From 2027, ISC students will need to pass four subjects in addition to English, with a minimum score of 35 per subject (175 in total). This change aligns ISC with other boards like CBSE and state boards, but educators are debating whether it raises academic standards or places additional stress on students.
Revised Passing Criteria: A Comparison
Currently, ISC students need to pass three subjects along with English. Under the new rule, the pass requirement increases to five subjects, with a minimum score of 35 in each. This threshold is higher than CBSE, which requires 33 marks per subject, and West Bengal’s state board, which sets the pass mark at 30.
| Board | Pass Mark Per Subject | Total Marks Required (5 Subjects) |
|---|---|---|
| ISC (2027 onwards) | 35 | 175 |
| CBSE | 33 | 165 |
| West Bengal HS | 30 | 150 |
While the change aims to create uniformity in subject requirements, the higher pass mark raises concerns for students who struggle academically.
Concerns Over Student Pressure
Education experts acknowledge that the change will not significantly impact top-performing students, but it could add stress for those with learning difficulties or those planning vocational studies.
“It will be stressful for students who already find academics challenging,” said Satabdi Bhattacharjee, principal of South City International. Some educators argue that weaker students will have to work harder than their CBSE or state board counterparts to meet the new pass criteria.
The timing of the announcement has also raised concerns among schools, as many have already conducted provisional admissions for Class XI. “The notice should have come earlier. Now, we must reconnect with students to discuss their subject choices,” a school principal stated.
Calls for Uniform Pass Marks Across Boards
Several school leaders have questioned the variation in passing criteria across different boards. Bobby Baxter, principal of Rishi Aurobindo Memorial Academy, emphasized the need for standardization:
“How can different boards have different pass marks? The new council secretary is making positive reforms, and this issue should also be addressed.”
However, some educators believe that the new rule is a step in the right direction. Terence John, director of education at Julien Day Group of Schools, argued that the new 35-mark requirement is actually more lenient than the previous 40-mark rule.
Balancing Standards and Student Well-being
The debate over the ISC’s new pass criteria highlights the challenge of balancing academic rigor with student well-being. While the change aims to maintain ISC’s credibility and align it with other boards, the increased passing threshold may add pressure on struggling students.
As schools prepare for this transition, discussions continue on whether this reform enhances academic standards or creates additional hurdles for students.
