Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct answer to each of the questions fr...

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct answer to each of the questions from 31 to 40.

In recent years, the landscape of higher education in Vietnam has witnessed a significant transformation with the proliferation of international university campuses. This phenomenon, often termed "transnational education," offers students the opportunity to earn prestigious foreign degrees without stepping foot outside their home country. [I] Historically, studying abroad was a privilege reserved for the affluent elite, but the establishment of satellite campuses by renowned institutions from Australia, the UK, and the US has democratized access to global academic standards. The appeal is undeniable: students can enjoy world-class facilities and curricula while remaining close to their family support networks.

The primary driver behind this trend is economic volatility. Fluctuating exchange rates and the rising cost of living in Western nations have made traditional overseas study increasingly unviable for many middle-class families. [II] Consequently, parents are pivoting towards these local international options as a financially prudent alternative that does not compromise on quality. Furthermore, the rigorous academic environment fosters critical thinking and English proficiency, skills that are highly prized by multinational corporations operating in Vietnam. This alignment with labor market demands ensures that graduates are well-positioned for competitive career paths.

However, the rapid expansion of transnational education is not without its critics. Some skeptics argue that these satellite campuses may become "degree mills" if quality assurance mechanisms are not strictly enforced. While the curriculum is imported directly from the parent institution, there are valid concerns regarding whether the local faculty can deliver the same depth of expertise and pedagogical nuance found at the main campus. [III] Additionally, the student experience – often cited as a key component of studying abroad – might lack the immersive cultural diversity that comes from living in a foreign country. Without the challenge of navigating a new society, students may miss out on developing resilience and cross-cultural adaptability.

Despite these reservations, the sector continues to thrive, driven by a mutual benefit for both foreign universities seeking new markets and local students seeking global credentials. To maintain credibility, these institutions are increasingly investing in faculty exchange programs and international internships to bridge the experiential gap. [IV] As the world becomes more interconnected, the definition of "study abroad" is evolving. It is no longer just about geography; it is about the mobility of knowledge and the accessibility of excellence, regardless of physical borders.

(Adapted from University World News)

Question 31. According to paragraph 1, transnational education allows students to earn foreign degrees while ______?

A. traveling extensively to different countries

B. staying within their home country

C. paying higher fees than traditional study abroad

D. avoiding all academic standards of the parent institution