For decades, students in Sindh have been judged almost entirely by marks and percentages, a system that often increased pressure without clearly reflecting real learning. In 2026, that approach is changing. The Sindh government has officially approved a new grading system for Matric and Intermediate examinations, marking one of the most significant education reforms in the province’s recent history.
This move is being presented as a step toward fairer assessment, reduced exam stress, and alignment with international education standards.
What Has Changed in the Sindh Board Examination System
The Sindh government has decided to end the traditional marks-based evaluation for board exams and replace it with a grade-based system. Instead of focusing on exact numerical scores, students’ performance will now be measured through defined grade bands.
Under the new policy:
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Numerical marks will no longer be the primary public result indicator
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Student performance will be shown through grades
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A clear minimum standard has been set for passing
This change applies to Sindh Boards only and does not affect other provinces.
When the New Grading System Will Be Implemented
The government has confirmed that the rollout will be phased, not sudden, to allow students, teachers, and boards to adjust smoothly.
Implementation timeline
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2026: Applied to Class 9 and Class 11 annual exams
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2027: Extended to Class 10 and Class 12 exams
This gradual approach is meant to prevent confusion and ensure proper preparation at all levels.
Passing Criteria Under the New System
One of the most important clarifications relates to the minimum passing requirement.
Under the new grading policy:
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40% is the minimum passing threshold
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Any student scoring below 40% will be declared failed
This rule applies uniformly across Matric and Intermediate exams once the system is implemented.
Approved Grading Structure for Sindh Boards
The new system categorizes student performance into grades rather than exact percentages.
Sindh Board Grading Criteria
| Grade | Percentage Range |
|---|---|
| A++ | 96% – 100% |
| A+ | 91% – 95% |
| A | 86% – 90% |
| B++ | 81% – 85% |
| B+ | 76% – 80% |
| B | 71% – 75% |
| C+ | 61% – 70% |
| C | 51% – 60% |
| D (Emerging) | 40% – 50% |
| Fail | Below 40% |
This structure groups students by performance level instead of separating them by single-mark differences.
Why Sindh Moved Away From the Marks System
According to education officials, the old marks-based system had several problems.
Key concerns with the previous system
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Excessive competition over small mark differences
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High exam-related anxiety among students
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Limited reflection of overall academic ability
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Difficulty comparing performance with international systems
The grading model is intended to measure learning outcomes more holistically, rather than rewarding rote memorization.
How This Change Affects Students
For students, the new system brings both relief and responsibility.
Positive impact
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Reduced pressure to chase every single mark
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Clearer understanding of performance level
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Less unhealthy comparison among students
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Better alignment with international grading practices
New responsibility
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Falling below 40% now has clear consequences
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Consistent preparation matters more than last-minute cramming
Students will still need strong preparation, but the focus shifts from marks to overall competence.
Impact on Colleges and Universities
Educational institutions will also need to adjust how they interpret results.
Colleges and universities are expected to:
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Use grades for admissions and merit decisions
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Define internal equivalence rules for older marks-based results
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Adapt merit lists to the new structure
Over time, this could make admissions fairer and more transparent, especially for large applicant pools.
Concerns Raised by Parents and Teachers
As with any major reform, concerns have been raised.
Some parents worry about:
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Understanding grade-based results
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Comparison with students from other provinces
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Transitional confusion in the first few years
Teachers, meanwhile, emphasize the need for:
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Proper examiner training
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Clear communication to students
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Updated teaching strategies aligned with grading
Authorities have stated that guidelines and awareness campaigns will be introduced to address these concerns.
How Sindh’s System Compares Internationally
Many countries already use grading systems instead of raw marks. By adopting grades:
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Sindh aligns more closely with global education trends
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Student performance becomes easier to interpret internationally
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Future academic mobility improves for students
This is especially important for students applying to international institutions or standardized programs.
What Students Should Do Now
Students appearing in Class 9 or 11 exams from 2026 onward should:
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Focus on conceptual understanding, not memorization
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Aim to stay comfortably above the 40% threshold
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Understand grading bands and what they mean
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Avoid panic based on rumours or social media claims
Preparation strategies may change, but serious study remains essential.
Conclusion
The Sindh government’s approval of a new grading system for Matric and Inter exams represents a major shift in how student performance is evaluated. With phased implementation starting in 2026, the reform aims to reduce unnecessary pressure, improve fairness, and align Sindh’s education system with international standards.
While adjustment will take time, this change has the potential to create a more balanced, meaningful, and student-focused examination culture—provided it is implemented carefully and transparently.
