The open letter
A clear position, arguments backed by sources from the file, a specific reader and the right tone.
Uniform exam · Needed for the diploma
The Secondary 5 French writing exam, prepared with a method.
An open letter of about 500 words, 3 hours 15 minutes to write it, criteria known in advance. It is the most feared exam of high school, and one of the most predictable.
Next date: Uniform writing exam, May 6, 2027
Official calendar
The dates
| Exam | Date | Code | Countdown |
|---|---|---|---|
| January session: writing | December 3, 20269 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Official source | 132-520 | |
| Uniform writing exam | May 6, 20279 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Official source | 132-520 | |
| Summer retake | July 27, 20278:45 a.m. to 12 p.m. Official source | 132-520 |
Dates come from the Ministère de l'Éducation's official schedule (updated August 28, 2026) or from each CEGEP's calendar. The school sets the time and room: always confirm with the school. · Ministry information document
What the exam covers
The exam assesses the competency Writes a variety of texts: the student defends a position in an open letter, using a preparation file handed out a few days before. Dictionaries, a grammar book and a conjugation guide are allowed, with a note sheet checked by the teacher.
This is the exam of French-language schools. It is marked by the ministry on five criteria: fit with the situation, coherence, vocabulary, sentence structure and punctuation, spelling. Sentence structure, punctuation and spelling together are close to half of the marks: that is often where a tutor makes the biggest difference.
Coherence
An introduction, body paragraphs linked with transition words, a conclusion that restates the position.
Sentences and punctuation
Complete, well punctuated sentences. Commas and run-on sentences cost a lot.
Spelling and agreement
Noun group agreement, verb and past participle agreement, homophones. A revision method wins points.
Week by week
A realistic prep plan
Two 60-minute sessions a week with the tutor, plus 2 or 3 short sessions alone. That is exactly the pace of the Blitz packages.
- Week 1Write a full text in 3 h 15 to see the level, then mark it with the grid.
- Week 2Open letter structure: position, outline, paragraphs and transition words.
- Week 3Sentence structure and punctuation: spot faulty sentences in your own texts.
- Week 4Grammar spelling: one revision method for agreements, used on every text.
- Week 5Read a file of texts, take useful notes, quote and paraphrase sources.
- Week 6A last timed text, the note sheet and a 20-minute revision routine.
Avoid these
The most common mistakes
- A vague position, or one that changes halfway through.
- Arguments without sources, or sources poorly paraphrased.
- No time left at the end to check agreements.
- Long sentences with misplaced commas.
- Writing far fewer (or far more) words than asked.
Free self-check
Where does your child stand? 2 minutes
Tick what your child can already do alone, without help. This is not an official test: it is a starting point to discuss with the tutor in the free first class.
Exam Blitz packages
An intensive boost, right before the exam
The same hourly rate as usual for the level, with a small discount, at a pace of 2 sessions a week. Sessions are booked in your parent space, with the same tutor.
Blitz 4 sessions
over 2 weeks
$174.60
$43.65 per session
Save $5.40 (3 %)
Choose this BlitzBlitz 6 sessions
over 3 weeks
$259.20
$43.20 per session
Save $10.80 (4 %)
Choose this BlitzBlitz 8 sessions
over 4 weeks
$342
$42.75 per session
Save $18 (5 %)
Choose this BlitzPaid online at purchase (Stripe). Sessions already given are not refunded. A session cancelled at least 24 hours ahead stays as a credit in your space. The first class is still free.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Questions? Call or write to us:
Go further
When is the Secondary 5 French writing exam in 2027?
According to the ministry's official schedule, the uniform writing exam is on May 6, 2027, from 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. A session is also held on December 3, 2026 for some students, and a retake on July 27, 2027.
How much is the exam worth?
For 2025-2026, the ministry's information document said 50% of the Writing competency. The weighting is confirmed every year: check this year's document with the school.
My child goes to an English school. Is it the same exam?
No. This is the exam for French-language schools. Students in English schools write a French as a second language exam on other dates.
Can a tutor really raise the mark?
We do not promise a mark. But sentence structure, punctuation and spelling improve with a method, and that is where most marks are lost.
Are classes online?
Yes, live with camera and screen sharing, or in person in Montreal depending on tutor availability.