CBSE to Implement 'Two Board Exams' System for Class 10 from 2026
New Delhi, June 25, 2025 — In a major reform aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced a Two Board Examination System for Class 10 students, beginning from the 2026 academic year. The move is aimed at reducing exam-related stress and giving students more flexibility in improving their academic performance.
Key Highlights of the Two Board Exam System:
First Exam: Mandatory for all students; scheduled to begin in mid-February.Second Exam: Optional; will be conducted in May for those who want to improve scores in up to three subjects.
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Result Timeline:
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First exam results: April
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Second exam results: June
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- Best-of-Two System: The best score from the two exams will be considered final.
CBSE Circular Confirms Shift
The official announcement came via a circular issued by CBSE Controller of Examinations Dr. Sanyam Bhardwaj, who stated:
“The second examination is not mandatory. It is an opportunity to reduce the high-stakes pressure and give students a chance to improve academically.”
Students who clear the first exam but wish to enhance their marks may choose to retake up to three subjects. Those placed in compartment or essential repeat categories can also reappear in the second phase.
Internal Assessment and Fairness
- Internal assessments will be conducted only once, prior to the first board exam.
- Schools must upload internal marks for all students regardless of whether they take one or both exams.
- Students appearing for the second board in selected subjects will retain the original internal marks.
Flexibility for Special Categories
CBSE has included special provisions for:
- Sports students
- Winter-bound schools
- Children with special needs (CWSN)
These groups will be allowed to choose the exam phase that best suits their academic or logistical needs. For example, schools in snow-prone regions may opt to conduct exams entirely in one phase.
Public Feedback and Future Plans
- The draft proposal for the Two Exam system was released in February 2025 and underwent public consultation.
- While this policy is currently confirmed for Class 10 only, CBSE officials have hinted that a similar model could be considered for Class 12 in the future, though no formal decision has been made.
Why This Matters
The Two Exam System marks a significant step toward a student-friendly, low-pressure assessment model, aligning with NEP 2020’s goal of transforming India’s school education system.
Key Benefits:
- Reduces dependency on coaching centres
- Encourages consistent learning over rote memorization
- Offers equal opportunity to students with different learning paces
- Addresses exam anxiety by giving a second chance
- Supports inclusive education, especially for students with special needs
What Students and Parents Should Know
- Participation in the second exam is voluntary.
- No additional internal assessments will be required for the second exam.
- Only the better score will be considered, ensuring students are not penalised for trying to improve.
- Students can plan their studies knowing that a second opportunity is available, reducing pressure during the first attempt.
CBSE’s move to introduce a Two Board Exam System from 2026 is not just a policy change — it's a paradigm shift in Indian education. Designed to empower students and promote fair assessment, it brings India closer to the holistic, flexible, and inclusive learning ecosystem envisioned by the National Education Policy 2020.