Kathmandu, June 28, 2025 - Nepal’s Secondary Education Examination (SEE) results for 2081 have marked a significant improvement, with a pass rate of 61.81%, compared to 47.86% in the previous year. The results were officially announced by the National Examination Board on Friday, June 27.
Out of the 438,896 students who appeared for the examination, 271,299 passed, while 167,597 students were categorized as “non-graded” due to failing to meet the minimum criteria. This year’s pass rate represents a 14% increase over the previous year, showcasing the effectiveness of the government's focused interventions and strategies.
A Shift in Educational Priorities
Dr. Mahashram Sharma, Chairman of the National Examination Board, credited the improvement to concerted efforts from local to central levels. After last year’s results revealed a failure rate exceeding 50%, the board implemented targeted measures, including an in-depth analysis of weaknesses, tailored teaching strategies, and additional teacher and student engagement.
“We identified the weak areas of students, improved the learning process, and devised a structured strategy,” said Dr. Sharma. “This outcome is a reflection of collaborative efforts involving teachers, schools, and students.”
Education experts have welcomed the improvement but stressed the need to focus on learning outcomes rather than mere examination results. Dr. Balchandra Luitel, an education expert and Dean of the Kathmandu University School of Education, remarked, “While the results are encouraging, the emphasis should shift toward enhancing actual learning competencies, especially as students transition to Grade 12.”
Data-Driven Results
The SEE results were calculated based on a grading system introduced last year. Students had to secure a minimum of 35% in theoretical subjects and 40% in internal assessments to pass.
The GPA-based grading categorized students as follows:
GPA 3.60–4.00: 48,177 students
GPA 3.20–3.60: 81,385 students
GPA 2.80–3.20: 89,124 students
GPA 2.40–2.80: 48,479 students
GPA 2.00–2.40: 4,126 students
GPA 1.60–2.00: 8 students
Non-Graded (Below 1.60): 167,597 students
The results indicate a narrowing gap between policy expectations and student performance. The government initially set a target of a 70% pass rate, and the current figures, combined with anticipated improvements from grade enhancement exams, suggest a promising trajectory.
Toward a Better Future
This year’s results highlight the potential for progress in Nepal's education sector through evidence-based strategies. However, the challenge remains to sustain this momentum and focus on strengthening foundational learning.
As Nepal moves forward, the SEE results serve as a critical benchmark, demonstrating the tangible impact of educational reforms and a renewed commitment to academic excellence.
