What is le bac?

Le bac is short for "baccalauréat," the French high school diploma that students typically take at the end of their secondary education. It is an important qualification that is required for admission to higher education institutions in France. The bac is divided into three streams: general (which includes literary, scientific, and economic and social sciences), technological, and professional.

Students in the general stream typically take a series of exams in subjects such as philosophy, French, mathematics, science, history, and foreign languages. The exams are standardized and graded by a national committee.

The bac is a challenging and rigorous exam that is seen as a rite of passage for French students. It is also recognized internationally and can open up opportunities for further study or employment abroad. The results of the bac are eagerly awaited each year and are widely reported in the media.