Overview
As the 2025 CBSE Board Exams approach, it becomes imperative for students to grasp the essential passing requirements, craft effective study strategies, and familiarize themselves with the provisions for grace marks in case they face challenges. Here, Target Defence Academy has given a comprehensive guide for the CBSE Board Exam 2025.

CBSE Board Passing Criteria
1. Minimum Marks Requirement:
- Class 10: Students must score at least 33% of the total marks by combining written exams and internal assessments.
- Class 12: Students need to obtain a minimum of 33% marks separately in both written and practical exams to pass.
2. Compartment Examination:
If any student fails in any subject, they may have the opportunity to take a compartment examination for that specific subject. The passing criteria for this examination remain the same, requiring a minimum of 33%.
- Class 12: Students failing in one subject can take a compartment exam.
- Class 10: Students failing in up to two subjects can take a compartment exam.
3. Internal Assessment: The marks obtained from internal assessments, including periodic tests, assignments, and projects, contribute to the final evaluation. Students need to perform well in these assessments to bolster their overall grades.
How Grace Marks can help Students in the CBSE Board Exam?
1. Eligibility:
- Grace marks are granted to students who narrowly miss the passing score, usually by a margin of 1 to 5 marks.
- These additional marks serve to assist students who are marginally below the required passing percentage of 33% in a particular subject.
2. How Grace Marks Work: If a student does not meet the passing marks in one or more subjects, they may receive grace marks to reach the 33% passing requirement. These marks are added to their total score to cover the shortfall.
3. Limitations: The highest amount of grace marks a student may obtain is 5% of the overall marks allocated for the subject. The total grace marks allowed for all subjects combined should not exceed 15 marks.
Preparation Tips for CBSE Board Exam 2025
1. Understand the Syllabus: Make sure to familiarize yourself with the latest CBSE syllabus for all subjects. It’s important to cover every chapter, paying special attention to key topics that generally appear in past exams.
2. Time Management: Create a study schedule and give enough time for each subject. Give time to the subjects you are weak in, but also give time to the subjects in which you already have a strong understanding.
3. Practice PYQs: Solve the Previous Year’s Question papers that help you understand the exam pattern and the types of questions asked in the exam. It also gives you an idea of how to manage time during the actual exam.
4. Focus on NCERT Books: NCERT textbooks are considered the most important resource for CBSE exams. Make sure that you have studied all the chapters, exercises, and examples provided in the NCERT books.
5. Focus on Revision: Regular revision is key to effective information recall. Dedicate time in your study schedule for this purpose. Revisiting what you’ve learned several times will strengthen your understanding and enhance retention, helping you achieve mastery of the material.
6. Mock Tests: Take regular mock tests to simulate the exam environment. This will help in improving time management and also allow you to identify areas where you need to focus more or improve.
7. Stay Healthy and Stay Positive: Maintain a balanced diet and get regular exercise. Adequate sleep is also crucial to stay refreshed and focused during your studies. Keep a positive mindset. Avoid stress and don’t panic. Take deep breaths and meditate to stay focused.
8. Clear Doubts: Don’t hesitate to ask your teachers or peers for clarification on any topic you’re unsure about. A clear understanding of concepts is key to scoring well.
Conclusion
The CBSE Board Examination 2025 requires students to achieve a minimum of 33% in each subject to pass, with overall grades determined by a mix of internal assessments and final exam results. Effective time management and regular revision are crucial. While grace marks may be granted in rare cases, relying on them is not advisable. In summary, consistent study habits, strong time management, and a calm mindset are essential for success in the CBSE examinations.
Students studying in Class 10th can join Target Defence Academy, Lucknow for better preparation in Class 11th and 12th Board Exams just after concluding the Class 10th Exam.
FAQs about the CBSE Board Exam
Ans. Students will have to score at least 33% marks in each subject to pass the class 10 examination.
Ans. Students are required to secure 33% marks to pass by combining marks of both theory and internal assessment.
Ans. Students need to obtain a minimum of 33% marks separately in both written and practical exams to pass.