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Bachillerato electives: what they are, which ones there are and how to choose them

Electives look like the least important part of Bachillerato, but they count for your average and can help you try something before deciding. Here is how to choose them well.

By the UTalento team4 min readUpdated
In this article

01

What Bachillerato electives are

Under the LOMLOE, Bachillerato is organised into three kinds of subjects: common, the same for everyone; modalidad subjects, specific to the modalidad you choose; and electives.

Under the national rules, each education authority regulates the electives on offer, the offer must include at least a second foreign language, and schools can propose their own electives within their region’s framework. That is why they change from one region to another and from one school to another.

02

How to choose your electives

Five questions that help you decide.

  1. What would I like to study next?

    If you have two or three degrees or vocational courses in mind, think about which electives help you prepare for them or find out whether you really like them.

  2. What do I want to try?

    An elective is a good way to discover something new, such as a language, programming or psychology, without changing modalidad.

  3. Will it go well for me?

    It counts for your average. Choosing something that interests you usually brings better grades than choosing only what seems easiest.

  4. What does my school offer, and how does it fit the timetable?

    Not every combination is possible. Check your school’s elective sheet and ask before enrolling.

  5. What do the people who know me say?

    Talk to your tutor or your school counselor. They know your school, and they know you.

03

Common mistakes

What students most often regret later.

  1. Choosing only what your friends choose

    Understandable, but it is two years and it counts for your grade.

  2. Choosing only for an easy grade

    An elective that does not interest you can end up costing more than it seemed.

  3. Not looking beyond the first year

    Some first-year choices shape the subjects you can take in the second.

Common questions

  • Do electives count for the Bachillerato average?

    Yes. Electives count for your Bachillerato average, and that average makes up 60% of the university access mark.

  • Are electives examined in the PAU?

    No. The PAU examines the common and modalidad subjects of the second year. Electives count through your Bachillerato average.

  • Which electives are there in Bachillerato?

    It depends on your autonomous community and your school. The offer must include at least a second foreign language, and each school can propose others. Check your school’s elective sheet.

  • Can I change elective?

    It depends on your school and your region. If you want to change, ask as early as possible, because the further the year goes, the harder it gets.

Choose with what comes next in mind

UTalento helps you see what you really enjoy and which paths fit you, so every choice makes sense. Free to begin.