To be awarded a diploma, pupils must acquire the seven key competencies of the "Common Core of Knowledge and Skills"[2] and score a minimum of 400 points (out of 800).
[5] A pupil may know they have a good enough average to pass the Brevet before sitting for the exams.
At the end of the ninth grade, four tests are taken, such that each will have a score of: French Literature and Language: 100 History - Geography and Moral and Civic Education : 50 Mathematics: 100 Physics - Chemistry , Life and Earth Sciences and Technology (any 2 of the 3): 50 And as of 2011, an oral exam in cultural history, since replaced by the presentation of a school or work experience[6] is mandatory for all students in the ninth grade.
It consists of writing an essay (around 2000 words) about any art form and analyzing 6 to 8 paintings, then presenting them to two teachers for 10–15 minutes then answering questions that they ask.
[9] In order to pass the Brevet, the pupil must score on average the equivalent of 10 out of 20.