Bangladesh education boards are set to release HSC results on October 16, 2025, marking a return to full-syllabus exams after years of auto-pass policies, shortened syllabi, and subject mapping. Experts anticipate fewer GPA-5s and lower pass rates due to stricter evaluation and the removal of grace marks. This has raised concerns among students preparing for university and medical college admissions.
GPA-5 and University Admission Criteria
Universities and medical colleges in Bangladesh have specific HSC requirements for admissions. Falling short of the required GPA may prevent candidates from applying, particularly in engineering and medical programs.
- Engineering: For instance, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) in 2024 required science stream applicants to secure GPA-5 in HSC, including higher mathematics, physics, and chemistry individually. SSC grades also require a minimum GPA-4 in these subjects.
- Medical: Candidates need a combined SSC and HSC GPA of at least 9, with no single exam below 3.5. Biology, physics, and chemistry in HSC require a minimum GPA of 4 in biology.
- Dhaka University: Science unit applicants require a combined GPA of 8 across SSC and HSC, with minimum 3.5 in each subject. Arts, law, and social sciences units require 7.5 combined GPA, while business studies and fine arts require 7.5 and 6.5, respectively.
Historical GPA-5 Trends
Data indicates fluctuations in GPA-5 recipients over the years:
With stricter evaluation and no grace marks this year, the number of GPA-5 recipients is expected to drop, reflecting trends similar to SSC results.
Expert Opinions and Student Guidance
Education experts suggest that HSC GPA-5 or high marks have limited impact on university admissions, as entrance exams play a dominant role. Professor Dr. Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar emphasised that marks should reflect true student ability rather than inflated scores. Students are advised to focus on preparation for entrance exams. Lecturer Md. Atikur Rahman notes that while pass rates may decline, merit-based evaluation will reveal students’ actual standings. Many students, like Md. Suman Ali at Jessore University of Science and Technology, have secured admission through persistent effort despite lower HSC grades.
Admission Preparation Amid HSC Changes
Some universities have advanced entrance exam schedules due to the February national election and Ramadan, adding pressure on students. However, most admission experts agree that students meeting minimum eligibility can still secure places, with only minor dependence on HSC GPA. With careful preparation, students can overcome potential setbacks from this year’s stricter HSC evaluation and pursue higher education successfully.
