CBSE Class 10 Board Exams to Be Held Twice a Year from 2026

Beginning in 2026, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will conduct Class 10 board examinations twice annually, offering students greater flexibility and reduced academic pressure. This move aligns with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which advocates for student-centric reforms in school education.

Under the new system, the first round of exams will be held between February 17 and March 6, while the second will take place from May 5 to May 20. Students must appear for the February session, with the May exam acting as an optional second attempt. Both exams will cover the full syllabus, and students can choose to reappear for all or select subjects if they wish to improve their performance.

Importantly, CBSE will conduct practical exams only once per academic year. The final marksheet will feature the best scores from either attempt for each subject. This means students will not be penalized for a weaker performance in their first attempt, easing the pressure typically associated with high-stakes board examinations.

Those who fail to pass the February session will be allowed provisional admission to Class 11, contingent on clearing the May exams. Additionally, students may request subject changes between sessions, provided the request is made during initial registration.

Fees for both examination sessions will be collected in advance, and a single admit card will remain valid for both attempts. The May session will also function as the supplementary exam round, eliminating the need for a separate compartment exam later in the year.

This change is expected to impact over 26 lakh students by 2026, offering them a more flexible, supportive, and less stressful examination framework. Educators and parents have welcomed the move as a significant step towards academic reform and learner wellbeing.