New SEE Grading System Update
The National Examination Board (NEB) has introduced a new grading system for the SEE Exam, to be implemented alongside the new curriculum based on the curriculum framework 2075. This update removes the previous 'E' grade and mandates a minimum of 30% in the written exam. Students scoring below 35% will not receive a grade sheet or main certificate, which is essential for promotion to the next academic level.
Understanding the New SEE Grading System
Here's a breakdown of the new grading system:
| Marks Range | Grade | Grade Point |
|---|---|---|
| 91-100 | A+ | 3.6 - 4 |
| 81-90 | A | 3.2 - 3.6 |
| 71-80 | B+ | 2.8 - 3.2 |
| 61-70 | B | 2.6 - 2.8 |
| 51-60 | C+ | 2.2 - 2.6 |
| 41-50 | C | 1.6 - 2.2 |
| 35 - 40 | D+ | 1.6 > NG |
| Below 35 | NG (Not Graded) | Below 1.6 |
Previously, students could receive a certificate even with very low 'E' grades, which was deemed insufficient. Now, students failing to achieve 35% in the written exam will not receive any certificate.
Provisions for re-examination exist: if a student fails to obtain 35% in a maximum of two subjects, they can take re-exams to upgrade their grades. However, if they fail after three attempts, they must repeat the class and retake all subject exams.
Since 2016 A.D., the Examination Controller Division replaced the percentage-based results with a letter grading system for the SEE Result. The result is now published as a GPA (Grade Point Average), with 4.00 being the highest. This GPA is calculated based on the percentage in each subject (an average of theory and practical marks). The grading system aims to motivate students by eliminating the "failed" grade previously associated with the percentage system.
New NEB Grading System for Classes 11 and 12
The National Examinations Board (NEB) has also introduced a significant change for Classes 11 and 12. This system replaces traditional pass/fail grades with a GPA-based system ranging from A to D, including an 'NG' (Not Graded) category. This change is intended to alleviate student stress.
How the NEB Grading System Works
The new system assigns a grade for each subject, rather than an overall final grade. This approach highlights individual strengths and areas needing improvement.
- A+: For scores over 90, with a 4.0 GPA.
- A: For scores from 80 to 90, with a 3.6 GPA.
- B+: For scores from 70 to 80, with a 3.2 GPA.
- B: For scores from 60 to 70, with a 2.8 GPA.
- C+: For scores from 50 to 60, with a 2.4 GPA.
- C: For scores from 40 to 50, with a 2.0 GPA.
- D: For scores from 35 to 40, with a 2.0 GPA.
- NG: "Not Graded," for scores below 35, indicating a GPA below 1.6.
To advance, students must achieve a passing grade in most subjects. Grades are determined by both test scores and practical work.
How GPA is Calculated
The GPA for each subject is calculated using the following formula:
GPA = (∑ (Credit Hours × Grade Point)) / Total Credit Hours
This formula considers the credit hours (importance) of each subject and the student's grade point. The final grade is a weighted average of theory and practical marks.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the System
A significant benefit of this new system is the elimination of the fear of failure, as it focuses on overall performance rather than a simple pass/fail label. However, some concerns exist that it might not fully reflect a student's potential, especially for those just below a grade boundary.
Overall, this new grading system represents a substantial change for Nepali education, aiming to reduce student stress and provide a more comprehensive assessment of performance. Its full impact will become clearer with broader implementation.
