Understanding Tamil Nadu Board Grading System 2025: TN SSLC (Class 10) and HSC (Class 12) Explained

The Tamil Nadu Board Results for 2025 have been officially announced for Class 10 (SSLC) and Class 12 (HSC). Lakhs of students across the state have eagerly checked their marksheets, which now include not just marks but also grades and grade points.
But what exactly do these grades mean? How are they calculated, and what do they say about a student’s performance?
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the updated Tamil Nadu State Board Grading System for 2025, breaking down how grades are given for Class 10 and 12, the grading pattern, and why this system benefits students.
Whether you're a student, parent, or teacher, this guide will help you understand how performance is assessed and what to do if you need a second chance through compartment exams.
A grading system is a method of evaluating a student’s academic performance using letters (like A1, B2, etc.) instead of only numerical marks. In Tamil Nadu, the grading scale helps simplify how students’ achievements are displayed and understood.
It not only reflects how well a student has done but also helps reduce exam stress and unhealthy competition.
Want an analysis of the Tamil Nadu Board results this year?
Check our full breakdown of performance trends, pass percentages, toppers list, and district-wise stats:
Tamil Nadu uses an 8-point grading scale for Class 10 (SSLC) students. Each grade corresponds to a range of marks and a specific grade point.
Marks Range | Grade | Grade Point |
91–100 | A1 | 10 |
81–90 | A2 | 9 |
71–80 | B1 | 8 |
61–70 | B2 | 7 |
51–60 | C1 | 6 |
41–50 | C2 | 5 |
35–40 | D | 4 |
00–34 | E | Fail |
Passing Marks: Minimum 35 out of 100 (including theory + internal/practical if applicable).
Important Notes:
Class 12 students follow a similar 8-point scale. However, the lowest grade is marked as E1.
Grade Table:
Marks Range | Grade | Grade Point |
91–100 | A1 | 10 |
81–90 | A2 | 9 |
71–80 | B1 | 8 |
61–70 | B2 | 7 |
51–60 | C1 | 6 |
41–50 | C2 | 5 |
35–40 | D | 4 |
21–34 | E1 | Fail |
Passing Marks:
If you receive an E (Class 10) or E1 (Class 12), don’t worry. You can appear for compartment exams, usually conducted in June or July. This gives you another opportunity to clear that one subject without repeating the entire year.
Not satisfied with your marks? You can apply for revaluation if you believe your answer scripts weren’t checked properly. It’s a useful option before considering a compartment exam.
Read our full guide on the TN Class 12 Revaluation Process to understand eligibility, steps, and deadlines.
Looking for extra support for your child’s education? Interval Learning offers personalized one-on-one classes for students from Class 1 to 12, customized to their pace and style of learning. Whether it's regular academics, exam prep, or mastering tricky topics, our expert educators are here to help every step of the way.
You need at least 35 marks out of 100 in each subject to pass.
It means you've scored below the passing mark and need to take a compartment exam.
Yes, for subjects that include internal assessments or practicals.
Grade points from each subject are averaged to calculate your CGPA. Use our free calculators to convert your CGPA to percentage