September 16, 2025
Delhi, India
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has introduced stringent new guidelines for students appearing in the Class 10 and 12 board examinations in 2026, announced on September 15, 2025. Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, these rules emphasize discipline, accountability, and holistic learning, cracking down on practices like dummy admissions. Students must now meet rigorous criteria for attendance, internal assessments, and subject continuity to qualify for the exams, typically held from February to March. This is a wake-up call for students, parents, and schools to prioritize consistent engagement.
Key Points:
- Targets dummy candidates and unapproved subject offerings.
- Signed by Dr. Sanyam Bhardwaj, Controller of Examinations, emphasizing face-to-face schooling.
- Schools must register Class 9 and 11 students via the Pariksha Sangam portal.
- Non-compliance may lead to disciplinary action, including disaffiliation.
The Two-Year Study Mandate: Building a Strong Foundation
CBSE has formalized Class 10 and 12 as two-year programs, with Classes 9-10 forming the secondary course and Classes 11-12 the senior secondary course. Every subject, including additional ones, must be studied for two consecutive years. Late enrollments or skipping foundational classes will disqualify students, ensuring a robust academic foundation rather than last-minute cramming.
This aligns with NEP 2020’s focus on continuous, competency-based learning, aiming to reduce exam stress and promote deeper understanding.
Key Points:
- Subjects must be pursued from the start of the two-year cycle.
- Switching schools mid-program without completing the required study period leads to ineligibility.
- Applies to both regular and private candidates for consistency.
- Schools without CBSE approval, qualified teachers, or facilities cannot offer certain subjects.
75% Attendance: No Room for Absences Without Justification
A cornerstone of the new rules is the mandatory 75% attendance requirement, strictly monitored through daily school registers and potential surprise inspections. Students falling short without valid reasons will be deemed ineligible, regardless of enrollment status.
Condonation of up to 25% is allowed only for extreme cases, such as medical emergencies or national-level sports/cultural participation, backed by valid documentation. Regular attendance ensures students engage fully in classroom learning and assessments.
Key Points:
- Attendance tracked over two years; schools must notify parents via registered post/email for low attendance.
- Valid excuses include medical emergencies, bereavements, or recognized events.
- CBSE’s condonation decision is final, with no appeals allowed.
- Final attendance records due to CBSE by January 1 of the exam year.
Internal Assessments: The New Cornerstone of Evaluation
Internal assessments are now a mandatory part of CBSE’s evaluation, carrying significant weight (up to 40% in many subjects). Conducted over two years, they include periodic tests, projects, and classroom participation. Skipping these due to irregular attendance will result in incomplete results, placing students in the “Essential Repeat” category, even if they attempt theory exams.
This shift promotes holistic development, aligning with NEP 2020’s emphasis on skills over rote learning.
Key Points:
- Assessments include competency-based questions to test application.
- Schools must maintain detailed records; missing records mean no results.
- Internal marks contribute 30 out of 100 in most subjects, with 70 from board exams.
- CCTV in exam halls ensures ethical conduct.
Rules for Additional Subjects and Private Candidates
CBSE has set clear limits: Class 10 students can add up to two subjects beyond the five compulsory ones, while Class 12 allows one additional subject. These must follow the two-year study rule and be offered by approved schools with proper infrastructure.
Private candidates, such as repeaters or those in compartment categories, can reappear but only if they met prior requirements. Those bypassing the two-year program or attendance norms cannot add subjects.
Key Points:
- Additional subjects require CBSE approval; unapproved offerings lead to ineligibility.
- Private candidates must comply with prior study and attendance rules.
- Registration for additional subjects goes through Pariksha Sangam.
- Prevents misuse and ensures a level playing field.
Why These Changes Matter: A Step Towards Better Education
These reforms tackle long-standing issues like poor performance among condoned students and unauthorized practices. By linking eligibility to two-year learning, 75% attendance, and internal assessments, CBSE is fostering a culture of accountability and skill-building. This prepares students for global challenges and enhances employability, aligning with NEP 2020’s vision.
For schools, it’s a call for robust record-keeping and compliance, with audits and inspections ensuring adherence. For students, it’s about showing up and engaging fully.
Key Points:
- Eliminates malpractices like dummy admissions.
- Enhances outcomes through continuous evaluation.
- Schools face strict audits; violations risk disaffiliation.
- Students with full attendance and assessments are best positioned for success.
Tips for Students and Parents: Navigating the New Rules
With the 2026 board exams approaching (February 15 to April 4, 2026), proactive preparation is key. Monitor attendance, complete internal tasks diligently, and stay in touch with school authorities. These rules are designed to support genuine learning—embrace them for long-term success.
Key Points:
- Register early via Pariksha Sangam and track academic progress.
- Keep documentation (e.g., medical certificates) for condonation requests.
- Consult teachers for internal assessment strategies and subject choices.
- Stay updated via CBSE’s official website for exam schedules and guidelines.
By following these norms, students can maximize their potential and avoid setbacks. CBSE’s new era of education is here—structured, rigorous, and focused on real learning!
