CBSE revises class size policy to adjust mid-session transfers and repeats

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has revised its class size policy to better accommodate students joining mid-year and those needing to repeat a class. In response to various requests from schools, the CBSE has made a partial modification to its earlier circular dated August 2, 2023. Schools can now increase the number of students per section to up to 45, specifically for mid-session admissions due to parental transfers and for students categorised under essential repeat (ER).

The CBSE’s new guideline is designed to address unique situations without compromising the overall quality of education. However, this increase in class size is not automatic. Schools must seek approval from their respective Regional Office by providing the necessary documentation. Each application will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis to ensure that the exceptions are justified and that the schools have the capacity to handle the increased number of students without adversely affecting the learning environment.

Despite this flexibility for mid-session adjustments, the CBSE emphasizes that the standard class size for new admissions remains capped at 40 students per section. This policy aims to maintain an optimal teacher-student ratio and ensure that individual attention to students is not compromised.

Additionally, schools that have the necessary infrastructure can apply to increase the number of sections if they anticipate a higher intake of students. The application for adjusting the number of sections is facilitated through the SARAS portal, which will remain open until June 30.

This provision allows schools to manage their resources more effectively and ensure that all students receive adequate educational support.