Azerbaijan to change foreign language exam format, expert warns of challenges

Azerbaijan plans to change the format of its foreign language graduation exam starting from 2027, introducing sections on listening, reading, lexical and grammatical knowledge, as well as a written assignment.

Under the new model, the exam will include a listening task based on one text with four questions, two reading texts with eight questions, a 13-question lexical and grammar section, and a written task of at least 100 words on a given topic.

Commenting on the planned changes in an interview with haqqin.az, education expert Goshgar Maharramov said reforms to the examination system should be preceded by changes in teaching approaches.

He noted that a rapid shift in the exam model forces students and teachers to adapt within a short period of time, making the process difficult and stressful.

According to the expert, the quality of teaching English and other foreign languages in Azerbaijan remains weak at both secondary schools and universities, a problem well known to education authorities and the State Examination Center.

Maharramov said aligning exams with international formats such as IELTS and TOEFL is a justified step, but stressed that reforms must be implemented gradually. Otherwise, students are forced to rely on private tutors, increasing their workload and psychological pressure.