Education Policy Watch: The New Academic Hurdle
TKA Mandate Tightens for University Track: Vocational Students in Deep Learning Curriculum Face a 'Voluntary but Required' Test
BATANG. The landscape of academic assessment for Indonesian 12th graders has been redefined with the introduction of the Academic Competence Test (TKA), a national standard assessment replacing the previous National Examination (UN). For students in vocational high schools (SMK/MAK)—particularly those specializing in the cutting-edge **Deep Learning curriculum**—the TKA presents a unique, dual-status challenge: officially **optional** for graduation, yet effectively **mandatory** for continuing their education at a state university.
A Tool for Self-Awareness, Not Graduation
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) has consistently positioned the TKA not as a graduation exam, but as a crucial instrument for students to better understand their **academic strengths** and potential.
"The test is **voluntary** and does not determine graduation. However, the results can help students build confidence in choosing careers or further education," explained Director General for Early Childhood, Primary, and Secondary Education, Gogot Suharwoto. The TKA is designed to measure Higher Order Thinking Skills (**HOTS**) and application of knowledge, moving the focus away from rote memorization.
This perspective aligns closely with the principles of the **Deep Learning curriculum**, which aims to foster meaningful, joyful, and mindful learning by connecting material to real-world contexts and developing critical thinking.
[Deep Learning Principles (Meaningful, Contextual) → HOTS Assessment → TKA Success]
The Non-Negotiable Requirement for University Entry
Despite its voluntary status at the school level, the TKA score has now been solidified as a **mandatory component** for students applying to state universities through the National Achievement-Based Selection (**SNBP**) pathway.
The SNBP Coordinator, Riza Satria Perdana, confirmed that the TKA acts as a **validation instrument** for school report cards. "The TKA is a requirement for participating in the SNBP. Therefore, eligible students listed by their schools... must have a TKA score," Riza stressed.
For vocational students, whose career goals often bridge industry and advanced study, this makes the TKA a **non-negotiable step** if they plan to pursue a degree after graduation. The test ensures an objective, national standard for comparing academic achievements during the highly competitive university selection process.
Deep Learning Students and Subject Choice
Students in the Deep Learning track, known for integrating advanced subjects like **Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and specialized Mathematics**, are advised to strategically choose their TKA subjects. The TKA includes three compulsory subjects (Indonesian, Mathematics, and English) and two elective subjects.
Expert academic consultants suggest that students align their two elective TKA subjects carefully with their desired university major, using their high-level vocational subject knowledge to demonstrate proficiency.
The introduction of the TKA has not been without controversy. An online petition demanding the cancellation of the test garnered significant student signatures, citing **sudden implementation** and **inadequate preparation time** following the official release of the assessment framework. Technical difficulties during initial trial runs also also raised concerns about server readiness for the November 2025 assessment.
Nevertheless, the government and principals remain optimistic, viewing the TKA as a strategic tool to improve the quality of high school and vocational graduates nationwide.
