France to implement stricter language requirements for national exams

Starting with the 2027 session, French national examinations, including the Diplôme National du Brevet (DNB) and the Baccalauréat, will implement stricter language proficiency requirements. A minimum of two points will be systematically allocated to language mastery across all subjects and disciplines.

These points will evaluate orthographic and syntactic standards, the ability to formulate clear reasoning, and the use of precise, appropriate vocabulary. In subjects where writing is a major component, a failing grade in language mastery may prevent a student from achieving a passing score overall.

Minister Édouard Geffray noted that these points will be applied regardless of the subject matter, including mathematics. The evaluation will follow a standardized grid ranging from ‘very insufficient’ to ‘very satisfactory’ to ensure consistency across different disciplines.