The Napoleonic exam that remains the first academic degree in France

Cultures · Published 1 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: While its roots reach back to medieval universities, the modern French baccalauréat was forged by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1808. Today, this high-stakes examination is far more than a school-leaving certificate; it is a standardized gateway to higher education, defined by intense secrecy and rigorous essay-based testing.

Implemented on 17 March 1808, the baccalauréat serves as the first academic degree under French law. The examination structure has undergone significant evolution, most notably during the 2019 reform. This overhaul replaced the traditional S, ES, and L streams—which focused on science, economics, and literature—with a system of three specialties. Students now select from 13 specific subjects, ranging from mathematics and computer science to humanities and political science, alongside a core curriculum including philosophy and French.

The examination process is characterized by a strict commitment to anonymity and integrity. To prevent favoritism based on religion, ethnicity, or national origin, papers are marked by teachers from different districts or academies. The identity of the student is hidden by folding the corner of the exam sheet, leaving only a serial number visible to the grader. Even the arrival of the exam material is a ritual; envelopes are unsealed by high-ranking school officials only minutes before the start of the test in front of the examinees.

Beyond the standard tracks, the baccalauréat includes specialized paths like the 'baccalauréat professionnel' for rapid entry into the workforce and the 'baccalauréat français international' (BFI). The BFI is particularly demanding, requiring students to study literature, history, and geography in a foreign language. This intensive track can add up to 10 hours of weekly class time, making it a significant test of both academic prowess and personal tenacity.

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