Azad Jammu and Kashmir Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education Mirpur Announces New Grading System for 2026 Examinations
August 1, 2025 – The Azad Jammu and Kashmir Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (AJK BISE) Mirpur has officially announced a significant update to its grading policy, set to take effect from the Secondary and Intermediate First Annual Examination 2026 for Class IX onwards. This change, approved by the Inter Board Co-ordination Committee (IBCC) and the Board of Governors, introduces a new grading system and raises the passing marks from 33% to 40%. The announcement was made by Muhammad Masood Chaudhry, Controller of Examinations, through a press release issued on August 1, 2025. This article provides a detailed overview of the new policy, its implications, and what students, educators, and institutions need to know to prepare for this transition.
For more details, visit the official AJK BISE website at ajkbise.edu.pk.
Background of AJK BISE Mirpur
Established in 1973 under an ordinance by the Government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, the AJK BISE Mirpur is responsible for conducting examinations for Secondary School Certificate (SSC) and Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSSC) across regions including Mirpur, Bagh, Muzaffarabad, Bhimber, Kotli, and Poonch. Previously under the jurisdiction of the Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education, Lahore, AJK BISE conducted its first examination in 1974 with 6,161 candidates. Today, it oversees thousands of students annually, ensuring a transparent and efficient examination system.
The board is committed to modernizing its processes, as evidenced by its adoption of e-services like online verification, e-NOC, and e-sheets for examinations. The new grading system aligns with its mission to enhance educational standards and align with national and international benchmarks.
Key Details of the New Grading System
The updated grading policy, effective from the First Annual Examination 2026, introduces significant changes to the evaluation process for both SSC and HSSC examinations. Below are the key highlights of the press release:
- Implementation Date: The new grading system and passing criteria will apply from the Secondary and Intermediate First Annual Examination 2026, starting with Class IX.
- Passing Marks Increased: The minimum passing percentage has been raised from 33% to 40% for all subjects.
- Approval Authority: The policy has been endorsed by the Inter Board Co-ordination Committee (IBCC) and the Board of Governors, ensuring alignment with national educational standards.
- Official Directive: The decision was formalized by Mr. Muhammad Masood Chaudhry, Controller of Examinations, under notification number Board Talvi Exams / 2025/872853.
This change reflects a broader effort to improve academic rigor and ensure students meet higher performance standards, preparing them for competitive higher education and professional environments.
Implications for Students and Institutions
The shift to a 40% passing threshold and the new grading system will have several implications:
- Increased Academic Standards: Students will need to achieve a higher score to pass, encouraging deeper understanding and preparation.
- Curriculum Alignment: Schools and colleges may need to adjust teaching methodologies to help students meet the new criteria.
- Examination Preparation: The board is expected to release updated model papers and assessment frameworks to reflect the new standards, similar to those issued for subjects like Computer Science and Physics in 2025.
- Transparency and Fairness: The AJK BISE’s commitment to a transparent and computerized examination system will ensure the new grading policy is implemented fairly across all regions.
To support this transition, the board has already introduced e-sheets and online roll number slips for examinations, streamlining processes for students and institutions.
Distribution of the Press Release
The press release was disseminated to various stakeholders to ensure widespread awareness:
- Internal Recipients: Private Secretary to the Chairman, Madam Secretary, Deputy Controller, and other board officials.
- Media Outlets: Regional Director of Azad Kashmir Radio, prominent newspapers like Nawa-e-Waqt, Express, and Jinnah, and news agencies like PTV and APP.
- Educational Institutions: All government and private institutions under AJK BISE’s jurisdiction.
- Online Platforms: The STEM Analytical List and Department of Computer Board for uploading the announcement as news.
This multi-channel approach ensures that students, educators, and the public are well-informed about the upcoming changes.
Comparison of Old and New Grading Systems
To provide clarity, the table below compares the old and new passing criteria:
| Criteria | Old System (Until 2025) | New System (From 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Passing Marks | 33% | 40% |
| Implementation Level | SSC & HSSC | SSC & HSSC (Class IX onwards) |
| Approval Body | AJK BISE | IBCC & Board of Governors |
| Examination Year | Up to 2025 | 2026 onwards |
This table highlights the shift in academic expectations and the structured approval process for the new policy.
FAQs About the New Grading System
Q1: When will the new grading system take effect?
A: The new grading system and 40% passing marks will be implemented starting with the Secondary and Intermediate First Annual Examination 2026 for Class IX onwards.
Q2: Why has the passing percentage been increased to 40%?
A: The increase aims to elevate educational standards, ensuring students are better prepared for higher education and professional challenges. The decision aligns with national standards set by the IBCC.
Q3: How can students prepare for the new passing criteria?
A: Students should focus on thorough preparation, utilize updated model papers, and leverage e-sheets provided by AJK BISE. Schools may also offer additional support to meet the new requirements.
Q4: Where can I find official updates about the new grading system?
A: Visit the official AJK BISE website at ajkbise.edu.pk or check notifications on platforms like ilmkidunya.com for reliable updates.
Q5: Will the new grading system affect previous examination results?
A: No, the new system applies only to examinations from 2026 onwards. Results from 2025 and earlier will remain unaffected.
Conclusion
The Azad Jammu and Kashmir Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education Mirpur is taking a significant step toward enhancing educational quality with the introduction of a new grading system and a 40% passing threshold starting in 2026. This change, backed by the IBCC and the Board of Governors, reflects the board’s commitment to aligning with national standards and preparing students for future challenges. By leveraging modern tools like e-sheets and online services, AJK BISE ensures a smooth transition for students and institutions. For the latest updates, students and educators are encouraged to regularly check ajkbise.edu.pk and trusted educational platforms like urdupoint.com.
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