Punjab Boards Examination Fees Increase 2026: Why Students Are Paying More for Matric & Intermediate Exams

In 2026, Punjab education boards have announced a significant increase in examination fees, raising concerns among students and parents. The boards cite rising operational costs, mandatory CCTV installation at exam centers, higher administrative and processing expenses, and logistics and postal charges as reasons for revising the fee structure. Officials state that these measures aim to enhance exam transparency and security, but the burden falls on students and families.

New charges introduced for Intermediate (FA/FSc) annual examinations starting in May 2026 include CCTV surveillance fees, Rs. 900 in miscellaneous charges, increased certificate and processing fees, and revised admission fees. Education boards insist that CCTV installation is mandatory for all exam centers, even though many centers already have surveillance systems.

The updated fee structure shows a major jump compared to previous years. Admission, registration, processing, and certificate fees are all Rs. 1,000 each, while miscellaneous fees are Rs. 900, CCTV fee Rs. 30, development charges Rs. 350, scholarship fee Rs. 250, and postal charges Rs. 300. After all charges, private FA/FSc candidates pay Rs. 7,730, while regular students pay Rs. 7,570. Additional subject-specific fees apply, with science students paying slightly more due to lab and practical costs.

The fee hike has faced strong opposition from private school associations, including the All Pakistan Private Schools Management Association, All Pakistan Private Schools and Colleges Association, and All Pakistan Private Schools Association. Leaders argue that examination halls already have CCTV cameras, the Rs. 900 miscellaneous fee is unjustified, and certificate and processing fee increases are excessive. They also question whether students should bear the cost of long-term infrastructure upgrades.

Officials expect Punjab education boards to collect up to Rs. 15 billion in revenue from revised fees. This figure has sparked debates about transparency, public education funding, and whether these funds will improve exam quality. Students and parents are concerned about the direct impact of higher costs, including financial pressure, increased dropout risks, and added stress during critical exams. Long-term concerns include reduced access to education, growing inequality, and potential distrust in the education system.

Many experts question the necessity of the CCTV fee, noting that most exam centers already have surveillance systems and no cost audits have been shared publicly. Government funding for security upgrades is suggested as a more equitable solution.

Students and parents are advised to review official board notifications carefully, apply early to avoid late fees, keep receipts safe, and stay updated through board websites. Private candidates, in particular, should plan finances in advance due to higher total costs.

Frequently asked questions include reasons for the fee hike, total charges for private and regular students, the logic of CCTV fees, and organizations opposing the increase. The fee revision is intended to cover financial shortfalls and operational expenses, with private students paying Rs. 7,730 and regular students Rs. 7,570. While boards argue the CCTV fee ensures standardized monitoring, private school associations have condemned the charge as unnecessary.

The Punjab Boards examination fees increase 2026 has sparked nationwide debate, highlighting the tension between ensuring exam security and the financial burden on students and families. While boards emphasize financial survival and operational improvements, many students feel overburdened by the new costs.