Punjab School Timings Changed: New Winter Schedule From 16 October
The Punjab school timings have changed for winter. Under a notification of the Punjab School Education Department, government schools now open at…
The Punjab school timings have changed for winter. Under a notification of the Punjab School Education Department, government schools now open at 8:45am and close at 1:30pm from Monday to Thursday, and at 12:30pm on Friday. The new schedule took effect on 16 October 2026 and will stay in force until 31 March 2027.
Punjab school timings: winter 2026 schedule
| School type | Monday to Thursday | Friday |
|---|---|---|
| Single-shift schools | 8:45am to 1:30pm | 8:45am to 12:30pm |
| Double-shift schools (morning) | 8:45am to 1:15pm | Closes at 12:30pm |
| Double-shift schools (second shift) | 1:30pm to 4:30pm | 2:00pm to 4:30pm |
Sources: School Education Department notification as reported by The Nation and Samaa (14 October 2026).
Key points of the notification
- Who it applies to: government schools across Punjab.
- Period: 16 October 2026 to 31 March 2027.
- Girls’ schools: may adjust their timings by up to 15 minutes where needed.
- Local changes: district Chief Executive Officers (Education) are authorised to make adjustments, and district education authorities must make sure the timetable is followed.
What parents and students should know
The later 8:45am start is meant for the colder, darker winter mornings. If your child studies in a double-shift school, check which shift they are in: the second shift now starts at 1:30pm (2:00pm on Friday) and ends at 4:30pm.
The notification covers government schools. Private schools usually set their own winter timings, so parents of private-school students should confirm the schedule directly with the school. Because district education officers can make local changes, it is also worth checking any notice from your school’s district office, especially in areas affected by fog or smog.
Other education updates
Intermediate students can read our report on the BISE Lahore inter result 2026 and the 1st year result 2026 date for Punjab boards. For medical college admissions, see the MDCAT 2026 result.
Frequently asked questions
What are the new school timings in Punjab?
Government schools run from 8:45am to 1:30pm from Monday to Thursday and close at 12:30pm on Friday.
From when are the winter timings applicable?
From 16 October 2026 until 31 March 2027.
Do the new timings apply to private schools?
The notification is for government schools. Private schools should be contacted directly for their timings.
Featured image: AI-generated illustration, for representation only.
