Passing Marks Increased to 40% in First Year Exams, New Education Policy Update in Pakistan
-
Junaid Ahmed
-
- Published June 22, 2026
The passing marks for First Year students have officially been increased to 40%, marking a significant change in the examination system. Previously, students were required to secure only 33 out of 100 marks to pass. Under the new rule, students must now obtain at least 40 marks out of 100 to qualify.
This new passing criteria will apply to First Year students but will also be used for Second Year students from the annual examination of 2027.
What Has Changed?
Under the new grading policy:
- Earlier passing requirement: 33% marks
- New passing requirement: 40% marks
- Applicable to: First Year students (immediate)
- Second Year implementation: Annual exams 2027

Impact on Students
The higher passing rate is intended to help to raise academic standards and improve student preparation. It could, however, put pressure on the students who were used to the lower standard of achievement.
Subject-Wise Passing Requirement
The students will now be required to get 40 out of 100 in each subject, rather than 33 marks.
Education Policy Update in Pakistan
This shift is part of the continuing reform of Pakistan’s education system, which focuses on improving the overall quality of education and moving it towards more competitive assessment frameworks.
Leave a Reply