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UP Board May Award Bonus Marks to Student Athletes; Proposal Sent to Government for Approval
Indiaemploymentnews | May 15, 2026 10:39 PM CST

Uttar Pradesh Madhyamik Shiksha Parishad (UPMSP) is considering a major relief measure for student athletes appearing in board examinations. The board has sent a proposal to the state government recommending bonus marks for students who have performed well in sports competitions at state, national, and international levels.

If approved, students of Classes 10 and 12 who represent the state in recognized sports events could receive between 5 and 20 bonus marks in their board examinations.

The proposal is aimed at supporting students who often struggle to balance academic preparation with sports participation at competitive levels.

Why the Proposal Was Introduced

According to the board, many talented athletes representing Uttar Pradesh in major sports events miss out on higher academic scores because of training schedules, tournaments, and travel commitments.

To address this issue, the board has proposed awarding additional marks based on the level of sports participation and achievement.

Officials say the system would encourage sports participation while ensuring student athletes do not face academic disadvantages because of their involvement in competitions.

Proposed Bonus Marks Structure

The proposed bonus marks would depend on the student’s level of participation and achievements.

Competition Level Achievement Proposed Bonus Marks
State Level 1st, 2nd or 3rd Position 5 Marks
National Level Participation Only 7 Marks
National Level 1st, 2nd or 3rd Position 10 Marks
International Level Participation Only 15 Marks
International Level 1st, 2nd or 3rd Position 20 Marks
Important Rules Under the New Policy

The proposal also includes several conditions and eligibility rules.

Bonus Marks as Grace Marks

If a student is failing in a subject, these bonus marks may be used as grace marks to help the student pass in up to two subjects.

Eligible Competitions

The benefit would apply to students participating in competitions organized under:

  • School Games Federation of India (SGFI)
  • NCC
  • Scouts and Guides
Certificate Validity

Sports certificates must be issued on or before January 31 of the examination year to be considered valid.

Only Highest Benefit Certificate Will Be Counted

If a student possesses multiple sports certificates, only the certificate providing the highest bonus marks will be accepted.

Benefit for Classes 9 and 11 Students Too

Students participating in sports activities during Classes 9 and 11 may also receive benefits later during their Class 10 and 12 board examinations.

How Bonus Marks Will Reflect in Marksheet

The proposal also explains how the additional marks would appear in official records.

  • For Class 10 students, bonus marks would be clearly mentioned on the marksheet-cum-certificate.
  • For Class 12 students, the bonus marks would reportedly be added directly to the total score.
Government Approval Still Pending

The proposal has currently been sent to the Government of Uttar Pradesh for approval.

According to UPMSP Secretary Bhagwati Singh, the new system will only be implemented after receiving formal approval from the state government.

Major Relief for Student Athletes

If implemented, the policy could benefit thousands of students across Uttar Pradesh who actively participate in sports while pursuing school education.

Education experts believe the move could encourage greater participation in athletics, improve recognition for sports achievements, and help student athletes maintain better academic records alongside their sporting careers.


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