CBSE Grading System Class 12: Grades, CGPA, and 2026 Assessment

CBSE Grading System Class 12 evaluates students based on their performance relative to other candidates in the same subject. Instead of relying solely on marks,

CBSE uses a 9-point grading scale ranging from A1 to E2, where A1 represents the top performers, and E indicates a need to improve. The grading system combines theory exams, practicals, and internal assessments to provide a holistic view of a student’s understanding and skills. 

For 2026, CBSE continues to emphasize competency-based education, ensuring that students are assessed fairly while encouraging learning beyond rote memorization.

Grades are converted into grade points, which can be averaged to calculate the CGPA and even converted into an indicative percentage, helping students and institutions gauge overall performance effectively.

CBSE Grading System Class 12

The CBSE Grading System for Class 12 2026, evaluates students based on their rank among all passing candidates.

Students receive grades ranging from A1 to E, with each grade reflecting their performance relative to others. The grading is divided into eight segments for passed students:

 This system ensures fairness and reduces stress on students by considering their overall performance rather than just marks.

Grading System in CBSE Class 12 2026

For the CBSE Grading System for Class 12 2026, the Board continues to use a 9-point grading scale with slight updates to emphasize competency-based evaluation. Students are assessed on:

• Internal Assessments: Usually 20 marks, evaluating regular performance.

• Theory Exams: Typically 70–80 marks depending on the subject.

• Practical Exams: Mandatory for science and vocational streams.

The grading system in CBSE class 12 2026 combines these components to ensure a holistic assessment of knowledge and skills.

New Grading System of CBSE Class 12

The New Grading System of CBSE Class 12 focuses on competency-based education.

This means grades are based not only on rote learning but also on a student’s understanding and application of concepts. Key features of the new system include:

• Emphasis on internal assessments and practicals.

• Relative grading ensures that students are ranked according to merit.

• Tie-breaking rules allow students with the same score to receive the same grade.

• Minimum passing marks of 33% in theory and practicals separately.

How Grades Are Calculated

In the CBSE Grading System Class 12, students receive a grade point (GP) for each subject. The cumulative grade point average (CGPA) can then be calculated to represent overall performance.

Marks to Grade Conversion:

CGPA Calculation:

1. Sum the grade points of all subjects.
   
   Divide by the number of subjects → CGPA.

2. To convert CGPA to percentage: Percentage = CGPA × 9.5

Example: If your CGPA is 8, your percentage = 8 × 9.5 = 76%

Benefits of the CBSE Grading System

The CBSE Grading System Class 12 offers multiple advantages:

• Encourages learning over rote memorization.

• Reduces pressure from high-stakes exams.

• Promotes holistic assessment, including theory, practicals, and internal evaluations.

• Helps students identify strengths and areas for improvement.

Drawbacks of the CBSE Grading System

While effective, the grading system in CBSE class 12 2026 has some limitations:

• CGPA may not fully reflect actual performance.

• Students might feel less motivated if minor mistakes don’t affect grades.

• Relative grading can vary year to year depending on cohort performance.