The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has confirmed that class 10 students will have the opportunity to sit for board exams twice in a single academic year starting from 2026. The decision, announced during the NDTV Education Conclave, is part of a wider plan to reduce exam-related stress and give students more flexibility.
As per the new format, the first board exam will take place in February and will be compulsory for all students. A second session will be held in May, which will be optional. Students who are not satisfied with their performance in the February exam can choose to retake up to three subjects — including science, mathematics, social science, and languages — to try and improve their marks.
The results for the February exam will be released in April, while those for the May session will be out in June. For schools located in colder regions that follow a different calendar, students will be allowed to choose between the two sessions.
This change is in line with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP), which encourages a more relaxed learning environment and allows students more than one chance to perform well. The policy aims to move away from a one-time high-pressure exam system.
While the board exams will now be held in two phases, the internal assessment process will remain unchanged and will still be carried out once during the school year.
CBSE had earlier released a draft proposal of the plan in February and invited feedback from teachers, schools, and parents. The final version reflects efforts to make the system fairer and less stressful for students.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, speaking at the NDTV Education Conclave, said this approach mirrors other competitive exams like JEE Main, where students can choose their better score. He added that many students and educators have responded positively, calling it a helpful step towards a more balanced education system.
The reform is expected to bring about a major shift in how students prepare for board exams, offering them a second chance without the pressure of waiting an entire year.