Enem exam in Brazil may introduce open-ended questions by 2028

The National High School Exam (Enem) in Brazil may undergo significant structural changes starting in 2028. According to Manuel Palácios, president of the National Institute for Educational Studies and Research Anísio Teixeira (Inep), officials are studying the implementation of open-ended questions. These would require students to synthesize information and write summaries rather than selecting multiple-choice options.

Other proposed changes include incorporating questions related to the 'New High School' formative itineraries, where portions of the exam could be tailored to a student's chosen area of study. These innovations are not expected to be applied to the 2026 exam.

By 2026, the Enem will take on an expanded role, serving both as a gateway to higher education and as a tool for evaluating basic education, effectively replacing the Saeb for third-year high school students.

As the upcoming November exams approach, educators are advising students to focus on recurring themes, practice with previous exams, and manage emotional well-being to maintain academic performance.