CBSE embraces equity: Moves away from merit lists in board results

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has refrained from publishing merit lists and division-wise marks for students in its board exam results over recent years. This decision was initially made during the pandemic-induced lockdown, where results were determined using marks from online exams, to reduce unhealthy competition among students.

For the upcoming results of Class 10 and 12 board exams, expected to be announced in
mid-May, CBSE will continue this practice. Unlike previous years, the board will not assign distinctions or divisions to students. Additionally, for students who have opted for more than five subjects, the responsibility of selecting the best five subjects for calculating marks will lie with the admitting college.

Although CBSE will not release a comprehensive merit list, it will acknowledge the top 0.1% scoring students. To access their results once announced, students will need to visit the official CBSE website and provide their roll number and admit card ID.

This year’s Class 10 exams were conducted from February 15 to March 13, 2024, while Class 12 exams took place from February 15 to April 2, 2024. Approximately 39 lakh students from 26 countries participated in these exams, with 5.80 lakh students appearing in the national capital across 877 centers.

While the specific date for result announcements has not been officially confirmed by CBSE, historically, results are typically declared in May. Last year, results were released on May 12, 2023. It is anticipated that Class 10 results will be out in the first week of May, followed by Class 12 results in the second week.

CBSE’s decision to refrain from releasing merit lists and divisions aims to discourage unhealthy competition among students. This approach aligns with the board’s efforts to promote holistic learning and reduce undue academic pressure during result announcements.