European Commission plans AI literacy certificate for pupils
The Commission will write common learning outcomes for AI literacy by mid-2027 and test a certificate from the 2027/28 school year. Nothing is binding on schools or governments.
The European Commission said on 5 November 2026 that it will pilot an AI literacy certificate for school pupils from the 2027/28 school year.
The plan is part of a new Education and Skills Package. The Commission said in its press release that it will first write learning outcomes and assessment guidance for AI literacy, suited to each age. They will be based on the AI Literacy Framework that the Commission and the OECD published in June 2026. The Commission's policy paper says the learning outcomes are due by mid-2027. It also promises EU funding for long-term research on how AI affects children's thinking and results at school.
The package has other measures on digital learning. On 3 November the Commission set up EDU-EDIC, a group of eight member states that will share trusted AI and digital services for schools. The Commission also plans a Healthy Screens Pledge. It would give schools and families guidance on online safety and screen time.
Euronews reported that the certificate is meant for 15-year-olds. The Commission's press release, questions and answers and policy paper give no age. Euronews quoted Roxana Mînzatu, the executive vice-president who presented the package, as saying the certificate would help pupils understand how AI works and spot manipulation.
For schools, nothing changes yet. The Commission says in its questions and answers that the package creates no binding obligations. National governments will decide whether to adopt two non-binding recommendations, one on basic skills and one on teachers. The second asks governments to give teachers a say in how AI is used.
The Commission has not said which countries will test the certificate, how pupils will be assessed or whether taking it will be voluntary. It will discuss the package with governments and teachers' organisations at a summit in Brussels on 20 November.
Sources
- European Commission Commission launches Education and Skills package to tackle declining basic skills, rapid digital change and teacher shortages
- European Commission Questions and answers on the Education and Skills package
- European Commission Stronger education foundations for all in the age of AI (COM(2026) 770)
- Euronews EU plans to deliver 'AI literacy' certificates to students
- Eunews Minzatu presents the EU's education strategy: basic skills and AI
- The Brussels Times EU unveils sweeping reforms as student skills and teacher numbers decline