Punjab Board Exam Fees Increased Ahead of 2026
Punjab education boards have announced a sharp increase in examination fees for the 2026 annual exams, citing a serious financial shortfall as the main reason. The decision affects thousands of students appearing in matric and intermediate board examinations, significantly raising the overall cost of exams for both regular and private candidates.
The revised fee structure introduces new charges and higher existing fees, which education boards say are necessary to meet operational expenses. However, the move has triggered strong reactions from private school associations and raised concerns about the growing financial burden on students and families.
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New Charges Added to Punjab Board Exams 2026
As part of the revised policy, Punjab boards have introduced a new CCTV fee for examination centers and added a miscellaneous charge. Officials state that these additions are meant to improve exam monitoring and cover administrative costs.
Along with these new charges, the certificate fee has been increased substantially, contributing to a noticeable jump in the total payable amount.
- CCTV camera installation fee introduced
- A new miscellaneous fee of Rs. 900 has been added
- Certificate fee increased from Rs. 550 to Rs. 1,000
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Revised Exam Fees for FA and FSc Students
After including all new charges and applicable taxes, the total exam fee has increased for both private and regular candidates appearing in FA and FSc annual examinations. This change impacts students across Punjab, regardless of their academic stream.
The difference between private and regular student fees remains small, but both categories now face a much higher cost compared to previous years.
- Private candidates FA/FSc: Rs. 7,730
- Regular candidates FA/FSc: Rs. 7,570
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Detailed Intermediate Exam Fee Structure 2026
For intermediate annual examinations starting on May 20, 2026, boards have released a detailed breakdown of the revised fee structure. Multiple charges are now combined to calculate the final payable amount.
Education boards argue that these charges are essential to maintain examination standards, postal services, and administrative processing.
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| Fee Head | Amount (Rs.) |
|---|---|
| Admission Fee | 1,000 |
| Registration Fee | 1,000 |
| Processing Fee | 1,000 |
| Certificate Fee | 1,000 |
| Miscellaneous Fee | 900 |
| CCTV Fee | 30 |
| Development Charges | 350 |
| Scholarship Fee | 250 |
| Postal Charges | 300 |
Admission Fees for Regular and Private Students
Apart from general examination charges, Punjab boards have also revised admission fees based on student category and subject group. Science students are required to pay more due to higher administrative and practical-related costs.
This tiered structure further increases the financial pressure, especially on private science candidates.
- Regular arts students: Rs. 1,700
- Regular science students: Rs. 1,740
- Private arts students: Rs. 1,800
- Private science students: Rs. 1,900
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Expected Revenue and Board Justification
Officials estimate that Punjab education boards may collect up to Rs. 15 billion through the revised examination fees. The boards say this revenue is crucial to address funding gaps and sustain examination operations.
However, critics argue that students are being asked to compensate for financial mismanagement rather than genuine service improvements.
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Reaction from Private Schools Associations
The All Pakistan Private Schools Associations have strongly rejected the fee increase. Leaders from multiple associations publicly condemned the decision and called it unfair to students.
They emphasized that examination centers already have CCTV systems and questioned the justification for charging students again.
- CCTV costs should not be passed to students
- The miscellaneous fee is termed unjustified
- Certificate and processing fee hikes labeled excessive
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FAQs
Why have Punjab board exam fees increased for 2026?
Boards say the increase is due to a financial shortfall and rising administrative costs.
How much will FA and FSc students pay now?
Private candidates will pay Rs. 7,730, while regular students will pay Rs. 7,570.
What is the new CCTV fee for?
It is charged for installing or maintaining CCTV cameras at examination centers.
Who has opposed the fee increase?
All Pakistan Private Schools Associations have rejected and criticized the decision.
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Conclusion
The Punjab board exam fee increase for 2026 has sparked widespread concern among students, parents, and private school associations. While education boards argue that the revised fees are necessary to manage financial challenges, critics believe the added burden on students is unjustified. As exam season approaches, pressure is mounting on authorities to review the decision and find a balance between financial needs and student affordability.
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