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CBSE Introduces New Guidelines for Class 10 Board Exams in 2028

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced significant changes for the Class 10 board examinations set for 2028. Students will be required to study five core subjects and can choose an additional skill subject to enhance their overall performance. The new guidelines also mandate vocational education and a three-language policy for Classes 9 and 10. These changes will apply to students entering Class 9 in the 2026-27 academic year, aiming to integrate skill-based education with traditional learning. Current Class 10 students will not be affected by these updates.
By Ambika Singh Oct 31, 2026, 13:27 IST

Overview of New CBSE Guidelines



The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has unveiled updated regulations for the Class 10 board examinations scheduled for 2028. According to these guidelines, students will be mandated to study five core subjects, with the option to select an additional 'skill subject.' The marks earned in this skill subject can enhance a student's overall performance if they do not pass in Mathematics, Science, or Social Science. Moreover, the Board has stipulated that students must learn three languages during Classes 9 and 10. This new framework will be applicable to students entering Class 9 in the academic year 2026-27.


Compulsory Subjects for Class 10

The CBSE has specified the subject requirements for the 2028 Class 10 board exams. Students are required to take five compulsory subjects and may also opt for an additional skill subject. This skill subject aims to equip students with practical skills that complement their theoretical knowledge. The marks from this subject can be beneficial if students fail in Mathematics, Science, or Social Science, subject to the Board's specific regulations.


Mandatory Vocational Education

Pragya M. Singh, the Director (Academics) at CBSE, has stated that vocational education will be mandatory for students taking the Class 10 board exams in 2028. To meet this requirement, students can choose a skill development subject or select from the 22 skill subjects provided by the Board.


Assessment Options Available

Students will have two assessment options: they can either participate in internal assessments at their school or take a board examination to earn a nationally recognized skill certificate.


Three-Language Requirement

The CBSE has adopted a 'three-language policy' for Classes 9 and 10. Under this policy, students must study three languages, with at least two being Indian languages. This change will impact around 5 million students across both grades. However, students currently in Class 10 will not be required to take an examination for a third language this year.


Applicability of New Rules

These new guidelines will affect students who will be in Class 9 during the 2026-27 academic year, meaning they will take their Class 10 board exams in 2028. Current Class 10 students will not be impacted by these changes. The Board has also indicated that modules on interdisciplinary studies, computational thinking (CT), and artificial intelligence (AI) will not be included in this educational framework. The aim of these new regulations is to provide students with opportunities for skill-based learning alongside their academic curriculum.


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