Regulations for University Access Test (PAU) in the Canary Islands 2025/2026

Overview

The Spanish government has outlined the new regulations for the University Access Test (PAU) in the Canary Islands for the 2025/2026 academic year. This exam, mandated by national law, assesses students' readiness for university along with their high school grades.

The regulations emphasize fairness, accessibility, and transparency, ensuring students with disabilities or special educational needs can participate equally.

Organization and Management

• Universities in the Canary Islands will take charge of organizing and managing the exam.
• They will work through a coordinating body called COPAU.
• COPAU will oversee the preparation, evaluation, and grading processes.
• The committee will include forming subject-specific subcommittees made up of university and secondary school teachers.

Participant Eligibility

• Students who finished high school or vocational training courses in previous years can participate.
• Students from foreign education systems who want to improve their admission scores are also eligible.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

• Special accommodations are planned for students with support needs.
• Support for transgender students is also included, promoting inclusivity.

Exam Structure

• The exam will consist of four core subjects:
  • Spanish Language and Literature
  • A choice between History of Spain or Philosophy
  • A foreign language (English, French, German, or Italian)
  • A subject specific to the student's modality from high school.

Retakes and Scoring

• Students can retake parts of the exam to improve their scores.
• Results will stand for several years, enhancing chances for university admission.

Focus Areas

The exam content and grading standards aim to develop critical thinking and creativity aligned with the curriculum, ensuring a fair and thorough evaluation process.