French Baccalaureate Diplomas to Feature 'Bilingual Course' for Regional Language Specializations
A decree published in the Official Journal on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, will introduce a significant change for high school students in France. Starting in 2028, the "cursus bilingue" (bilingual course) designation will be officially included on the Baccalaureate diplomas of students who have completed a specialization in a regional language. This new measure aims to recognize and highlight the linguistic achievements of students engaging with France's diverse regional languages. The implementation date of 2028 indicates a phased approach to integrating this new notation into the national education system. This initiative is expected to encourage greater participation in regional language studies and provide a tangible credential for students' efforts.
This policy adjustment by the French government aims to formally acknowledge and incentivize the study of regional languages within the national curriculum. By adding a "bilingual course" indicator to diplomas, the state seeks to enhance the perceived value and marketability of these linguistic skills for graduates. This could foster a more robust ecosystem for regional languages, potentially counteracting historical trends of decline. However, the effectiveness will depend on the actual depth of study required for the designation and the broader societal and economic opportunities that arise from possessing these regional language proficiencies. The long lead-time until 2028 suggests a deliberate integration process, possibly involving curriculum development and teacher training to ensure the quality and consistency of the "bilingual course" experience across different regions and institutions.
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