The Karachi Board of Secondary Education has announced a new grading system for students in 9th and 10th grades. This change will take effect from the 2026–27 academic session. Along with the grading update, the board has also increased the minimum passing marks in different subjects to better evaluate students’ academic performance and strengthen learning standards.
According to the revised policy, students will now need 40 marks to pass a 100-mark paper. Earlier the passing mark was 33. For papers carrying 75 marks, the passing requirement has been raised from 25 to 30. In subjects with a total of 60 marks, students must now score at least 24 instead of the previous 20 marks. Similarly, for 30-mark papers, the passing marks have been increased from 10 to 12.
Officials stated that the updated system brings the board’s grading approach in line with national education standards and allows a clearer assessment of student performance. Schools and teachers have been directed to inform both students and parents about the new passing criteria and grading guidelines.
The Karachi Board also said that these measures are intended to motivate students to prepare more seriously for their studies, improve accountability and make sure learners achieve the required academic level before moving on to the next class.
Overall, the reforms are meant to strengthen learning and help reduce gaps in students’ understanding across secondary education.