CBSE new syllabus for Class 10, 12: Major changes to subjects, criteria announced; check complete details

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced a major revamp of the syllabus and examination structure for Classes 10 and 12, effective from the 2025-26 academic session.

With an aim to foster skill-based learning and provide students with greater academic flexibility, here are the key changes announced by the board and all you need to know about them:

CBSE: Major Reforms in Class 10

Two Board Exams Annually: Students will now have the option to appear for board exams twice a year, in February and April. The higher score will be considered for the final result.

Skill-Based Subject Selection: To promote vocational education, students must opt for one skill-based subject from:

• Computer Applications
• Information Technology
• Artificial Intelligence

Compulsory Language Selection: Students must study either English or Hindi, which they can choose in Class 9 or 10.

New Grading System: The previous five-point scale has been replaced by a more detailed nine-point grading system.

Marks Distribution: Each subject will now be assessed out of 80 marks, with 20 marks allocated for internal assessment.

Passing Requirement: Students must secure a minimum of 33% in each subject to pass.

Flexible Subject Substitution: If a student fails in a core subject (such as Science, Mathematics, or Social Science), a passed skill-based or optional language subject can be used as a substitute for result calculation.

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CBSE Key Changes in Class 12

Annual Board Exams Continue: Unlike Class 10, Class 12 students will still appear for only one board exam per year, with the 2026 exams scheduled to begin on February 17.

Introduction of New Skill-Based Electives: To align with industry needs, CBSE has added the following skill electives:

• Land Transportation Associate
• Electronics and Hardware
• Physical Activity Trainer
• Design Thinking and Innovation

Revised Grading Format: The Class 12 board results will also follow the newly implemented nine-point grading system.

Calculator Use in Exams: In a significant policy shift, CBSE will permit accountancy students to use basic, non-programmable calculators during board exams to ease complex calculations.

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The updates are part of CBSE’s continued efforts to modernize the education system by integrating skill development and flexibility into the academic structure, with recent steps having been taken in this direction.