Inter-Board Committee introduces new grading system for SSC, HSSC exams
The Inter Board Committee of Chairmen (IBCC) has introduced a new grading system for the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) and the Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSSC) examinations, aiming to promote fairness, transparency, and accuracy in student evaluation.
This reform aims to enhance the credibility and reliability of Pakistan’s education system, providing a more accurate assessment of student performance.
The key features of the new grading system include 10-point grading system i.e. A++, A+, A, B++, B+, B, C, D, E, U) which replaces the 7-point system (A-1, A, B, C, D, E, F). According to the notification, the passing marks have also been increased to 40pc from 33pc.
Besides, grades and grade points will be reported instead of absolute scores. According to a senior official of the Ministry of Education, the decision has been taken in accordance with the best international practices and to ensure steady development in the students’ potential.
The grade points thus calculate the Grade Point Average (GPA) and Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA).
The objectives of the new grading system are meant to control grading inflation and minimize competition for maximum marks, the official said adding it would also minimize ensure accurate reflection of student learning and achievement.
With regarding to the implementation of new grading system, the official said the new grading system would be implemented phase-wise starting from the academic year 2024.
It would be applicable to grades-9 (SSC) and 11 (HSSC) initially, the official further said.
The universities have also been asked to consider both old and new grading systems during admissions for 2024-2025 so that students could be saved from any discrimination.
However, from 2025, colleges and universities will refer to CGPA and grades only, he made it clear.
The impact of the new grading system will be that it will surely increase difficulty level to pass examinations and introduce grace marks policy to support students.
However, the new grading system will also lead to challenges for the teachers and the teaching practices may require adjustments under this new system.
It will also lead to giving descriptive feedback to the students. Regarding the stakeholders’ awareness, he said the higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC), and Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) have been conveyed about this new grading system and they have been told to make their policies/decision accordingly. Moreover, the examination boards have also been asked to explain the new grading system on result slips.
