The Education Department has proposed raising the minimum passing marks for matriculation (classes 9 and 10) and intermediate (classes 11 and 12) exams from the current 33% to 40%. If approved, the revised criteria will take effect from the annual examinations in 2026.
The proposed policy aims to curb rote memorization and encourage conceptual understanding among students, thereby strengthening the overall quality of education. The final decision will be made following consultation with the committee of chairpersons representing all nine educational boards in the province.
For the 2025 examination cycle, the existing 33% pass mark requirement will remain unchanged. Currently, students must secure at least 33% in both theory and practical sections of each subject. Starting in 2026, however, students will be required to achieve a minimum of 40% in every subject.
In addition, the term “Fail” will be replaced with “Unsatisfactory” under the revised policy, and a new grading system will be introduced to further improve academic standards and assessment practices.
The proposed changes will be implemented uniformly across all educational boards in Punjab, including Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, Gujranwala, Sahiwal, Rawalpindi, Bahawalpur, and DG Khan.
Teacher associations have expressed support for the move, calling it a step forward in raising the bar for student performance and learning outcomes.
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