The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced key reforms to improve the examination and evaluation process for Classes 10 and 12. These include allowing basic calculators for Class 12 accountancy, introducing digital evaluation, revising the re-evaluation system, and modifying the curriculum for vocational and core subjects.
CBSE Approves Basic Calculators for Accountancy
Starting in the 2025-26 academic session, Class 12 accountancy students can use basic, non-programmable calculators during board exams. This decision, finalized at CBSE’s 140th governing body meeting, aims to reduce the cognitive load and align with international assessment standards.
Only calculators with essential functions like addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and percentage calculations will be allowed. To ensure uniformity, CBSE will release guidelines specifying acceptable models and restricting advanced or programmable devices.
Digital Evaluation and New Re-Evaluation System
CBSE will introduce On-Screen Marking (OSM) to streamline answer sheet evaluation. Under this system:
- Examiners will evaluate scanned answer sheets digitally.
- A pilot phase will begin with selected subjects.
- Full implementation will cover supplementary exams and re-evaluation cases in 2024-25.
Additionally, CBSE has revised the re-evaluation process for students dissatisfied with their marks. This change, effective from the 2025 board exams, aims to increase transparency and ensure fair assessment.
Curriculum and Assessment Updates
CBSE has also modified the curriculum, especially for skill-based (vocational) subjects. An external agency specializing in vocational education and industry standards will now oversee assessments.
From 2026-27, Class 10 students can choose between two levels of science and social science exams:
- Standard-level exams for regular assessment.
- Advanced-level exams with extended duration and more questions, allowing students to showcase deeper subject knowledge.
A Step Toward Global Standards
These reforms aim to modernize CBSE’s examination system, enhance evaluation accuracy, and align with international education practices. The introduction of digital evaluation and structured curriculum changes will ensure a more efficient and transparent academic experience for students across India.
