CBSE to Conduct Class X Board Exams Twice Annually From 2026

In a landmark decision aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has green‑lit a biannual board exam structure for Class 10 students starting in 2026. Students will face two major chances in the same academic year: a mandatory first exam in February and an optional second in May to enhance their scores.

Why the change?

CBSE’s move reflects NEP’s goal to ease the pressure of high-stakes testing and promote a more student-friendly educational model. By offering a repeat window, the board is encouraging continuous improvement and reducing anxiety tied to one-off exams.

How will it operate?

First exam: Compulsory for all students, typically in mid-February.

Second exam: Optional and scheduled for May; students can use it to improve marks in up to three subjects (Science, Mathematics, Social Studies, or Languages).

Results:

First-phase results in April.

Second-phase results in June.

CBSE will retain the higher marks secured by a student across both exams

Internal assessment: Will be conducted only once each academic year.

Who benefits?

• Students aiming to boost grades without waiting a full year.

• Those who struggled in one or more subjects now have a chance to improve within the same year.

• Additional provisions are in place for winter-bound schools, national-level athletes, and Children with Special Needs (CWSN), allowing them flexible participation in either exam phase.
  

  Reactions

  Education experts hailed the change as “student-centric and stress-relieving,” citing its ability to foster joyful learning environments .

  
  Principals praised the opportunity for improvement: one called it a “boon” that aligns with NEP’s objective to lessen exam anxiety .
  But some

  teachers flagged logistical hurdles, warning that managing two boards might unnecessarily burden schools and educators.
  

  ⚠️ What to watch

  • Final CBSE guidelines—like detailed schedules, syllabi adjustments, and compartment rules—are expected shortly.

  • A proposal to extend the biannual exam framework to Class 12 and national entrance exams is reportedly under discussion, though no official timeline has been announced