PED Plans to Increase Passing Marks for SSC and HSC Exams

Punjab Education Department has put forward a proposal to raise the minimum passing marks for Secondary Matric and Higher Secondary Intermediate examinations. Under the new policy, the required passing percentage would increase from 33% to 40%. This change, if approved, is expected to be implemented starting with the annual examination session in 2026. The students can  check the fresh updates of PED Plans to Increase Passing Marks for Secondary and Higher Secondary Exams.

Purpose of the Proposed Increase

This policy shift is aimed at promoting critical thinking and discouraging rote learning among students. By raising the academic threshold, the department seeks to encourage a deeper understanding of concepts, ultimately contributing to the enhancement of the province’s education standards. A final decision will be made after deliberations with the chairpersons of all nine educational boards.

No Changes for 2025 Examination Session

Students appearing in the 2025 exams will continue under the existing rule, which requires a minimum of 33% in both theoretical and practical components of each subject. The revised 40% minimum will only come into effect from 2026, allowing adequate time for students and institutions to prepare for the transition.

Terminology and Grading System Overhaul

To modernize assessment language, the term “Fail” will be replaced with “Unsatisfactory.” In addition, a revamped grading structure will be introduced to better reflect student performance and provide a more comprehensive evaluation model.

Uniform Implementation and Support from Educators

These reforms will be uniformly adopted by all educational boards across Punjab, including BISE Lahore, BISE Rawalpindi, BISE Gujranwala, BISE Multan, BISE Faisalabad, BISE Sahiwal, BISE DG Khan, and BISE Bahawalpur. Educational stakeholders and teacher associations have welcomed the initiative, viewing it as a strategic move to uplift academic achievement and promote meaningful learning.