The first series of state exams ended this Thursday, July 2, 2026.
Held from June 29 to July 2, 2026, these exams concerned 9th-grade students, candidates from Family Education Centers (CEF), as well as those from Teacher and Kindergarten Training Schools (ENIJE). In total, 189,849 candidates were expected. The Ministry of National Education and Vocational Training (MENFP) said it was generally satisfied with how the exams went in the various centers.
During a visit to the exam center at Saint-Louis de Gonzague institution on Thursday, July 2, MENFP Director General Osny Jean-Marie was pleased with the organization of the exams across the different Departmental Education Directorates (DDEs). “Between 94% and 97% of registered candidates took part in the exams,” he said at a press briefing dedicated to the preliminary review of this first series of tests.The general manager said he had gathered statements from several candidates who said they were satisfied with the exams. “It’s a sign that the tests met their expectations. The ministry wasn’t trying to make the exams hard for the students. Our main goal was to assess their knowledge,” he added, noting that no major incidents disrupted the exams.
Mr. Jean-Marie also mentioned that hot meals were distributed to candidates in three departments. He expressed regret that the ministry’s limited resources didn’t allow this initiative to be extended to all candidates, while also expressing hope that it would be expanded in future exam sessions. He also praised the support of the National School Canteen Program (PNCS), which helped make this initiative possible.
The Director General of MENFP finally thanked the law enforcement authorities for their role in securing the exam centers, as well as the center managers, supervisors, and everyone involved in ensuring the smooth organization of this first round of exams.As a reminder, 186,748 candidates were registered for the 9th-grade exams this year. To this number are added 2,368 new applicants and 204 who failed the ENIJE, as well as 529 candidates from the CEF, making a total of 189,849 candidates.
Mr. Jean-Marie also announced that preparations are already underway for the high school final exams, scheduled from July 13 to 16, 2026.
