New Delhi      The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has taken a big and historic decision regarding the board examinations of class 10th. From the year 2026, now the 10th examination will be conducted twice a year. This decision has been taken in line with the new National Education Policy (NEP-2020), which aims to reduce the mental pressure of the examination on the students and give them a second chance to perform better.

There will be two exams: first compulsory, second optional
According to CBSE, the first exam will be conducted in February and the second exam in May. It will be mandatory for all students to appear in the February exam. If a student is not satisfied with his first attempt, he can get better marks by appearing in the optional examination in May.

In which subjects will there be a chance for improvement?
CBSE Examination Controller Sanyam Bhardwaj informed that students will get an opportunity to re-appear in any three subjects from Science, Mathematics, Social Science and Languages. Internal assessment will be done only once in the academic session, so that the examination process remains simple and transparent.

Flexibility to schools with winter session
The board has also clarified that students of schools running in winter session will be free to appear in either of the two phases of the examination as per their convenience. This will ensure equal opportunity for schools located in different regions of the country.

Why was this decision taken?
Under NEP-2020, it was recommended to bring the board examinations out of the system of "high stakes" i.e. career determination pressure. CBSE believes that with this new system, students will be able to perform better with less stress and will look at the examination as a learning process.

CBSE had sought suggestions from teachers, parents and experts on this draft in February 2024. After extensive deliberations and positive feedback, it has now been formally approved.