Winter Vacation Restrictions in Punjab 2025 to 2026

The Punjab government has announced several important education-related decisions for winter 2025–26, including the Saturday holiday for Punjab school students in 2025 and winter vacation schedules. These decisions were taken due to cold weather, dense smog, and health concerns affecting students and staff across the province. The notifications apply to schools, colleges, and universities, with clear instructions for both public and private institutions.

According to official orders, private schools are strictly banned from opening during winter vacations. No academic or co-curricular activities are allowed during the break. Authorities have warned that violations may lead to heavy fines and even cancellation of school licenses, ensuring strict compliance.

• Winter policies announced due to weather and smog
• Instructions apply to public and private institutions
• Strict action was warned against violations

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Winter Vacations Schedule for Schools in Punjab

The School Education Department has announced winter vacations for all public and private schools in Punjab. Schools will remain closed from December 22, 2025, to January 10, 2026. Regular classes will resume immediately after the break, following the official reopening date.

The department has also imposed a complete ban on private schools operating during this period. District Education Authority Lahore has clearly stated that any school found conducting classes or activities will face strict disciplinary action.

• Winter break: December 22, 2025, to January 10, 2026
• Schools reopen after the break as per the notification
• Private schoolsare strictly monitored

Colleges and Universities Winter Vacations 2025–26

The Punjab Higher Education Department has announced winter vacations for colleges and universities across the province. According to the notification, all public and private colleges and universities will remain closed from December 23, 2025, to January 10, 2026. Academic activities will resume after the holidays.

Institutions will reopen on Monday, January 12, 2026, returning to a full academic week. The decision applies uniformly across Punjab to maintain consistency in the academic calendar.

• Colleges closed from December 23, 2025
• Reopening on January 12, 2026
• Applies to public and private institutions

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Exceptions and Examination Schedule During Vacations

The Higher Education Department has clarified that BS four-year degree programs are exempt from winter vacation closures. Teaching and related academic activities under these programs will continue as scheduled.

Additionally, all examinations will be conducted according to previously announced schedules. Students appearing in exams during the winter period must follow the existing timetables without any changes.

• BS four-year programs continue
• Exams held as per the notified schedules
• No changes in assessment timelines

Saturday Holiday for Punjab School Students 2025 – PEF Decision

The Punjab Education Foundation has officially confirmed Saturday as a weekly holiday for all PEF partner schools. This marks a shift from the earlier six-day school week and is effective immediately across Punjab. The decision aims to reduce student and teacher fatigue, manage smog-related health risks, and bring uniformity in academic schedules during the winter months.

• Saturday is declared a weekly holiday
• Applies to all PEF partner schools
• Effective immediately

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Revised PEF School Timings 2025–26

Along with the Saturday holiday, PEF has revised school timings for winter. The new schedule is designed to align with daylight hours and reduce exposure during peak smog times. These timings will remain valid until April 15, 2026, unless revised.

• Winter-based adjusted timings
• Valid till April 15, 2026
• Uniform across PEF schools

Comparison: PEF Schools vs Private Schools

Parents often confuse policies between PEF and private schools. PEF schools follow government-issued schedules strictly, while private schools may differ unless restricted by official orders. During winter vacations, however, private schools are completely banned from operating.

FAQs

Is Saturday a holiday for all Punjab schools in 2025?
Saturday is officially a holiday only for PEF partner schools. Other schools may follow separate schedules.

What are the winter vacation dates for schools in Punjab?
Schools will remain closed from December 22, 2025, to January 10, 2026.

When will colleges and universities reopen after winter break?
All colleges and universities will reopen on Monday, January 12, 2026.

Are BS degree programs closed during winter vacations?
No, BS four-year degree programs will continue during the winter period.

Are exams postponed due to winter vacations?
No, exams will be conducted as per previously announced schedules.

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