CBSE Introduces Dual Board Exams for Class 10 in 2026
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has proposed a dual-board examination system for Class 10 students starting in 2026. This initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aiming to reduce the high-pressure nature of board exams by allowing students to appear twice and retain their best scores.
Exam Schedule and Format
CBSE has released a draft plan outlining the two exam phases:
- First Exam: February 17 – March 6, 2026
- Second Exam: May 5 – May 20, 2026
Each exam phase will span approximately 16-18 days, significantly shorter than the current 32-day schedule. Students will have only one or two days between exams instead of the longer gaps of up to 10 days seen in previous years.
Choice and Flexibility for Students
Under this proposal, students can choose to:
- Appear for either the February or May exam
- Take both exams and retain the best scores for each subject
- Opt-out of specific subjects in the second exam if satisfied with their earlier scores
The final mark sheet will display the highest scores obtained in each subject.
Result Declaration and Registration Process
- First Exam Results: Expected by April 20, 2026
- Second Exam Results: Expected by June 30, 2026
- Registration: Students must register by September 2025, indicating whether they will appear for one or both exams.
- Internal Assessments: Conducted only once, regardless of exam selection.
Certification and Admissions
Students who choose to take only the February exam can use their results for Class 11 admissions through DigiLocker. However, official passing documents will only be issued after the second exam results are declared in June.
Public Feedback and Final Decision
CBSE has invited public feedback on this proposal until March 9, 2025. Based on the suggestions received, the final decision will be made before the academic session begins in April 2025.
This new system is designed to give students greater flexibility while maintaining the credibility of board exams. If approved, it will be a significant shift in India’s examination framework, offering students more opportunities to perform at their best.
