Poland's school system deepens inequality, fuels tutoring boom

Polish education officials are criticised for a paradox in which schools lower entry thresholds while extended‑level exams raise demands, sending mixed messages to students. The curriculum is said to be “softened” to avoid over‑stress, yet exam boards require increasingly complex, interpretive answers and knowledge of scoring formulas. This inconsistency pushes families toward private tutoring to bridge the gap, creating a market where extra support becomes essential for high scores. Critics argue the system now rewards those who can afford supplemental lessons, widening social disparities rather than equalising opportunities.

The commentary highlights that the dual approach – easing classroom expectations while tightening exam standards – undermines a coherent educational pathway and turns the exam into a test of resources as well as knowledge.