New CBSE Guidelines for 10th and 12th Board Exams: Attendance and Study Requirements

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced new eligibility criteria for the 10th and 12th board exams, mandating a minimum attendance of 75% and completion of two years of study. Internal assessments are now essential, and students must participate in them to qualify for results. The guidelines also specify rules for selecting additional subjects and outline the procedures for students in the 'Compartment' or 'Essential Repeat' categories. These changes aim to enhance the educational experience and ensure students are adequately prepared for their examinations.

By Ambika Singh Sep 15, 2025, 21:53 IST

Overview of New CBSE Exam Rules

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has introduced updated eligibility criteria for students taking the class 10th and 12th board examinations. A minimum attendance of 75% is now required for students to qualify for the exams. Additionally, students must complete two full years of study and participate in internal assessments.

Attendance and Eligibility

CBSE emphasizes that only those students who have maintained regular attendance will be allowed to sit for the board exams. If a student's attendance falls below 75%, they will be deemed ineligible to take the exam. The board believes that consistent attendance is crucial for effective learning and proper internal assessments.

Importance of Two-Year Study

The board clarified that the class 10th examination is part of a two-year curriculum encompassing both 9th and 10th grades, while the 12th examination covers the 11th and 12th grades. Therefore, students must engage in studies for both years to be eligible.

Mandatory Internal Assessment

In line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, internal assessments have become a compulsory component of the board exams. CBSE stated that students who do not attend school will not have their internal assessments conducted. Consequently, without an internal assessment, a student's results will not be released, and they will be classified as 'Essential Repeat'.

Guidelines for Additional Subjects

For Class 10th, students can select two additional subjects alongside the five mandatory ones. In Class 12th, only one additional subject is permitted. However, schools must have CBSE approval to offer these subjects. If a school lacks qualified teachers or necessary facilities, those subjects will not be available.

Compartment and Repeat Regulations

The board also mentioned that if a student has previously taken an additional subject and falls into the 'Compartment' or 'Essential Repeat' category, they may take the exam as a private candidate for that subject.