Pakistani Students Can Now Move from Arts to Science After Matric: New Admission Policy Announced

The Inter Board Committee of Chairmen (IBCC) has approved a major policy shift for Matric Arts students in Pakistan. From 2026, these students can apply for Pre-Medical and Pre-Engineering at the intermediate level. The decision aims to open new academic pathways after consultation with major education councils across the country.

Matric Arts Students Allowed in Pre-Medical, Pre-Engineering from 2026: IBCC Issues New Policy

The Inter Board Committee of Chairmen introduced a new academic policy that lets Matric Arts students apply for Pre-Medical and Pre-Engineering starting from the SSC Annual Exams 2026. The official notification issued by IBCC Director Dr. Shehzad Ali Gill, and it confirms the policy rollout for all education boards in Pakistan.

The decision came after the IBCC’s 183rd meeting in Karachi on December 4 and 5, 2025. IBCC Executive Director Ghulam Ali Mallah said all members agreed on the change after continuous discussions.

The policy includes feedback from major bodies, including the Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC), Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC), Higher Education Commission (HEC), National Curriculum Council (NCC), and provincial curriculum authorities. Their input shaped the final version of this decision.

Under the new structure, colleges can decide admission rules. They can set minimum marks, define merit criteria, or run a placement test before offering seats in Pre-Medical or Pre-Engineering. This means every institution will manage its own eligibility process, but must follow merit.

Many students and parents have tried to shift from Arts to Science in the past. The new policy now gives them a clear path. It also adds flexibility to Pakistan’s intermediate education system, which has followed fixed subject streams for years.