JUST IN: CBSE Class 10 Board Exams Twice a Year from 2026
New Delhi | June 25, 2025 – In a sweeping educational reform, the CBSE has officially announced biannual board exams for Class 10 students starting 2026, allowing them to appear twice and retain their best score. This move is designed to make the assessment process more student-friendly and stress-free.
📚 Why CBSE Is Shifting to Twice-Yearly Exams
This decision stems from the recommendations made in the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) 2023, which advocated multiple opportunities for students to showcase their learning. The CBSE believes this approach will minimize exam anxiety and allow students to perform at their best without the pressure of a single final exam.
“We are prioritizing learning over testing,” said a CBSE spokesperson. “This change aligns with NEP 2020’s vision.”
📚 How It Impacts Students and Schools
Over 20 lakh Class 10 students appear for CBSE board exams every year. With this change, they’ll now have the option to sit for two sessions—once in the first half and again in the second half of the academic year.
✔️ Students can choose to appear in one or both sessions
✔️ Best score will be retained in their final result
✔️ Schools will restructure academic calendars and resources accordingly
📚 Mixed Reactions from Educators and Parents
While many educators call this a progressive shift, some parents worry it might increase pressure to perform well twice. However, experts note that giving students a second chance without repeating the year is a positive move.
“This is in line with global practices where continuous assessments are favored over high-stakes tests,” said educationist Priya Mehra.
📚 What to Expect in 2026 and Beyond
Starting 2026, the new format will:
➤ Be optional: students may choose either or both attempts
➤ Allow best-score retention
➤ Possibly include new question patterns and flexible evaluation methods
➤ Inspire other boards to follow CBSE’s example
❓ FAQ Section
Q1: Is it compulsory to appear in both CBSE board exams?
No, students can appear in one or both; the higher score will be used.
Q2: When will the twice-a-year board exams begin?
From the 2026 academic session, as per CBSE’s official update.
🔽 Important Points / Bullet Summary
✔️ CBSE to hold Class 10 board exams twice yearly starting 2026
✔️ Students can appear once or twice; best score retained
✔️ Reform based on NCF 2023 and NEP 2020
✔️ Designed to reduce exam pressure and enhance flexibility
✔️ Schools to update academic plans to support new structure
