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Students preparing for the 12th class (Intermediate Part-II) examinations often have questions about the minimum marks required to pass. Every year, rumors circulate regarding changes in the passing criteria, confusing students. For the 2026 academic session, all Punjab Boards will continue with the existing passing policy unless an official notification states otherwise.
Currently, students are required to obtain at least 33% marks in each subject to pass the examination. Although discussions about increasing the passing percentage to 40% have gained attention in recent years, Punjab educational boards have not officially implemented such a change for the 2026 examinations.
This guide explains the latest passing marks criteria, subject-wise passing marks, theory and practical requirements, and the boards where these rules apply.
What Are the 12th Class Passing Marks in 2026?
According to the currently followed examination system, students must secure:
👉 33% marks in each subject
Many students mistakenly believe they only need 33% of the overall total marks. However, the rule is different. To pass the 2nd-year examination, students must achieve the required passing marks in every individual subject.
If a student fails even one subject, they may be required to appear in supplementary examinations according to board regulations.
Subject-Wise Passing Marks for 12th Class 2026
Compulsory Subjects
| Subject | Total Marks | Passing Marks |
|---|---|---|
| English | 100 | 33 |
| Urdu | 100 | 33 |
| Islamiat Studies / Ethics | 50 | 17 |
| Pakistan Studies | 50 | 17 |
Science Subjects Passing Marks (FSc & ICS)
Students enrolled in FSc Pre-Medical, FSc Pre-Engineering, and ICS programs must pass both theory and practical examinations separately.
| Subject | Type | Total Marks | Passing Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physics | Theory | 85 | 28 |
| Physics | Practical | 15 | 5 |
| Chemistry | Theory | 85 | 28 |
| Chemistry | Practical | 15 | 5 |
| Biology | Theory | 85 | 28 |
| Biology | Practical | 15 | 5 |
| Mathematics | Theory | 100 | 33 |
| Computer Science | Theory | 75 | 25 |
| Computer Science | Practical | 25 | 8 |
Arts Subjects Passing Marks (FA)
| Subject | Total Marks | Passing Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Education | 100 | 33 |
| Civics | 100 | 33 |
| Economics | 100 | 33 |
| Psychology | 100 | 33 |
| Sociology | 100 | 33 |
| Geography | 100 | 33 |
| History | 100 | 33 |
ICom Subjects Passing Marks
Commerce students must also secure at least 33% marks in every subject.
| Subject | Total Marks | Passing Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Principles of Accounting | 100 | 33 |
| Principles of Economics | 100 | 33 |
| Business Mathematics | 100 | 33 |
| Banking | 100 | 33 |
| Commercial Geography | 100 | 33 |
Theory and Practical Passing Marks
For science students, passing the written examination alone is not enough.
Students must obtain:
- 33% marks in theory papers
- 33% marks in practical examinations
- Passing marks in both sections separately
For example, if a student passes Physics theory but fails the practical exam, the subject will still be considered failed.
Rumors About Passing Marks Increasing to 40%
For the past several years, reports have circulated suggesting that passing marks may increase from 33% to 40%. These rumors often spread on social media and among students before examination results.
However, for the 2026 session:
- No official notification has been issued by the Punjab Boards.
- The 33% passing criteria remains in effect.
- Students should follow announcements from official board websites only.
Until a formal notification is released, students should continue preparing according to the existing passing requirements.
Punjab Boards Following the 33% Passing Criteria
The following educational boards currently follow the same passing policy:
- BISE Lahore
- BISE Gujranwala
- BISE Rawalpindi
- BISE Faisalabad
- BISE Multan
- BISE Sargodha
- BISE Bahawalpur
- BISE Sahiwal
- BISE Dera Ghazi Khan
Students from all these boards are subject to the same passing requirements for Intermediate Part-II examinations.
Latest Update for 2026 Students
One important development in recent years is the increasing focus on conceptual learning and practical knowledge. Educational authorities have discussed reforms in assessment systems, grading methods, and passing criteria. However, no board has officially announced a shift from 33% to 40% passing marks for the 2026 annual examinations.
Students should avoid relying on unverified social media posts and instead monitor official board announcements for authentic updates.
Tips to Secure Passing Marks Easily
- Focus on important chapters and frequently repeated topics.
- Prepare short questions, definitions, and numerical problems thoroughly.
- Practice past papers and model papers.
- Do not ignore practical preparation.
- Create a study schedule covering all subjects equally.
- Revise regularly before examinations.
Conclusion
The 12th class passing marks 2026 for all Punjab Boards remain 33% in each subject according to the currently followed examination system. Despite recurring rumors about an increase to 40%, no official notification has been issued by Punjab educational boards. Students must pass each subject separately, while science students must also clear practical examinations independently. Staying focused on preparation and following official board updates is the best strategy for success in the 2026 Intermediate Part-II examinations.