Dates, new exam model and the PAU countdown begins

The countdown for the 2026 University Access Test (PAU), commonly known as Selectividad, has officially begun. Thousands of students across Spain are preparing for this crucial event that will shape their academic future. The exams, scheduled for June 2, 3, and 4 in numerous locations, will feature some novelties that are important to be aware of to avoid surprises.

The Countdown to PAU 2026 Has Started

While the exact start date may slightly differ among autonomous communities, the general trend is that the 2026 Selectividad will take place in the first days of June. This year, the test is consolidated under Royal Decree 534/2024, aiming for greater standardization nationwide. The Conference of Rectors of Spanish Universities (CRUE) has promoted recommendations to harmonize the exam model for each subject, an effort accepted by over a dozen regions.

Key Dates for Selectividad 2026: When Are the Exams?

Although June 2, 3, and 4 are the primary reference dates, it is essential for each student to consult their autonomous community's specific calendar. Some regions might set slightly different schedules or require earlier check-ins. For instance, in the Basque Country, the test begins on June 2, concentrated over three consecutive days, coordinated by the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU).

Other communities, however, extend the period slightly. Reports indicate dates such as June 30, July 1, and 2 in some regions, with check-in times varying between 08:00 and 15:30. The recommendation is clear: stay informed through official communications from the coordinating university in each territory to not miss the appointment.

Novelties in the PAU 2026 Exam Model

The CRUE has played a significant role in shaping the PAU 2026. More than ten communities will apply a fully harmonized exam model, while four others will implement it at 75%. This means that, despite potential specificities, the general structure of the test will tend to be more uniform.

Regarding penalties for spelling errors, these will not affect Mathematics grades. In language subjects (Spanish, co-official languages, and foreign languages), the deduction can be up to two points. For other subjects, the penalty will not exceed one point. The CRUE has also established percentages of "competence" that some subjects may incorporate, encouraging the assessment of reasoning and practical application of knowledge.

UCO and Cut-off Grades: Medicine, the Star Degree

In the context of the PAU, the University of Córdoba (UCO) has already published its cut-off grades for the 2026-2027 academic year. As has been the trend for decades, the Medicine degree remains the program with the highest entry qualification, reflecting its high demand not only in Córdoba but throughout Andalusia and beyond. Students interested in accessing this and other UCO degrees can now check the cut-off grades, a determining factor in academic planning.

When Are the Selectividad Exams in Your Community?

The diversity of dates and times among autonomous communities underscores the importance of individual consultation. The PAU 2026 is a test that, despite harmonization efforts, still retains regional particularities. Being informed about the specific details of the call in one's own community is the first step to facing the exams with maximum peace of mind. Preparation, knowledge of the format, and logistics on exam days are key to success.