French education minister calls for morning-only exams amid rising temperatures

Sunday 14 June 2026 - 12:26

France’s Education Minister, Édouard Geffray, has proposed ending afternoon end-of-year examinations, arguing that increasingly high temperatures linked to climate change make such schedules unsuitable for students.

Speaking on national radio, the minister said future exams, including those associated with the French baccalaureate, should ideally be held during the morning when temperatures are generally lower and classroom conditions more comfortable. He suggested that organizing major examinations between 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. is becoming increasingly difficult as heatwaves occur more frequently and earlier in the year.

The comments come as France prepares for another period of exceptionally warm weather, with temperatures expected to exceed 35°C in several regions during the coming days. Meteorologists have warned that the country is experiencing increasingly intense and recurring heat episodes, reflecting broader climate trends observed across Europe.

Education officials have become increasingly concerned about the impact of extreme heat on students’ concentration, health, and overall exam performance. High classroom temperatures can lead to fatigue, dehydration, and reduced cognitive efficiency, particularly during lengthy written examinations.

Under the proposed approach, major national exams would be scheduled primarily between early morning and midday. Supporters argue that such a change would help create fairer testing conditions while reducing health risks for students and school staff.

The debate reflects a wider challenge facing education systems worldwide as they adapt to changing climate conditions. Governments and school authorities in several countries have already introduced measures such as revised timetables, improved ventilation, shaded outdoor areas, and heat-response plans to protect students during periods of extreme weather.

France’s baccalaureate examinations remain one of the most important milestones in the country’s education system, determining access to higher education and influencing future academic opportunities. Ensuring that students can take these exams under suitable conditions has become an increasingly important issue for policymakers.

While no immediate nationwide changes have been announced, the minister’s remarks suggest that adapting school schedules to climate realities may become a key topic in future education reforms. As temperatures continue to rise, educational institutions are likely to face growing pressure to rethink traditional examination calendars and working practices.

The proposal has already sparked discussion among teachers, parents, and students, many of whom view it as a practical response to the challenges posed by a warming climate.