Quick answer
The CBSE grading system uses a nine-point scale: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2, D, E1, and E2. In board exams, CBSE awards grades on a relative basis, so A1 goes to the top one-eighth of students who pass a subject, A2 to the next eighth, and so on. Mark sheets show both marks and grades for each subject.
- Nine grades: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2, D, E1, and E2.
- Board exam grades are relative: each passing grade covers about one-eighth of passed candidates.
- Grade points run from 10 for A1 down to 4 for D.
- Schools often use a fixed marks-to-grade table for internal exams.
What is the CBSE nine-point grading scale?
| Grade | Grade point | Common fixed-band equivalent used by schools |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | 10 | 91 to 100 |
| A2 | 9 | 81 to 90 |
| B1 | 8 | 71 to 80 |
| B2 | 7 | 61 to 70 |
| C1 | 6 | 51 to 60 |
| C2 | 5 | 41 to 50 |
| D | 4 | 33 to 40 |
| E1 and E2 | Not passed | Below 33 |
In board exams, CBSE describes grades as relative to the performance of passed candidates. Mark bands in the table are the fixed scale many schools use for internal exams. Check the current CBSE scheme for the year you need.
What does relative grading mean?
With relative grading, a grade reflects how a student performed compared with others who passed that subject that year, not a fixed mark. So the marks needed for A1 can change from year to year and subject to subject. CBSE mark sheets also show the actual marks.
What are the pass rules?
Students generally need at least 33 percent in each subject, counting theory and internal assessment or practicals as set in the scheme. Students who do not pass may be eligible for supplementary exams. Rules for Class 10 changed with the introduction of two board exam sittings from 2026; see CBSE board exams twice a year.
Does CBSE still use CGPA?
CBSE used CGPA for Class 10 under the CCE scheme until 2017. Since 2018, Class 10 results show marks and grades rather than CGPA. See CGPA to percentage for converting older results.
How should schools set up grading in their own systems?
- Set grade bands and grade points for internal exams in the school ERP.
- Use the same bands across sections and teachers.
- Keep marks as well as grades for analysis.
- Print the grading key on report cards so parents understand it.
The examination tools in Hudace SchoolOS support grading policies, marks entry, result processing, and report cards. See also ERP for CBSE schools.
Frequently asked questions
What is A1 grade in CBSE?
The highest grade, with grade point 10. In board exams it goes to the top one-eighth of passed candidates in a subject.
How many grades are there in CBSE?
Nine: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2, D, E1, and E2.
What marks are needed for A1?
In school internal exams, often 91 to 100. In board exams, grades are relative, so the cut-off varies.
What is the pass mark in CBSE?
Generally 33 percent in each subject.
What do E1 and E2 mean?
Grades below the pass level.
Does CBSE give CGPA?
Not for Class 10 since 2018. Results show marks and grades.
Are grades shown with marks?
Yes. CBSE mark sheets show marks and grades for each subject.