RCT – Cantonal reference tests 

Critical assessment and orientation exams

The cantonal reference tests, commonly known as ECR, are intended to evaluate the quality of the Swiss school system, to harmonize teaching requirements in the canton and to provide teachers with benchmarks outside the classroom in order to situate student progress.
The RCTs also make it possible to situate schools in relation to the canton average.
The results of these tests can be decisive for promotion and orientation.
The RCTs are usually held in May and cover one to three disciplines:

• In 4th year:  The RCTs are in French. Result = indicative value.
• In 6e year, the RCTs cover French and mathematics. Result = meaningful work.
• In grade 8 , the RCTs cover French, mathematics and German. Result = 30% of annual averages in promotion and orientation decisions.

Why prepare for the RCT? 

A preparatory period to pass the cantonal reference tests

Is your child feeling stressed about the upcoming RCT?
Do you feel pressure at school?
Worried that your child won’t be ready in time to pass the RCT?

Regardless of your child’s grade in relation to the RCTs, you are right to plan ahead and support your child in preparing for the RCTs.

The issues are different for each year of the RCT. Nevertheless, they all remain as benchmarks and define your child’s grade level at any given time.

Your child’s grade level on the RCT is compared to his or her class, school, and the canton. Averages are calculated according to scales defined by the canton. This allows each student to be placed in relation to all others at the cantonal level.

This is a mandatory step for every student in French-speaking Switzerland, but above all is a milestone in your child’s education.

Prepare your child for the ECR!

RCTs, an advantage for your future

The cantonal reference tests are an important step for all students attending public schools in Switzerland. Teachers define the level of their class and their students. They can better direct their teaching to meet all student profiles and subject requirements.

Depending on the results of the RCT, your child may be directed to the appropriate course of study.

Whatever your child’s difficulties, Benk’s coaches will ensure that your child is optimally prepared for the ECR and achieves good results. He will feel valued and will reach the same level as the other students in his class.

Benk’s coaches help your child brush up on the knowledge expected for the RCTs.

They prepare him mentally and physically to succeed: for the studies, by mastering the exam subjects and by a tenfold confidence before the exams.
At Benk, preparation is both mental and academic.
We train your child to succeed.