Guwahati : The Assam State School Education Board on Friday declared the results of the High School Leaving Certificate (HSLC) Examination 2026, recording an overall pass percentage of 65.62 per cent-an improvement of approximately 2.5 percentage points over the previous year.

The results reflect a steady upward trend in academic performance across the state, with over 2.81 lakh students successfully clearing the examination and several districts registering strong outcomes.

Topping the state this year is Jyotimoy Das of Sankardev Sishu Niketan, Patacharkuchi in Bajali district. The second position was secured by Akanksha Bhuyan of Ambikagiri Rai Choudhury Jatiya Vidyalaya in Biswanath. The third rank was jointly held by Jiya Farah Islam from Little Flower HS School, Dibrugarh, and Surajit Akhtar of Little Flowers School, Nalbari.

According to official data, out of 4,38,564 candidates who registered for the examination, 4,29,249 students appeared, and 2,81,701 passed. A total of 9,315 candidates were absent, while five results were withheld and 135 students were expelled.

A closer look at the division-wise performance shows that 85,189 students secured first division, 1,50,167 achieved second division, and 46,345 passed in third division-indicating a gradual decline in lower-tier results and an overall improvement in quality outcomes.

Gender-wise analysis reveals that boys outperformed girls this year, with a pass percentage of 67.78 per cent compared to 63.96 per cent among female candidates.

In terms of merit achievements, 3,983 students secured distinction marks, while 13,681 earned star marks and 99,052 candidates obtained letter marks, highlighting strong academic performance across multiple categories.

District-wise, Dima Hasao emerged as the top-performing district with an impressive pass percentage of 88.23 per cent. It was followed by Sivasagar at 84.08 per cent and Dibrugarh at 78.46 per cent. At the other end of the spectrum, Cachar recorded the lowest pass percentage at 49.13 per cent.

ASSEB Chairman R.C. Jain noted that the results indicate consistent academic progress in the state. He highlighted the decline in the number of students in the third division as a positive sign of improving educational standards.

Jain also announced that compartmental examinations will be held in May. Students who have failed in a maximum of three subjects and secured at least 170 aggregate marks will be eligible to appear.

Welcoming the improved performance, Education Minister Ranoj Pegu said the rise in pass percentage reflects encouraging progress in the state’s education sector.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma congratulated the successful candidates, expressing hope that their achievements would open new avenues for the future. He also urged those who did not meet expectations to remain determined and continue striving for success.

Echoing similar sentiments, Assam Jatiya Parishad president Lurinjyoti Gogoi extended his best wishes to students, encouraging them to use their success as a stepping stone while advising others to persist in their efforts.

The HSLC 2026 results, marked by improved pass rates and strong district-level performances, are being seen as a positive indicator of gradual strengthening in Assam’s school education system.