CBSE to Hold Two Class 10 Board Exams Starting 2026

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In a significant shift to how board exams are conducted, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has confirmed that Class 10 students will have two board exams a year, starting in 2026. This decision supports the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes reducing student stress and offering more flexibility in assessments.

CBSE to Hold Two Class 10 Board Exams Starting 2026
CBSE to Hold Two Class 10 Board Exams Starting 2026


📅 How Will the Two-Exam System Work?

Starting in 2026, CBSE will conduct two sets of board exams each academic year:

  • First Exam Window: Mid-February to early March

  • Second Exam Window: Early to mid-May

Students will have the option to appear for either or both sessions. Each attempt will cover the full syllabus, and the higher score from the two exams will be reflected in the final result. If a student is satisfied with their performance in the first exam, they can skip the second.

Importantly, the second exam will act as a replacement for the current compartment exams, helping students avoid delays in their academic journey.

🕒 When Will Results Be Declared?

  • Results of First Exam: Expected by April 20

  • Results of Second Exam: Likely by June 30

This schedule ensures students receive their marks early enough to plan further studies or make improvements without losing a year.

✅ Why This Change Matters

The new system brings several key benefits:

1. Lower Exam Pressure

With two opportunities in a year, students no longer have to pin all hopes on one exam. It reduces anxiety and creates a more relaxed exam atmosphere.

2. Opportunity to Improve

Students can attempt a subject again in the second session if they feel they could do better—without the stigma of “failing” and appearing for compartment exams.

3. Better Learning Outcomes

The reform is meant to shift the focus from rote learning to understanding concepts. Knowing there are multiple chances can lead to deeper engagement with subjects.

4. International Best Practices

Many global education systems use a multiple-exam model (e.g., SATs, A-levels), and India’s new structure follows suit by introducing choice and flexibility.

⚠️ Possible Challenges Ahead

While the idea is progressive, it comes with some potential hurdles:

  • Operational Challenges: Conducting two full-scale exams within a few months will require strong logistics and resources.

  • Pressure on Schools and Teachers: Teachers may face tighter schedules, and schools might have to adjust their annual calendars.

  • Costs for Families: If both sessions require separate fees, it could become a financial burden for some students.

  • Access Gaps: Not all schools, especially in rural areas, may be equally equipped to support students under the new system.

🎓 What Should Students and Parents Do Now?

  • Start Early: Stay informed about the syllabus and structure for both exam sessions.

  • Plan Strategically: Decide which subjects to reattempt, based on your performance and confidence.

  • Seek Guidance: Talk to teachers and counselors about how to make the most of both exam opportunities.

  • Focus on Learning, Not Just Scoring: With two chances, the emphasis should shift toward understanding concepts more thoroughly.

🔍 Final Thoughts

CBSE's decision to introduce biannual board exams for Class 10 from 2026 is a forward-looking step that prioritizes student wellbeing and academic flexibility. If rolled out effectively, this change could reshape how students experience assessments—making exams less about pressure and more about progress.

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