CBSE Clarifies New Class 10 Board Exam Structure in Recent Webinar

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) recently held a webinar to clarify the structure of the Class 10 board exams. Key topics included the dual-examination system, eligibility criteria for the second exam, and internal assessment timelines. The initiative aims to reduce student stress and enhance performance. Students can only take the second exam if they attended the first, and only for subjects where they scored above 50. For further inquiries, CBSE has provided contact information for students and parents. Read on for detailed insights.

By Ambika Singh Nov 21, 2025, 16:20 IST

Overview of the Webinar

On November 20, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) conducted a webinar focused on the two Class 10 board examinations. This session included participation from principals, educators, and board representatives from various schools nationwide. The CBSE emphasized that both examinations will occur within the same academic year, adhering to identical academic standards. The initiative aims to offer students both the primary examination and a chance for improvement.

Key Questions Addressed

During the webinar, principals raised inquiries concerning exam schedules, administration, staff availability, and internal assessments. CBSE officials provided clear responses, explaining that the newly introduced dual-examination system is designed to alleviate student stress and enhance academic performance.

Eligibility for the Second Board Exam

Who can take the second board exam?

Participation in the second exam is optional. Only those students aiming to enhance their scores in specific subjects may register. Attendance in the first exam is a prerequisite for eligibility in the second exam; students who miss the first exam will not be allowed to take the second. CBSE anticipates that roughly 40% of students will opt for the second exam in any given subject.

Subjects Eligible for Improvement

Which subjects will be eligible?

The second exam is available solely for subjects where students seek to boost their scores. Students may only select subjects in which they have achieved external assessment scores exceeding 50. Subjects with scores of 50 or below are not eligible for the improvement exam.

Important Dates and Procedures

LOC and Deadline

Following the announcement of the first exam results, CBSE will release the List of Candidates (LOC) for the second exam. Schools will have a 15-day window to verify student details and submit them to the board. The board has made it clear that no extensions will be provided.

Purpose of Two Board Exams

The dual-examination framework established by CBSE enables students to undertake both the main and an improvement exam. This structure allows for performance enhancement without altering the overall academic year framework, maintaining consistent academic standards across both exams.

Internal Assessment Timeline

When will the internal assessment be completed?

The internal assessment for Class 10 must be finalized between January 1 and February 14, 2026. Schools are required to submit all assessments punctually to facilitate the smooth execution of examinations and timely result preparation.

Contact Information for Queries

Questions and Contacts

Students, parents, and educational institutions can reach out to CBSE for any inquiries. Information is available via WhatsApp at 79066 27715 and through email at info.exam@cbse.nic.in.