The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is one of the most popular educational boards in India, which is of high standards and holds international importance.
The curriculum, extracurricular activities, and grading system used in CBSE are quite practical and unique from their counterparts.
This article gives an overview of the CBSE assessment system along with grade calculation techniques and marks to grade conversions.
Understanding the CBSE Grading System
The student-friendly grading system employed by the CBSE board sets it apart from the rest. It is more student-friendly and inclined to assess them based on their skills rather than just theoretical knowledge.
Since CBSE assesses students based on a number of factors, it gives an overall picture of their performance.
CBSE Grading Scale for Classes 9 & 10
The CBSE grading system is a five-grade scale with A, B, C, D, and E grades. A 9-point scale is used to allot grade points with respect to the marks obtained.
Given below is the breakdown of the CBSE grading scale with corresponding marks and grade points.
CBSE Grading System for Classes 11 & 12
| Grades | Marks | Grade Point | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | 91-100 | 10 | 91%-100% |
| A2 | 81-90 | 9 | 81%-90% |
| B1 | 71-80 | 8 | 71%-80% |
| B2 | 61-70 | 7 | 61%-70% |
| C1 | 51-60 | 6 | 51%-60% |
| C2 | 41-50 | 5 | 41%-50% |
| D | 33-40 | 4 | 33%-40% |
| E | Below 33 | - | Below 33% (fail) |
The grading systems for classes 11 and 12 are more or less similar to the assessment systems used in grades 9 and 10. The criteria for grading students is given below:
| Grade | Marks | Grade Point |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | 91-100 | 10 |
| A2 | 81-90 | 9 |
| B1 | 71-80 | 8 |
| B2 | 61-70 | 7 |
| C1 | 51-60 | 6 |
| C2 | 41-50 | 5 |
| D | 33-40 | 4 |
| E1 | 21-32 | 0 |
| E2 | 00-20 | 0 |
Additionally, a student is awarded a CGPA score (Cumulative Grade Point Assessment), which is based on the average of grade points in five main subjects.
How Is CGPA Calculated in CBSE?
As discussed above, the CGPA depends on the marks and grade points procured in five main subjects. In order to calculate the CGPA, follow the below two steps:
Step 1: Add the grade points of five subjects and divide it by 5.
Step 2: Calculate the CGPA.
Conversion of CGPA to Percentage
To obtain a percentage, multiply the resultant CGPA by 9.5.
For example, a student obtains the following points in five subjects:
Subject 1 – 9.0
Subject 2 – 8.9
Subject 3 – 9.2
Subject 4 – 9.5
Subject 5 – 8.0
The sum of all grade points = 44.6
CGPA= 44.6/5 = 8.92
Hence, CGPA to percentage = 8.92 * 9.5 = 84.74%
CBSE Assessment and Evaluation Process
In the CBSE system, students are evaluated based on internal and external assessments.
- Internal assessments include regular tests, assignments, and projects. Marks are also allotted depending on activities like listening and talking skills, lab work, attendance, participation in cocurricular activities, discipline, etc.
- External assessments include term-end examinations, practicals, and viva voce. These marks solely depend on the performance of students in the board exams conducted by the CBSE board.
Hence, the CBSE takes into account not only the academic performance but also other factors. In this manner, the students are continuously evaluated throughout the year. It lays emphasis on overall performance.
Importance of the CBSE Grading System
The CBSE grading system offers multiple benefits, such as:
- The continuous assessment approach reduces stress and pressure among students.
- The CBSE assessment system lays equal emphasis on academic and non-academic areas, thereby nurturing well-rounded students.
- CBSE fosters healthy competition by awarding grades instead of marks. This eliminates comparisons among students.
- It motivates students to understand concepts rather than rote learning.
- It helps teachers and parents to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the child thoroughly.
- It encourages students to take part in cocurricular activities, promoting skill-based learning.
Differences Between CBSE and Other Grading Systems
The grading system of CBSE differs from other grading systems:
|
Aspect |
CBSE |
Other systems |
|
Grading Scale |
Uses 9-point letter grade scale |
Use a wider range of grades. |
|
Assessment approach |
Continuous evaluation, which includes internal and external assessments. |
Students are mainly evaluated based on their performance in final exams. |
Tips for Students to Improve Their Grades
Here are some effective study strategies to enhance academic performance:
- Prepare a proper study timetable that is flexible, emphasise more on weak areas, and stay consistent with the plan.
- Break down complex tasks into manageable ones to reduce stress.
- Schedule a specific time for revision and revise frequently for increased retention.
- Focus equally on cocurricular activities to improve your grades.
- Practice effective time management by using the Pomodoro Technique and take regular breaks to stay motivated for longer durations.
- Use mind maps, acronyms, tricks, short notes, and diagrams to simplify complex topics.
- Solve previous year papers to get a hang of the subject and understand the subject clearly.
- Participate in group discussion and stay attentive in class discussions.
- Be positive, follow a healthy lifestyle, and avoid negative self-talk to see big results.
Conclusion
The CBSE education system has set its standard very high with the uniform curriculum and distinct grading system. It has gained not just national recognition but also international acclaim and acceptance. The concept of continuous and comprehensive evaluation has forced students to master the concepts rather than rote learning. It has encouraged students to remain active and take part in extracurricular activities. CBSE is an ideal choice for raising well-rounded students.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How does CBSE Assign Grades to Students?
A 9-point grading scale is used to assign grades to students based on internal and external assessments. The continuous and comprehensive evaluation takes into account the overall performance of the student.
What is the difference between CGPA and Percentage in CBSE?
CGPA is the average of grade points of five subjects. The CGPA obtained is later multiplied by 9.5 to convert it into a percentage, which represents marks out of 100.
How can Students Calculate their Overall CGPA?
To calculate the overall CGPA, add the grade points obtained in five main subjects. Later, divide it by 5.
What is the Minimum Grade Required to Pass in CBSE?
Students must score a minimum grade of D in each subject to pass in CBSE. A grade below D is considered a fail.
Does the CBSE Grading System Affect College Admissions?
Yes, the CBSE grading system has an impact on college admissions because many colleges accept CGPA or percentage equivalents. A few colleges provide cutoff percentages, whereas some conduct entrance examinations for proper selection.
