CBSE Grading System Explained: Marks, Grades & How They Work
CBSE reports Class 10 results using grades alongside marks, while Class 12 results are reported as subject marks. Understanding how the grading works helps you set realistic targets and read your marksheet correctly — but the exact scheme can be revised, so always confirm the current rules in the official syllabus and result documents.
For Class 10, CBSE has commonly used a 9-point grade scale per subject, where grades are derived from the marks you score. Class 12 marksheets focus on subject-wise marks, which colleges use for admission and cutoffs.
CBSE Class 10 grade scale (typical 9-point scheme)
| Marks range | Grade |
|---|---|
| 91–100 | A1 |
| 81–90 | A2 |
| 71–80 | B1 |
| 61–70 | B2 |
| 51–60 | C1 |
| 41–50 | C2 |
| 33–40 | D |
| Below 33 (needs improvement) | E |
Indicative scheme widely used for CBSE Class 10. Grade boundaries and rules can change — always confirm the current scheme on cbseacademic.nic.in for your session.
Frequently asked questions
Does CBSE Class 12 use grades or marks?
Class 12 results are reported as subject-wise marks. Grades may appear for some components, but college admissions and cutoffs generally use your Class 12 marks/percentage.
What is the passing mark in CBSE?
Students generally need to score at least the official minimum (commonly 33%) in each subject, including any theory and internal/practical split where applicable. Confirm the exact passing criteria for your subjects in the current syllabus.
How are marks split between theory and internal assessment?
Many subjects have a theory paper plus an internal assessment or practical component. The split varies by subject and class — check your subject’s syllabus on cbseacademic.nic.in for the exact breakdown.
Always read the official result rules: Grade schemes, passing criteria, and result formats are set by CBSE and can change. Use the official syllabus and the result/marksheet instructions on cbse.gov.in and cbseacademic.nic.in as the final word.