Punjab Education Foundation QAT Exam 2026 – Dates & Syllabus

The Punjab Education Foundation QAT Exam (PEF QAT) 2025–26 is almost here, and schools across Punjab are gearing up to ensure their students shine. This annual assessment is designed to check student learning outcomes across partner schools such as FAS, EVS, NSP, and PSRP.

It’s not just an exam it’s an opportunity for teachers and students to celebrate learning, understand strengths, and identify areas for growth.

QAT Dates:

The Punjab Education Foundation (PEF) has finalized the roadmap for the Quality Assurance Test (QAT) 2025–26. Partner schools including FAS, EVS, NSP, and PSRP should be ready following these important dates:

• Data Lock Deadline: December 10, 2025, no further edits to student enrollment are allowed.
• QAT Conduct Period: Late January to mid-February 2026.
• PEC Support: The Punjab Examination Commission (PEC) will assist in conducting tests at designated government school centers within a 5 km radius of partner schools.

Tip: Ensure all student records are verified before the data lock to prevent last-minute issues.

Curriculum Overview for Punjab Education Foundation QAT Exam:

PEF has moved to a Student Learning Outcome (SLO)-based assessment, focusing on understanding rather than rote memorization.

• Source Material: All questions are based on Punjab Curriculum and Textbook Board (PCTB) books.
• Month-Prior Rule: Only chapters assigned up to the month prior to the test are included in the syllabus.
• Subjects Tested:
  • Primary (Grades 3–5): English, Urdu, Mathematics (Science included in some programs)
  • Middle (Grades 6–8): English, Urdu, Science, Mathematics
  • Secondary (Grades 9–10): English, Urdu, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Computer Science
• Unseen Component: Around 30% of questions are conceptual or comprehension-based, encouraging students to apply understanding instead of memorizing content.

Suggestion: Teachers can create sample “unseen” questions from SLOs to prepare students effectively.

QAT Paper Pattern and Passing Criteria:

Feature	Details
Question Type	Mix of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Short Questions
Passing Marks per Subject	Minimum 40%
School Passing Requirement	FAS: 75% of students must pass; EVS/NSP: 50% of students must pass
Consequences	Failure may result in warnings, 50% fee reductions, or cancellation of partnership

Tip: Track student performance early to ensure school targets are met.

How to Access Model Papers?

PEF has uploaded latest model papers to guide schools on the QAT structure and marking scheme:

• Visit the PEF Downloads Section.
• Navigate to “Content List (2025-26)” for class-wise SLOs.
• Click “Model Paper (A.Y. 2025-26)” to download sample questions and marking schemes.

Quick Tip: Reviewing model papers with students can help them understand the question format and expectations.

Guidelines for Principals:

• Oral QAT (Nursery–Grade 2): Conducted within the partner school premises.
• Written QAT (Grades 3–10): Conducted at nearby government schools.
• Seating Arrangement: Schools must ensure scripts do not reveal the school’s identity.

Tip: Prepare seating charts in advance and check all student identifiers for compliance.

Recommendations for Schools:

• Verify enrollment data before the Data Lock deadline.
• Ensure students are prepared for unseen questions and conceptual assessments.
• Download and review Model Papers to familiarize students with exam patterns.
• Follow all instructions for seating, anonymity, and exam conduct to avoid penalties.

Conclusion:

The PEF Quality Assurance Test 2025–26 ensures students are assessed on understanding and skills rather than memorization. Partner schools must follow key dates, syllabus guidelines, and exam procedures carefully. With proper preparation and use of model papers, students can confidently perform while schools meet passing standards.

Frequently Asked Questions: