'Zero-Error' mission: CBSE introduces digital marking and dual Board Exams for 2026

In a landmark move to modernise the assessment process, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced the implementation of On-Screen Marking (OSM) for Class 12 answer books starting with the 2026 examinations. 

This digital shift, alongside the introduction of a second Board exam for Class 10, marks a significant reform in India’s secondary education landscape.

Digital Evaluation for Error-Free Results

The OSM system is reportedly designed to eliminate manual errors and streamline the declaration of results. Under this mechanism, physical answer scripts will be scanned into high-quality digital images at designated centres. 

Evaluators will then access these scripts via a secure online portal, marking responses directly on their screens. This system ensures that no question is left unassessed, as the software prevents submission until every response is evaluated. By automating mark calculations, the Board aims to achieve a "zero-error" assessment and significantly reduce post-result revaluation requests.

Mandatory Data Updates for Schools

To facilitate this transition, CBSE has issued a strict directive to all affiliated schools. Principals must update the records of teachers for classes XI and XII on the OASIS portal. 

This includes critical details like subject expertise and contact information, ensuring all qualified staff receive their unique login credentials and OTPs for the digital platform. The Board warned that non-compliance could lead to the withholding of school results.

NEP 2020: Second Board Exam for Class 10

In line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, CBSE will also debut a second Board Examination for Class 10 from 15th May 2026. This 15-day window offers students an opportunity to improve their scores or clear papers shortly after the main February session. Furthermore, Science and Social Science papers have been restructured into subject-specific sections (e.g., Physics, Chemistry, Biology) to ensure evaluation by specialized teachers.

Preparation and Deployment

With approximately 46 lakh students appearing globally, the Board has launched Capacity Building Programmes and instructional videos to train evaluators. 

While Class 12 moves to the digital screen, Class 10 evaluation will remain in the traditional physical mode for the current cycle.