The new draft by the Ministry of Education changes the rules for basic school retake exams.
According to the draft, students can graduate from basic school even if they have a weak or unsatisfactory grade in two subjects. Students also no longer need to achieve at least 50% results in final exams.
This draft raised many questions in schools. The Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications criticized it, as it may cause problems in core subjects. They believe it sends the wrong signal – education can be completed without acquiring the necessary skills.
Now the draft has been reviewed and changes have been made. Mari Annus, Head of Communications at the Ministry of Education, said that the draft will soon be signed.
If a student fails an exam, it no longer prevents them from graduating. Retake exams can only be taken in exceptional cases, such as health reasons or if the student was participating in an international competition.
Such students can no longer take the school exam. They must take a state supplementary exam.
Students can take the state supplementary exam before June 1. This will help them move on to the next school. If a student is unwell, they can take the exam until August 25 and then move to follow-up admission or preparatory studies.
The Ministry of Education has also developed preparatory studies. This helps those basic school graduates who do not yet have sufficient knowledge when entering vocational school or upper secondary school.