Italian students sit for first written Maturità exam 2026

On 18‑19 June 2026, more than half a million Italian secondary‑school students began the first written part of the national Maturità exams. The Italian language test featured seven possible prompts, including a poem by Cesare Pavese, excerpts from Vitaliano Brancati, a speech by President Giuseppe Saragat, and texts on scientific creativity and fatigue. Around 527,747 candidates sat the exam under strict rules prohibiting electronic devices.

Students across the country marked the occasion with traditional songs such as "Notte prima degli esami" and personal good‑luck charms. In Pontedera, the municipal walkway leading to the school village was illuminated with LED lettering for the occasion. In Lecce, a celebratory crowd led to a minor accident where a student fell and required hospital care but returned to the exam the next day. Interviews from Cassino, Bari, L'Aquila and Sardinia capture varied reactions – from anxiety and excitement to disappointment over unexpected topics. The day set the stage for the second, subject‑specific oral exams scheduled for the following day.

Overall, the event combined academic assessment, cultural ritual, and localized incidents, highlighting the nationwide significance of the Maturità for Italy’s youth.