The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has unveiled significant updates about the impending board examinations for Classes 10 and 12 in 2024, set to initiate early next year. Commencing on January 1, 2024, the practical exams for both classes will precede the theory examinations, scheduled to begin on February 15, 2024. These examinations are poised to feature several key alterations geared towards enriching students’ academic journeys and fostering their varied interests.
In a proactive move to provide clarity and guidance to students, CBSE has disclosed vital details and decisions ahead of the board exams:
Marking Scheme Breakdown:
CBSE has shared the marking scheme for Classes 10 and 12 board exams, encompassing theory, practical, project, and internal assessment components. Allocating a maximum of 100 marks per subject, the board has delineated marking schemes for 83 subjects in Class 10 and 121 subjects in Class 12.
For Class 10 subjects like Music, Painting, Computer, Retail, Information Technology, and others, practical exams will carry 50 marks, while subjects like English, Hindi, Math, Science, and Social Science will include 20 marks for internal assessment.
In Class 12, practical marks range from 30 in subjects like Geography, Psychology, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Biotechnology, to 50 in subjects like Painting, Graphics, Sculpture, Dance, and Home Science. The comprehensive marking scheme for all subjects is available on the CBSE website.
Revoking Division and Distinction Awards:
In a departure from previous practices, CBSE has decided not to confer divisions or distinctions to students. Furthermore, the issuance of any merit list for Class 10 and 12 board exams has been discontinued. The responsibility of selecting the best five subjects for calculating students’ marks will now rest with the admitting college.
Introduction of Two Board Exams:
CBSE has introduced the concept of holding two board exams annually, providing students with more opportunities to enhance their scores. This move aims to enable students to retain their highest scores, thereby improving their academic performance. It reflects a broader effort to enrich the overall educational experience.
Special Provisions for Extracurricular Pursuits:
CBSE has implemented special provisions for students actively engaged in extracurricular activities such as Olympiads and sports. To accommodate their participation in these events, the board will conduct special exams aligned with the schedules of the students’ Olympiads and national or international sports competitions.
These proactive measures by CBSE seek to create a more holistic and supportive academic environment, enabling students to excel not only in their studies but also in their diverse interests and pursuits.
