Bavaria to reform school assessment methods and digital rules

Starting in the 2026/27 school year, Bavaria is implementing significant changes to how student performance is assessed. Education Minister Anna Stolz announced a shift toward a more diverse examination culture. Instead of relying solely on written tests, grades will increasingly incorporate presentations, projects, and structured debates to better reflect cognitive competencies.

These reforms coincide with rising student numbers in the state, which reached approximately 1.8 million students this year. To address digital distractions, the use of private mobile phones will remain prohibited in classrooms through the seventh grade. While the state is hiring roughly 4,100 new teachers, a staffing moratorium remains in place, with additional positions not expected until the 2027/28 school year. To support student well-being, the staff of school psychologists has been increased by 20 percent.