CBSE releases Class 10, 12 syllabus for 2025–26 with big changes: two board exams for Class 10, new skill electives, and revised grading system
Board Revamps Curriculum, Exam Format, and Skills Education for Classes 10 and 12
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released the new syllabus for Classes 10 and 12 for the academic year 2025–26, marking one of the most significant updates in recent years.
Alongside curriculum changes, the board has also introduced new exam structures, grading policies, and a renewed focus on skill-based learning.
One of the biggest changes is that Class 10 students will now be able to appear for board exams twice a year, once in February and again in April.
This is aimed at reducing exam stress and giving students a second chance to improve their performance within the same academic year. Meanwhile, Class 12 board exams will continue to be held once a year, beginning on February 17, 2026.
CBSE has also launched a new result calculation system, introduced new skill electives, and made on-screen marking and re-evaluation systems a part of the process for greater transparency.
What’s New in CBSE Class 10 and 12 Syllabus?
The new curriculum, available on cbse.gov.in, focuses on conceptual clarity, competency-based learning, and flexibility for students. It aligns with the National Curriculum Framework 2023, encouraging inquiry-based and project-driven education.
CBSE has clearly instructed schools to teach in full alignment with the updated syllabus, using technology-enabled teaching methods and ensuring inclusive, contextual learning practices in classrooms.
CBSE Board Exams 2025–26: Key Highlights
Here’s a quick comparison of the changes for Class 10 and Class 12:
| CBSE Class 10 | CBSE Class 12 |
|---|---|
| Board exams twice a year (February & April) | Board exams once a year (starts Feb 17, 2026) |
| 80 marks for board exam + 20 marks internal | 9-point grading scale remains |
| Minimum 33% required to pass each subject | Basic calculators allowed in Accountancy |
| 9-point grading system introduced | New electives: Design Thinking, Hardware, etc. |
| Optional skill subjects: AI, IT, Computer Apps | Electives added in tech, business, and tourism |
| Failures in core subjects can use skill/language | Only one subject allowed from IT/CS-related group |
How Will Results Be Calculated?
CBSE has introduced a 9-point grading scale for both classes. Each subject in Class 10 will be assessed out of 80 marks, with an additional 20 marks reserved for internal assessment.
To pass, students must score a minimum of 33% in each subject. If a student fails in a core subject like Science, Maths, or Social Science but passes in an optional skill or language subject, that subject will be used to replace the failed one for result calculation—a move that supports a more flexible evaluation system.
Focus on Skill-Based Learning
CBSE has expanded its skill education offerings, especially for Class 12 students. New skill electives include:
- Land Transportation Associate
- Electronics and Hardware
- Physical Activity Trainer
- Design Thinking and Innovation
Other options include Hospitality and Tourism, Artificial Intelligence, Retail, Insurance, and Finance. The board has also introduced Applied Mathematics as a new elective in Group A for Class 12.
The idea is to prepare students not just for exams, but for real-world job roles and emerging industry demands.
Technology-Enabled Reforms
The board has announced the implementation of On-Screen Marking (OSM) and a new re-evaluation system. These changes are expected to bring more accuracy and fairness to the marking process, especially in high-stakes subjects.
For the first time, Class 12 accountancy students will be allowed to use basic, non-programmable calculators, offering them practical support during exams.
CBSE to Schools: Teach as Per Syllabus
CBSE has instructed all schools to teach strictly as per the prescribed syllabus. The official circular says that schools should integrate experiential learning, competency-based assessments, and interdisciplinary approaches to improve students’ learning outcomes.
Schools are encouraged to use project-based learning, flexible teaching methodologies, and collaborative lesson planning to help students understand concepts better and apply them in real-life situations.
| CBSE Secondary Curriculum (IX-X) | CBSE Senior Secondary Curriculum (XI-XII) |
With nearly 20 lakh students expected to appear for Class 12 board exams in 2026, and Class 10 students now having two chances to perform better, these changes signal a major shift in how CBSE views assessments and academic success.
Important FAQs
Q1. When will CBSE Class 10 board exams be held in 2025–26?
They will be conducted twice—once in February and once in April.
Q2. Are there any changes in the Class 12 board exam schedule?
No, Class 12 exams will still be held once a year starting February 17, 2026.
Q3. What is the new passing rule for CBSE board exams?
Students must score at least 33% in each subject to pass.
Q4. Can failed subjects be replaced in Class 10?
Yes, with a passed skill or language subject under CBSE’s substitution rule.
Q5. What new subjects are added to the syllabus in 2025–26?
New skill electives include Design Thinking, Electronics, Land Transport, and more.
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