Punjab announces matric, inter annual exams schedule

LAHORE: The Punjab education department has announced the schedule for the annual matric and intermediate examinations.

According to the schedule, matric exams will begin on March 3, 2026, while intermediate board exams will start on May 5, 2026.

In addition, the Punjab education department has made changes to the admission policy for the new session, approved the updated school calendar, and introduced amendments to the curriculum.

The new academic year will commence on April 1, 2026, and free textbooks will be distributed in government schools starting April 5.

Earlier, the Punjab government officially announced winter holidays for schools and other educational institutions across the province.

According to a notification issued by the Provincial Education Department, the winter break will start on December 23, 2025 and continue until January 11, 2026.

According to the notification, all schools will reopen on January 13, 2026, marking the beginning of the new academic session.

The education department clarified that this schedule will apply uniformly to both government and private schools, and no institution will be allowed to alter the schedule on its own.

The decision has been taken considering the intensity of cold weather and student health to ensure children remain safe from illnesses and return well-prepared for the next academic session after the break.

Earlier, the Punjab government had adjusted school timings due to rising smog levels. The notification had stated that no educational institution could open before 8:45 am.