectivity, fairness, and respect without prejudice.

• Aligning with the psychological, physical, and social background of each student.

• Strictly banning any disciplinary methods involving violence, humiliation, or harm to dignity and well-being.

General rules for rewards and discipline

Article 3 highlights broader principles:

• Discipline and rewards must uphold educational and humane values, focusing on student progress.

• Greater school autonomy is allowed, but schools must coordinate with families and society.

• All actions must comply with legal authority and ensure fairness.

Conclusion

From October 31, 2025, no student will be suspended or excluded from the classroom for disciplinary reasons. Instead, the new framework emphasizes education, prevention, and student development, aiming to foster a safer and more constructive school environment.