CBSE Mandates First Board Exam for All Class X Students from 2026
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued a crucial clarification regarding the new two-board exam system set to be implemented from the academic year 2026. According to the board's latest announcement, it will be mandatory for all Class X students to appear in the first board examination under this revised framework.
Strict Attendance Requirements and Consequences
CBSE officials have emphasized that students who fail to appear in at least three subjects during the first examination will face significant consequences. Such students will be placed in the "essential repeat" category and will not be permitted to sit for the second board exam in the same academic year.
"It is mandatory for all students to appear in the first board examination," stated CBSE examination controller Sanyam Bhardwaj. "All passed and eligible students will be allowed to improve their performance in any of the three subjects out of science, mathematics, social science and languages."
No Exceptions or Relaxations Permitted
The board has firmly rejected requests seeking permission for students who miss the first exam to directly appear in the second one. "The policy does not allow any relaxation," clarified CBSE officials, adding that any requests for exemption from these rules will not be entertained.
Bhardwaj further explained the consequences for non-compliance: "If a student has not appeared in three or more subjects in the first examination, he or she will not be allowed to appear in the second examination. Such students will be placed in the 'Essential Repeat' category and can take the examination only next year in the main examinations in the month of February next year."
Compartment Category and Additional Subject Rules
Students who receive a compartment result in the first examination will be allowed to appear in the second exam under the compartment category. However, the board has made it clear that additional or stand-alone subjects will not be permitted after passing Class X.
Exam Schedule and Student Participation
Over 46 lakh students from India and abroad are set to appear for CBSE board exams this year. While the Class X exams will conclude on March 10, Class XII exams will end on April 9.
Warning Against Rumors and Misinformation
As the Class X and XII board exams begin on Tuesday, CBSE has urged students, parents, and schools not to be misled by rumors of question paper leaks. The board emphasized the integrity of the examination process and encouraged stakeholders to rely only on official communications from CBSE authorities.
The clarification from CBSE comes in response to numerous requests received by the board seeking special permissions and exceptions. The board's firm stance underscores its commitment to maintaining standardized examination procedures and ensuring fairness for all students across the country.
