Kerala SSLC Exam: Minimum 30 percent marks required to pass each paper; No all-pass in High School

Thiruvananthapuram: Starting from the next academic year, students in Kerala must score at least 30% in each subject to qualify the SSLC (Secondary School Leaving Certificate) examination. This rule will also apply to students in 8th and 9th standards, who will now need to achieve minimum marks to pass their classes.

The government has mandated this new minimum marks requirement for students following the State syllabus. This decision was made during a cabinet meeting held on Wednesday and follows the recommendations of the State Education Conclave which was held in June. Under the new policy, there will no longer be an "all-pass" option in 8th and 9th classes. Minimum marks will first be required in 8th standard, then in 9th standard, and finally in 10th standard.

From this academic year onwards, the "all-pass" system will be abolished for 8th standard. The SSLC exams for the 2026-27 academic year will start following the new minimum marks pattern. The Education Conclave aimed to improve public education quality, and its recommendations, approved by the cabinet, include requiring minimum marks not only in written tests but also in continuous assessment for class 10.

Previously, passing marks were calculated by combining written tests and continuous assessments. The new method of assessment is decided to be implemented to 8th and 9th standards as well. The decision addresses concerns that the all-pass system was undermining educational standards in the State.