FBISE Introduces New Grading System for Matric and Intermediate Exams

The Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (FBISE) has officially unveiled a new and improved grading system for students across Pakistan. This updated system will first be introduced in 2026 for Secondary School Certificate (SSC) examinations and later applied to FA and FSc (Intermediate) examinations starting from 2027. The purpose behind this reform is to modernize the examination process, bring it closer to international education standards, and reduce unnecessary pressure on students caused by traditional percentage-based marking.

According to the new grading policy, students will no longer be judged only by their exact marks but rather by broader grade categories that better represent their performance level and understanding of the subject.

New Grading Scale Details

Under the updated structure:

• Students who achieve 96% to 100% marks will be awarded the “A++” grade, the highest possible distinction, representing exceptional academic excellence.
• Those securing 91% to 95% will receive an “A+” grade, showing outstanding performance.
• Scores between 86% and 90% will result in an “A” grade, reflecting very good understanding and consistency.
• Students earning 81% to 85% will fall into the “B++” grade, while 76% to 80% will be marked as “B+”.
• A score between 71% and 75% will earn a “B” grade, considered above average.
• 61% to 70% will correspond to a “C+” grade, and 51% to 60% will be awarded a “C” grade, which reflects satisfactory performance.
• Students who obtain 40% to 50% marks will fall into the “D (Emerging)” category. This means that the student has met the basic learning outcomes but still has areas needing improvement.

Candidates who score below 40% will be marked as “Ungraded”, meaning they did not meet the minimum requirements to pass. However, these students will have the chance to reappear in examinations as per the FBISE’s re-evaluation and supplementary exam rules.

Objective Behind the New System

Officials from FBISE explained that this grading reform aims to encourage learning over rote memorization. It is designed to help students understand their academic strengths and weaknesses more clearly and reduce the stigma associated with getting lower marks. By replacing the traditional percentage and division system, the Board hopes to create a more positive and motivating educational environment.

Moreover, the A++ to D grading model brings Pakistan’s examination standards closer to global education systems, making it easier for students to apply for international studies, scholarships, and exchange programs. Many developed countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, and several in Europe, follow similar grade-based systems that emphasize student progress instead of rigid scoring.

Implementation and National Consensus

During a recent session of the Inter Board Committee of Chairmen (IBCC), which includes representatives from all educational boards in Pakistan, members agreed in principle to adopt the new grading system and the revised passing marks formula. However, an FBISE official noted that it is still uncertain whether every provincial board will implement it at the same pace, as each board operates under its own regulations and educational policies.

Despite this, the FBISE is confident that the new grading framework will eventually be adopted nationwide, ensuring uniformity and fairness across all examination boards. It also aligns with the federal education policy that emphasizes modernization, inclusivity, and recognition of student diversity.

Benefits for Students

This change is not just administrative — it’s expected to have a positive impact on students’ mental well-being. The Board believes that shifting from marks-based competition to a broader grading structure will reduce exam-related stress and encourage creativity and conceptual learning.

Students will also be able to track their progress more effectively, focusing on improving their grade bands rather than obsessing over a few lost marks. Teachers, too, will be encouraged to adopt modern teaching methods that focus on understanding, problem-solving, and critical thinking instead of simple memorization.

What Happens Next

The FBISE will soon issue detailed guidelines to schools, teachers, and students explaining the full breakdown of grades, criteria for improvement exams, and how these grades will translate for university admissions. Training sessions and awareness workshops will also be held to ensure smooth implementation across all affiliated institutions.

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