Higgs-Matter splitting in quasi-realistic orbifold string GUTs

E6 grand unification combines the Standard Model matter and Higgs states in the single 27 representation. I discuss how the E6 structure underlies the quasi-realistic free fermion heterotic-string models. E6 -> SO(10) X U(1) breaking is obtained by a GSO phase in the N=1 partition function. The equivalence of this symmetry breaking phase with a particular choice of a boundary condition basis vector, which is used in the quasi-realistic models, is demonstrated in several cases. As a result matter states in the spinorial 16 representation of SO(10) arise from the twisted sectors, whereas the Higgs states arise from the untwisted sector. Possible additional phenomenological implications of this E6 symmetry breaking pattern are discussed.