CBSE 2026 Board Exams: New Rules, Guidelines, Major Changes for Class 10 & 12

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced several important changes for the 2026 board examinations. These new rules will directly impact students, parents, and schools. The reforms are designed to reduce exam stress, encourage regular attendance, and shift the focus from rote learning to competency-based assessment.

Why Did CBSE Introduce These Changes?

The new guidelines are aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The aim is to make education more practical, skill-oriented, and inclusive. Instead of relying only on one final exam, CBSE now wants to evaluate students continuously throughout the year.

Mandatory 75% Attendance Rule

One of the most significant changes is the compulsory 75% attendance requirement. This rule ensures students stay engaged in classroom learning throughout the year.

• From 2026, students in Classes 10 and 12 must maintain at least 75% attendance in their schools.
• Attendance records will be closely monitored, and students falling short may not be allowed to sit for board exams.
• This rule ensures that students actively participate in classes, projects, and activities instead of relying only on last-minute preparation.

Two Board Exams for Class 10

Class 10 students will get an opportunity to write two sets of board exams each year. This move will help students manage stress and give them a fair chance to improve.

• Class 10 students will now get the chance to appear for two board exams every year.
• The exams will likely be held in February and April.
• Students can choose to appear in both, and the best score will be considered.
• This system reduces pressure by giving students a second opportunity.

Also Check: CBSE Result 2025

Internal Assessment Gets More Weightage

CBSE is increasing the importance of internal assessments in schools. This means students must work consistently and not just rely on last-minute exam preparation.

• Internal assessment will play a much bigger role in the final results.
• Around 40% weightage will be given to classwork, projects, practicals, and periodic tests.
• Teachers will now evaluate not just knowledge, but also participation, creativity, and application of concepts.

Competency-Based Question Papers

Question papers will now test skills and the application of knowledge rather than memory. This will encourage critical thinking and prepare students for competitive exams and careers.

• Board exam question papers will focus more on conceptual understanding and real-world application.
• Instead of long memorized answers, more case studies, problem-solving, and analytical questions will be introduced.
• This change encourages critical thinking rather than rote learning.

New Grading System

The grading structure will also see changes for 2026. 

• CBSE will now use a nine-point grading scale.
• The top 12.5% of students in each subject will get the highest grade (A1).
• The minimum passing marks remain 33% in each subject.
• This system ensures fairer evaluation and reduces unhealthy competition.

Registration Rules for Students

CBSE has also revised the registration process for board exams.

• Registration for Classes 9 and 11 is mandatory to be eligible for board exams in Classes 10 and 12.
• Schools must register students through the Pariksha Sangam portal.
• Students will be required to provide correct details, and a correction window will be available for name, date of birth, and other changes.
• Overseas students will be exempted from Aadhaar-based identification requirements.

CBSE Exam Dates 2026

• Class 10 exams will be conducted twice a year in February and Apri..
• Class 12 board exams for 2026 are scheduled to start from February 17, 2026.
• Schools and students will need to align their preparation according to this schedule.

Subject Restructuring and New Electives for Class 12

Class 12 will have new subject choices under skill-based learning. This will make education more career-oriented and practical.

• New electives include:
  • Design Thinking & Innovation
  • Physical Activity Trainer
  • Electronics & Hardware
  • Land Transportation Associate
• Schools will need to provide trained teachers and infrastructure for these electives.
• Students can now select subjects more aligned with their future goals.