CBSE Class 10 Board Exams Twice A Year From 2026

CBSE Class 10th Board Exam

Beginning in the academic session 2026–27, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will implement a biannual Class 10 board examination system, according to Examination Controller Sanyam Bhardwaj. This change aligns with the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP), which aims to reduce the pressure of “high-stakes” exams by offering students two opportunities to appear for their board exams within the same academic year.

CBSE had released draft guidelines regarding this move in February and had invited suggestions from educators, parents, and other stakeholders before finalizing the decision.

Under the new system, the first examination—compulsory for all students—will be conducted around mid-February, with the results expected in April. A second, optional exam will be held in May for students who wish to improve their scores in up to three subjects, chosen from Science, Mathematics, Social Science, and two language options. The results of the improvement exam will be declared in June.

The Board clarified that internal assessments will continue to be held only once during the academic year. Additionally, students in winter-bound regions will have the flexibility to appear in either of the two exam phases.

This reform is designed to ease academic pressure, promote better learning outcomes, and provide students with more flexibility in showcasing their abilities.

Highlights

CBSE to introduce twice-a-year Class 10 board exams from academic year 2026–27.
First exam in mid-February; results to be declared in April.
Optional improvement exam in May for up to three subjects; results in June.
Internal assessment will be conducted only once.
Winter-bound schools will have flexibility to appear in either exam phase.
Move aligns with NEP 2020 to reduce pressure of “high-stakes” exams.
Students can choose improvement subjects from Science, Maths, Social Science, and two languages.

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