In a significant academic reform, the Board of Secondary Education Karachi (BSEK) has approved a new grading framework for matriculation exams. The change is aimed at modernizing assessment practices, reducing stigma attached to failure, and gradually aligning evaluation with international standards.
Officials confirmed that the revised system will begin immediately for Class 9, while Class 10 students will transition in 2027.
Minimum Passing Marks Set at 40%
Under the updated structure, students must secure at least 40 percent to be declared successful. Anyone scoring below this threshold will not be labeled as “fail” — a major cultural shift in reporting results.
Instead, BSEK has introduced a new term.
“Fail” Replaced With U Grade
Students who obtain less than 40 percent will now receive a “U grade.”
Education authorities say the idea is to soften psychological pressure and encourage improvement rather than punishment. However, students in this category will still need to reappear in supplementary examinations to clear their subjects.
Top Performers Get A++
At the other end of the spectrum, students scoring 96 to 100 percent will be awarded the elite A++ bracket, giving high achievers a clearer distinction in merit comparisons, scholarships, and admissions.
GPA System Also Coming
The board has additionally decided to introduce a Grade Point Average (GPA) model on an interim basis.
While percentage marks will still exist, GPA will help institutions compare performance more easily — especially when students apply to colleges that follow credit or grade-based admissions.
Why BSEK Is Changing the System
Education reforms worldwide are moving away from simple pass/fail labels. By introducing structured grades and GPA elements, the board aims to:
-
Reduce exam anxiety
-
Provide nuanced academic evaluation
-
Encourage improvement cycles
-
Bring Karachi closer to national & international trends
Officials believe this will also help universities interpret performance more consistently.
What Happens If a Student Gets U Grade?
Receiving a U does not permanently block academic progress. Instead:
-
The student must appear in supplementary exams
-
Upon clearing, the grade will be updated
-
Future admissions will consider the revised outcome
Transition Timeline
| Class | System Applies From |
|---|---|
| Grade 9 | Current academic year |
| Grade 10 | 2027 session |
This staggered model allows schools and teachers time to adapt.
Reaction From Education Circles
Teachers have generally welcomed the clarity but stress that students must understand one key point: minimum standards still matter.
Even without the word “fail,” performance below 40 percent still requires re-examination.
FAQs
What is the new passing percentage?
40 percent.
Is the word “fail” removed?
Yes, replaced with the U grade.
Who gets A++?
Students scoring between 96 and 100 percent.
Will GPA replace marks?
Not yet. It will run alongside percentages.
What if someone receives U grade?
They must sit in supplementary exams.
This content is published for general information and awareness purposes. kixxoil.pk is an independent informational website and is not officially connected with any government authority or public institution. Readers are encouraged to confirm details directly from official sources before making any decisions.
