The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has cancelled all Class 12 board examinations scheduled in several West Asian countries due to the escalating regional situation. The move affects students studying in CBSE-affiliated schools across the Gulf region, prompting the Indian Embassy to step in and coordinate with school authorities to address concerns of students and parents.
The exams scheduled between March 16 and April 10, 2026, along with previously postponed papers, have been officially scrapped for students in the affected countries.
Countries Where CBSE Class 12 Exams Have Been Cancelled
The cancellation applies to CBSE examination centres in seven West Asian countries:
- Bahrain
- Iran
- Kuwait
- Oman
- Qatar
- Saudi Arabia
- United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Thousands of students studying in CBSE-affiliated schools across the Gulf region were scheduled to appear for these board examinations.
Why CBSE Cancelled the Exams
The decision was taken after reviewing the security and logistical challenges in the region amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Key reasons behind the cancellation include:
- Escalating regional conflict and security concerns
- Difficulties in conducting examinations safely
- Requests and feedback from schools and local authorities
- Priority given to the safety and well-being of students
CBSE emphasised that the decision was made after careful assessment of the situation in the affected countries.
Indian Embassy Holds Meetings With School Authorities
Following the cancellation, officials from the Indian Embassy in Riyadh interacted with principals of CBSE-affiliated schools to discuss the evolving situation and address queries related to board examinations.
The meeting aimed to:
- Provide clarity on the cancellation decision
- Understand concerns of school administrators
- Ensure support for students preparing for university admissions
The embassy’s intervention highlights the importance of ensuring that Indian students studying abroad receive guidance during disruptions in academic schedules.
How Results Will Be Declared
CBSE has stated that the method for declaring results for affected students will be announced separately.
Possible evaluation approaches may include:
- Internal school assessments
- Pre-board examination performance
- Practical and project work
- Overall academic record during the academic year
The board is expected to release a detailed alternative assessment formula in the coming weeks.
Impact on Students in the Gulf Region
The cancellation impacts thousands of Indian students studying in more than 150 CBSE-affiliated schools across West Asia.
Many students in the region depend on board exam results for university admissions in India and abroad, making clarity about the evaluation process crucial.
Schools and parents have welcomed the decision as a necessary step to protect students during a period of uncertainty in the region.
