May 9, 2025 – The British Council and Cambridge International Education (CIE) have announced the cancellation of all Cambridge exams scheduled for Friday, May 9, 2025, in specific regions of Pakistan due to the prevailing security situation.
This decision affects students appearing for O Level, IGCSE, and International AS & A Level exams in Muzaffarabad, Mirpur, Islamabad Capital Territory, and Punjab. The suspension applies to students from both Cambridge Direct and British Council-affiliated schools.
“This only applies to exams on Friday, May 9,” a joint statement clarified, noting that updates regarding exams scheduled for Monday, May 12, will be shared with schools by the evening of Sunday, May 11.
Exams in other parts of Pakistan are still expected to go ahead as scheduled, “if the security situation remains unchanged.” Students in those regions are advised to stay alert for any further official announcements.
British Council Emphasizes Safety First
Earlier on May 8, the British Council cancelled GCE, IGCSE, IELTS, and University of London exams across all Lahore venues during the afternoon session, citing similar security concerns.
Officials reiterated that the safety of students and staff is the top priority, and assured that fair grades will be awarded where exams are cancelled, using well-established assessment processes.
Students Advised to Follow Official Channels
Students have been strongly advised to rely only on the official Cambridge and British Council Pakistan platforms for accurate and timely updates.
- Private candidates should contact British Council Customer Services.
- School candidates are advised to consult their respective institutions directly.
Background: Rising Tensions with India
The cancellation follows heightened security alerts across Pakistan after India launched unprovoked missile strikes earlier this week. The strike came just two weeks after India alleged Pakistan’s involvement in an incident in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK), where 26 individuals were reportedly killed.
Pakistan has denied the accusations, stating it downed five Indian aircraft, 25 drones, and destroyed several military checkposts in response.
With tensions escalating, authorities have placed several regions on high alert, and even suspended flights intermittently to safeguard the public.
 have announced the cancellation of all Cambridge exams scheduled for Friday, May 9, 2025, in specific regions of Pakistan due to the prevailing security situation.){kind=link}