The Maharashtra HSC 2025 results, declared on Monday, showed a slight dip in the overall state pass percentage from 93.37% last year to 91.88% this year. Despite the drop, one division stood out for its remarkable turnaround, Mumbai.

Once consistently at the bottom, Mumbai division climbed to the third spot among nine divisions with a pass percentage of 92.93%, outperforming the state average for the first time in recent years.

This is a significant leap from Mumbai's 91.95% last year and even more impressive rise from 88.13% in 2023. The division, covering Mumbai city, suburbs, Thane, Raigad and Palghar saw 2,91,955 of 3,14,114 students pass the exam. Officials called it a 'notable improvement' given the size and diversity of the region.

Maharashtra’s overall pass percentage dipped to 91.88% (from 93.37% in 2024), with girls outperforming boys (94.58% vs. 89.51%). Science stream students excelled (97.35%), while arts lagged (80.52%).

Mumbai’s high achievers include:

• Arushi Sinha (Ruia College, Science, 98.17%)

• Amey Pawar (KC College, Commerce, 97.33%)

• Vrinda Pandya (Jai Hind College, Arts, 96.67%)

Colleges like NM College, RA Podar, and Mithibai reported stellar results, with many seeing 100% pass rates and a surge in 90%+ scorers. Mumbai’s leap signals a tougher race for elite college seats, even as the state grapples with declining arts performance. With CBSE and ISC results pending, the academic competition is set to intensify.