CBSE Class 12 Results Show Decline in Science Scores Amid New Evaluation Methods

The CBSE Class 12 Board examination results have shown a significant decline in Science scores, attributed to the new On-Screen Marking system and a strict step-marking approach. Many students, despite excelling in competitive exams like JEE Main, failed to secure the necessary marks for admission into top institutions. The evaluation process has raised concerns about the impact on students' performance, particularly in core Science subjects. As students prepare for revaluation starting May 18, the implications of these changes continue to unfold.

By Ambika Singh May 16, 2026, 11:21 IST

Overview of Class 12 Board Examination Results

The results for the Class 12 Board exams, announced by the CBSE on May 13, indicate a notable shift due to the introduction of On-Screen Marking (OSM) and a rigorous step-marking approach. Around 9.8 million answer sheets were evaluated digitally, a method the Board claims is transparent and minimizes errors. However, this new evaluation system seems to have adversely impacted students in the Science stream. Many top-performing students, despite excelling in the JEE Main exam, did not achieve the necessary 75 percent in their Board exams, putting their chances of admission into prestigious institutions like IITs, NITs, and IIITs at risk.

Decline in Perfect Scores in Science Subjects

This year saw a significant drop in the number of students achieving full marks in key Science subjects. Specifically, only 1,283 students scored 100 in Mathematics, 1,061 in Chemistry, and just 96 in Physics. In contrast, numerous students attained perfect scores in subjects such as Painting, Psychology, and Artificial Intelligence.

Understanding OSM and Step-Marking

The On-Screen Marking (OSM) system involves scanning answer sheets and evaluating them directly on computer screens. Examiners must assign marks strictly according to the CBSE's digital answer scheme and the outlined steps. As a result, even if a student arrives at the correct answer, full marks may be withheld if their method or presentation does not align with the required format.

Challenges Faced by Science Students

Experts suggest that the focus on procedural steps and methodologies in Science subjects has been heightened. Many students, despite reaching the correct final answer, did not follow the prescribed format, leading to mark deductions. Additionally, the digital evaluation process increases pressure on examiners to avoid errors, which may result in stricter adherence to the marking guidelines.

Influence of Coaching Centers and Dummy Schools

Students preparing for competitive exams like JEE and NEET often concentrate on conceptual learning and multiple-choice questions. This focus can diminish their ability to write detailed, descriptive answers, a skill essential for Board exams. The lack of practice in writing is reflected in their Board exam performance.

Revaluation Process to Commence on May 18

Students dissatisfied with their results will have the opportunity to apply online for rechecking and revaluation starting May 18. Services such as mark verification, downloading scanned copies, and re-evaluating selected questions will be offered.