Students Welcome CBSE’s Move for Biannual Class 10 Board Exams
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has approved new norms to conduct Class 10 board exams twice a year from 2026. This decision aims to reduce student stress and provide multiple chances to improve scores. Many students and school principals have welcomed the move.
CBSE officials have invited public feedback until March 9 before finalizing the policy. Under the new system, exams will take place in two phases:
- First phase: February 17 – March 6
- Second phase: May 5 – May 20
Students and Educators Support the Change
Many students believe this change will benefit them. A Class 8 student from ITL International School shared,
“Since the best marks will be considered, we can plan our studies better. I will focus on Math, English, and Science in the first exam and other subjects in the second.”
A Class 9 student agreed, saying,
“This system gives us another opportunity. If I don’t perform well in the first attempt, I can try again in the next one.”
Sudha Acharya, Principal of ITL International School, praised the decision. She noted,
“This dual-exam format is student-friendly. It reduces pressure by allowing students to improve their scores. For instance, a student struggling with standard math in the first attempt can switch to basic math in the second.”
Concerns Over Increased Teacher Workload
While students appreciate the flexibility, some educators worry about the extra workload.
SV Sharma, Principal of Vidya Bal Bhawan School, pointed out that teachers will need to evaluate board papers in February, conduct annual exams in March, and oversee the second board exams in May.
“This could increase work pressure and shorten teachers’ summer breaks,” he explained.
A Step Towards Exam Reform
This biannual board exam system aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which promotes stress-free and flexible learning. By offering multiple attempts, CBSE aims to create a student-centric assessment process.
Since CBSE is seeking feedback until March 9, the final decision will shape the future of Class 10 board exams in India.
