MaturaMaturität

Matura, also known as Maturität in German, is the final examination at the end of secondary education in several European countries. In German-speaking regions the term denotes the university-entrance qualification awarded after completing secondary schooling. The exact name and practice vary by country: Matura in Austria and Liechtenstein, Maturität in many Swiss cantons, and related traditions in parts of Italy and other jurisdictions.

The examination typically combines written tests in multiple subjects with an oral component, and may include school-based assessments. Common subject areas include languages, mathematics or science, and social sciences, with subject choices influenced by the student’s track, interests, and local rules. The number of exams and the grading system differ by country or canton.

Purpose and recognition: A passing Matura grants access to university study within the issuing country and is often recognized across Europe for higher education admissions. It serves as the standard qualification marking the completion of general higher secondary education, alongside vocational tracks in some systems.

Regional variations: Switzerland’s Maturität is issued by cantons and varies in requirements; Austria’s Matura follows a national framework with core subjects and an oral examination; in practice the diploma serves as the primary route to higher education in German-speaking Europe. The exact format and language of instruction can differ between regions.

History: The Matura arose in the 19th century as a standardized high school leaving exam and has evolved into centralized or cantonal systems designed to ensure university access and social mobility.