CBSE Approves Open-Book Exams for Class 9 from 2026-27

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has approved the introduction of open-book assessments (OBAs) for Class 9 from the 2026-27 academic session, following positive feedback from a pilot study. The decision, ratified by the Board’s Governing Body in June, aligns with the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023 and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, both of which emphasise competency-based learning over rote memorisation. 

Under the plan, OBAs will be integrated into “three pen-paper assessments per term” in key subjects — languages, mathematics, science, and social science. In open-book tests, students can refer to textbooks, notes, and other resources while answering questions, shifting the focus from recall to application, analysis, and synthesis.

The pilot study, conducted for Classes 9 to 12, revealed mixed results. Student scores ranged from 12% to 47%, highlighting challenges in effectively using reference materials and understanding interdisciplinary concepts. However, teachers expressed strong support for OBAs, citing their potential to foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Feedback stressed the need for structured guidance to help students navigate resources effectively.

To ensure quality, CBSE will develop standardised sample papers aimed at promoting higher-order thinking. While the framework for OBAs will be shared with schools, implementation will remain optional.

This move is expected to reduce exam-related stress, encourage real-world application of knowledge, and enhance conceptual understanding. However, it also poses challenges for educators, who will need to design questions that go beyond direct recall.

Open-book exams are not new to CBSE; the Board introduced Open Text Based Assessments in 2014 for select subjects in Classes 9 and 11 but discontinued them in 2017-18, citing limited success in building critical abilities. The new framework aims to address those shortcomings with a more structured approach.