CBSE’s Move to Conduct Class 10 Board Exams Twice a Year from 2026: A Welcome Change

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has introduced a significant reform in the education system by approving draft norms to conduct Class 10 board exams twice a year starting from the 2026 academic session. This move aims to provide students with multiple opportunities to improve their scores while reducing exam-related stress.

While students and school principals have welcomed this student-friendly initiative, some teachers have raised concerns regarding an increased workload and a possible reduction in summer breaks. Let’s dive deeper into what this change means for students, teachers, and the education system as a whole.

Why is CBSE Introducing Board Exams Twice a Year?

The decision to conduct Class 10 board exams twice a year aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes flexibility and continuous learning. Traditionally, students had only one attempt to perform well in their board exams, creating immense pressure on a single exam. With this new system, students will have two chances, allowing them to improve their scores if needed.

Key Benefits of Conducting Board Exams Twice a Year

Reduced Exam Stress:
- Students will no longer feel the pressure of a single high-stakes exam.
- They can attempt exams at different times, ensuring a better performance.
Multiple Improvement Opportunities:
- If a student does not perform well in the first attempt, they can try again.
- Best marks from both exams will be considered, helping students achieve better scores.
Better Subject Planning:
- Students can focus on difficult subjects in one exam and attempt easier ones in the next.
- Example: A student struggling with Mathematics can try standard math in the first phase and opt for basic math in the second if needed.

Exam Schedule Under the New System

As per the draft norms, the board exams will be conducted in two phases:

This schedule ensures that students get adequate time to prepare for their second attempt without disrupting their learning process.

How Are Students and Principals Reacting?

Many students and school principals have positively responded to this reform, considering it a progressive step towards reducing exam-related anxiety.

Sudha Acharya, Principal of ITL International School in Dwarka, said:

“This dual exam format is student-friendly as it provides multiple chances, reducing exam pressure. Earlier, students had only one chance to perform well, but now, they can choose a strategic approach to their exams.”

A Class 8 student from ITL School mentioned:

“Since the best marks from both exams will be considered, I can plan my preparation better. I will focus on Math, English, and Science in the first exam and attempt other subjects later.”

A Class 9 student added:

“This system gives us more opportunities. If I don’t do well in my first attempt, I can try again without feeling completely helpless.”

Concerns Raised by Teachers

While students and parents appreciate the move, some teachers and educators have expressed concerns over increased workload.

SV Sharma, Principal of Vidya Bal Bhawan School in Mayur Vihar, pointed out:

“While this system reduces student stress, it increases the workload for teachers. We will have to evaluate board papers in February, conduct annual exams for lower classes in March, and then oversee another board exam in May.”

Possible Challenges for Teachers and Schools

More evaluation work with two sets of board exams.
Shorter summer breaks for teachers due to extended examination duties.
Logistical challenges for schools in conducting multiple exams efficiently.

What Happens Next?

The CBSE has invited feedback from stakeholders—including students, parents, teachers, and school administrators—before finalizing the policy. The deadline to submit feedback is March 9, 2025.

Final Thoughts

The introduction of Class 10 board exams twice a year is a landmark decision by CBSE that aims to create a more flexible and student-centric education system. While students and school principals view this as a positive step, teachers are concerned about the additional workload.

If implemented effectively, this system could revolutionize the way board exams are conducted in India, making education more inclusive and stress-free for students.

What Do You Think?

Do you support CBSE’s decision to conduct board exams twice a year? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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