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The Board of Secondary Education Karachi (BSEK) has introduced a new grading system for matriculation exams, replacing the traditional pass-fail structure with a modern assessment method. The revised system will be implemented from the current academic year, aiming to make student evaluation more transparent and aligned with national standards.
According to BSEK officials, the new grading system will apply to Class 9 students from 2026, while Class 10 students will shift to the system in 2027. The minimum passing marks have been set at 40 percent, making it mandatory for students to secure at least this score to be declared successful.
Under the revised structure, the board has replaced the “fail” status with a “U grade.” Students scoring below 40 percent will receive this grade and will be required to appear in supplementary examinations. High achievers scoring 96 to 100 percent will now receive an A++ grade, recognizing exceptional academic performance.
In addition to grades, BSEK has announced the interim introduction of a GPA system, which will run alongside the grading structure. Officials stated that this step is intended to gradually prepare students for assessment systems used by other boards and higher education institutions across Pakistan.
“The new grading system will help reduce exam pressure while promoting conceptual learning and fair evaluation,” a board representative said.
Education boards across Pakistan have been moving toward grading and GPA-based assessments to improve learning outcomes and discourage rote memorization. Karachi Board’s decision follows similar reforms introduced by other provincial boards in recent years.
The board believes the updated system will help students better understand their academic standing and provide clearer benchmarks for colleges during admissions.
