CBSE Class 10 33% Passing Rule Clarified: 33% on Combined Theory and Internal Marks, Not Separately; Class 12 Rule Is Different
Updated: 24 October 2026
CBSE has clarified the Class 10 passing criteria for session 2026-27. As per reports, students need at least 33% in each subject on the combined marks of the theory exam and internal assessment. A separate 33% in theory and internal is not required. The confusion arose from the wording in the curriculum document.
33%Combined marks per subject
80 : 20Board exam : internal
No changePaper pattern and evaluation
What the Rule Is
- To pass Class 10, you need 33% overall per subject after adding theory and internal marks.
- In most subjects, 80 marks are for the board exam and 20 for internal assessment.
- As per CBSE, there is no change in question paper design or evaluation pattern for 2026-27.
Class 10 vs Class 12
| Class | Passing rule |
|---|---|
| Class 10 | 33% on theory + internal combined |
| Class 12 | 33% separately in theory and practical |
This is based on Dainik Jagran and other reports (5 October 2026). For the final rule, see CBSE's notification and the website cbse.gov.in.
What Students and Parents Can Do
- Take internal assessment and projects seriously, since these 20 marks add to the final result.
- Rely on the school and CBSE's official notices rather than rumours.
Important Links
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need separate 33% in theory and internal in Class 10?
No, 33% on the combined marks is enough.
What is the Class 12 rule?
Class 12 needs 33% separately in theory and practical.
For which session?
Session 2026-27, i.e. the 2027 Class 10 board exam.
Note: This is based on news reports and public government information. Dates, amounts and rules can change, so please confirm with the official website or the concerned office before acting. Emitrawala.com is not a government website.
