Fee hike for FA, FSC exams sparks backlash

The Education Boards have announced a significant increase in admission fees for the upcoming annual Intermediate examinations for FA (Faculty of Arts) and FSC (Faculty of Science), scheduled to begin on April 22, 2025.

This move, which affects both regular and private students, mandates the online submission of admission fees along with the admission form.

The sudden and steep rise in fees has raised concerns and disappointment among students and parents alike.

According to the circular, the revised fee structure for students in the science and arts practical groups is as follows: single fee: Rs5,830, double fee: Rs7,630, triple fee: Rs9,430. For arts students without practical subjects, the fees are: single fee: Rs5,730, double fee: Rs7,430, triple fee: Rs9,130.

Regular students in the science and arts practical groups will pay: single fee: Rs4,730, double fee: Rs6,430, triple fee: Rs8,130. Regular arts students without practical subjects will pay: single fee: Rs4,630, double fee: Rs6,230, triple fee: Rs7,830. An additional registration fee of Rs1,000 will also be charged.

The last date to submit online admissions with the single fee is January 24, 2025. After this date, students can still apply, but will incur a double fee from January 25 to February 3, and a triple fee from February 4 to February 12. Students can also submit their admission with a triple fee and a daily fine of Rs500, up to 10 days before the exams.

Abrar Ahmed Khan, President of the All Pakistan Private Schools Management Association (APPSMA), has strongly opposed the fee hike and called for a revision.

He expressed concern that the earlier increase in matriculation fees had already placed a significant financial burden on students, and this additional hike in the FA fees is excessive.

Khan warned that the fee rise could discourage private students, particularly female students, from appearing for the intermediate exams.