The Swedish government proposes introducing vocational exams in vocational programs at upper secondary school and adult education, replacing the current student project. The proposal is outlined in a legislative council submission and is set to take effect from the autumn term of 2028. Additionally, opportunities for outsourcing teaching in vocational subjects will be expanded.
The Swedish government is advancing a proposal from an inquiry to introduce vocational exams in vocational training at the upper secondary level. According to the legislative council submission, the student project, known as gymnasiearbetet, would be replaced by vocational exams in vocational programs at upper secondary school. This also applies to national programs in adapted upper secondary schools, provided such an exam is available. Vocational exams would similarly be implemented in municipal adult education (komvux).
In addition to the exams, the government proposes expanding opportunities for outsourcing teaching in vocational subjects. Currently, such teaching can be contracted to individual physical or legal persons, but the proposal extends this to include public principals within the school system. These changes to outsourcing rules are proposed to take effect on July 1 this year.
The vocational exam is scheduled to come into force for the autumn term of 2028. The initiative aims to better align education with labor market needs and ensure students acquire practical skills verified through exams. No further details on the exams' design or content are specified in the submission, but it is emphasized that they should be relevant to the specific vocational programs.
This reform is part of the government's broader investments in vocational education to enhance societal competence.
