CBSE to Conduct Class X Board Exams Twice a Year from 2026
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced a significant change in its examination pattern. From 2026, Class X students will have the opportunity to take their board exams twice a year, allowing them to improve their scores and reduce exam-related stress. This reform aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes a more flexible and student-friendly assessment system.
Key Highlights of the New Examination Policy
- Twice-a-Year Exams: Students can attempt the board exams twice in an academic year and retain their best score.
- Reduced Stress: The initiative aims to relieve the pressure of a single high-stakes examination.
- Competency-Based Assessment: The focus will shift from rote memorization to conceptual understanding and skill mastery.
- Global Best Practices: The model follows global examples like the SAT in the US, where students can take tests multiple times.
- Inclusivity and Fairness: The system will benefit students facing exam anxiety or unexpected challenges like illness.
Government’s Vision for Examination Reform
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan emphasized that this initiative is a step towards creating a stress-free learning environment. He stated, “Examination improvement and reform is a key step towards ensuring a balanced and student-friendly evaluation system.”
The CBSE, in coordination with the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), and Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS), is preparing a draft scheme, which will be open for public consultation next Monday.
Aligning with NEP 2020
The NEP 2020 recommends replacing the high-pressure, single-exam system with a more flexible and competency-driven approach. The new model will focus on formative learning, enabling students to understand concepts rather than memorizing information. To facilitate this transition, CBSE is also scaling up teacher training programs.
CBSE Global Curriculum for Foreign Schools
In addition to the domestic examination reforms, CBSE will introduce its Global Curriculum for 260 foreign-affiliated schools starting from the 2026–2027 academic year. This curriculum will integrate core Indian subjects while catering to the diverse educational needs of international students.
Implementation and Future Outlook
The proposed changes mark a crucial shift in India’s education system, promoting a holistic learning experience. By offering students multiple attempts, CBSE aims to encourage continuous learning and skill enhancement. The reforms also align with international education standards, making Indian students more competitive globally.
The final framework will be shaped through stakeholder consultations, ensuring the best possible implementation. CBSE’s commitment to student well-being and academic excellence remains at the forefront of these changes.
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