A teenage student from Ho Chi Minh City surprised everyone by scoring a perfect 9.0 on the IELTS, after already winning top English awards in school.

Nguyen Tuan Phong, a former student of Tran Dai Nghia High School for the Gifted, earned second prize in the national English competition in 10th grade. He then won first prize for the next two years. In 11th grade he took the IELTS, hoping for 8.0, but received a perfect 9.0.

Phong says that using English in real situations and speaking regularly with classmates or native speakers helped him improve quickly. He also warns students not to put too much pressure on themselves or set unrealistic goals, because stress can block learning.

He is now studying in a university English language teacher education program. Phong wants to become a high‑school English teacher, hoping to inspire students the way his own teachers inspired him.

His story shows that steady practice, realistic targets, and a love for learning can lead to great results. Learners can follow his example to boost their English and open new opportunities.