On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, students across Poland sat for the English Matura exam at the basic level, a critical component of their high school graduation process. The exam, which is compulsory for all Matura students, commenced at 9:00 AM and lasted for 120 minutes. This year, the exam was structured into four distinct parts: listening comprehension, reading comprehension, knowledge of language resources, and written expression.
The Matura 2025 season kicked off just two days earlier, on May 5, with the Polish exam, which is another essential requirement for graduation. The Polish exam consisted of two papers, where students tackled a 'Polish in Use' test and a historical-literary test, followed by two essay topics to choose from. Students had a total of 240 minutes to complete the Polish exam, which allowed for a maximum of 60 points, with a minimum of 30% (18 points) required to pass.
For the English exam, students were given a variety of tasks to assess their proficiency. The listening comprehension section featured recordings played twice, requiring students to grasp details and context. The reading comprehension section involved analyzing and interpreting written texts, while the knowledge of language resources tested students on grammar and vocabulary. The written expression part required students to produce a short text, such as an email or a blog entry, often focusing on themes related to daily life, travel, social media, science, and technology.
Many students expressed mixed feelings about the difficulty of the English exam. Some reported that the tasks were relatively easy, while others found certain questions challenging. On social media, students shared their experiences, mentioning specific tasks that posed difficulties, including references to popular culture such as The Beatles and literary figures like Franz Kafka. Discussions around the exam's content quickly became a trending topic, with many students exchanging insights and frustrations.
The Matura 2025 English exam was conducted in two formats: the 2015 and the 2023 formulas, accommodating students from different cohorts. This flexibility allowed those who had previously not passed or wished to improve their scores to retake the exam. The extended version of the English exam lasts 180 minutes, providing additional time for students who opt for a more comprehensive assessment.
Looking ahead, students who could not take the exam on the main date have additional opportunities. A retake is scheduled for August 19, 2025, for the written exam, while the oral exam retake will take place on August 20, 2025. Results for the Matura exams will be released on July 8, 2025, for those who participated in the main and additional sessions, and on September 10, 2025, for those who take the retake exams.
As the Matura season progresses, students are encouraged to prepare thoroughly for their upcoming exams. The Central Examination Board has made available a guide detailing the exam structure, assessment criteria, and sample tasks, which can be invaluable for students aiming for high scores. Utilizing past exam papers, attending preparatory courses, and consulting with teachers are recommended strategies to enhance performance.
In summary, the Matura 2025 English exam is not only a requirement for graduation but also an opportunity for students to showcase their language skills. As they navigate this challenging period, their preparation and adaptability will play a crucial role in achieving their academic goals.
