Virtual learning vs classroom learning – one of the most trending and debatable topics in the present-day world. The spread of Covid pandemic triggered a big change in learning and teaching by switching from the classroom to virtual framework in most tertiary institutions around the world, including Vietnam. Accordingly, this study aims to find out how university students perceived towards different learning platforms and their preferences in regard to virtual learning and classroom learning. The study also makes comparison of online learning and traditional or face-to-face mode from the perceptions of 110 undergraduate students studying English as a foreign language (EFL) at different levels. In addition, during the Covid time, the students have real experience of online learning, which would make the comparison more relevant. Data on students’ perceptions were collected using a questionnaire, and students’ assessment was also used to measure their performance between different modes of learning. The preliminary analysis of students’ perceptions will reveal if any statistically significant differences between virtual and classroom learning, and preferences for either of them between gender groups exist. Additionally, the analysis of students’ performance shows that the students exhibited good academic performance in classroom learning than virtual learning. A discussion includes new insights on what matters the most to the students’ learning experience with respect to the current online learning trend.