In a major shift from traditional assessment practices, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has adopted a relative grading system for Classes 10 and 12, starting with the 2024 board exams. This move is part of CBSE’s broader effort to align with international education standards and reduce the pressure associated with high-stakes exams.
What Is Relative Grading?
Unlike absolute grading, where student marks are judged against a fixed scale, relative grading evaluates individual performance in relation to how the entire group performs. This cohort-based approach means grades are awarded based on a distribution curve, potentially making assessments fairer and reducing the emphasis on perfect scores.
Why the Shift?
CBSE officials say the change was driven by growing concerns over mark inflation, intense academic competition, and rising student stress levels. Sky-high college cut-offs and the race to score above 95% had sparked criticism from educators and parents.
The change is also in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which encourages less rote learning and promotes holistic education. By assessing students more equitably, CBSE aims to foster a healthier learning environment.
How Does It Work?
Under this system, grades such as A1, A2, B1, and so on are assigned based on statistical measures like mean and standard deviation. For example, the top 1/8th of students in a subject may receive an A1 grade, followed by the next 1/8th receiving A2, and so on.
However, CBSE announced that it will still release a merit list for the top 0.1% of Class 12 students who achieve the highest marks in each subject.
What It Means for Students and Teachers
This grading system is expected to ease the pressure on students, reduce the stigma of narrowly missing top marks, and discourage toxic academic competition. It also allows teachers to shift focus from mark-oriented teaching to conceptual understanding and skill development.
With this change, CBSE hopes to make assessments more meaningful and better aligned with the evolving goals of education in India.
