Class X board exams to be held twice a year from 2026, allowing students chance to improve scores

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced plans to conduct Class X board exams twice a year, starting next year, giving students the opportunity to retake exams and retain their best scores.

In line with the National Education Policy (NEP 2020), this decision aims to offer students flexibility in a student-centric manner.

Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan held discussions with CBSE officials, as well as the heads of NCERT, KVS, and NVS, to review draft schemes that will soon be presented for public consultation.

Providing students with two opportunities will help ensure they have a fair chance to showcase their skills, regardless of their backgrounds.

To support the initiative and ensure a smooth transition, CBSE is also considering expanding teacher training.

According to Pradhan, exam reform and improvement are key steps in making this decision successful.

He added that the reform will help reduce exam-related stress and create a more equitable evaluation system.

Pradhan emphasized that offering multiple chances to improve performance aims to alleviate the pressure of a one-time exam system.

The change seeks to create a more supportive learning environment where conceptual knowledge is valued over rote memorization.

Additionally, CBSE is promoting a shift to formative learning, encouraging students to focus on skill development and self-improvement rather than merely on test scores.

Pradhan highlighted that this approach aligns with international best practices, such as the US SAT system, which allows students to retake tests and submit their best results.

The introduction of a global curriculum for international schools in the 2026–2027 school year will integrate key Indian subjects into the curriculum.