CBSE Approves Two Board Exams a Year for Class 10 from 2026: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially approved a big change in the Class 10 exam pattern. From 2026 onwards, students will appear for board exams twice a year instead of once. This change follows the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to reduce exam stress and give students more chances to perform better.
The new system is being introduced to make exams more flexible and student-friendly. Students will not feel the pressure of scoring high in just one attempt, as they will have another opportunity within the same year.
When Will CBSE Conduct Class 10 Board Exams in 2026?
CBSE will now conduct Class 10 board exams in two phases:
- First Phase: February 2026 – This attempt is mandatory for all students.
- Second Phase: May 2026 – This is optional and meant for those who want to improve their marks.
Students can appear in both exams, and the best score out of the two will be considered. Result of the February exam will be declared in April, and the May exam result will be declared in June.
Benefits of Twice-a-Year CBSE Board Exams for Students
The biggest benefit is less pressure. Students will no longer worry about doing well in just one exam. Other key benefits include
- Second chance to score better in up to three subjects
- No need to repeat the entire year if marks are low in first attempt
- Freedom to improve performance with extra time to study
- Reduced anxiety and better time management
- More confidence and better planning for future studies
Can Students Reappear in CBSE Class 10 Board Exams?
Yes, students can reappear in the second board exam of the same year. But there are some rules:
- Students can only reappear in up to three subjects
- The second attempt in May is optional, not compulsory
- Only those unhappy with their February marks or who missed the first exam can apply
- Students from special categories, like those in winter-bound areas or athletes, can also appear only in the second phase if needed
How Will Results Be Calculated in the New CBSE Format?
CBSE will calculate results based on the best score from both attempts. For example:
- If a student scores 75 in February and 85 in May, the 85 will be considered final.
- If a student only appears once, that score will be used.
Also:
- Internal assessment marks will remain unchanged and counted only once.
- Only one mark sheet will be given, with final marks based on the best performance.
CBSE Class 10 Exam 2026: Full Guidelines for Students and Parents
Here are the key guidelines everyone should know:
- Every student must appear in the February board exam
- Students can choose to improve in up to 3 subjects in May
- Internal assessments will be done only once during the year
- Final result will show the better marks from the two exams
- No extra fee for reappearing in second exam (as per current policy)
- Special cases like students in winter schools or sports camps can choose their suitable phase
Parents and teachers must help students plan wisely. Avoid pressure and guide students to use both attempts properly.
