CBSE has approved a major change starting 2026 – Class 10 students will now get two chances to appear for board exams each year. Learn how it works, what’s new, and why it matters.
The CBSE Board Just Got a Major Update!
In a move that’s got students, parents, and teachers buzzing — CBSE has officially announced that Class 10 board exams will now be held twice a year starting 2026. Yep, you read that right. Two chances. One final result. Sounds like a big win? Let’s break it down.
🗓️ Two Chances, One Goal: Better Scores
The new format splits the board exams into two phases:
- Phase 1: Held in mid-February (mandatory for all)
- Phase 2: Conducted in May, only for students who want to improve their scores
The best part? CBSE will consider your best marks per subject out of the two exams. So if you bomb Math in Feb but kill it in May—you’re covered!
đź‘€ What Subjects Can You Retake?
CBSE has listed the subjects eligible for a second attempt:
- Science
- Mathematics
- Social Science
- Languages
But here’s the catch—you can only choose to improve up to 3 subjects. So you’ll have to be strategic.
❌ Miss 3 Subjects in Feb? You’re Out
Not all students will qualify for the May attempt. If you fail or are absent in three or more subjects during the February exam, you’ll be marked as “Essential Repeat” and have to wait till the next year. No second attempt allowed.
đź“Š Internal Assessments Stay Once a Year
Worried you’ll have to redo your projects or lab work? Nope.
Internal assessments—like practicals, projects, orals—will still be conducted only once, before the February board exam. The marks will carry over regardless of whether you take one or both board exams.
🧑‍⚖️ Special Provisions: Flexibility for Some
CBSE is also offering special options for:
- Sportspersons competing at the national/international level
- Winter-bound schools
- Children with special needs (CWSN)
They can choose either phase depending on what works best for them.
Why This Change Matters
This decision is actually part of the broader National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 plan, which aims to reduce the “one exam decides everything” pressure. Giving students two shots not only reduces anxiety but encourages learning over cramming.
And let’s be honest. Life doesn’t always go your way during exams—this gives everyone a bit of a safety net.
đź“… Recap: Your New CBSE Class 10 Exam Calendar
| Phase | Month | Who Can Appear? | Result Month |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 (Main) | Mid-February | All students | April |
| Phase 2 (Optional) | May | Improvement only (max 3 subjects) | June |
The final mark sheet will reflect your best marks out of the two phases.
Final Thoughts
CBSE’s move to make board exams less high-stakes and more flexible is honestly refreshing. It won’t make school stress disappear overnight but it’s definitely a step in the right direction.
We’ll keep watching how this plays out in real life, but for now, one thing’s clear: Board exams in India will never be the same again.
