In Romania, the recent simulation exam for the BAC 2025 has sparked significant discussion among educators and students alike. On March 24, 2025, nearly 22,000 students were absent from the Romanian language test, prompting educators to reflect on the implications of this trend.
Professor Adriana Iancu, a Romanian language teacher and director of Gymnasium School No. 206 in Bucharest, commented on the exam’s third subject, stating it "comes to bring the students back to reality". This sentiment encapsulates the core focus of the exam: challenging students to engage deeply with literature and cultural discussions.
The Romanian language test featured three subjects, where humanities students were required to write an essay of at least 400 words on the construction of a character from a psychological novel. Meanwhile, students from technical and real tracks had to address the specifics of a psychological novel that they had studied. Iancu noted that these subjects aimed to awaken genuine interest in literature among students, after years of structured education that may have dulled their enthusiasm.
Adding to the discourse, Professor Irina Căpățână, who teaches Romanian language and literature at National College “Frații Buzești” in Craiova, expressed that the topics introduced in the simulation are beneficial. She suggested they serve as a wake-up call for colleagues who may have strayed from the curriculum, emphasizing the necessity for educators to keep their lessons aligned with students' learning goals.
“These subjects are helping fellow teachers who have forgotten to read the baccalaureate curriculum and the study programs,” Căpățână remarked in a Facebook post, underlining the importance of adherence to educational standards.
However, not all feedback has been positive. Some students exhibited confusion, particularly regarding their task to analyze a psychological novel, specifically referencing Camil Petrescu's work, “Ultima noapte de dragoste, întâia noapte de război.” One student quipped post-exam, "Camil Petrescu? Is he in our high school?" This comment highlighted a sense of disconnection between what students learn and their familiarity with the texts included in the syllabus.
The examination infrastructure faced its own issues as a printing error created doubt among candidates regarding the title of a poem that was named ambiguously. The error, questioning whether it was “Iarnă” or “Lamă,” added further layers of complexity for students already under pressure.
Reflecting on the overall experience of the exam, many students found the argumentative writing task relatively accessible, suggesting it was better received. Teachers are now considering the implementation of differentiated exams, which could more accurately assess individual student capabilities and incorporate diverse learning styles.
In terms of logistical structure, the BAC 2025 simulation exam will continue with its scheduled subjects, including a mandatory profile test on March 25, followed by elective profiles on March 26 and a written test for the mother tongue on March 27. Results are expected to be communicated to students on April 8, 2025.
The actual BAC exam for 2025 is set to commence on June 10, a timeline that is rapidly approaching, raising the stakes for students and educators alike as they prepare for this critical assessment.
In conclusion, the recent simulation has opened up various debates on teaching practices, student engagement, and the necessity of clear examination processes. As educators work towards refining their methods, students are left to navigate their learning paths amidst these changes, with the hope that their efforts will be rewarded in the coming months.
