In a major shift in examination policy, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has approved the biannual model for conducting Class 10 board exams, starting from the academic year 2026.
Under the new format, the first board exam will be held in February, and the second optional exam will take place in May. The results of the February exam will be declared in April, while the May session results will be announced in June.
Importantly, appearing in the February exam will be mandatory for all students, while the May exam will be optional. Students who wish to improve their scores can choose to appear in the second exam.
This move is part of CBSE&rsquo;s broader plan to make the assessment process more flexible and student-friendly, aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 which emphasizes stress-free and continuous assessment.
The decision is expected to benefit students by reducing pressure and giving them another chance to perform better without losing an academic year.
More details regarding the exam pattern, syllabus, and guidelines are likely to be issued by CBSE in the coming months.
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CBSE Approves Biannual Class 10 Board Exams from 2026

First exam to be held in February, second optional exam in May for result improvement

CBSE Approves Biannual Class 10 Board Exams from 2026

First exam to be held in February, second optional exam in May for result improvement

June 25, 2025 | 23:11 IST