Senate report urges universities to select students beyond the baccalauréat

A Senate-commissioned study proposes that French universities no longer rely exclusively on the baccalauréat for admission. Titled “Universités: assumer l’excellence,” the document argues that the diploma, awarded to most high-school graduates, does not sufficiently differentiate candidates and should be supplemented with other evaluations. Education Minister Philippe Baptiste supports the recommendation, saying it could raise academic standards.

The report was prepared by senator Laurence Garnier and presented under the chairmanship of senator Pierre Ouzoulias. If adopted, faculties would gain the authority to set their own entry requirements, potentially introducing new tests or prerequisite courses.