Maturace

Maturace is a term commonly used in several European countries, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe, to refer to the secondary school leaving examination. This examination marks the successful completion of secondary education and typically grants students eligibility for higher education. The specific name and structure of the maturace can vary significantly between countries.

In countries like the Czech Republic and Slovakia, the maturace is a standardized set of exams covering core subjects such as the native language, a foreign language, and mathematics. Students usually have the option to choose additional subjects for examination. The format often includes both written and oral components. Passing the maturace is a significant academic achievement and a crucial step towards university admission.

Similarly, in Poland, the exam is known as the "Matura" and follows a comparable structure, assessing a student's readiness for tertiary studies. The Polish Matura also consists of mandatory and optional subjects, with different levels of difficulty for some exams. In Austria, the term "Matura" refers to the final examination at a Gymnasium, a type of secondary school, which also serves as a university entrance qualification. The exact content and administration of these examinations are determined by national educational authorities.