The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is set to introduce a significant change in its examination system for Class 10 students. Starting from the academic year 2026, CBSE will conduct board exams twice annually. This reform aims to provide students with an additional opportunity to improve their performance and reduce the pressure associated with a single annual examination.
Policy of New CBSE Exam
Exam Phases: The first phase of exams will take place between February and March, while the second phase will be scheduled for May. Both phases will cover the full syllabus, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of students’ knowledge and skills.
Practical and Internal Assessments: These will continue to be conducted once a year, as per the new norms.
Student Flexibility: Students can choose to appear for both exams and retain their best score.
The decision to hold two exams a year aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes flexibility and a student-centric approach. The Ministry of Education, led by Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, has been instrumental in this reform. The aim is to create a stress-free learning environment by providing students with multiple opportunities to improve their performance.
A draft policy for this new system has been developed and is available on the CBSE website. Stakeholders, including schools, teachers, parents, students, and the general public, are invited to provide feedback by March 9, 2025. The responses will be scrutinized, and the policy will be finalized accordingly.
Alongside this reform, CBSE plans to introduce a global curriculum for foreign schools affiliated with it from the 2026-27 session. This initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance the quality and reach of education.
The introduction of biannual board exams for Class 10 students marks a significant shift in the CBSE examination system. By offering students multiple chances to perform well, CBSE aims to reduce stress and promote a more supportive learning environment. This change aligns with global best practices and supports the NEP’s goals of inclusivity and flexibility.
