Indonesia revises 2026 Academic Ability Test rules

Indonesia's Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemendikdasmen) has announced significant changes to the 2026 Academic Ability Test (TKA) for high school, vocational, and equivalent levels. These revisions aim to enhance the testing experience and better prepare students for future academic pursuits.

The registration period for the TKA will run from July 27 to September 27, 2026, with the main examination scheduled from October 26 to November 8, 2026. According to Rahmawati, Head of the Center for Educational Assessment, these adjustments stem from evaluations of previous TKA implementations. "This year, we hope to be better and more prepared to welcome the academic ability test registration period because its implementation time is longer," Rahmawati stated.

Among the key changes, the exam schedule will now allow students to take one mandatory subject per day. The duration for completing the test has also been extended to 75 minutes, providing students with more time. Notably, vocational high school (SMK) students will now face an expanded curriculum, with 50 vocational subjects added based on their program of expertise. Students with residual data issues are still permitted to register, though they are urged to rectify their information promptly.

Furthermore, Kemendikdasmen is strengthening the supervision of the TKA by involving more universities. The ministry is also integrating the TKA with the National Assessment (AN) to boost efficiency and overall quality. Toni Toharudin, Head of the Center for Basic and Secondary Education Policy, emphasized the government's commitment to continuous improvement in national assessment quality. He urged prospective participants to prepare thoroughly and adhere to all guidelines.