The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially confirmed a significant reform in its evaluation system: starting from the academic year 2025–26, Class 10 board exams will be conducted twice a year. This transformative step is in line with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes stress-free, flexible, and student-centric education.
Let’s break down what this change means for students, parents, and schools, and how it aims to redefine academic success for millions across India.
The New Two-Exam Format for Class 10
Until now, CBSE students in Class 10 faced a single board exam at the end of the academic year. Starting 2026, students will have two opportunities to appear for board exams in one academic session. This change is designed to reduce academic pressure, offer flexibility, and allow students to improve performance without the fear of a single high-stakes exam.
Key Details of the CBSE Dual-Exam Policy
Here is a summary of the new format for better understanding:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Effective From | Academic Year 2025–26 |
| Classes Affected | Initially Class 10 only |
| Number of Exams Per Year | 2 Board Exams (February & May sessions) |
| First Exam Dates (Tentative) | February 17 to March 6 |
| Second Exam Dates (Tentative) | May 5 to May 20 |
| First Result Date | April 20 |
| Second Result Date | June 30 |
| Best Score Policy | Best score from either session will be considered for final result |
| Registration | One-time registration with choice to appear in both exams |
| Exam Centers | Same center for both exams |
| Replaces Supplementary Exams | Yes, May session replaces compartment/supplementary tests |
| Extra Fee | Students pay at registration for both attempts if desired |
Why This Change Was Introduced
This new policy is a direct response to the need for flexibility and mental wellness among school students. The current single-board exam format puts tremendous pressure on students, often determining academic futures based on just one performance.
Under the new format:
- Students can choose to appear in both sessions or just one.
- If satisfied with their February scores, they can skip the May exam.
- If aiming to improve, they can reappear for specific subjects in May.
- Only the best score from both exams will be considered for the final mark sheet.
This is similar to global testing systems like the SAT, where students are given multiple chances to improve their scores.
Alignment with NEP 2020 Goals
The two-exam system is a significant step toward implementing the goals of the National Education Policy 2020. It shifts focus from memorization to competency-based learning, reduces exam stress, and ensures that students have more control over their academic outcomes.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has stated that this reform is aimed at creating a "student-first" approach, giving learners enough opportunities to succeed without the fear of failure.
Potential Concerns and Reactions
While the reform has been largely welcomed, some educators have raised concerns over:
- Reduced classroom time due to earlier exams.
- Confusion in Class 11 admissions if results are delayed.
- Increased burden on teachers and evaluation staff.
However, the CBSE has clarified that this policy will be implemented gradually, with continuous feedback and improvements.
Final Thoughts
The CBSE’s decision to conduct Class 10 board exams twice a year from 2026 is a landmark reform that promises to make India’s education system more student-friendly, inclusive, and forward-looking. By offering two chances to succeed and eliminating the fear of “one exam for everything,” CBSE is empowering students with confidence, flexibility, and opportunity.
Stay tuned to official CBSE updates at the CBSE Website for further notifications, model papers, and registration details.
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