ISLAMABAD: The Inter Boards Coordination Commission (IBCC) has introduced a new grading system for matric (SSC) and intermediate (HSSC) exams, aiming to promote fairness, transparency, and accuracy in student assessments.
This 10-point grading system (A++, A+, A, B++, B+, B, C, D, E, U) will replace the old 7-point system (A-1, A, B, C, D, E, F). Additionally, passing marks have been increased from 33% to 40%, and grades will now reflect Grade Point Average (GPA) and Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA), instead of absolute scores.
The new system is expected to control grade inflation, reduce competition for high marks, and provide a clearer assessment of students’ skills and learning. It will be implemented in phases, starting with students in grades 9 and 11 from the 2024 academic year.
During the transition, universities will consider both old and new grading systems for admissions in 2024-2025. However, from 2025 onward, admissions will only refer to CGPA and grades. To ease the transition, a grace marks policy has been introduced, and teachers may need to adjust their teaching methods to provide more descriptive feedback.
The Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC), and Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) have been notified of the changes, which aim to improve the credibility and reliability of Pakistan’s education system.