As CBSE plans to conduct Class 10 exam twice a year, know possible exam structure and flexibility

The CBSE has plans to hold class 10 board exams twice a year from 2026-27 academic session. The draft framework for this reform was discussed in a high-level meeting in presence of the Education Minister, and heads of NCERT, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan and Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti.

According to reports, students can take their exam twice and retain their best score. This reform is touted to be very much aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasises flexibility and a student-centric approach.

NEP 2020 Alignment and Pedagogical Shifts

This reform directly implements National Education Policy mandates to reduce academic stress through competency-based evaluations. The new format emphasizes skill mastery over rote learning, with internal assessments now constituting 40% of final scores. 

CBSE is concurrently revising textbooks and training teachers to align with experiential learning objectives outlined in the National Curriculum Framework, according to sources.

Possible Exam Structure and Student Flexibility

Students can attempt exams twice annually (November-December and February-March), retaining their best score for final certification. The optional second attempt specifically targets improvement opportunities, with a compressed exam schedule proposed to complete both sessions within 16 weeks. 

Moreover, this mirrors JEE Main's multi-attempt system, allowing subject-wise retests similar to engineering entrance exams.

Stress Reduction Mechanisms

Its key features include elimination of aggregate scores/distinctions, extended preparation periods between attempts, and reduced stakes through best-score retention. 

Besides, the reform reportedly integrates psychological counseling services and maintains special provisions for students participating in sports/Olympiads. 

Global Curriculum Integration

Parallel to domestic reforms, CBSE will launch an international curriculum in 2026-27 for 260 affiliated foreign schools. This global program combines Indian core subjects with internationally recognised pedagogical approaches while retaining NEP-aligned continuous assessment components.