CBSE Makes First Exam Mandatory; Second Attempt Allowed Only to Boost Marks
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will introduce a two-board examination system for Class 10 students starting in 2026. The first examination will be held from February 17 to March 9, followed by a second examination from May 15 to June 1. Both examinations will be conducted on the same syllabus.
As part of this reform, which aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, CBSE aims to reduce academic pressure while offering students an opportunity to improve their performance.
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The new system has generated widespread interest and queries among students, parents, and schools regarding eligibility, flexibility, and evaluation procedures.
CBSE Controller of Examinations Sanyam Bharadwaj clarified that appearing in the first board examination is mandatory for all students. The second examination is optional and is meant solely to allow students to improve their scores. Students are strongly encouraged to prepare sincerely for the first attempt and not treat the second examination as a backup option.
Regarding final results, CBSE has confirmed that the higher score obtained between the two examinations will be considered for the final mark computation. Parents have been advised not to place unnecessary pressure on students to take the second examination unless an improvement is genuinely required.
Under the new framework, students may opt to reappear in a maximum of three subjects in the second examination for score improvement. The opportunity is not restricted to any specific subjects.
In cases where a student fails in up to two subjects in the first examination, they will be placed in the compartment category and allowed to appear in the second examination. However, students who fail or are absent in three or more subjects will not be eligible for the second attempt and will have to appear in the main board examinations in 2027.
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CBSE has also clarified that there will be no reduction in the syllabus for the second examination, which will remain identical to that of the first attempt.
Additionally, students participating in sports and those belonging to the Children With Special Needs (CWSN) category will continue to receive all applicable special provisions and facilities in both examinations, in accordance with existing CBSE guidelines.
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