The CBSE Class 10 board exam system is undergoing a significant transformation starting from the academic year 2026-27. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced a new policy that will allow students to take the CBSE Class 10 board exam twice a year. This change aims to reduce the stress associated with a single annual exam and aligns with the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Key Features of the New CBSE Class 10 Board Exam Policy

1. Two Exam Sessions Annually

Students now have the opportunity to appear for the CBSE Class 10 board exam in two different sessions:

• First Session: February – March
• Second Session: May

Both sessions will cover the complete syllabus, and students can choose to take either one or both exams. This ensures that students have an additional chance to improve their performance.

Check the draft datesheet for Xth board Examination 2026 for both session

2. Choice of Subjects in Each Attempt

If students are satisfied with their scores in certain subjects after the first CBSE Class 10 board exam, they do not have to retake those subjects in the second session. This flexible approach helps students focus on improving their weaker areas without the burden of retaking all subjects.

3. Single Registration Process

Students will have to register for both attempts at the beginning of the academic year, with registrations closing in September. Those who do not register initially will not be allowed to take the second CBSE Class 10 board exam session separately. Additionally, once registered, students cannot change their subjects but can choose which ones to attempt in each session.

4. No Supplementary Exams

Under the new system, the CBSE Class 10 board exam held in May will serve as the supplementary exam. Students who need to improve their scores or missed the first exam can take this session. However, there will be no additional re-examinations beyond these two sessions.

5. Practical and Internal Assessments

Internal assessments and practical exams will be conducted only once in an academic year. The marks obtained in these assessments will be applicable for both sessions of the CBSE Class 10 board exam. This ensures consistency in evaluation.

6. Examination Fees

Students will be required to pay a consolidated examination fee at the time of registration. If they opt for both sessions of the CBSE Class 10 board exam, they will not have to pay separately for each attempt. However, CBSE has increased the examination fees to accommodate the new structure.

7. Issuance of Mark Sheets and Certificates

The final mark sheet and pass certificate will be issued only after the May session of the CBSE Class 10 board exam. The document will include the best scores achieved in each subject across both sessions.

Benefits of the New CBSE Class 10 Board Exam Policy

? Reduced Exam Pressure: The option to appear for the CBSE Class 10 board exam twice a year eases the pressure of a single high-stakes exam. Must plan a 30 days schedule to prepare for board exams and secure good percentage.

? Improved Performance: Students can attempt the exam twice and select their best scores for the final mark sheet.

? Better Alignment with NEP 2020: The change aligns with the NEP’s vision of a more flexible and student-friendly assessment system.

? Increased Opportunities: With two chances to perform, students have greater control over their academic results.

What Parents Need to Know About the New CBSE Class 10 Board Exam System

1. Understanding the New Structure

Parents should familiarize themselves with the two-session format of the CBSE Class 10 board exam and guide their children accordingly.

2. Supporting Study Plans

Encouraging students to prepare effectively for the first attempt can reduce the need for retaking subjects in the second CBSE Class 10 board exam.

3. Financial Planning

Parents should consider the increased examination fees while planning for their child’s education.

4. Monitoring Performance

Keeping track of the student’s first attempt scores will help in deciding whether to retake subjects in the second CBSE Class 10 board exam.

5. Communication with Schools

Parents should maintain regular contact with teachers and school authorities to stay updated about changes and ensure their child is well-prepared.

Conclusion

The new CBSE Class 10 board exam policy is a major step towards a flexible and stress-free examination system. By introducing two annual sessions, CBSE aims to give students more opportunities to succeed while reducing the anxiety of a single high-stakes test. Parents and students should understand these changes thoroughly to make the most of this system.

For official CBSE updates and detailed guidelines, visit CBSE’s official website.

© Ruchie Verma.

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