What has CBSE announced for the 2025–26 board exams?
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued new rules for the 2025–26 academic session. The changes affect students of Classes 9, 10, 11, and 12 with new attendance requirements, syllabus structures, registration rules, and evaluation methods.
How will attendance affect board exam results?
From the 2026 board exams, students must maintain at least 75% attendance to be eligible for results. Attendance will now link to internal assessment, which includes classroom participation, periodic tests, projects, and activities. Students failing to meet the requirement may have to repeat the year or reappear for assessments.
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What changes are coming for Class 10 students?
Class 10 students will now have the option to take board exams twice a year – in February and April 2026. The better score will count as the final result. The new exam pattern will focus on concept-based, problem-solving, and real-world application questions. Assessment will be split into 60% theory exams and 40% internal evaluation. Students can also choose up to two optional subjects.
What are the new rules for Class 12 students?
Class 12 will follow a nine-point grading scale, replacing the earlier five-level scale. The top 12.5% students will receive an A1 grade. New skill-based electives will be introduced, including:
- Land Transportation Associate
- Electronics and Hardware
- Physical Activity Trainer
- Design Thinking and Innovation
- Informatics Practices, Computer Science, and IT electives
The Class 12 curriculum will now cover seven areas: Languages, Humanities, Mathematics, Science, Skill Subjects, General Studies, and Physical Education. Onscreen evaluation of answer sheets and possible biometric verification at centers will be introduced. Project-based assignments and practical learning will also get more emphasis. Students can take only one optional subject.
What has changed for Class 9 and 11 registration?
Registration is now mandatory for Classes 9 and 11. Schools must register students through the official Pariksha Sangam portal. After registration, a verification slip will be issued. Corrections will be allowed between 14–28 November 2025. Rules strictly forbid abbreviations, duplicate registrations, or cross-board entries.
Are there changes for international schools?
Yes. Recognized foreign schools have been exempted from linking students with APAAR ID. This exemption will particularly help Indian students in the UAE by simplifying their registration process.
What about new syllabus updates?
To promote modern and skill-based education, CBSE has introduced a new syllabus for Classes 10 and 12 starting 2025–26. Practical learning, project-driven tasks, and technology use will form the core of the new structure.
When will the board exams be held?
- Class 10 exams: February and April 2026 (two attempts).
- Class 12 exams: Expected to start on 17th February 2026, with nearly 20 lakh students likely to appear.
Why are these changes important?
The new CBSE guidelines align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, focusing on flexibility, skill development, and practical learning. By combining theory with project work and digital integration, CBSE aims to make exams more student-friendly and future-ready.
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