There is no cut-off in a board exam; there is a pass mark. To pass Class 12 you need at least 33% in each subject, and in subjects with practicals you must pass the theory and the practical parts separately. CBSE said the passing criteria for 2026-27 are the same as in 2025-26. A student who fails in one subject can take the supplementary exam in July. Note that entrance exams and colleges set their own Class 12 marks rules (for example 75% for NIT/IIIT seats through JEE, and 50% in PCB for NEET).
Minimum marks to pass (Class 12, typical subjects)
| Subject type | Theory (pass) | Practical / internal (pass) |
|---|---|---|
| Physics, Chemistry, Biology (70 + 30) | 70 (23) | 30 (10) |
| Mathematics, English, Accountancy, Business Studies, Economics, History, Political Science, Sociology (80 + 20) | 80 (about 26 to 27) | 20 (6 or 7) |
| Geography, Psychology, Computer Science (70 + 30) | 70 (23) | 30 (10) |
Metric: marks. The rule is 33% of each part; sources differ by a mark on rounding (for example 26 or 27 out of 80), so check the CBSE examination bye-laws or your school.
Source: school.careers360.com