CBSE revises Board rules for 2026

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced a series of significant reforms to its Board exam rules for the 2026 academic cycle, impacting students of Classes 10 and 12. The revised guidelines aim to strengthen academic discipline, promote continuous learning, and align assessment practices with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. 

One of the most notable changes is the introduction of a stricter attendance requirement. Students in Classes 9–10 and 11–12 will now be required to maintain a minimum of 75 per cent attendance across the combined two-year academic period to be eligible to appear for their respective Boards. This attendance will include regular classroom participation, and any exemptions, such as medical leave, will be considered only with valid supporting documents.

CBSE has also reinforced the importance of internal assessments. Marks obtained through projects, practical exams, and periodic tests will now be mandatory components of a student’s academic record. Missing any internal assessment may lead to a student being placed under the ‘Essential Repeat’ category, potentially affecting promotion or eligibility for Board exam registration. Schools have been instructed to ensure strict monitoring and timely completion of these evaluations.

Another major reform for Class 10 students is the introduction of a dual-exam system. Students will have two opportunities to appear for Boards within the same academic year, with the first exam scheduled for February–March and an optional second attempt in May–June. Students may appear for both sessions, with the higher score being considered for the final result. However, eligibility for the second attempt will require students to have appeared in at least three subjects in the first exams.

CBSE has updated answer-sheet writing norms. For subjects like Science and Social Science, students must write answers strictly within designated sections of the answer booklet. Responses written outside the specified areas may not be evaluated, even if the answers are correct. 

With these changes, CBSE seeks to reduce exam-related stress while encouraging regular attendance, consistent effort, and conceptual understanding among students. Parents, students, and schools are advised to familiarise themselves with the updated rules.