The Algerian Ministry of National Education has released a new instruction, dated September 19, 2026, detailing changes to the college curriculum. The document, numbered 470, outlines hourly volumes and coefficients for various subjects across four levels of middle school. This update comes just two days before the start of the 2026-2027 school year. The new guidelines aim to provide clarity on the organization of teachings in Algerian colleges.
The ministry has specified the weekly hourly volumes for each subject. For the Arabic language, the volume is set at 5 hours in the first and second years, and 3 hours in the third and fourth years. The coefficient for Arabic reaches 5 in the fourth year, compared to 3 in the other levels. Meanwhile, French and English languages have 3 hours and 30 minutes of instruction per week in most levels, with coefficients varying by year.
Mathematics holds a significant place in the curriculum, with 4 hours of instruction per week in the first and fourth years, and 3 hours and 30 minutes in the second and third years. In the fourth year, the coefficient for mathematics is set at 4. The ministry has also provided guidelines for science subjects, including natural sciences, physical sciences, and history-geography, with weekly volumes ranging from 2 to 3 hours.
The new instruction also addresses the organization of guided sessions (TD). The ministry requires schools to divide classes into two groups for sessions focused on Arabic, mathematics, French, and English. Each group will have a 1-hour session, with frequency varying by subject and level. This change aims to provide more individualized attention to students.
The updated guidelines also mention that practical sessions will maintain their current organization. These sessions cover subjects such as natural sciences, physical sciences, technology, and computer science. No changes have been announced for these sessions.
Schools are expected to apply the new guidelines when preparing timetables for the 2026-2027 school year. Inspectors and directors of public and private establishments have been tasked with ensuring the dissemination and implementation of these instructions. This update complements a previous correspondence, numbered 469, dated September 17, 2026.
The new guidelines come ahead of the September 21, 2026, school year start date. They provide essential parameters for schools to establish new pedagogical organizations and timetables for the middle school cycle. The changes are part of a broader effort to improve education in Algeria, including the introduction of new English programs for students in the first and second years of middle school.
Key points
- Algeria's Ministry of National Education has issued new guidelines for the college curriculum.
- The guidelines adjust hourly volumes, coefficients, and TD sessions for the 2026-2027 school year.
- The changes aim to improve education in Algeria, including the introduction of new English programs.
