Composite / Combined Exam Policy 2026: Complete Guide for 11th & 12th Together

The Composite / Combined Exam Policy 2026, is released recently by educational boards. Many Intermediate students in Pakistan are confused about whether 11th (Part-I) and 12th (Part-II) can be attempted together in one year. This system is commonly called the Composite Exam or Combined Exam, especially among private candidates.

For the academic sessions 2026, education boards and PBCC have clearly defined the rules. This article explains everything in simple words, so students do not lose a year due to misunderstanding.

What Is a Composite / Combined Exam?

A Composite Exam (also commonly known as the Combined Exam) allows a student to appear in Intermediate Part-I and Part-II in the same examination session.

Official Board Term

Although students use the term combined exam, education boards officially call it a:

Single Unified Examination

This means:

• Part-I and Part-II papers are conducted separately
• Both parts are treated as one degree
• The final result is issued as a single Intermediate (HSSC) qualification

Who Can Apply for Composite / Combined Exams?

This exam option is mainly for:

• Private candidates who do not attend regular colleges
• Failed or re-appear students of Part-I
• Students who left studies earlier and want to complete Intermediate legally

Regular college students are not eligible for composite exams.

Mandatory Two-Year Gap Rule (Very Important)

This is the most critical condition and often causes rejections.

What Does the Rule Say?

You cannot complete Intermediate in one year after Matric.

To appear in a Composite / Combined Intermediate exam, a student must complete a minimum 2-year academic gap after passing Matric (SSC).

Example:

• Matric passed in 2023 → Eligible for composite exam in 2025
• Matric passed in 2023 → ❌ Not eligible in 2024

The board strictly enforces this rule because Intermediate is officially a two-year degree. If the gap is incomplete, the admission form is rejected without refund.

Number of Chances Allowed (Latest PBCC Policy 10/24)

This rule has changed in favour of students.

Total Chances

According to PBCC Notification No. 10/24:

• Students are allowed 4 examination chances
• These chances can be used within 4 years
• Earlier, only 2 years were allowed

Passing Marks & Practical Exam Rules (2025–27)

Passing Criteria

• Minimum 33% marks are required to pass each subject
• Although 40% is under discussion, the official 2025–27 scheme still confirms 33%

Practical Exams for Composite Students

• Practical exams are conducted only once
• Practicals are held after Part-II written exams
• One practical exam covers the combined syllabus of Part-I and Part-II

Compulsory Subjects Reminder

• Islamic Education → 50 marks (Part-I only)
• Pakistan Studies → 50 marks (Part-II only)

Composite / Combined Exam vs Improvement Exam

Many students confuse these two categories.

Composite / Combined Exam (To Pass)

• For students who have not passed Intermediate
• Includes failed, absent, or private candidates
• Purpose: Complete the degree

Improvement Exam (To Increase Marks)

• For students who have already passed Intermediate
• Used for medical, engineering, or merit improvement
• Also allowed 4 chances within 4 years

Applying in the wrong category can result in loss of one full academic year.

Important Dates & Application Information

1st Annual Examinations

• Registration usually starts in November / December
• Exams are held in April / May

2nd Annual (Supplementary) Examinations

• Students who miss the 1st Annual can apply
• Composite candidates are allowed in 2nd Annual as well

Exact dates and fees vary by board, so students should always check their official board notification.

Important Warnings for Students

• Always verify your Matric passing year
• Ensure the 2-year gap is complete
• Choose Composite / Combined or Improvement carefully
• Incorrect category selection can cause admission rejection

According to the Official 2025–27 Scheme of Studies, Part-I and Part-II are clearly defined as a Single Unified Examination, which legally confirms the composite system.

Final Words

The Composite / Combined Intermediate Exam 2025–27 is a valuable opportunity for private and failed students to complete their education without attending regular college. However, success depends on correct understanding of rules, proper eligibility, and accurate form submission.

For authentic board updates, exam rules, and student guidance, stay connected with thetaleemikhabrain.com.