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CBSE Announces Second Class 10 Board Exam for May 2026

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced a second Class 10 board examination for May 2026, providing students an opportunity to improve their scores. This article outlines the eligibility criteria, submission schedule for the List of Candidates (LOC), and the fee structure for the examination. Students can appear for improvement in a maximum of three subjects, with specific guidelines on subject changes and internal assessments. Stay informed about the important dates and requirements for this crucial examination.
By Ambika Singh Mar 18, 2026, 09:29 IST
CBSE Announces Second Class 10 Board Exam for May 2026

Overview of the Second Class 10 Board Examination



CBSE Board Exam 2026: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released a circular detailing the second Class 10 board examination, which is set for May 2026. This document, sent to schools, outlines the procedures and guidelines for submitting the List of Candidates (LOC). The purpose of this second examination is to offer students another chance to enhance their scores. Importantly, students can only take improvement exams in a maximum of three subjects.


Understanding CBSE's 'Two Exams' Policy

What is CBSE's 'Two Exams' Policy?
On June 25, 2025, CBSE introduced this policy requiring Class 10 students to first take the main examination, which occurs in February-March. Those who are not satisfied with their results can opt for the second board examination in May 2026 to improve their scores.


LOC Submission Schedule

Schedule for LOC Submission:
CBSE has set a three-phase timeline for LOC submissions:



  • Phase 1: March 18, 2026, to March 31, 2026


  • Phase 2: 5 days starting the day after the main examination results are announced


  • Phase 3 (with Late Fee): 2 days starting from the 7th day after the results are declared



The Board emphasizes that the portal will close at 11:59:59 PM on the last day, and no extensions will be granted.


Eligibility Criteria for Students

Which Students Are Eligible?
To qualify for the second board examination, students must meet the following criteria:



  • Must have taken the main examination.


  • Must have appeared in at least 3 subjects.


  • Students who passed the main exam can seek improvement in a maximum of 3 subjects.


  • Students in the 'Compartment' category are also eligible.


  • Students who did not appear for or failed in 3 or more subjects must retake the main examination the following February.



Subject Changes and Internal Assessment

No Permission to Change Subjects:
Students will not be allowed to change subjects during the second board examination, with limited exceptions for Mathematics as per existing policy. Additionally, no alterations to student data will be permitted.


No Improvement in Internal Assessment:
There will be no option for improvement in Internal Assessment, as this is a continuous process throughout the year.


Examination Fees and Payment Process

Fees and Payment Procedure:
CBSE has outlined the examination fees as follows:



  • In India: ₹300 per subject (₹900 for three subjects)


  • Nepal: ₹1,100 per subject


  • Other Countries: ₹2,200 per subject



A late fee of ₹2,000 will also apply. Payments must be made online via Debit Card, Credit Card, UPI, or Net Banking; offline payments are not accepted.


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