IBCC Allows Arts Students to Apply in Science

IBCC Allows Arts Students to Apply for Pre-Medical and Pre-Engineering After SSC (2026 Onwards)

                          

The Inter Boards Coordination Commission (IBCC) has issued an important notification that brings a major change in Pakistan’s education system. According to the latest decision, students who have passed SSC (Matric) with Arts Group will now be eligible to register for HSSC Pre-Medical and Pre-Engineering groups, starting from the SSC Annual Examination 2026 onwards.

This decision has opened new academic opportunities for thousands of students across Pakistan who were previously restricted due to their subject group at the matriculation level.

 Official Notification Details

The notification was issued by the Government of Pakistan. Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, through the Inter Boards Coordination Commission (IBCC). The decision was finalized during the 183rd meeting of the IBCC Forum, held on 4–5 December 2025, and officially notified on 12 December 2025.

The IBCC took this step after receiving recommendations and responses from the following national bodies:

•  Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC)
•  Pakistan Medical & Dental Council (PM&DC)
•  Higher Education Commission (HEC)
•  National Curriculum Council (NCC)
•  Provincial Curriculum Authorities

After detailed consultation, the forum unanimously approved the resolution.

What Has Changed in the Education Policy?

Previously, students who completed their SSC with Arts subjects were not allowed to enroll in Pre-Medical or Pre-Engineering at the HSSC level. This restriction often limited students’ future career paths.

Under the new IBCC decision:

Arts Group SSC students can now apply for HSSC Pre-Medical

Arts Group SSC students can now apply for HSSC Pre-Engineering The policy will be effective from SSC Annual Examination 2026 onwards

This reform aims to provide equal academic access, flexibility, and second chances to students.

Conditions and Implementation Authority

Although the permission has been granted at the national level, the IBCC has clarified that implementation authority lies with individual Boards.

                Visit official website 

Each BISE or BTE may:

Set minimum marks or merit criteria

Conduct placement or aptitude tests

Apply subject-specific conditions to ensure academic standards

Introduce bridging or preparatory requirements if needed

These measures are meant to maintain uniformity and quality of education across all boards in Pakistan.

Final implementation will require approval from:

Board of Governors (BoGs)

Relevant competent forums of each board

 Boards Directed for Compliance

The resolution has been officially communicated to:

 All BISEs (Boards of Intermediate and Secondary Education)

 All BTEs (Boards of Technical Education)

All boards across Pakistan have been instructed to ensure compliance

with the IBCC decision and take necessary administrative actions.

                 

Why This Decision Is Important?

This move is considered a landmark reform in Pakistan’s education structure for several reasons:

1. Equal Opportunities for Students

Students who choose Arts subjects at SSC level often do so due to lack of guidance or limited school facilities. This policy gives them a **second academic chance**.

2. Flexible Career Pathways

Many students develop an interest in science later. This decision allows them to shift towards medical or engineering fields without repeating SSC.

 3. Alignment with Global Practices

International education systems offer flexibility in subject transitions. Pakistan’s move aligns with global academic standards.

4. Reduced Dropout Rates

Students who felt academically blocked are more likely to **continue education, reducing dropout ratios.

 Impact on Students, Colleges, and Institutions

 For Students

 Broader subject options after SSC

 Increased confidence and motivation

 Access to professional career tracks

For Colleges

 Higher enrollment potential

 Need for assessment mechanisms

 Academic planning for mixed-background students

 For Education Boards

 Policy enforcement responsibility

 Standardization across regions

 Monitoring academic quality

 What Students Should Do Next

Students planning to benefit from this policy should:

1. Check official notifications from their respective BISE or BTE

2. Confirm eligibility criteria set by the board

3. Prepare for aptitude or placement tests, if announced

4. Seek guidance from colleges before applying for admission

Parents and students are advised not to rely on rumors and always follow official board announcements..

 Conclusion

The IBCC’s decision to allow Arts group SSC students to enroll in Pre-Medical and Pre-Engineering at HSSC level marks a progressive shift in Pakistan’s education policy. By removing rigid barriers, the system now promotes merit, flexibility, and inclusivity.

This reform will not only empower students but also strengthen Pakistan’s human capital by allowing talent to flourish beyond traditional subject boundaries.

For future updates, students should stay connected with their respective boards and IBCC notifications.