The Class 12 board exams, conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), are crucial for a student’s academic and career path. Understanding the exam pattern is important for preparing well and scoring high.
CBSE Class 12 Exam Structure and Marking Scheme 2024-25
In the marking scheme for class 12 CBSE 2024-25 academic year, CBSE has made key changes to the pattern. These updates highlight competency-based questions, practical knowledge, and an overall comprehensive approach to assessment.
Streams and Subjects:
CBSE Class 12 exams are categorized into three main streams: Science, Commerce, and Arts. Each stream consists of core subjects, optional subjects, and language papers.
Marks Distribution:
Most subjects award 100 marks, divided between theory exams and practical or internal assessments.
Exam Duration:
The theory exams are typically 3 hours long.
Question-Wise Marking Scheme:
Marks are awarded based on question types. Very Short Answer (VSA) questions are worth 1 mark, Short Answer (SA) questions carry 2-4 marks, and Long Answer (LA) questions are worth 5–6 marks each.
Simple breakdown of the exam pattern to help Class 12 students prepare effectively
Particulars
Details
Conducting Body
Central Board of Secondary Education
Question Paper Pattern
20% multiple-choice questions (MCQs)
30% scenario-based or case-based questions, including source-based or similar types
50% short and long answer questions
Duration
3 hours
Mode
Offline
Maximum Marks
The total score is 100, divided between theory & practical as follows
Commerce subjects like Accountancy, Business Studies, and Economics: 80 marks for theory and 20 marks for practical.
Science subjects like Physics, Chemistry, and Biology: 70 marks for theory and 30 marks for practical.
Mathematics: 80 marks for the written exam and 20 marks for practical.
Passing marks for each subject
33%
Passing marks for the overall exam
Aggregate 33%
To pass the CBSE Class 12 board exams, a student needs to score at least 33% overall. Additionally, it’s important to get at least 33% marks in each subject.
If a student scores 33% or more overall but falls short of 33% in any subject, they will need to take a supplementary exam to clear that subject.
For a detailed understanding of the passing criteria and grading system, check out the links below.
Build a Brighter Future for Your Child with Interval
Practicing regularly with the marking scheme can improve exam performance and confidence in answering different types of questions.
The CBSE marking scheme is an excellent tool for strategic preparation, helping students achieve better results while gaining a stronger understanding of their subjects.
At Interval Learning, we provide personalized one-on-one coaching with expert tutors to help students improve their scores. With exams coming up soon, join us today and take the first step toward a brighter future!
Frequently Asked Questions
The CBSE Class 12 marking scheme is designed to assess students' knowledge, understanding, and application skills. The question paper includes multiple-choice, short-answer, and long-answer questions, each with its own weightage.
You can find the CBSE Class 12 Marking Scheme for 2025 on the official CBSE website or on our Interval website. It gives a clear breakdown of marks, question patterns, and evaluation guidelines.
The CBSE Class 12 Marking Scheme helps students know how marks are distributed, identify key topics, and prepare strategically to perform well in exams.
INTERVAL LEARNING
Interval Learning is an online platform that offers one-on-one tutoring in both academic and non-academic subjects. We match students with skilled tutors to create a personalized learning experience across a range of topics. Our resources cover study tips, education trends, and personal development advice to help students, parents, and educators reach their goals. At Interval Learning, we focus on making education accessible, engaging, and suited to each learner’s needs.
The Best Online Tutoring Platform That Meets All Your Child’s Needs
Interval is your child’s dedicated academic partner, offering personalized learning experiences
crafted just for them. With passionate tutors and a nurturing environment, we ensure that every
lesson aligns with your child’s unique needs, empowering them to thrive and excel in their studies
while building confidence.
