CBSE approves proposal to introduce open book assessment in schools

In a significant move, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has approved the proposal to introduce open book assessments in schools, allowing students to carry textbooks and class notes into the examination hall. A pilot project for this initiative will begin this year.

As per reports, starting from the 2026–27 academic session, CBSE will implement open book assessments for Class IX students. Under this system, examinees will be permitted to take their textbooks and class notes into the examination hall and use them while answering questions. The arrangement will apply to major subjects such as languages, mathematics, science, and social science.

The CBSE governing body had given approval for the pilot rollout in June this year, aiming to evaluate its effectiveness and acceptance in schools. This decision aligns with the National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023 and the National Education Policy 2020, which seek to shift students’ focus away from rote memorization towards analytical and competency-based learning.

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However, conducting exams in this format will remain optional for schools, with CBSE set to provide detailed guidelines for implementation. 

"In the open book assessments, all the students can write line to line from the books. However, they will not be able to think anything. They will not be able to solve the actual problems and there will not be any understanding level," said Sameeksha Behera, a student.

"I heard that Class X students will be allowed to carry textbooks and class notes into the examination hall. It will be harmful for the students," said Amit Kumar Mallick, another student.

The CBSE’s latest decision is aimed at diverting students’ attention away from digital platforms and fostering an interest in textbooks. This comes in light of the fact that many students are currently relying on platforms like Google and YouTube for learning.

By familiarizing students with textbooks, the board intends to prepare them for next year’s Class X board examinations. To support this, teachers will soon undergo special training. As part of the plan, there will be three pen-and-paper tests every academic year.

"Now, students are learning from Google and YouTube and it remains only in their short-term memory. They are only getting marks by appearing in some examinations and assessments. Most important things is they will be acquainted on what to read and what not to read. that is a good initiative. When modalities will come, teachers' training will be suggested," said educationist Dr NIlakantha Panigrahi. 

Notably, CBSE had earlier experimented with the Open Book Assessment system in 2014 and 2023 for various classes. Under the new plan, open book tests will be conducted only for internal assessments.