CBSE Plans Two Class 10 Board Exams with a Shorter Schedule
A Major Change in Exam Structure
CBSE is planning to shorten the Class 10 board exam schedule to under two weeks. This change will help implement a biannual exam system starting next year.
Current vs. New Exam Timeline
Right now, CBSE schedules exams so that no two subjects for a student fall on the same day. This results in a month-long exam period with breaks ranging from three to ten days. For example, this year’s exams started on February 15 and will end on March 18.
With the new system, CBSE may schedule exams on consecutive days. This will ensure that both exams happen and results are announced by June.
Government and Education Ministry Involvement
Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan recently discussed this change with officials from CBSE, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), and the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT). The Education Ministry has asked CBSE to release a draft plan for public feedback. Based on suggestions, the final schedule will be prepared.
To begin with, this system will apply only to Class 10 students in CBSE-affiliated schools. Officials will later decide whether to introduce it for Class 12 students.
Aligning with National Education Policy
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 recommends reducing high-stakes exams. It proposes biannual board exams to give students more opportunities. The National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023 also supports this. It states that students should take board exams at least twice a year and retain their best score.
Exam Timing and Implementation
Board exams will likely continue to start in February. Officials believe holding exams earlier is not practical due to winter conditions and limited teaching time. One option is to release results for the first exam by March—two months earlier than usual. The second exam may happen in early May, with results announced in June.
Reducing Student Stress
In 2023, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan stated that taking two exams per year would be optional. The goal is to reduce stress and give students more chances to improve their scores.
CBSE is working to ensure smooth implementation. Officials are addressing challenges related to scheduling, evaluation, and result declaration before the next academic session begins.
