NEB Grade Increment / Supplementary Exam: How to Clear an NG Subject
How the NEB grade increment (supplementary) exam works — who can apply, clearing an NG subject, improving grades, the process, and how to pass.
If you received an NG (Not Graded) in a subject, or you are unhappy with a grade, the NEB grade increment exam (also called the supplementary exam) is your route to clear or improve it. It is a standard, official second chance, and many students use it every year. This guide explains how the grade increment exam works, who can apply, the process, and how to pass it.
What is the grade increment exam?
The grade increment exam is an NEB examination held after the main results, allowing students to clear an NG subject or improve a grade in eligible subjects. It gives you a second opportunity without repeating the whole year. It is typically conducted some weeks after the main result is published, so watch for the official NEB notice with the schedule and application details.
Who can apply
Students who received an NG in one or more subjects must clear them through this exam, and students who want to improve a grade in eligible subjects may also apply, subject to NEB rules and limits. The exact eligibility, number of subjects allowed and any limits are set by NEB, so confirm them in the official grade increment notice for your year.
How to apply
- Watch for the official grade increment / supplementary notice and note the application deadline.
- Apply through your school/college as instructed, listing the subjects you are sitting.
- Pay the prescribed fee.
- Collect your admit card and note the exam date and centre.
Follow your school's instructions alongside the NEB notice, since the process runs through your institution.
How to clear an NG subject
An NG means you fell below the 35% theory threshold, so focus your preparation on the theory you struggled with. Identify the weak topics, practise past and model questions, and write structured answers under timed conditions. Because you are usually re-sitting just that subject, you can concentrate your effort. Treat it as a focused mission rather than re-studying everything.
Improving a grade
If you passed but want a higher grade in an eligible subject, weigh the effort against the benefit — a better grade can help if a course or scholarship needs a higher GPA. Prepare specifically to lift your performance in that subject. Confirm NEB's current rules on grade improvement, including how many subjects you may attempt, before you apply.
After the grade increment result
When the grade increment result is published, check it the same way as the main result — see our how to check NEB result guide. Once you have cleared your NG subjects, your overall result is complete and you can move on to bachelor admission and your next steps with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NEB grade increment exam?
It's an NEB exam held after the main results that lets students clear an NG subject or improve a grade in eligible subjects, without repeating the whole year.
Who has to sit the grade increment exam?
Students with an NG (Not Graded) in one or more subjects must clear them through this exam. Students wanting to improve an eligible grade may also apply, subject to NEB rules.
How do I apply for the grade increment exam?
Watch for the official NEB notice, apply through your school/college by the deadline, list your subjects, pay the fee, and collect your admit card.
When is the grade increment exam held?
It is typically conducted some weeks after the main result is published. Confirm the exact schedule in the official NEB grade increment notice for your year.
How do I clear an NG subject?
Focus on the theory you struggled with, identify weak topics, practise past and model questions, and write structured answers under timed conditions. You usually re-sit just that subject.
Can I improve my grade if I already passed?
In eligible subjects and within NEB's rules, yes. Weigh the effort against the benefit, since a higher grade can help for courses or scholarships needing a higher GPA.
Is there a fee for the grade increment exam?
Yes, a prescribed fee applies, paid through your school/college when you apply. Confirm the current amount in the official notice.
Does an NG stop me from getting bachelor admission?
You generally need to clear NG subjects, which the grade increment exam allows. Once cleared, your result is complete and you can proceed to admission.