Fri Feb 21 16:01:57 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka School Association Demands Lower SSLC Pass Marks
**Bengaluru, February 21, 2025:** The Associated Management of Primary and Secondary Schools of Karnataka (KAMS) has urged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to lower the minimum passing marks for the SSLC (Secondary School Leaving Certificate) exam. The association is requesting a reduction from 35% to 33%, arguing that the current threshold disadvantages state board students compared to those in CBSE and ICSE boards, where the passing mark is 33%.
This petition comes a day after the state’s School Education and Literacy Minister, Madhu Bangarappa, announced the reinstatement of the 35% passing mark, reversing a temporary reduction to 25% implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic. KAMS contends that the higher passing percentage is contributing to students switching to other boards and leading to the closure of several state board schools. The association believes aligning the passing mark with national boards would create a more level playing field and prevent further decline in state board enrollment.
First Piper 