TV
Starting from the 2026 academic session, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will implement a new dual-phase board examination system for Class 10 students. In line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, this major reform aims to reduce the pressure of “high-stakes” exams and offer students a chance to improve their scores within the same academic year.
While the first phase of the board exam in February will be mandatory, the second phase in May will be optional, allowing students to enhance their performance in up to three subjects. The revised policy was formally approved after seeking public feedback and is set to significantly alter how board exams are conducted.
10 Key Bullet Points To Keep In Mind:
1. CBSE board exams for Class 10 will be conducted twice a year, starting from 2026 — once in February (mandatory) and again in May (optional).
2. Students must appear for the first phase, and those seeking to improve their performance may take the optional second phase.
4. The best score out of the two attempts will be retained, offering students a chance to perform better without penalty.
5. Students failing to appear in three or more subjects in the first phase will be placed in the 'Essential Repeat' category and barred from the second phase.
6. Compartment students from the first exam can take the second phase under the compartment category, but no additional subjects can be opted for after Class 10.
7. Winter-bound schools will have the flexibility to choose either phase for board exams, depending on their academic calendar.
8. Sportspersons can opt to appear in the second phase in case of subject clashes with sporting events.
9. Internal assessment will be conducted only once in the academic year, irrespective of the chosen exam phase.
10. The second phase will replace the current supplementary exam system, with exams held in May and results declared by June, instead of the existing July-August cycle.
