The Grade 5 Scholarship Examination 2026 is one of the most important examinations in Sri Lanka’s school education system. Thousands of Grade 5 students across the country are preparing for this highly competitive examination, which provides opportunities for scholarships and admission to leading national schools.
According to the Department of Examinations, the Grade 5 Scholarship Examination 2026 is scheduled to be held on Sunday, 09 August 2026.
This guide covers the Grade 5 Exam Schedule 2026, examination times, admission card details, districts, past papers, and practical preparation tips.
Grade 5 Exam Schedule 2026
| Examination | Date |
|---|---|
| Grade 5 Scholarship Examination 2026 | Sunday, 09 August 2026 |
The examination will be conducted island-wide under the supervision of the Department of Examinations.
Expected Examination Time
Based on the standard examination structure followed in previous years:
| Paper | Time |
|---|---|
| Paper I | Approximately 1 Hour |
| Paper II | Approximately 1 Hour 15 Minutes |
Candidates are advised to arrive at their examination centres at least one hour before the commencement of the examination. Previous examination schedules followed a morning session format.
Examination Centres and Districts
The Grade 5 Scholarship Examination will be conducted in all districts across Sri Lanka through designated examination centres.
Districts Covered
- Colombo
- Gampaha
- Kalutara
- Kandy
- Matale
- Nuwara Eliya
- Galle
- Matara
- Hambantota
- Jaffna
- Kilinochchi
- Mullaitivu
- Mannar
- Vavuniya
- Trincomalee
- Batticaloa
- Ampara
- Kurunegala
- Puttalam
- Anuradhapura
- Polonnaruwa
- Badulla
- Monaragala
- Ratnapura
- Kegalle
Students will be assigned to examination centres by the Department of Examinations through their respective schools.
Admission Card Information
Admission cards are usually issued a few weeks before the examination through schools.
Students Should:
- Check all personal details carefully.
- Verify the examination centre.
- Inform school authorities immediately if any errors are found.
- Keep the admission card safe until the examination is completed.
Students must bring their admission card to the examination centre on the examination day.
Grade 5 Scholarship Exam Structure
The examination evaluates students in:
- Language Skills
- Mathematics
- Environmental Studies
- Logical Thinking
- Problem Solving
- General Knowledge
The examination is designed to assess aptitude and analytical skills rather than simple memorization.
How to Download Grade 5 Scholarship Past Papers
Practising past papers remains one of the most effective preparation methods.
Students are encouraged to:
- Complete past papers from the last 10 years.
- Practice under timed conditions.
- Review marking schemes when available.
- Identify weak subject areas and improve them.
Recommended Resources
- Department of Examinations publications
- Provincial education websites
- School-based revision programmes
- Teacher-prepared model papers
- Click Here to Download
Preparation Tips for Grade 5 Scholarship Exam 2026
1. Follow a Study Timetable
Create a balanced study schedule covering all subject areas.
2. Practice Daily
Attempt at least one model paper or revision exercise each day.
3. Improve Reading Skills
Reading Sinhala, Tamil, or English passages regularly helps improve comprehension and vocabulary.
4. Focus on Logical Thinking Questions
Scholarship examinations often include analytical and reasoning-based questions.
5. Revise Weak Areas
Allocate additional time to subjects where performance is lower.
6. Maintain Good Health
Ensure proper sleep, healthy meals, and adequate rest before the examination.
7. Attend Revision Seminars
Participating in revision classes and school programmes can help identify examination trends and common mistakes.
Important Reminders for Examination Day
- Arrive early at the examination centre.
- Bring the admission card.
- Carry required stationery.
- Follow instructions issued by supervisors.
- Stay calm and manage time effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When is the Grade 5 Scholarship Exam 2026?
The examination is scheduled for 09 August 2026 (Sunday).
When will admission cards be issued?
Admission cards are expected to be distributed through schools several weeks before the examination.
Can students change their examination centre?
Examination centres are assigned by the Department of Examinations and changes are generally not permitted except under special circumstances.
How can students prepare effectively?
Regular revision, past paper practice, time management, and adequate rest are key factors for success.
Final Thoughts
The Grade 5 Scholarship Exam 2026 is a significant milestone for thousands of Sri Lankan students. With the examination scheduled for 09 August 2026, students should begin systematic preparation early, practice past papers regularly, and maintain confidence throughout their studies. Proper planning and consistent effort can greatly improve examination performance and future educational opportunities.
- Grade 5 Scholarship Exam Application – Click here
