In an unprecedented move affecting thousands of students, the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) has cancelled the ICSE (Class 10) and ISC (Class 12) board exams for 2026 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The decision was taken after reviewing the evolving security situation in the Middle East and concerns over the safety of students and examination staff.
The cancelled examinations were originally scheduled to take place between March 2 and April 6, 2026, but were first postponed before the board decided to cancel them entirely.
Instead of conducting the exams, CISCE has announced that students’ results will be prepared through an alternative assessment mechanism.
Why ICSE and ISC Exams Were Cancelled in the UAE
The cancellation comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have created security concerns across the region. Authorities determined that conducting large-scale board examinations under such circumstances could pose risks to students, teachers, and administrative staff.
Before making the decision, CISCE reportedly held consultations with key authorities including the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) in Dubai and the Consulate General of India in Dubai to assess the situation.
The board concluded that cancelling the examinations was the safest option given the uncertain regional environment.
Thousands of Students Affected
The UAE hosts one of the largest Indian expatriate communities in the world, and many students study in schools affiliated with CISCE.
The cancellation of ICSE and ISC examinations is expected to impact thousands of students across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah who were preparing for their board exams this year.
These board examinations are critical milestones for students:
- ICSE (Class 10) determines secondary school certification.
- ISC (Class 12) results are essential for university admissions in India and abroad.
Because of their importance, the board has assured students that the alternative evaluation process will ensure fair academic assessment without affecting their academic progression.
Alternative Assessment Method for ICSE and ISC Results
Since the exams will not be conducted, CISCE has decided to determine results using an alternative evaluation mechanism.
Although the detailed formula is yet to be officially announced, the assessment may include:
- Internal school assessments
- Pre-board examination marks
- Coursework and academic performance
- Practical examination results
Such evaluation systems were previously used during the COVID-19 pandemic, when board exams were disrupted worldwide.
When Will ICSE and ISC Results Be Declared?
According to CISCE officials, the results of affected UAE students will be declared along with the results of students in India.
This approach ensures that students studying in UAE schools do not face delays in:
- Applying for higher education
- University admission processes
- Academic transitions to the next level
Option for Improvement Exams
To ensure fairness, CISCE has also announced that students dissatisfied with their marks in the alternative assessment system will be allowed to appear for improvement examinations.
These improvement exams will be conducted once the regional situation becomes stable and it is safe to conduct examinations.
This option is intended to provide students with an opportunity to improve their scores if they believe their performance was not accurately reflected in the alternative evaluation.
