The Tawjihi examination was a topic recently discussed by the International Education Standards Council (IESC), a non-governmental body of experts in international educational credentials that oversees the Electronic Database on Global Education (EDGE) hosted by AACRAO. I currently serve as Chair of the IESC, leading the Council’s efforts in maintaining and updating international education standards.
The Tawjihi examination, officially known as the General Secondary Education Certificate Examination, is a pivotal milestone in Jordan’s education system. It serves as the gateway to higher education and professional opportunities for students completing their secondary education. Here are five essential aspects to understand about the Tawjihi:
- National Significance
Administered by Jordan’s Ministry of Education, the Tawjihi is a standardized national exam taken at the end of secondary school. It determines students’ eligibility for university admission and influences their career trajectories. A student’s performance on this exam is crucial, as it directly impacts their access to higher education institutions and various professional fields.
- Structure and Subjects
Traditionally, the Tawjihi spans two years of secondary education, encompassing grades 11 and 12. Students choose between academic and vocational tracks, with subjects tailored to their selected stream. Academic subjects include Arabic, English, mathematics, sciences (such as physics, chemistry, and biology), and Islamic studies. Vocational tracks offer courses in fields like industrial arts, agriculture, and home economics. The exam assesses students’ knowledge and proficiency in these subjects, with scores determining their academic and professional prospects.
- Recent Reforms
Starting from the 2024–2025 academic year, the Tawjihi system is undergoing significant reforms. The traditional division into specific streams (e.g., scientific, literary) is being replaced with educational packages aligned with students’ career aspirations. This new approach introduces two main pathways: academic and vocational. Students will begin preparing for the Tawjihi in grade 10, with assessments spread over grades 11 and 12, allowing for a more comprehensive evaluation of their capabilities .
- Impact on Higher Education
A student’s Tawjihi score is a critical factor in university admissions. For instance, pursuing competitive fields like medicine or engineering typically requires high scores, often above 85%. Public universities in Jordan prioritize Tawjihi results when allocating seats, making the exam a high-stakes endeavor for students aiming for specific academic paths .
- Equivalency for International Programs
Students enrolled in international curricula, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), IGCSE, or SAT programs, must obtain Tawjihi equivalency to pursue higher education or professional opportunities within Jordan. The Ministry of Education has established guidelines to assess and equate international qualifications with the Tawjihi, ensuring that all students meet the national standards required for university admissions and employment.
In summary, the Tawjihi examination is a cornerstone of Jordan’s educational landscape, shaping students’ academic futures and career paths. Understanding its structure, recent reforms, and implications is essential for students, educators, and policymakers alike.
Jasmin Saidi-Kuehnert
President & CEO
The Academic Credentials Evaluation Institute, Inc. (ACEI), was founded in 1994 and is based in Los Angeles, CA, USA. ACEI is a full-service company providing complete and integrated services in the areas of international education research, credential evaluation, training and consultancy. https://acei-global.org/
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