RAWALPINDI:
The Boards of Education have announced a significant increase in admission fees for the upcoming annual FA (Faculty of Arts) and FSC (Faculty of Science) Intermediate examinations, scheduled to begin on April 22, 2025.
This measure, which affects both regular and private students, requires online submission of admission fees along with the admission form.
The sudden and sharp increase in fees has caused concern and disappointment among students and parents alike.
According to the circular, the revised fee structure for students of science and arts practical groups is as follows: single fee: Rs 5,830, double fee: Rs 7,630, triple fee: Rs 9,430. For arts students without practical subjects, the fees are: single fee: Rs 5,730, double fee: Rs 7,430, triple fee: Rs 9,130.
Regular students of science and arts practical groups will pay: single fee: Rs 4,730, double fee: Rs 6,430, triple fee: Rs 8,130. Regular Arts students without practical subjects will pay: Single fee: Rs 4,630, Double fee: Rs 6,230, Triple fee: Rs 7,830. An additional registration fee of Rs 1,000 will also be charged.
The last date to submit single fee online admissions is 24 January 2025. After this date, students can still apply but will incur a double fee from 25 January to 3 February and a triple fee from 4 from February to February 12. Students can also apply for admission with a triple fee and a daily fine of Rs 500, up to 10 days before the exams.
Abrar Ahmed Khan, president of Pakistan Private School Management Association (APPSMA), has strongly opposed the fee hike and called for a review.
He expressed concern that the previous increase in tuition fees had already placed a significant financial burden on students, and this further increase in FA fees is excessive.
Khan warned that the fee hike could deter private students, especially women, from appearing for intermediate exams.
