Punjab considers reshaping Matric exam calendar

Matric exams in Punjab may be held after Eid-al-Fitr 2026, as provincial education authorities review a proposal to adjust the schedule.

The suggestion aims to help the nearly 2.5 million students in the province who find it difficult to prepare for exams while fasting. Officials in the Higher Education Department have started examining the recommendation submitted by the provincial education minister. Currently, matric exams are scheduled to begin on March 3, 2026, while intermediate board exams are set to start on May 5.

However, with Ramadan expected to start on February 18 and Eid-ul-Fitr likely falling on March 19 or 20, authorities are considering postponing exams to the period following Eid. This move is intended to avoid any clash with the holy month and allow students to focus on both religious duties and studies without added stress.

Teachers have pointed out that many students struggle to maintain their study routines during fasting hours. They believe that rescheduling the exams after Ramadan would give students more time to revise effectively. It would also allow them to balance their spiritual obligations with academic preparation.

Every year, more than 900,000 students in Punjab appear for matric exams. Education officials are carefully considering the proposal to ensure fairness and proper planning. They are also weighing logistical challenges and the academic calendar to make a final decision. The review highlights the government’s attention to student welfare and the need to create conditions that support both learning and religious practices. Authorities are expected to announce a confirmed schedule once the evaluation is complete, keeping the interests of students as a priority.