CBSE Grading System for Class 10 2026, Check Passing Criteria

CBSE Grading System Class 10​: The CBSE grading system for Class 10 follows a 9-point scale ranging from A1 to E, designed to evaluate students based on their relative performance rather than just raw marks. A1 is the highest grade, awarded to the top 1/8th of students, while E indicates failure.

Grades are assigned based on percentile ranks and converted into grade points, with A1 carrying a grade point of 10.0. CBSE also uses a 5-point grading scale (A to E) for internal subjects like Art Education and Physical Education. This system reduces academic pressure and promotes holistic learning by eliminating the display of total marks and percentage on the marksheet.

CBSE Grading System Class 10- Grade Awarding Method

The CBSE Board awards grades by first placing all passed candidates in a rank order. Then, it divides them into segments.

Each segment receives a specific grade. This process ensures a relative grading approach based on overall performance.

Grading System in CBSE Class 10 2026- Grade Points 

CBSE uses a 9-point relative grading scale, ranging from A1 (highest) to E (fail). The grades are awarded based on a percentile rank of students and not just absolute marks.

 How to Calculate CGPA in CBSE Class 10?

Steps to Calculate CGPA:

1. Add the grade points of the top five main subjects.

2. Divide the total by 5.

CBSE Grading System for Class 10 2026 for Arts, Health, and Physical Education

CBSE uses a 5-point scale (A–E) for internal assessments such as:

• Art Education

• Health and Physical Education

• SEWA (Social Empowerment through Work Education and Action)

 Art Education Grades

In CBSE Class 10, Art Education is evaluated using a five-point grading scale from A to E. This system focuses on assessing students' progress and proficiency in creative skills rather than numerical scores.

Health and Physical Education Components

Health and Physical Education in CBSE Class 10 is assessed across various activities and skills using a five-point grading scale (A to E). This evaluation covers games, fitness, work experience (SEWA), and health-related activities to promote overall well-being and development.

What are the Passing Criteria for CBSE Class 10 2026

To pass the CBSE Class 10 board exams 2026, students must meet the following conditions:

• Students must score above Grade E in all subjects of internal assessment. If this condition is not met, the external exam result may be withheld for up to one year.

• To be declared passed, students must score at least 33% marks (Grade D or above) in all five subjects in the external board exams or compartment exams.

• The minimum passing marks for each subject in the external exam is 33%.

• CBSE does not award overall division, distinction, or aggregate marks in Class 10 results.

• If a student has opted for an additional subject, it can replace a failed subject, provided:

  • English or Hindi remains one of the main languages, and

  • The replacement follows CBSE’s Scheme of Studies rules.

Components of CBSE Assessment Structure

The CBSE assessment structure for Class 10 in 2026 consists of two main components: Theory Examination and Internal Assessment, ensuring a balanced evaluation of students' academic and practical skills.

1. Theory Examination (80 Marks): This component evaluates students’ knowledge through written exams based on the prescribed Class 10 syllabus. The questions include a mix of competency-based, objective-type, and short/long answer questions to assess critical thinking, understanding, and application skills.

2. Internal Assessment (20 Marks): The Internal assessment focuses on continuous evaluation throughout the academic year. It includes:

• Periodic Tests: Short tests conducted at regular intervals to assess the grasp of concepts.

• Notebook Submission: Encourages regularity, discipline, and organized learning habits.

• Subject Enrichment Activities: Project work, practicals, presentations, or lab work that assess skills beyond textbook learning.

Performance Metrics in CBSE Class 10 2026

In the CBSE Class 10 grading system, student performance is measured through grade points rather than percentages. Although CBSE does not officially categorize any grade as a "distinction," achieving an A1 grade (91–100 marks) is widely recognized as an indicator of exceptional academic excellence. This grade corresponds to a grade point of 10.0, representing the top-performing 1/8th of the passed candidates. Such students are considered high achievers, showcasing deep subject knowledge and consistent academic discipline.

CBSE Marking Scheme for 2026

For the 2026 board exams, CBSE has emphasized competency-based learning to ensure that students are evaluated on their understanding, critical thinking, and practical application of knowledge. The distribution of marks across question types is structured as follows:

Advantages of the CBSE Grading System

The CBSE grading system provides several benefits that positively impact students' learning experiences:

1. By focusing on grades instead of exact marks, the system helps lessen academic stress among students. This approach encourages learning without the constant pressure of achieving precise scores.

2. The grading system emphasizes internal assessments and overall performance, promoting the development of skills beyond rote memorization. It supports a well-rounded education that includes practical knowledge, creativity, and critical thinking.

3. The uniform grading system ensures consistency and fairness in the assessment process across different schools and regions, making evaluation more transparent and equitable.