1. Eligibility Criteria
Almost all government universities set a minimum percentage in Class 12th for different courses. For example:
- Delhi University (DU): Requires 45%–60% depending on the course.
- Jamia Millia Islamia / BHU / AMU: Often require 50%+ in relevant subjects.
- Engineering (via JEE Main): Requires at least 75% in boards for IITs/NITs (or top 20 percentile).
2. Merit-Based Admissions
In some states and universities, merit lists are created solely based on Class 12th marks. No entrance test is conducted. Examples:
- Mumbai University
- Rajasthan University
- Tamil Nadu colleges (like Anna University for certain programs)
3. Tie-Breaker in Entrance-Based Admissions
Even in entrance-based courses like:
- CUET (Common University Entrance Test)
- JEE, NEET, CLAT (Class 12th marks are often used as a tie-breaker when two students score the same in the entrance exam)
4. Scholarship Eligibility
- Many scholarships offered by the central/state government require a minimum 12th score (usually 80%+).
📌 Courses Where Class 12th Marks Matter the Most
| Course | Importance of 12th Marks |
|---|
| B.A. / B.Com. / B.Sc. | High (Merit-based in many colleges) |
| B.Tech / B.E. | Moderate (Needed for eligibility) |
| MBBS / BDS | Moderate (NEET is main, but marks required for counselling) |
| Law (5-year) | Moderate (CLAT + 12th minimum %) |
| Design / Fashion | Low (More focus on entrance & creativity) |
⚠️ What If You Have Low 12th Marks?
- Focus on entrance exams like CUET, NEET, JEE, etc.
- Apply to private universities with relaxed criteria.
- Improve through NIOS (open board) if needed.
- Choose skill-based diploma courses or certifications.
✅ Conclusion
Class 12th marks are more than just numbers they can open or close doors to top government universities in India. While entrance exams are gaining importance, your 12th performance still plays a key role in eligibility, scholarships, and final admission lists. If you’re still in school, take your board exams seriously. And if you’ve already completed 12th, understand how to use your marks wisely in the application process
💬 Lets Discuss:
Are Class 12th marks important for studying abroad?
Are Class 12th marks important for scholarship eligibility?
