CBSE-affiliated schools will conduct special examinations for students participating in national and international sports events or Olympiads, ensuring their academic commitments are not compromised.
This initiative, launched in 2018 and aligned with the National Curriculum Framework (NCF), has been strengthened to promote the holistic development of students. It provides significant relief to students who previously faced challenges balancing academic exams with extracurricular commitments.
Eligibility and Guidelines
The special exam provision applies to students engaged in events sanctioned by bodies such as the Sports Authority of India (SAI) or the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Students from Classes X and XII participating in international Olympiads are also eligible.
According to CBSE guidelines:
- Exams for eligible students will be conducted within 15 days of the original exam date.
- Certificates from recognised national or international competitions or Olympiads must be submitted to qualify.
- Applications with incomplete details or unapproved programmes will not be considered.
Supporting Student Success
Niraj Kumar Sinha, Principal of Firayalal Public School, praised the move, stating:
“Students participating in national or international sports events or Olympiads during the CBSE board exams no longer need to worry about missing exams. Alternative arrangements will ensure they stay on track academically.”
Similarly, Paramjeet Kaur, Principal of Sarala Birla School, emphasized the importance of proper documentation:
“Incomplete application forms or participation in unapproved programmes will not qualify for the special exams.”
Empowering Holistic Development
The NCF’s emphasis on holistic education underscores CBSE’s efforts to create inclusive opportunities for students excelling in academics and extracurricular activities.
Class X student Purbasa Banerjee, a participant in the national table tennis championship, expressed her gratitude:
“We are truly grateful to the school and the board for their support and encouragement.”
The CBSE board examinations are set to begin on February 15, 2024, with the special exams scheduled to accommodate eligible students.
