In a significant advancement for education, the Czech Republic will implement electronic submission of applications for graduation courses starting from the upcoming school year. This transition is taking place without a pilot test, showcasing the nation’s commitment to modernizing its education system. The new model for admission processes, led by Cermat (Centre for Testing and Assessment), has garnered consensus within the Chamber of Deputies.

Under the new system, applicants will be allowed to submit three applications, as opposed to the previous limit of two. After completing entrance exams, students will no longer have the flexibility to choose from these options. Instead, the system will automatically assign them to a school based on the order of their preferences, from the first choice to the third. This approach aims to alleviate the stress caused by insufficient capacities in popular courses, particularly in urban areas, over the past few years.

The transition to electronic applications is particularly timely as larger year groups are expected to seek enrollment in secondary schools. This change will simplify administrative work for school directors, enabling them to focus more on educational aspects. The Ministry of Education finalized the proposal and, following agreement with various parliamentary parties, will present it to the Chamber of Deputies as a legislative initiative.

Representatives from the education sector have welcomed this shift. Renata Schejbalová, the head of the Association of Gymnasium Directors, appreciates the benefits for both schools and parents in adopting digital methods. While there might be initial challenges due to the absence of a pilot test, she anticipates adjustments will be made to ensure a smoother transition.

Jiří Zajíček, chairman of the Union of School Associations, expresses optimism about the change and believes it will be well-received. Three application submission methods will be available: a written form as before, a fully digitized form using a certified electronic signature, and a hybrid version where applicants fill out the form digitally, print, sign, and then send it.

Despite the benefits, there are considerations. Some schools employ additional criteria for admissions, such as interviews or language tests, necessitating more time for the process. The transition to an automated placement system might also have its challenges due to the human factor. Zajíček anticipates the possibility of applicants wanting to change their chosen schools if they learn of a friend’s acceptance. However, he emphasizes that this new process aims to create a smoother experience for applicants and their parents.

This modernization effort aligns with the broader trend of digital transformation in education systems around the world, offering efficiency gains and improved accessibility for both educational institutions and students.

Article by Prague Forum