The Secondary Education Board of Karachi (BSEK) has introduced a major update to the evaluation results of matriculation. The structure of grading 10-point replaces the modern system based on traditional marks. This includes replacing the old “fail” label with a new “U grade,” raising the minimum passing requirement to 40%, and adding an interim GPA system.
Class 9 students are already under the new BSEK grading policy this academic year and for the 2026 annual exams. Class 10 students will switch to the new system starting with the 2027 examinations. Pakistan, while preparing the students for better higher studies, is creating the goal of fairer, consistent assessments.
If you’re a student, parent, or teacher in Karachi trying to understand how this change affects passing marks, grades, or future results, here’s everything explained clearly
Why the New BSEK Grading System Is a Big Deal
The shift moves away from percentage-only reporting to letter grades with finer categories. It reduces inconsistencies between different education boards and follows updated national standards.
Main changes at a glance:
- Passing threshold raised from 33% to 40% in every subject
- “Fail” replaced with U grade (less stigmatizing but still clear)
- Top performers now receive A++ for 96–100%
- Temporary GPA introduced to help during the transition
- Supplementary (compartment) exams remain available for failed subjects
Complete New Grading Scale for BSEK Matric Exams
Here’s the full 10-level grading structure now in use:
- A++ → 96–100% (Exceptional)
- A+ → 91–95% (Outstanding)
- A → 86–90% (Outstanding)
- B++ → 81–85% (Very Good)
- B+ → 76–80% (Good)
- B → 71–75% (Fairly Good)
- C+ → 61–70% (Above Average)
- C → 51–60% (Average)
- D → 40–50% (Pass / Emerging)
- U → Below 40% (Ungraded / Not Successful)
Only scores of 40% and above result in a pass. Anything below lands in the U category.
Rollout Timeline: When It Applies
- Class 9 (SSC Part-I): Already active this year → fully applies to 2026 board exams
- Class 10 (SSC Part-II): Begins with 2027 annual examinations
The phased introduction gives everyone time to adjust to the new rules.
How Students Can Adapt and Succeed Under the New Rules
Some of the practical steps for the students are given below. Those are very helpful in performance according to the updated system:
- Target at least 40% in every subject — no subject can be ignored
- Focus extra effort on weaker subjects to avoid U grades
- Practice with updated sample papers that reflect the new passing criteria
- Understand how the interim GPA is calculated (useful for college applications)
- Talk to teachers regularly for guidance on the changes
Parents should keep a close eye on monthly tests since the bar is now noticeably higher.
Also Read: AIOU Online Workshop Schedule 2022 Announced
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if someone gets a U grade in one or more subjects?
The result is marked as compartment. The student must pass those subjects in supplementary exams.
Is the 40% rule applied to theory and practical separately?
Yes — 40% is required in each component where applicable.
Will this affect private candidates or special exams?
The same grading rules apply across regular, private, and improvement candidates.
Why raise the passing marks to 40%?
To improve overall educational quality, reduce superficial passing, and bring Pakistan closer to international standards.
Does this change old results?
No — previous exams remain under the old system.
Final Thoughts
The new Karachi Board matric grading system is a step toward more meaningful evaluation. While the higher passing requirement and U grade may feel stricter at first, they encourage better preparation and real understanding.
Stay focused, use the transition period wisely, and turn the change into an advantage.
What are your thoughts on the new grading rules? Drop a comment below — do you like the A++ category or prefer the old marks system? Share this with friends who will appear in upcoming matric exams!
