In a significant development for Class 10 students, the Karnataka government has put forward a proposal to revise the Karnataka SSLC (Secondary School Leaving Certificate) passing criteria. According to a recent draft notification released by the Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board (KSEAB), major relaxations are being introduced to make assessments more student-friendly from the 2026 academic session onwards.
Karnataka SSLC New Passing Criteria 2026
As per the proposal, the minimum overall pass percentage has been reduced from 35% to 33%, offering relief to thousands of students who struggle with marginal marks. Further, the subject-wise passing mark has also been revised — students will now be required to score only 30% in individual subjects, down from the current 35%.
Additionally, to be declared pass in the SSLC 2026 exam, students must fulfill three conditions:
- Achieve a minimum average of 33% marks, considering both internal assessments and external board examinations.
- Secure at least 206 marks out of the total 625.
- Score no less than 30% in each subject individually.
These changes represent a shift from the current rigid system where students must secure 35% in every subject, with no relaxation based on overall average.
A Move Towards Reduced Academic Stress
The revised criteria aim to reduce exam-related stress and anxiety among students, while also ensuring that core learning outcomes are maintained. Education experts view the move as a positive step toward making the assessment system more balanced and inclusive.
If implemented, this change will come into effect from the Karnataka SSLC 2026 board examinations, impacting thousands of students across the state.
The draft notification is currently open for feedback, and the final decision will be made after reviewing suggestions from stakeholders including educators, parents, and academic experts.
