The Punjab School Education Department has issued new Punjab school timings for all public schools across the province. According to a notification dated 14 October 2026, the new schedule will apply from 16 October 2026 to 31 March 2027, covering the full winter season. Teachers, students and parents should note these changes, as both single shift and double shift schools now have fresh opening and closing times.
The notification (No. SO(ACAD)1-8/2026) was issued with the approval of the Competent Authority and signed by the Secretary School Education, Punjab. Below we explain the new school timings in Punjab in simple words so that every teacher and parent can plan the day without confusion.
Table of Contents
New Punjab School Timings from 16 October 2026
The department has fixed separate timings for single shift schools and for double shift or afternoon schools. Friday timings are shorter in every category, as usual. Here is the complete Punjab school timings 2026 schedule:
| Days | Timings | Schools |
|---|---|---|
| Monday to Thursday | 8:45 am to 1:30 pm | Single Shift |
| Friday | 8:45 am to 12:30 pm | Single Shift |
| Monday to Thursday | 8:45 am to 1:15 pm (Morning Shift) | Double Shift / Afternoon Schools |
| Friday | 8:45 am to 12:30 pm (Morning Shift) | Double Shift / Afternoon Schools |
| Monday to Thursday | 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm (Afternoon / Evening Shift) | Double Shift / Afternoon Schools |
| Friday | 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm (Afternoon / Evening Shift) | Double Shift / Afternoon Schools |
In short, single shift schools will now start at 8:45 am and close at 1:30 pm from Monday to Thursday, while on Friday they will close at 12:30 pm. In double shift schools, the morning shift ends at 1:15 pm and the evening shift runs from 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm, giving a short gap between the two shifts.
The revised Punjab school timings are part of the department’s routine seasonal change, as days get shorter and mornings get colder in winter. Starting the school day at 8:45 am gives children more time to reach school safely in foggy mornings. You can also check official updates on the School Education Department Punjab website.
Girls Schools Timing and Role of CEOs
The notification also gives some flexibility for girls schools. The concerned Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of District Education Authorities may adjust a 15-minute gap between the opening and closing times of girls and boys schools in their district as per local convenience. This helps reduce traffic rush near schools at opening and closing time, especially in big cities.
All CEOs (DEA) in Punjab have been directed to make sure that the new winter school timings are followed in letter and spirit. Copies of the notification have been sent to all DPIs (Elementary and Secondary Education), the Director General Monitoring and Evaluation, all CEOs and the Private Secretary to the Minister for School Education.
What Teachers and Parents Should Do
Teachers, especially School Teacher Interns (STIs), should adjust their daily routine according to the new timings from 16 October. Head teachers should update their school timetables, morning assembly time and period distribution. Parents should also update van and pick-up arrangements, as Friday closing time is one hour earlier than other days.
- New timings start from Thursday, 16 October 2026.
- The schedule will remain in place until 31 March 2027.
- Friday closing time is 12:30 pm for single shift and morning shift schools.
- Girls schools may get a 15-minute adjustment set by the district CEO.
These timings apply to public (government) schools across Punjab. Private schools usually follow similar winter timings, but they may announce their own schedules, so parents of private school students should confirm with their school administration. Keep visiting sti.org.pk for the latest updates on Punjab school education, STI jobs and teacher-related news.
Also Read: BISP Payment Starts from 19 October 2026 | Sindh Wheat Growers Support Program 2026
