The Central Board of Secondary Education recently hosted a webinar to help schools prepare for the new two-exam system for Class 10. This change, in line with the National Education Policy 2020, will start in the 2025-26 academic year.
Schools Guided on New Exam Structure
In the session, schools learned about the main steps needed to get ready for the 2026 board exams. CBSE emphasized that schools must fill out the List of Candidates for Classes 10 and 12, as well as registration details for Classes 9 and 11, very carefully. Mistakes or delays in these records could disrupt the board exams.
Timelines for Practical Exams and Assessments
The board also gave clear timelines for practical exams and internal assessments.
The schedule for 2026 is as follows:
• Class 12 practical exams for winter bound schools will take place from November 6 to December 6 2025
• Class 12 practical exams for summer bound schools will be held from January 1 to February 14 2026
• Class 10 internal assessments will also run from January 1 to February 14 2026
Schools were told to make sure practical exams happen on schedule and that marks are uploaded correctly. CBSE also allowed schools to reschedule internal assessments for students who are away at sports competitions.
Guidelines for CWSN Students and Attendance Rules
The board asked schools to make fair and responsible choices for Children With Special Needs. Schools were warned not to misuse the relaxations given by CBSE. Attendance records should be kept carefully and shared with parents regularly. Schools that have already reported low attendance to the board should stick to their reports.
Mandatory Pre Exam Briefings
CBSE told schools to hold pre-exam briefing sessions for students and parents. These meetings will help everyone understand the rules, expected behavior, and guidelines before exams begin. Keeping discipline and following instructions will be important for a smooth switch to the two-exam system.
Important Instructions Shared in the Webinar
The webinar featured a detailed presentation about the new exam structure. Key points included:
• Reading time or extra time will not be provided
• Students will get only one attempt for each exam
• All questions will be compulsory
• The exam duration will continue until all learning objectives are assessed
• Students must not carry mobile phones or any items that could lead to unfair means
• Only the most accurate answer will be considered correct
• No post exam facilities will be offered
CBSE ended by stressing that discipline, timely processes, and full cooperation from schools are key for the new system to work well. The two-exam model for Class 10 is designed to better match the goals of the National Education Policy and will start in the 2025-26 academic year.
