Major Shift in CBSE Class 12 Results: Lowest Pass Percentage Since COVID; Here’s Why

CBSE recently released the Class 12 results, yet they continue to remain a subject of intense discussion. The primary reasons cited are a decline in the pass percentage and the introduction of a new evaluation system.

For lakhs of students, the CBSE Class 12 Board Examination 2026 results brought news that was a mix of both joy and anxiety. According to statistics released by the Board, the overall pass percentage this year stood at 85.20%—a figure considered to be the lowest recorded since the COVID-19 pandemic. While the pass percentage stood at 88.39% last year, a decline of approximately 3% was recorded this time around.

This year, CBSE implemented a significant change in its method of evaluating answer sheets. For the first time, Class 12 answer scripts were evaluated digitally—specifically, through an ‘on-screen marking system.’ It is believed that this shift led to greater strictness and transparency in the allocation of marks this year.

On-Screen Marking System Implemented for the First Time

This year, CBSE facilitated the evaluation of over 9.8 million (98 lakh) answer scripts directly on computer screens. To execute this, approximately 70,000 teachers were deployed. The Board asserts that this new system enabled a more accurate and impartial evaluation of the answer scripts.

Previously, manual evaluation of answer sheets often led to errors in totaling marks or transcribing scores; however, the digital system has significantly reduced the likelihood of such errors. According to the Board, this new process ensured that teachers could award marks strictly in accordance with the prescribed marking scheme.

Why Did the Results Decline Compared to Previous Years?

An analysis of statistics from recent years reveals that results were significantly better during and immediately after the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, for instance, board examinations were not conducted at all, and students were awarded marks based on internal assessments. Consequently, the pass percentage soared to over 99% that year.

Subsequently, in 2022, the examinations were conducted in two phases, and the syllabus was also reduced; as a result, the pass percentage remained above the 92% mark. However, CBSE is now gradually reverting to its former rigorous system. This is precisely why the results this time are considered to be more realistic.

The Board Had Prepared in Advance

CBSE had undertaken extensive preparations well in advance to implement the on-screen marking system. Teachers across the country were provided with training. They were briefed on how to utilize the online portal, and mock tests were also conducted. Furthermore, schools were issued directives to ensure the availability of computer labs and robust internet infrastructure. Across the entire country, more than 88,000 computers were deployed, and approximately 6,000 evaluation centers were established.