CBSE Class 10 Exams to Be Held Twice a Year Starting 2026 – Key Changes Explained

Starting in 2026, the CBSE will implement biannual board exams for Grade 10, with one mandatory attempt in February, followed by an optional second sitting in May. Designed to align with the 2020 NEP and alleviate academic stress, this policy offers students the opportunity to improve their results within the same academic year.

Marking a fundamental shift in India’s school education landscape, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced that Class 10 board exams will be held twice a year from 2026. The new system, introduced in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, will make the first attempt in February compulsory for all students, while the second attempt in May will be optional and available for up to three subjects.

This reform is described as a student-friendly measure designed to reduce test-related stress, promote lifelong learning, and provide greater academic flexibility. While educators have welcomed the policy, they also caution that its success will depend on its effective implementation at the school level.

What the New Exam System Looks Like

Under the proposed model, all students must take the first exam session in February. If they are not satisfied with their performance, they may choose to retake up to three subjects during the second session in May. The highest score from the two attempts will be considered for the final grade.

This change marks a break from the traditional model of single annual exams, which has often placed enormous psychological pressure on students. According to Sanyam Bhardwaj, the CBSE's Controller of Examinations, the goal is to make assessment more flexible, results-oriented, and student-centered.

"We believe this change will help students approach exams with a healthier mindset. There's no need to fear board exams anymore. They'll have a second chance that same year," Bhardwaj said during the announcement.

An NEP-Aligned Vision

This measure is closely aligned with the NEP 2020, which recommends reducing the "high-stakes" nature of board exams. It emphasizes formative assessments, improved learning outcomes, and a shift away from memorization.

The twice-yearly exam model echoes similar global practices, such as the SAT exams in the United States or GCSE retakes in the United Kingdom, where students are given multiple opportunities to reach their full potential.

Sasmita Mohanty, principal of Sanjay Ghodawat International School, believes this change was long overdue. “In line with the overall objectives of NEP 2020, the reform of the CBSE biannual grade 10 examinations marks a transformative shift in the restructuring of India’s education framework. Ultimately, it has the potential to empower students to achieve their best by fostering an environment that promotes flexibility and meaningful learning.”