In France, the baccalauréat, often referred to as the bac, is a national diploma awarded on completion of general, technological or vocational secondary education. It corresponds to the international ISCED level 3 and to level 4 of the French nomenclature of training levels.

Passing this exam (with a score of 50% or more of the possible total) is the standard for entry to higher education. The baccalauréat is considered the first university degree, and until the early 20th century, candidates were examined exclusively by professors in the faculties of arts and sciences.

(Translated from French)

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