The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially approved the implementation of twice-a-year board exams for Class 10 students, starting from the academic year 2026. The decision, announced on June 27, 2025, marks a significant shift in the country’s assessment system, aligning with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 to make learning more student-centric and less stressful.
Under the new system, Class 10 students will have the opportunity to appear for board exams twice in an academic year. The best score from the two attempts will be considered for their final results. This approach is designed to give students a second chance to improve their performance without the pressure of a single high-stakes exam.
Students can attempt the board exam in two different sessions tentatively in March and October. Only the higher score from the two attempts will be recorded as the final result. Students satisfied with their first performance are not required to take the second exam. The new format allows students to better manage their study schedules and reduces the anxiety associated with a one-shot exam.
The move is a direct response to long-standing concerns about exam-related stress and the rigid, high-pressure assessment system that has dominated Indian schooling for decades. By providing two opportunities to excel, the CBSE aims to foster a healthier academic environment that encourages learning, growth, and resilience.
The CBSE is working closely with schools to ensure a smooth transition. Challenges such as exam scheduling, syllabus coverage, and result processing are being addressed through pilot programs and stakeholder consultations. Digital platforms and AI-driven assessment tools are also being explored to streamline operations.
This reform is a major step towards realizing the NEP 2020 vision of holistic, flexible, and competency-based education. Many countries, including the US and UK, already offer multiple exam sessions, and India’s adoption of this model is expected to enhance global competitiveness and student well-being.