From 2026 the state exam for high schools will change its face and name. After years of debate, the Chamber of Deputies has approved the law that brings back the historic denomination of Maturità, symbol of a transition not only scholastic but also personal and civil.
The written tests remain, but the oral ones become central
The new exam will include two written tests, but the oral interview will represent the heart of the evaluation. From June 2026, students will have to study four main subjects, identified every year by ministerial decree, in a manner consistent with the second written test.
The discussion on “surprise material” introduced in recent years disappears, while a rigid rule is introduced: anyone who refuses to take the oral exam or chooses “deliberate silence” will be rejected.
Conduct will have its weight at maturity
One of the most significant changes concerns the evaluation of behavior. An insufficient mark in conduct will result in automatic failure, while those who obtain a 6 will have to face an “active citizenship test”. Conduct will also affect the final score: only those with at least 9 in behavior will be able to aspire to the maximum mark at the Maturity. In this way, the school aims to enhance students’ sense of responsibility and civil participation.
Streamlined commissions and new scoring system
The examination commissions will change their structure: from seven members they will go to five, with two internal, two external and an external president. The merit bonus is also revised, which will be accessible to those who achieve at least 90/100 (no longer 97) and can be worth up to three additional points. The Government has also provided new funds for the training of commissioners, with an increase of 3 million euros in 2026 and 11 million in 2027, to guarantee greater competence and uniformity of judgement.
“School-to-work training” and student safety
In addition to the Maturity, there are other innovations along the students’ academic career. The former PCTO (Paths for Transversal Skills and Orientation) will change its name and structure, becoming school-work training. Activities will have to comply with stricter safety rules, excluding agreements with companies or entities operating in high-risk contexts. Inail will launch awareness campaigns and insurance coverage will also be extended to accidents that occur during the journey from home to the training venue.
The new “4+2” training chain
Another innovation concerns the “4+2” model, which involves four years of traditional high school followed by two years in the ITS Academy. These paths combine theoretical and practical training, offering a direct connection between school and the world of work. From 2026/27 the model will become a stable part of the Italian education system.
Educational trips and changes of address
Finally, schools will have to choose suppliers for educational trips, favoring safety and quality over price. Driver experience, safety devices and accessibility for students with disabilities will be considered elements of evaluation. Those who want to change their course of study will receive personalized support in the two-year period, while in the three-year period they will have to take supplementary exams, with the aim of reducing school dropout.
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