Islamabad, Pakistan – The Inter Board Committee of Chairmen (IBCC) has introduced a new grading system for Secondary School Certificate (SSC) and Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSSC) examinations, aiming to promote fairness, transparency, and accuracy in student evaluation.
Key Features:
1. 10-point grading system (A++, A+, A, B++, B+, B, C, D, E, U) replaces the 7-point system (A-1, A, B, C, D, E, F).
2. Passing marks increased to 40% from 33%.
3. Grades and grade points reported instead of absolute scores.
4. Grade points calculate Grade Point Average (GPA) and Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA).
Also Read: Controversy Over MDCAT Exams: Students Call for Re-Exams Amid Paper Leak Allegations
Objectives:
1. Control grading inflation.
2. Minimize competition for maximum marks.
3. Ensure accurate reflection of student learning and achievement.
Implementation:
1. Phased introduction starting from the 2024 academic year.
2. Applicable to grades 9 (SSC) and 11 (HSSC) initially.
3. Universities will consider both old and new grading systems during admissions for 2024-2025.
4. From 2025, colleges and universities will refer to CGPA and grades only.
Impact:
1. Increased difficulty level to pass examinations.
2. Grace marks policy introduced to support students.
3. Teaching practices may require adjustments.
4. Students will receive descriptive feedback.
Stakeholder Awareness:
1. Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC), and Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) informed.
2. Examination boards to explain the new grading system on result slips.
This reform aims to enhance the credibility and reliability of Pakistan’s education system, providing a more accurate assessment of student performance.
