CBSE Implements Key Changes for 2025-26 Academic Year Affecting Class 10 and 12 Students

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has unveiled six significant changes for the 2025-26 academic year that will affect Class 10 and 12 students. With over 45 lakh students expected to participate, these modifications include the introduction of two board exams for Class 10, revised paper structures, mandatory internal assessments, and a minimum attendance requirement. These changes aim to enhance student engagement and align assessments with skill-based learning. Understanding these updates is crucial for students to navigate their exams successfully. Read on for a detailed breakdown of each change and its implications.

By Ambika Singh Jan 2, 2026, 21:26 IST

Overview of CBSE Changes

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced six significant modifications for the 2025-26 academic year, which will have a direct impact on students in Class 10 and 12. With more than 45 lakh students expected to take the exams this year, it is essential to grasp these changes to avoid any potential pitfalls that could influence final outcomes. The examinations for both classes are scheduled to commence on February 17, 2026.

1. Introduction of Two Board Exams for Class 10

For the first time, Class 10 students will have the opportunity to take two board exams.
This new system allows:
- Students who missed the first exam or did not appear for specific subjects to take a second board exam under the “Essential Repeat” or Compartment category.
- Students aiming to improve their scores can also opt for the second exam.
This adjustment provides students with an additional chance to pass or enhance their results.

2. Changes in Class 10 Science and Social Science Structure

Science Paper: Now divided into three sections:
- Section A: Biology
- Section B: Chemistry
- Section C: Physics
Social Science Paper: Now divided into four sections:
- Section A: History
- Section B: Geography
- Section C: Political Science
- Section D: Economics

This restructuring allows students to focus on individual sections and manage their time more effectively.

3. Revised Examination Format

Starting in 2026:
- 50% of the questions will be competency-based, including MCQs, case studies, source-based, data interpretation, or situational questions.
- 20% of questions will consist of select-response (MCQs).
- The remaining 30% will include constructed-response questions, which will feature short and long answers.
These modifications aim to align assessments with skill-based learning rather than rote memorization.

4. Compulsory Internal Assessments

Participation in internal assessments (practical/project/IA) is now mandatory.
Students who do not participate will be deemed ineligible, and their results will not be released.
Practical exams/projects/IA will take place from January 1 to February 14, 2026, with marks allocated across theory, practical, project, and IA components.

5. Attendance Requirements

Students are required to maintain a minimum of 75% attendance in Class 9 and 10 to qualify for board exams.
This policy ensures that students are actively engaged in school activities and consistently following the curriculum.

6. Additional Initiatives by CBSE

CBSE has established guidelines for provisional admission to Class 11, facilitating a seamless transition for students advancing from Class 10.
The board is also prioritizing enhancing transparency in evaluation and linking question formats to competency-based education.

Conclusion

In summary:
These modifications are intended to reduce stress, offer additional opportunities, and align assessments with practical understanding and competency. Students should thoroughly familiarize themselves with these changes prior to exams to avoid unexpected challenges and perform with confidence.