Passing criteria in Indian universities often confuse students. Many assume passing only depends on final exams, but in reality, multiple factors decide whether a student passes or fails a subject.
Understanding passing criteria is essential to avoid surprises, backlogs, or year loss.
What Does “Passing” Mean in Universities?
Passing means meeting the minimum academic requirements set by your university to successfully complete a subject or semester.
These requirements usually include:
Minimum marks in theory exams
Minimum marks in internal assessments
Minimum overall percentage or grade
Failing any one component can result in a backlog, even if your total marks seem adequate.
Common Passing Criteria Across Indian Universities
Although rules vary, most universities follow similar structures.
Minimum Marks in Theory Exams
Most universities require:
40% in theory exam
orGrade equivalent to “Pass”
Failing to meet this results in a fail, regardless of internal marks.
Minimum Internal Assessment Marks
Internal assessments usually have a separate pass requirement.
Common rules include:
40% in internal assessment
Mandatory submission of assignments
Minimum attendance
Internal failure can lead to subject failure even with good exam performance.
Combined Passing Rule
Some universities allow compensation if:
Combined score (theory + internal) meets the pass threshold
Others do not.
Always verify your university’s specific policy. You can reference official university rules listed on CGPaperCent’s university pages for clarity.
Passing Criteria for Practical and Lab Subjects
Practical subjects often have stricter rules.
Usually required:
Separate pass in practical exam
Separate pass in viva
Separate pass in practical internal
Failing any component leads to subject failure.
Attendance-Based Passing Rules
Attendance is often linked directly to eligibility.
Typical requirements:
75% attendance to appear in exams
Medical relaxation in limited cases
Below minimum attendance:
Students may be barred from exams
Internal marks may be reduced
Attendance is non-negotiable in most universities.
What Happens If You Fail a Subject?
Failing a subject usually results in:
Backlog
Reappear exam
Supplementary exam
Most universities allow students to:
Continue to the next semester
Clear backlogs later
However, repeated failures can delay graduation.
Grace Marks and Moderation
Some universities apply:
Grace marks
Result moderation
Grace marks are usually limited and applied only in borderline cases.
Students should not rely on grace marks as a strategy.
Passing Criteria for Semester vs Final Year
Final year students often face stricter rules.
Some universities require:
All subjects cleared to receive degree
No pending backlogs
Failing final-year subjects can delay degree issuance.
Common Misunderstandings About Passing Rules
“Total marks are enough to pass”
Not always true. Component-wise passing is common.
“Attendance does not affect results”
False. Attendance directly affects eligibility.
“Internal marks can cover exam failure”
Only in universities that allow compensation.
How to Avoid Failing a Subject
Attend classes regularly
Submit all assignments
Prepare for both internals and exams
Track attendance and marks
Clarify doubts early
Preventing failure is easier than clearing backlogs later.
FAQs
Is 40% enough to pass?
In most universities, yes, but component-wise rules apply.
Can I pass if I fail internals?
Usually no, unless compensation is allowed.
Do all universities follow the same rules?
No. Each university sets its own criteria.
