Karnataka lowers SSLC, 2nd PUC passing marks starting from 2025-26 session

In a major move, the Karnataka government has revised the minimum passing marks for Secondary School Leaving Certificate (SSLC) or Class 10 and second Pre-University Certificate (PUC) or Class 12 students to 33%. This rule will be implemented from the current academic year, applying to regular, repeaters, and private candidates, confirmed school education minister Madhu Bangarappa.

The decision follows a draft notification issued by the Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board (KSEAB) in July to bring the state board passing criteria at par with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) standards. Among the respondents, 701 letters supported the change while only eight objections were made.

Under the revised rules for Karnataka board exams 2026, SSLC students will be required to score a minimum of 206 marks out of 625 overall, even if they get up to 30 marks in one or two subjects, to qualify. Similarly, 12th students must secure 198 marks out of 600 in total to be declared pass. Earlier, the minimum marks were fixed at 35%.

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There had been several requests and pleas in the state for a uniform examination system. The Karnataka Administrative Reforms Commission-2 also recommended reducing the qualifying marks.

Karnataka board exam pattern 2026

As per some reports, the government has also decided to count the full internal and practical marks in another key revision. The previous system required minimum marks.

Thanking the state government for the revision of Karnataka board exam scheme, Karnataka Association of Management Schools said in a post on X, “KAMS thanks CM and EM for revising SSLC exam pattern par with CBSE- ICSE pattern, finally justice for State board. It's a historic move for the poor students who choose government and private state board, its level playing field.”

“Thank you CM Siddaramaiah and education minister Madhu Bangarappa for approving 33 marks as the minimum passing criteria for SSLC students. This decision brings parity with CBSE & ICSE standards and ensures fairness across all boards,” a student posted.