CBSE Cancels Class 12 Exams for Students in Middle Eastern Countries

The CBSE has announced the cancellation of Class 12 examinations for students in Middle Eastern countries due to escalating tensions in the region. Initially postponed, all exams scheduled until April 10 are now officially cancelled. The decision prioritizes student safety and follows a thorough review of the situation. Students will receive further instructions on how their results will be compiled, echoing similar measures taken during the COVID-19 pandemic when exams were also cancelled. This article delves into the details of the cancellation and the implications for affected students.

By Ambika Singh Mar 16, 2026, 13:28 IST

CBSE Class 12 Exams Cancelled

CBSE Class 12 Exam Cancellation: The ongoing tensions between Iran and the US-Israel coalition are affecting students significantly. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially cancelled the Class 12 examinations for students enrolled in its affiliated institutions across various Middle Eastern nations. Initially, the Board had postponed exams set for March 12 to March 14, but it has now declared that all exams scheduled until April 10 are cancelled. This announcement specifically pertains to CBSE-affiliated schools in Bahrain, Iran, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.

Review of Examination Feasibility

The Board's decision followed a thorough review of the situation, referencing previous circulars issued on March 1, 2026, and subsequent dates. The feasibility of conducting exams in the affected regions was evaluated, leading to a final decision based on feedback from local authorities and schools.

Cancellation of Previously Postponed Exams

All Postponed Exams Cancelled:
CBSE has confirmed that all Class 12 Board exams scheduled from March 16 to April 10 are now cancelled for students in these Middle Eastern countries. Additionally, previously postponed exams have also been entirely cancelled. This decision prioritizes student safety, considering the seriousness of the current situation and the likelihood of conducting exams smoothly.

Results Preparation Process

Results Notification:
As per the announcement from Dr. Sanyam Bhardwaj, the Board's Controller of Examinations, students in the Middle East will receive separate notifications regarding how their results will be processed. This indicates that detailed guidelines on how marks will be allocated and compiled will be provided later.

Previous Exam Policies During COVID-19

Exams During the Pandemic:
During the COVID-19 pandemic, CBSE had also passed students without conducting exams, utilizing a unique evaluation method. This approach included internal assessments, previous class marks, and scores from practical subjects and projects. To ensure fairness in the marks awarded by schools, a moderation system was implemented, which helped maintain consistent results across all institutions.