Karachi Board New Grading System 2026

The Board of Secondary Education Karachi has introduced a new grading system for matric exams to improve fairness and clarity in student assessment. This reform aims to move away from outdated result methods and focus more on learning outcomes rather than just pass or fail labels. The change reflects modern education standards and aligns Karachi Board with national and international assessment trends.

The new grading system will begin from the current academic session for Class 9 students, while Class 10 students will transition to the new structure from 2027. By introducing clear grade categories and a defined passing benchmark, the board wants to reduce confusion and academic stress among students.

• Implemented by BSEK for matric exams
• Focus on transparent and skill-based assessment
• Applicable in phases for Class 9 and Class 10

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Implementation Timeline for the New Grading Structure

The Karachi Board has clearly defined the rollout plan to ensure a smooth transition for students and schools. Class 9 students will be assess under the new grading system starting from 2026, giving them early exposure to the revise evaluation method. Schools have also been instruct to guide students accordingly.

For Class 10 candidates, the board has set 2027 as the implementation year. This phased approach allows both teachers and students enough time to adapt to the changes without disrupting ongoing academic preparation.

• Class 9: New grading system effective from 2026
• Class 10: New assessment method applicable from 2027
• Gradual transition to avoid academic disruption

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Minimum Passing Criteria Under the New System

Under the revised Karachi Board grading system, students must secure at least 40 percent marks to be declared successful. This fixed benchmark replaces the earlier flexible criteria and ensures uniform evaluation across all subjects. The board believes this step will encourage consistent academic effort.

Students who score below 40 percent will not be considered pass and will be placed in a separate grade category. This change helps students clearly understand where they stand academically and what improvement is required.

• Minimum passing marks set at 40 percent
• Same criteria applied to all subjects
• Clear distinction between pass and underperforming students

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Replacement of Fail Status with U Grade

One of the most significant changes is the removal of the traditional “fail” status. Instead, students scoring below 40 percent will now receive a U grade. This shift is intended to reduce negative labeling and emotional pressure associated with failure.

The U grade indicates that the student has not met the minimum academic requirement and needs further improvement. It also encourages students to reappear in supplementary exams without the stigma previously attached to failure.

• Fail status officially removed
• U grade introduced for scores below 40 percent
• Focus on improvement rather than labeling

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Introduction of A++ Grade for High Achievers

The Karachi Board has also introduced an A++ grade to recognize exceptional academic performance. Students scoring between 96 and 100 percent will be awarded this highest grade, setting a clear benchmark for excellence.

This step aims to motivate students to aim higher and reward consistent hard work. By clearly distinguishing top performers, the board hopes to encourage a healthy competitive academic environment.

• A++ grade for 96–100 percent marks
• Clear recognition of academic excellence
• Encourages high achievement among students

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Interim Introduction of GPA System by Karachi Board

Alongside grades, the Karachi Board has decided to introduce a GPA system on an interim basis. This addition helps present student performance in a more standardized numerical format, which is commonly used in higher education.

The GPA system will work alongside grades and may later be fully integrated depending on its effectiveness. It will also help students when applying for colleges that require GPA-based evaluation.

• GPA introduced on a temporary basis
• Works alongside grading structure
• Supports college admission requirements

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Supplementary Exams Policy After Grading Changes

Students who receive a U grade or fail to meet the minimum passing requirement will be eligible to appear in supplementary examinations. This policy ensures that students are given another chance to improve their academic record without losing an entire year.

Supplementary exams will follow the same grading and passing criteria. The board encourages students to use this opportunity to strengthen weak subjects and achieve better results.

• Supplementary exams mandatory for U grade holders
• Same 40 percent passing rule applies
• Opportunity to improve academic standing

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Comparison of Old vs New Karachi Board Grading System

The new grading system differs significantly from the previous model, especially in how student performance is categorized. Earlier, results were mostly limited to pass or fail labels, which did not fully reflect academic ability.

The updated structure provides detailed grading, introduces GPA, and removes harsh failure terminology. This change offers a more balanced and student-friendly evaluation approach.

Feature	Old System	New System 2026
Passing Marks	Variable	Fixed at 40%
Fail Status	Fail	U Grade
Top Grade	A+	A++
GPA	Not available	Introduced (Interim)

Impact of New Grading System on Students and Schools

The revised grading system is expected to reduce exam-related stress and improve result transparency. Students will have a clearer understanding of their academic level and the steps needed for improvement.

Schools will also benefit by aligning teaching methods with outcome-based assessment. Over time, this reform may help raise overall education standards in Karachi.

• Reduced academic pressure
• Clear performance benchmarks
• Improved teaching and evaluation alignment

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who will be assessed under the new grading system in 2026?
Class 9 students will be assessed under the new grading system from the 2026 academic year.

What is the minimum passing percentage now?
Students must score at least 40 percent marks to be declared successful.

What does the U grade mean?
The U grade indicates that a student scored below 40 percent and needs improvement.

When will Class 10 students follow the new grading system?
Class 10 students will be assessed under the new system starting in 2027.

Will GPA replace grades completely?
No, GPA has been introduced on an interim basis and works alongside grades for now.

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