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More than 45,800 students take the Selectividad in Catalunya
Barcelona begins a particularly challenging Selectividad. More than 45,800 students are sitting the Pruebas de Acceso to university in Catalunya this year, a record number that coincides with the visit of Pope León XIV and with teacher protests that could disrupt travel.
The overlap comes at the worst possible time for those who need to arrive at their exams calm and on time. Travel may be affected in areas such as Eixample, Raval, Montjuïc and the surroundings of events linked to the papal visit, so authorities recommend setting off with more time to spare than usual.
The first day begins with Spanish Language and Literature and continues with Foreign Language. In the afternoon, students will be spread across specific subjects such as Physics, Geography, Geology, Environmental Sciences, Artistic Foundations, Choir and Vocal Technique, or Dramatic Literature.
This year also sees the introduction of a new measure intended to prevent cheating. Catalunya is testing a pilot system to detect mobile phones, smartwatches and digital pens during examinations. Using any of these devices may lead to immediate expulsion and a zero in the test.
On Wednesday, the pressure will continue with History or History of Philosophy, as well as subjects such as Musical Analysis, Technical Drawing, General Sciences, Latin and Mathematics. The afternoon will be devoted to Biology, Design, Business, Catalan Literature and Technology, among other subjects.
The final day will come on Thursday 11 June with Catalan Language and Literature, followed by tests such as Greek, Artistic Drawing, Mathematics Applied to Social Sciences, History of Art, Chemistry or Spanish Literature. For many students, it will mark the end of three decisive days after months of preparation.
The protest by teachers and municipal workers adds another difficulty to the schedule. The planned demonstration from Plaça Espanya to the Parlament may affect journeys by public transport and road, especially for those travelling from other neighbourhoods or municipalities in the metropolitan area.
For students, the recommendation is simple: check timetables, look for possible closures before setting off and avoid relying on the last possible train, bus or metro. In a Selectividad already marked by the usual pressure, arriving with time to spare can be as important as bringing their DNI, pens and permitted calculator.