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West Bengal Introduces New Semester System for 12th Board Exams

The West Bengal Higher Secondary Education Council has introduced a new semester system for the 12th board examinations, transitioning from an annual format to a four-semester structure. This significant change, the first in 47 years, aims to enhance students' logical reasoning and writing skills. The third semester exams are currently underway, with over 6.6 lakh candidates participating. The new format requires students to pass two semesters in class 11 to qualify for the 12th exams. Additionally, strict measures are in place to prevent cheating, including a ban on electronic devices at exam centers. Read on to learn more about these important changes.
By Ambika Singh Sep 10, 2025, 10:23 IST
West Bengal Introduces New Semester System for 12th Board Exams

Changes in the 12th Board Examination Pattern



The West Bengal Higher Secondary Education Council (WBCHSE) has revamped the structure of the 12th board examinations. The new format will see the exams conducted over four semesters. The third semester exams commenced on Monday and are scheduled to conclude on September 22. Approximately 6.6 lakh students are participating in these exams, with girls making up 56.03% of the candidates.


Overview of the New Semester System

The 12th board exams in West Bengal will now follow a four-semester system. This change aligns the examination format for class 12 with that of class 11, where students must pass two semester exams in 11th grade to qualify for the 12th semester exams. The third semester exams for class 12 are currently being held at 2,106 centers statewide, as stated by WBCHSE Chairman Chiranjib Bhattacharya. These exams take place from 10 am to 11:15 am.


Significant Changes After Nearly Five Decades

This alteration in the examination pattern marks the first change in 47 years. Since 1978, the 12th board exams in West Bengal were conducted annually. The last annual examination was held in March 2025.


Structure of the New Semester Exams

Under the revised system, the 12th board exams will commence from the 11th grade, with two semester exams for both grades. The new exam format includes logical reasoning and multiple-choice questions in the first and third semesters, while the second and fourth semesters will focus on writing skills, featuring short answer questions.


Sensitive Exam Centers and Anti-Cheating Measures

WBCHSE is conducting the 12th semester exams at 2,016 centers across the state, with 122 of these categorized as 'sensitive.' To ensure the integrity of the exams, the use of electronic devices, including mobile phones, has been prohibited at all exam centers.


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