The Inter Board Coordination Commission (IBCC) has announced a policy change allowing students with foreign qualifications who studied Additional Mathematics instead of Biology along with the required science subjects to receive Science Group equivalence at the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) level.
This update removes a long-standing restriction that previously placed such students in the Arts Group limiting their options for pursuing intermediate-level science or engineering programs.
Barrier Removed for High-Achieving Students
Under the earlier policy, students without Biology at SSC leve even those scoring above 90% marks were denied admission to the Science Group.
The new rule now allows them to apply for Pre-Engineering and other science-based intermediate programs.
Decision in Students Interest
IBCC Executive Director Dr. Ghulam Ali Mallah said the decision was taken to protect students academic prospects.
“Excluding students from the Science Group for not having studied Biology created an unnecessary barrier for those aiming for engineering and technology careers,” he explained.
Who Will Benefit?
The change primarily benefits:
- Students with O-Level or equivalent foreign qualifications
- Those who chose Mathematics instead of Biology at SSC level
- Candidates aiming for engineering, computer science or technology streams at intermediate level
Implications for Intermediate Admissions
With this update, educational boards will now grant Science Group equivalence to qualifying students enabling them to meet eligibility criteria for technical and engineering colleges across Pakistan.
The policy is effective immediately and will apply to all future equivalence evaluations.
