CBSE requires a minimum of 33% in each subject and in aggregate to pass Class 12. For an 80-mark theory paper that minimum works out to 26.4, which the board rounds to 27/80 , so 27 is counted as a pass while 26/80 (32.5%) is a fail .
Minimum Passing Marks and Percentage — theory subjects
Theory subjects follow an 80+20 breakup (written + internal). The written paper minimum is 27 out of 80 (33% rounded from 26.4). The internal component minimum is 7 out of 20 , which equals 35% of that component. Both the written and the internal marks must meet their minimums for the subject to be considered passed.
Minimum Passing Marks and Percentage — practical subjects
Practical subjects use a 70+30 format (theory + practical/internal). The theory part requires 23 out of 70 (33% rounded from 23.1) and the practical component requires 10 out of 30 (33.33%). Students must clear both the theory and practical minima separately and also reach 33% in aggregate across subjects to qualify.
What this means for students: if you scored 27/80 in a theory paper, CBSE considers that a pass under the 33% rule. A score of 26/80 falls short at 32.5% and is treated as a fail for that component. For practical subjects, falling below 23/70 in theory or 10/30 in practical will similarly mean the component is not cleared.
These minima apply subject-wise and to each component; passing the overall subject requires meeting component thresholds and the aggregate 33% requirement. The authority for these criteria is the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).
Results for CBSE Class 12 are expected on April 30 or by the first week of May 2026 . Check the official CBSE website or DigiLocker for the official result and further instructions on re-evaluation, compartment exams or other post-result options.
Numbers at a glance: - Theory (80 marks): 27/80 = pass; 26/80 = fail - Theory internal (20 marks): 7/20 minimum - Practical theory (70 marks): 23/70 minimum - Practical component (30 marks): 10/30 minimum - Aggregate required: 33%
For any contesting of marks, compartment queries or detailed procedures after the result, refer to CBSE’s official notifications and circulars.