CBSE Announces Two Board Exams for Class 10 from 2026: All You Need to Know
A Landmark Shift in CBSE Board Exam Structure
In a major reform aimed at reducing academic stress and enhancing the quality of assessment, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced the introduction of a two-term board examination system for Class 10 students, beginning from the academic year 2026. This strategic move, finalized after gathering public feedback, is expected to impact over 30 lakh students annually and marks a significant transformation in India’s secondary education framework.
Key Changes in the New CBSE Board Exam System
Starting in 2026, CBSE Class 10 students will no longer take a single annual board exam. Instead, they will appear for two main board examinations—one in February and the other in May. This bifurcated structure is designed to distribute the academic load, provide students with opportunities to improve their performance, and introduce a more student-centric assessment framework.
- First Exam: February 2026
- Second Exam: May 2026
- Result Announcement: By the first week of June, before Class 12 results
The system has been designed to ensure a more effective pacing of the curriculum and to promote continuous learning rather than last-minute preparation.
Mandatory First Exam for All Students
According to CBSE, appearing in the first examination is mandatory for all students. This examination will serve as the baseline assessment for performance evaluation. Whether a student chooses to appear in the second exam is optional, based on their performance and improvement goals.
Improvement Opportunity in the Second Term
One of the most student-friendly aspects of this reform is the option for performance improvement. Students who pass the first examination can reappear in the second term exam to improve their scores in up to three core subjects, which include:
- Science
- Mathematics
- Social Science
- Languages
However, students can also “opt out” of the second examination for any subject in which they are already satisfied with their performance. This flexible approach acknowledges the unique strengths and learning paces of individual students.
Strict Conditions on Eligibility for Second Exam
CBSE has outlined certain restrictions to maintain the integrity of the dual-exam model:
- If a student is absent from three or more subjects in the first exam, they will not be permitted to take the second examination.
- These students will be placed in the "Essential Repeat" category and can only reappear in the next academic year during the February exams.
- Students receiving a Compartment result in the first exam can appear in the second exam under the "Compartment" category.
This classification ensures that students with inconsistent participation are not allowed to misuse the second term as a fallback option.
No Additional Subjects Allowed Post Class 10
Another notable change is CBSE’s clarification that additional subjects will not be allowed after passing Class 10. This means students will have to finalize their subject choices within the standard academic schedule and can only pursue stand-alone subjects post Class 10, if required.
This policy aims to streamline subject combinations and avoid overburdening students after the primary academic cycle.
No Change in Exam Pattern, Mode, or Syllabus
Despite the shift to a dual-board model, CBSE has assured students, parents, and schools that there will be:
- No change in exam pattern
- No change in the syllabus
- No change in the mode of examination
This ensures continuity and predictability, allowing schools to continue using their existing teaching and assessment methodologies without disruption.
Why This Change Matters: Goals and Impact
The introduction of two board exams for Class 10 is not just a structural change—it reflects a more profound pedagogical shift towards flexibility, stress management, and fair evaluation.
Benefits at a Glance:
- Reduces exam stress by spreading the academic load
- Encourages continuous learning rather than cramming
- Offers a second chance to improve academic performance
- Ensures fair categorization of students based on attendance and effort
- Promotes equity and inclusivity in the board exam structure
With over 30 lakh students expected to be affected by this change annually, this decision is among the most impactful reforms in CBSE’s recent history.
Public Feedback and Final Approval
This new policy has been developed following months of deliberation and nationwide public consultation, during which feedback was sought until March 9, 2025. The final structure, as announced by CBSE on June 25, 2025, reflects inputs from educators, administrators, parents, and academic researchers.
The board’s goal is to develop an assessment framework that goes beyond marks, focusing on skills, consistency, and learning outcomes—a vision aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Implementation Timeline
- Academic Year Affected: Starting 2026
- Term 1 Exam: February 2026
- Term 2 Exam: May 2026
- Results: Early June 2026
CBSE is expected to release detailed guidelines and timelines for internal assessments, registration, and improvement options as the new format rolls out.
Conclusion: A Step Towards Student-Centric Education
CBSE’s decision to introduce two board exams for Class 10 marks a bold and progressive step toward reforming India’s rigid school assessment model. By introducing choice, flexibility, and opportunity for improvement, the board has acknowledged the diverse needs of its student population.
With the implementation now confirmed for 2026, students, parents, and educators are advised to stay informed and adapt early, ensuring smooth transition and optimal academic planning under the new system.
