Italy's 2026 Maturity Exams: Oral Phase Starts and New Mandatory Rules

The written portion of Italy’s 2026 Maturity (Esame di Stato) shows strong results: nine out of ten candidates scored above the passing threshold, 17 % achieved the maximum 40 points, and 88 % reached the overall sufficiency level of 24 points. Only about 12 % fell below the minimum.

From 22 June, oral examinations begin for more than 527 000 students nationwide. The reform introduced by Minister Giuseppe Valditara makes the oral test compulsory; any candidate who refuses to participate will automatically fail, regardless of earlier scores. Each oral exam lasts 40–60 minutes and evaluates four fixed subjects selected for each study track, beginning with a personal reflection on the student’s path and, where applicable, a presentation of the school‑to‑work experience and civic education topics.

The new format discards the previous “surprise prompt” and reduces bonus points from five to three, awarded only to those finishing the exam with at least 90 points. The oral component now carries up to 20 points, contributing to the final 60‑point passing mark.

Parliamentary scrutiny has also arisen after a music‑track exam paper contained numerous errors, prompting a Democratic Party interpellation to the Ministry for clarification. Other commentary highlights the broader impact of the reform on exam culture and student preparation.