CBSE has introduced a fresh evaluation method known as Relative Grading to replace traditional absolute marking schemes. This system, inspired by the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, is designed to reduce stress, combat mark inflation, and create a level playing field for students.
Under this model, student performance is graded in comparison to peers, not just based on raw scores. As competition grows, CBSE's relative grading approach promises a more balanced and inclusive evaluation, especially for board exams like Class 10 and 12. Let’s understand how this system works and what it means for students, teachers, and parents.
📑 Table of Contents
- What is Relative Grading?
- Why CBSE Shifted to Relative Grading
- How Relative Grading Works in CBSE
- Benefits of Relative Grading
- Challenges and Criticisms
- CBSE Grading System: Relative vs Absolute
What is Relative Grading?
Relative Grading is a system where a student's performance is evaluated in relation to how others in the same group or class have performed. Instead of assigning fixed marks for specific answers, this system uses statistical tools like standard deviation and bell curves to group students into different grade bands. This approach helps normalize scores across different difficulty levels of papers.
For example, if the highest score in a subject is 92 and the average is 68, students are assigned grades like A1, A2, B1, etc., based on how far their marks deviate from the average, not an absolute cutoff. This system is widely used in competitive exams and is now being implemented for CBSE Board Exams too.
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Why CBSE Shifted to Relative Grading
CBSE's decision to move toward Relative Grading stems from concerns over mark inflation, inconsistent evaluation, and unhealthy competition among students. The previous absolute system often led to unrealistic cutoffs and pressure to score near-perfect marks. This was especially problematic in board exam results for Class 10 and 12.
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasized holistic assessment and reducing academic pressure, which made relative grading a viable and necessary reform. With students across India appearing for exams under varying conditions and difficulty levels, relative grading ensures fairer evaluation.
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How Relative Grading Works in CBSE
In the CBSE Relative Grading model, grades are awarded based on statistical data of overall student performance. Here's a simplified version of how it might work:
- CBSE collects all raw marks for a subject.
- Calculates the average (mean) and standard deviation.
- Grades are assigned using a bell curve distribution.
For instance:
| Grade | Percentage of Students |
|---|---|
| A1 | Top 1/8th (~12.5%) |
| A2 | Next 1/8th |
| B1 | Next 1/8th |
| ... | ... |
Students aren't penalized if an exam was tough — their relative position among peers is what counts. This grading style is already used in official CBSE notifications and teacher training sessions.
Benefits of Relative Grading
Relative Grading brings several advantages to students and educators alike:
- Reduces exam stress: Students compete within a group, not against fixed cutoffs.
- Balances paper difficulty: Easier or tougher papers do not unfairly affect results.
- Prevents mark inflation: Helps maintain realistic and meaningful grade distributions.
- Encourages conceptual understanding: Focus shifts from mugging to grasping concepts.
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Challenges and Criticisms
Despite its benefits, Relative Grading has received some criticism. Parents and students worry about unpredictability in grades due to peer performance dependence. For example, in a highly competitive class, even good scores might translate to lower grades.
Critics also argue that it may demotivate top-performing students if grading is curved too tightly. Teachers need proper training to interpret and explain the new system effectively. Transparency and awareness are essential for this system to succeed.
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CBSE Grading System: Relative vs Absolute
Here’s a quick comparison between Relative Grading and traditional absolute grading:
| Criteria | Relative Grading | Absolute Grading |
|---|---|---|
| Evaluation Basis | Compared to peers | Fixed marks thresholds |
| Flexibility | High (adapts to exam toughness) | Low |
| Stress Levels | Lower | Higher |
| Fairness | More balanced | Can be biased |
In conclusion, CBSE Relative Grading is a progressive move aligning with NEP 2020 goals. Students should focus on understanding and consistency, not just chasing numbers.
Conclusion
The shift to Relative Grading marks a significant transformation in CBSE’s evaluation process. It levels the playing field, discourages unhealthy competition, and emphasizes real learning. While implementation challenges remain, the long-term benefits are clear. Students and parents must adapt to this change with a positive mindset. Stay updated through our CGPA to Percentage Converter and other smart tools. Have questions? Drop them in the comments or subscribe to stay ahead!
FAQs on CBSE Relative Grading
What is Relative Grading in CBSE?
It’s a grading method where student scores are compared with the group’s performance, not fixed marks.
Is Relative Grading better than Absolute Grading?
Yes, it accounts for paper difficulty and reduces performance pressure.
When did CBSE introduce Relative Grading?
It is being gradually implemented under NEP 2020 from 2024–25 session onwards.
Will my marks be reduced under this system?
No, only your grade is calculated relatively. Your actual marks remain unaffected.
How can students prepare for relative grading?
Focus on consistency, clarity of concepts, and relative performance in your class or group.
Is Relative Grading used in all subjects?
Currently, it is applied in key academic subjects, especially for board evaluations.
Does it affect competitive exam preparation?
No, it’s only for internal school grading and board results, not for external exams.
How is the grading scale decided?
CBSE uses statistical tools like bell curve and standard deviation.
Where can I check official updates?
Visit cbse.gov.in for latest notifications.
Are there tools to track grades or performance?
Yes, visit our blog on APAAR ID for students and more.
