CBSE Board Exams 2025: Passing Marks, Grading System, and Key Rules

As the CBSE board exams for Class 10 and 12 approach, students and parents are eager to understand the exact requirements for passing. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has clearly outlined the guidelines for both classes, specifying subject-wise minimum scores and grading criteria. With theory exams commencing on February 15, 2025, here’s a detailed breakdown of the essential rules, passing marks, and compartment exam details.

CBSE Exam Structure and Grading System

CBSE follows a structured assessment system that includes both theory and practical components for applicable subjects. The board awards individual subject-wise marks or grades but does not provide an overall aggregate score.

Marking System:

• Students receive numerical scores for both theory and practical exams.
• Internal assessments display only grades.

Grading Scale:

• External exams use a 9-point scale (A1 to E).
• Internal assessments in Class 10 follow a 5-point scale (A to E).

Passing Marks for CBSE Board Exams 2025

Minimum Passing Marks:

• A minimum of 33% is required in each subject, including theory and practical components where applicable.
• For subjects with both theory and practical exams, students must secure 33% separately in theory, practical, and the overall total to pass.

CBSE Class 12 Passing Criteria

To pass the Senior School Certificate Examination, Class 12 students must achieve:

• At least 33% in each subject.
• 33% in the theory exam.
• 33% in the practical exam (if applicable).
• 33% overall in that subject.

CBSE does not award aggregate marks or distinctions. If a student fails in one subject, they are eligible to appear for a compartment exam.

CBSE Class 10 Passing Criteria

For Class 10, the requirements are similar:

• A minimum of 33% in each subject.
• Internal assessment subjects are graded on a five-point scale (A to E).
• No overall divisions, distinctions, or aggregate marks are awarded. However, if a student fails in up to two subjects, they can take the compartment exam.

CBSE Compartment Exams: Who is Eligible?

Students who fail in one or two subjects in their CBSE board exams can take the compartment exam for a second chance at passing. They are allowed up to three attempts:

• First Attempt: July/August of the same year.
• Second Attempt: March/April of the next year.
• Third Attempt: July/August of the next year.

If a student fails all three attempts, they must reappear for all subjects in the following academic year. For subjects with practical exams, previous practical marks are carried forward if the student passes the practical but fails the theory. However, if they fail the practical, they must retake both the theory and practical exams.

CBSE Merit Certificates

CBSE awards Merit Certificates to the top 0.1% of students in each subject, provided they meet the board’s passing criteria.

Exam Format: Theory and Practical Split

Most subjects have a three-hour theory paper worth 100 marks. For subjects with practical components, the marks are typically divided into:

• Theory: 70 marks
• Practical: 30 marks

FAQs on CBSE Board Exams 2025

Q1. What are the passing marks for CBSE Class 10 and 12 board exams?

• A minimum of 33% in each subject is required to pass, including theory and practical components where applicable.

Q2. How are internal assessments graded in CBSE Class 10?

• Internal assessments in Class 10 follow a five-point grading scale (A to E).

Q3. What happens if a student fails in one subject in the CBSE board exams?

• If a student fails in one subject, they are eligible to appear for a compartment exam.

Q4. How many attempts are allowed for the CBSE compartment exam?

• Students are allowed up to three attempts for the compartment exam: July/August of the same year, March/April of the next year, and July/August of the next year.

Q5. Are aggregate marks or distinctions awarded in CBSE board exams?

• No, CBSE does not award aggregate marks or distinctions. Only subject-wise marks or grades are provided.

Q6. What is the format of the CBSE board exams?

• Most subjects have a three-hour theory paper worth 100 marks. For subjects with practical components, the marks are typically divided into 70 for theory and 30 for practicals.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the CBSE board exam guidelines, passing marks, and grading system is crucial for students preparing for their Class 10 and 12 exams. Make sure to follow the specified requirements and stay updated with any announcements from CBSE. Best of luck to all the students appearing for the CBSE board exams in 2025!

For more related details and updates, you can always visit the official CBSE website at cbse.gov.in.

By following these guidelines and focusing on your studies, you can ensure a successful exam experience. Stay dedicated and confident, and you’ll achieve great results!