Karnataka 2nd PUC Grace Marks 2025 – Rules & Eligibility Explained

Updated: Thursday, July 23, 2026, 11:57 [IST]

In Karnataka's 2nd PUC (Pre-University Course) examinations, grace marks are additional points awarded to students under specific circumstances to help them pass or improve their scores. These marks are typically granted when a student narrowly misses the passing criteria or encounters particularly challenging questions in the exam. The primary objective of awarding grace marks is to ensure that students are not unduly penalized for minor shortcomings or unforeseen difficulties during the examination.

Karnataka PUC Exam Passing Marks & Grace Marks — AI Generated Image

Recent Changes in Grace Marks Policy

During the academic years impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, Karnataka's education authorities implemented a policy that allowed 20% grace marks for SSLC (Secondary School Leaving Certificate) students. This initiative was introduced to address learning disruptions and support students in achieving passing grades. However, starting from the 2025 academic year, this 20% grace marks policy has been revoked. Madhu Bangarappa, the Minister for School Education and Literacy, announced that the examination system would return to its pre-pandemic evaluation standards, ensuring that no additional grace marks would be granted solely to improve pass percentages artificially.

Current Criteria for Awarding Grace Marks:

With the discontinuation of the pandemic-era grace marks, Karnataka's education system has returned to its traditional criteria for awarding grace marks in the 2nd PUC examinations. The key aspects of this policy include:

1. Passing Marks Requirement: To pass the Karnataka 2nd PUC exams, students must now achieve a minimum of 35% in each subject. This marks a return to the pre-pandemic passing criteria, replacing the temporary 25% pass mark that was introduced during the COVID-19 period to accommodate academic disruptions.

2. Eligibility for Grace Marks: Grace marks may be awarded to students who are short by a few marks in one or more subjects, thereby enabling them to meet the minimum passing criteria.

3. Maximum Limit: The total number of grace marks that can be awarded is capped, ensuring that the integrity of the examination system is maintained.

4. Specific Conditions: Grace marks are typically considered in situations such as:

A student failing a subject by a narrow margin.
An exam paper containing errors or particularly challenging questions that could adversely affect the performance of a significant number of students.

Implications for Students in 2025:

Students appearing for the Karnataka 2nd PUC exams in 2025 should prepare with the understanding that no additional grace marks will be provided beyond the standard provisions. The emphasis has shifted back to maintaining rigorous academic standards, and students are expected to achieve the required 35% pass mark through their own efforts.

Recommendations for Students:

Thorough Preparation: Focus on comprehensive understanding and regular practice to ensure you meet the passing criteria without relying on grace marks.
Utilize Available Resources: Take advantage of model question papers, previous years' exams, and other study materials provided by educational authorities to enhance your preparation.
Seek Clarifications: If you encounter difficulties in any subject, seek help from teachers or peers well in advance of the exams.

By adhering to these strategies and understanding the current policies, students can approach the 2025 Karnataka 2nd PUC examinations with confidence and a clear focus on academic excellence.