Punjab Confirms Exam Dates for Matric & Inter 2026
Punjab has officially confirmed the complete exam schedule for Matric and Intermediate exams for 2026. The announcement has created a wave of urgency among students and parents as the Punjab Education Department has finalized all dates, policies, and curriculum changes for the upcoming academic year.
The information has been verified through the official website and top 10 Google education sources, ensuring complete accuracy for students preparing for board exams.
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Punjab Exam Schedule 2026 (Quick Overview)
| Main Update | Punjab Confirms Exam Dates for Matric & Inter 2026 |
| Matric Exam Date | March 3, 2026 |
| Inter Exam Date | May 5, 2026 |
| Class 8 Board Exam | February 3, 2026 |
| New Academic Year Begins | April 1, 2026 |
| Free Textbook Distribution | April 5, 2026 |
| New Textbooks Printing | December 2025 |
| Official Link | Available on Punjab’s Education Department website |
Punjab Confirms Exam Dates for Matric & Inter 2026 – What Students Must Know
The Punjab Education Department has officially finalized the 2026 exam dates. As per the latest announcement, Matric exams will start on March 3, followed by Intermediate exams on May 5, marking the beginning of a new structured academic schedule. These dates come after approval of the revised admission policy, syllabus changes, and a newly updated school calendar.
Officials confirmed that the update aligns with reforms circulating across major verified sources and the official Punjab Education Department website.
Class 8 Board-Based Examination Begins February 3, 2026
A major structural reform includes the launch of board-based exams for Class 8, starting February 3, 2026. This move aims to standardize assessment procedures across Punjab.
Key points include:
- Students must follow new textbooks and revised guidelines.
- District-level monitoring teams will ensure transparency.
- Results will be compiled using a standardized grading system.
New Academic Year, Curriculum & Textbook Changes
Punjab has approved major updates for the upcoming session. The new academic year begins on April 1, 2026, while free textbooks will be distributed from April 5.
Important curriculum updates:
- 29 new textbooks from Class 6 to Matric will replace old ones.
- Digital content will support printed books for better learning.
- Teachers will receive revised lesson plans and guidelines.
Challenges Ahead: Out-of-School Children Cross 28 Million
Despite reforms, Punjab faces serious literacy challenges. According to verified online sources:
- Over 28 million children were out of school in 2025.
- This number may cross 30 million in 2026 if interventions fail.
- Government aims to expand enrollment through new policy changes.
Reasons behind rising numbers:
- Social and economic barriers.
- Rapid population growth.
- Limited access to rural schools.
Step-by-Step Process for Students Preparing for 2026 Exams
- Download the official date sheet from the Punjab Education website.
- Collect new textbooks printed in December from your school.
- Create a monthly study timetable from January to May.
- Complete old past papers for both Matric & Inter boards.
- Join school revision sessions starting in early February.
- Attempt mock exams arranged by teachers.
- Keep checking updates from official online education portals.
Helpline & Contact Information
Students can use the following helplines for updates regarding exams, textbooks, or policies:
- Punjab Education Department Helpline: 042-111-11-2020
- Punjab Boards Committee of Chairmen (PBCC): 042-99200192
- Official Website: Search “Punjab Education Department Official Website” on Google for the original link.
- School Education Department Punjab: 042-99212795
For complaints, students may also visit the Citizen Portal app.
Conclusion
Punjab’s confirmation of the Matric and Inter 2026 exam dates gives students a clear direction for their preparation. With revised textbooks, a new school calendar, and board-based assessments, the province aims to modernize the education system. Students should stay proactive, follow official schedules, and utilize the helpline numbers for timely information. Early preparation will help ensure success in the upcoming exams.
When will Matric exams start in Punjab for 2026?
Matric exams will begin on March 3, 2026, as confirmed by the Punjab Education Department.
When are Inter exams scheduled for 2026?
Intermediate exams will start from May 5, 2026 across all Punjab boards.
Will Class 8 students also take board exams in 2026?
Yes, Class 8 board-based exams will begin on February 3, 2026.
When will free textbooks be distributed?
Free textbooks will be available in all schools from April 5, 2026.