Revised Grading Schemes 2026 for Matric & Intermediate Students in Pakistan

Grading Schemes 2026 for Matric & Intermediate Students is officially issued by educational boards. The examination system in Pakistan is gradually shifting from a pure marks-based evaluation to a grade-based assessment framework. In line with modern educational standards, both the Punjab Boards (and other provincial boards) and the Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (FBISE) have revised their grading schemes to better reflect students’ academic performance.

This article provides a comprehensive, easy-to-understand explanation of the latest grading structures, their implementation timelines, and the key differences between Punjab Boards and FBISE, especially for Matric (SSC) and Intermediate (HSSC) students.

1. Punjab Boards Grading Scheme (Including Other Provincial Boards)

Most provincial boards in Pakistan, including BISE Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Multan, Rawalpindi, and others, follow a uniform grading framework. This system applies to Matric (SSC) and Intermediate (HSSC) examinations.

Letter Grades and Percentage Boundaries

Percentage Marks	Letter Grade
90 – 100%	A+
87 – 89%	A
82 – 86%	B+
77 – 81%	B
70 – 76%	C+
60 – 69%	C
50 – 59%	D+
40 – 49%	D
33 – 39%	E
32% & Below	F (Fail)

Explanation of the Punjab Boards System

• Passing Marks:
  The minimum passing marks under Punjab Boards remain 33%. Students securing 33% or above are considered pass, even if they fall in the lowest passing grade (E).
• Balanced Evaluation:
  This grading model offers a moderate level of differentiation among students while keeping the traditional pass/fail threshold intact.
• Use in Admissions:
  Grades awarded by Punjab Boards are widely accepted by colleges, universities, and professional institutes across Pakistan.

Important Policy Notes (For Class 9 & 10)

• Class 9 (SSC-I) Students:
  Students of Part-I (9th class) receive only a result notification, not a final certificate.
• Final Grade Awarding:
  The final grade is calculated on cumulative marks of both:
  • SSC-I (9th Class)
  • SSC-II (10th Class)
• Certificate Details:
  The final marks sheet and certificate clearly display:
  • Total marks obtained
  • Corresponding letter grade

This ensures transparency and clarity for students and institutions alike.

2. Federal Board (FBISE) Revised Grading Formula

The Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (FBISE) has introduced a more advanced and detailed grading structure, aligning with international assessment practices.

Implementation Timeline

• SSC-I / HSSC-I:
  Effective from First Annual Examinations 2026
• SSC-II / HSSC-II:
  Effective from First Annual Examinations 2027

FBISE Grade Structure and Descriptions

Percentage Marks	Grade	Description
96 – 100%	A++	Extraordinary
91 – 95%	A+	Exceptional
86 – 90%	A	Outstanding
81 – 85%	B++	Excellent
76 – 80%	B+	Very Good
71 – 75%	B	Good
61 – 70%	C+	Fairly Good
51 – 60%	C	Above Average
40 – 50%	D	Emerging
Below 40%	U	Ungraded

Key Features of the FBISE Grading System

• Higher Passing Threshold:
  FBISE has raised the passing marks to 40%. Any student scoring below this limit is declared Ungraded (U).
• Greater Grade Differentiation:
  The introduction of A++ and B++ allows a more precise distinction between high-achieving students.
• Performance-Focused Evaluation:
  Each grade is supported by a clear performance descriptor, helping students understand their academic standing.

Re-Appearance Policy (Major Change)

• Students who score below 40% in any paper and are declared Ungraded must:
  • Re-appear in the same subject,
  • Provided they meet the eligibility criteria.

This policy emphasizes minimum competency standards rather than marginal passing.

3. Comparison: Punjab Boards vs Federal Board (FBISE)

Passing Marks

• Punjab Boards: 33% (Grade E)
• FBISE: 40% (Grade D)

Grading Depth

• Punjab Boards:
  Simpler structure with fewer grade tiers.
• FBISE:
  More detailed system with higher-tier grades such as A++ and B++.

Assessment Philosophy

• Punjab Boards:
  Focus on inclusivity and broader pass rates.
• FBISE:
  Focus on quality, competitiveness, and academic rigor.

4. What This Means for Students

• Students under Punjab Boards may find the system more lenient, especially at the lower end of passing marks.
• Federal Board students must aim for higher performance, as the 40% rule leaves no room for marginal passing.
• High achievers under FBISE benefit from extra recognition due to advanced grade tiers.
• Universities and employers can now better assess academic excellence through refined grading.

Students & Teachers Must Know

The revised grading schemes introduced by Punjab Boards and FBISE mark a significant step toward modernizing Pakistan’s examination system. While Punjab Boards continue with a traditional and student-friendly approach, FBISE has adopted a stricter and more competitive grading framework.

Students, parents, and educators are strongly advised to understand these grading criteria thoroughly, as grades now play a crucial role in college admissions, scholarships, and future academic planning.

This article is based on officially issued grading policies of the Punjab Boards and the Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (FBISE). For final confirmation, students should always consult the respective board’s official notifications.