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Key Updates on CBSE Board Exams 2026: What Students Need to Know

The CBSE Board Exams 2026 have introduced significant changes that affect Class 10 and Class 12 students. Key updates include new policies on re-assessment, practical exams, and internal assessments. Students must understand that re-assessment is only available for theory papers, while practical marks are final. Additionally, missing a practical exam does not automatically result in failure, provided there are valid reasons. This article outlines essential clarifications from the CBSE to help students navigate these changes effectively, ensuring they are well-prepared for the upcoming exams.
By Ambika Singh Feb 25, 2026, 07:47 IST
Key Updates on CBSE Board Exams 2026: What Students Need to Know

Overview of Changes in CBSE Board Exams 2026


The upcoming CBSE Board Exams 2026 have introduced various structural and evaluation changes, leading to confusion among students in Class 10 and Class 12, particularly regarding re-assessment, practical exams, and internal assessment marks. To clarify these issues, Sanyam Bhardwaj, the Examination Controller of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), has provided essential insights in a recent discussion, addressing numerous concerns from students and parents.


Re-Assessment Policy for Theory Papers

A significant update from CBSE pertains to re-assessment or improvement exams. The board has confirmed that re-assessment will only apply to theory papers for both Class 10 and Class 12.


There is no option for re-assessing practical exam marks or internal assessment scores. Therefore, students must prioritize their practical exams, as these marks are final and cannot be improved later through any re-evaluation or improvement exam.


CBSE officials have emphasized that this rule is consistent across all subjects that include practicals or internal assessments.


Missed Practical Exams: What to Expect

Many students fear that missing a practical exam will result in failing the subject. However, CBSE has clarified that this is not necessarily true.


If a student misses a practical exam for a valid reason, the board’s digital system allows schools to:


  • Mark the student as absent, or

  • Reschedule the practical exam with prior approval


Schools can coordinate with CBSE to ensure that students are not unfairly penalized due to unavoidable circumstances.


No Improvement for Practical or Internal Assessment Marks

CBSE has reiterated that improvement exams are strictly limited to theory components only. For both Class 10 and Class 12, there is no system to improve or reappear for practical exams, project work, or internal assessments.


This highlights the importance for students to:


  • Complete all required practical experiments

  • Maintain accurate lab records and project files

  • Take internal assessments seriously throughout the academic year


Once submitted, these marks are considered final.


Internal Assessment Weightage in Class 10

In Class 10, internal assessment is a continuous process throughout the year. Students are evaluated based on:


  • Practical work

  • Activities and experiments

  • Notebook and lab file submissions


For practical subjects, 5 marks are specifically allocated for notebooks and files, awarded based on the consistency, completeness, and accuracy of work throughout the year—not just at the end.


CBSE has stressed the importance of maintaining proper records of all syllabus-listed activities to achieve good scores in internal assessments.


Clarification on Passing Criteria

CBSE has also clarified the minimum passing marks for both classes:


Class 10:


  • Students must achieve 33% overall in each subject

  • This includes theory + practical/internal assessment combined


Class 12:


  • Students must score 33% in the external (theory) exam

  • If a subject includes a practical, students must score:

    • 33% in theory

    • 33% in practical

    • 33% overall


Failure to meet any of these criteria may result in not passing the subject.


Differences in Practical Assessment Timeline

CBSE has also outlined the differences in timelines:


  • Class 10:
    Internal assessments are conducted throughout the year, with marks uploaded on the CBSE portal between January and February.

  • Class 12:
    Practical examinations occur after the academic session ends, closer to the board exam schedule.


Understanding these differences will help students plan their preparation effectively and avoid last-minute confusion.


Importance of These Clarifications

Given the numerous changes in exam patterns, eligibility criteria, and evaluation methods, confusion among students was expected. CBSE’s clear communication ensures:


  • Transparency in evaluation

  • Reduced anxiety among students

  • Better preparation focus on critical areas


The key takeaway is straightforward:
While theory exams may offer a second chance, practicals do not.


Final Recommendations for Students

  • Treat practical exams and internal assessments as essential

  • Avoid relying on improvement options for practical marks

  • Consistently maintain notebooks, lab files, and project work

  • Equally focus on both theory and practical components


With a clear understanding of the rules and proper planning, students can approach the CBSE Board Exams 2026 with confidence rather than confusion.


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