CBSE explores biannual Board exams starting 2025-26

The Ministry of Education has directed the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) to explore the feasibility of conducting Board exams twice a year starting from the academic session 2025-26. This decision stems from the New Curriculum Framework (NCF), aiming to provide students with ample time and opportunities to excel and the flexibility to retain their best scores.

Reports from PTI indicate that the Education Ministry and CBSE are collaborating to determine the logistics of implementing this new schedule. It has been clarified that this initiative does not involve shifting to a semester system, thus avoiding major structural changes. The Board is at present, strategising on how to integrate an additional round of Board exams into the academic calendar without disrupting the timeline for undergraduate admissions.

The forthcoming discussions, set to occur next month with school principals, will play a pivotal role in shaping this transition. These consultations are anticipated to outline the specifics of conducting Board exams twice annually and address concerns related to academic planning and administration.

The proposed arrangement envisions two editions of Board exams at the end of each academic year. However, the practical aspects of this plan, including scheduling and exam preparation, require further deliberation and planning.

The initiative to introduce biannual Board exams is part of a broader effort to enhance student performance and provide flexibility within the education system. The forthcoming consultations will provide clarity on the roadmap for implementation, ensuring that the transition is smooth and beneficial for students and educational institutes alike.